Bits and Sockets: 7 Types of Tools to Know

Having knowledge of the main types of inserts and sockets allows you to take the right steps in the world of mechanics and tools. When you need to screw or unscrew something, if you need a kit always ready for use in your mechanical workshop, you have no alternatives: you must use tools that are comfortable but also effective.

Ratchet wrenches with the right combination of sockets can make the difference. With a few steps and in tight spaces you have everything you need to work on any bolt or screw. Certainly, this type of tool also has its limits: compared to a open-end wrench or ring wrench, it cannot operate in tight spaces. But if you know the various types of sockets and inserts you have an added advantage. How? Here are 7 models that should never be missing from your workshop, whether personal or professional.

Extractor for Unscrewing Stripped Bolts

Let's start this list dedicated to the various types of sockets and inserts with a tool that is always useful: the extractor for stripped bolts. When you use oversized wrenches or generic pliers to unscrew a bolt that may also be stuck or rusty, there is a risk of damaging the metal of the mechanism. Result? You can no longer remove it.

You can try a thousand solutions to unscrew a stripped bolt. We suggest you work like a professional: buy an extractor set, choose the right one for the size and screw it onto the damaged head counterclockwise. When you change direction a reverse force is applied which creates the right resistance to unscrew any damaged bolt (here I also explain how to extract a broken bolt).

Inserts for Screws Suitable for High Torque

In addition to the classic inserts dedicated to slot or cross screws (also known as Phillips) it can be useful to have kits of models dedicated to jobs where high torque is required. For example, the PH TORSION+ model is designed precisely for intensive work where high force is required and there is no risk of deformation.

We have several solutions in terms of shape, for example there are also high-strength inserts dedicated to Pozidriv screws. In any case the advantage is clear: maximum resistance to high torque, very low risk of breaking or deformation.

Coated Sockets for Alloy Wheels

Maybe you're a mechanic by profession, or you have a personal workshop and enjoy customizations, assembly and disassembly. In any case, you need to know that to handle tire changes you need specific tools.

Like, for example, sockets for alloy wheels: these are tools designed to withstand the stresses of impact tools, so you don't need to fear breakage or deformation. Furthermore, the composition allows you to avoid damage to the wheel machining. Because anyone who loves their car knows how important these elements are.

Spherical Hexagonal Inserts

One of the strengths of working with different types of inserts and sockets: you can work on any type of mechanism. Even those that involve the use of hexagonal bolts. Instead of using the classic (and uncomfortable) L-keys you can mount the specific inserts on your cordless screwdriver or your ratchet wrench and proceed quickly.

There is an interesting solution in these cases: the model with spherical head. Why use a hexagonal wrench of this type? Simply, the presence of this particular geometric shape allows you to work in any condition, even when you are forced to move at awkward angles.

Hollow Hexagonal Socket (and Resistant)

A classic, one of the tools that should never be missing: the hollow hexagonal socket is the one that allows you to engage and embrace a nut, bolt or pin to handle it safely. There are many solutions to set up a functional kit.

The ones I recommend you carry a name you recognize right away: the SUPER LOCK by LTI allow you to work with maximum safety, without the risk of missing anything in terms of robustness and safety. If you want something more you can aim for the Impact sockets, even more robust and performing because they adapt well to impacting work where there is a need to transmit great torque even on large diameters.

Extractors and Drills for Damaged Screws

How many times have you had to extract a screw that refuses to unscrew? Because maybe it got stripped or is completely rusty? You can try first spraying some machine oil. If that doesn't work, however, you need to apply all the techniques to unscrew this bolt and you don't always succeed with DIY solutions.

For this reason, in your mechanical workshop - whether professional or amateur - there must be both a good cordless screwdriver and an insert with extractor for blocked screws. How does it work? We already talked about extractors for bolts, now let's move to screws. On one side you have the tip that makes the hole, on the other side an inverted thread that fits into the hole with counterclockwise movement. When you turn clockwise with the wrench there is a reversal of forces that extracts even the most stubborn bolt. To learn more you can read this article about extractor kits for stripped screws.

Inserts with Magnetic and Colored Tip

We close this list with a must for professional toolkits: the inserts with magnetic head. Why are these tools so important? Simply, they serve to simplify and speed up the work of screwing and unscrewing.

This happens thanks to the ability to hold the screw in the insert before screwing. This allows you to work with one hand free, leaving the other available to hold the panel, hold the tool bag or to keep yourself safe (for example on a ladder). When you need to insert a screw in a deep, tight or upside-down spot on a piece of furniture or in an engine bay it is difficult to hold the screw with your fingers. Sometimes it is just impossible. But with this type of insert everything becomes much easier.