Which Sockets, 6 point or 12 point

[Shytalk]

Are there any benefits between the 2 types available? I have various of each but am looking to get a new set so wondered on the best type to get, 6 point should be ideal in a perfect world as they - in theory fit exactly, 12 point - gives more contact points?

So what - if any is the consensus of opinion between the 2 please.

[midlifecrisisrd]

The 12 point Don't give any more contact points as the nut only has 6 corners lol

The 12 point is easier to position as max 12th turn to locate opposed to a 6th turn

Think the 12 has the advantage of the socket gripping the corners better where the 6 point grips the flats like an open ended spanner

Steve

[geoffb]

I started my working life in car mechanics and have always used 12 point sockets as a preference but have never delved in to comparing the effectiveness if each type. I still have a Snap-On socket set from the 80’s, guaranteed for life but I have only ever replaced lost Snap-On tools and never broken any.

Of course, other tool manufacturers are available. 😉

[tipfinchy]

good question , so i had a quick search
tengtoolsusa.com/blogs/news/6-point-sockets-vs-12-point-sockets-which-should-you-use

mart

[Shytalk]

Ideally then a combination of the 2 - on a double ended spanner at least

[Tobyjugs]

Generally i prefer six sided sockets especially when the nut or head of the bolt is a little rusted or damaged, but when room is tight a twelve sided socket can be a godsend.

[Deleted]

If you use a 6 sided socket and a fixed bar, and the bar is in the wrong place, turn the square bar in the socket 1/4 turn. That repositions the socket/bar relationship as if you had a 12 sided socket. You don't need both just a bit of maths to work it out :-)

[Deleted]

If you use an infinite anti reverse ratchet or sprang geared ratchet if you like, then it matters not if you use a 6 sided or 12 sided socket or ring spanner

Also most modern 6 sided sockets or spanners are a flank drive and grip on the flats of the hexagon as opposed to the points and can be useful for a rounded off head or nut

There are 12 point flank drives too, however they are generally used on a double hex or 12 point hex

These 12 point flank drives bite on the nut or head of the bolt just before the corners and can round off the head if care isn’t taken

Me, I have both in a 1/4 & 3/8 drive, with a stubby sprang geared ratchet, each to their own though

i don’t think there is a correct answer, however those with the most tools wins lol

[pidjones]

6 point may be a bit stronger, and have less chance to round a bolt. 12 points are mandatory for the rare 12 point bolt heads.

[tommo]

single hex all day better grip less chance of slipping

[earthman]

Dec 26, 2020 13:11:00 GMT 1 Tobyjugs said:

Generally i prefer six sided sockets especially when the nut or head of the bolt is a little rusted or damaged, but when room is tight a twelve sided socket can be a godsend.

I also prefer the six sided ones.  Especially when the nut/bolt is past it's best and extremely tight,...not sure if you can actually get 12 point impact sockets but all mine happen to be six sided, maybe that says something?? 

[cnkxu1]

Six point on older nuts and bolts and definitely the black six point when using power tools like an impact driver.

[pedheadfred]

I've worked most my life in motor trade & have all types of sockets 12 point hex and wall drive type.
In areas were access is limited 12 point are easier to put on bolt, hex are good for rust or warn nuts bolt heads.
Example brake pipe nuts that have rusted solid cut pipe off use hex as less chance of slipping.
Wall drive are good as they are designed to grip the hex head.
Halfords sell life time guarantee decent sets Inc some called multifit .

[JonW]

I find 6 points mark the nut/bolt less as they grip the flats more than the 12s.

Impact sockets are all 6 arent they?