Ratchets.... quick release or non release?

[454cid]

I'm looking at ratchets still. You may recall I asked about flex/swivel heads last. Now, I'd like to know about quick release and non-quick release. I can see the non, being a benefit in low clearance situations, but I wonder if there is more to it.

The flex head I bought, is a quick release, and I find I'm flexing the head instead of releasing the socket, which is a bit irritating. The next purchase will be a non-flex head, However.

 

[someotherguy]

I prefer quick release because it seems whenever I have a ratchet without it, I find my fingers slipping trying to remove the socket. For my flex head quick release ratchets, I'm usually gripping the flex head itself when pressing the button so it does what I expected.

Richard

 

[skylark]

Quick release. No reason other than that is what I grew up with. Thanks Craftsman!

 

[grampadirt]

I have a few of both in different sizes,it boils down to which ever is on top and the first one I grab....no preference.

 

[PlayingWithTBI]

Quick release especially when your hands and tools get oily which, never happens when working on 30 year old trucks

 

[letitsnow]

A while back I decided that I didn't need quick release on a new 3/8" ratchet that I wanted to buy. It works fine but I never really use it, cause my others are quick release.

 

[SAATR]

No quick release on my flex head ratchets. The button just gets in the way.

 

[454cid]

This didn't go how I expected. I figured a few people would cite situations where a non-quick release was preferred.

Thanks for the input, I'll go with the quick release.

 

[PlayingWithTBI]

Thanks for the input, I'll go with the quick release.

Also, I like QR since it holds on to the socket better.

 

[97C1500TJ]

I like one without a quick release. It’s easier to smack it against my roll cart and swap sockets if my hands are oily than to fiddle with a button. My two go to ratchets in 3/8 is the Mac XR1390APA and the Pittsburgh long handle flex 3/8.