Craftsman’s MAX AXESS mechanics tool set features a versatile pass-thru ratchet and socket design. The 51-piece set features full-polish low-profile ratchets, a full set of socket sizes, extensions, and adapters that allow the ratchets to be used with 1/4″ and 3/8″ square drive sockets.
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The MAX AXESS system is designed to eliminate the need for deep sockets, and can also be used in certain applications where no 6pt or 12pt sockets can fit, such as when working with threaded rod.
A hollow-shaft driver handle is also included, and can be used with the 1/4″ go-thru sockets and with or without the 3″ extension to function as a standard or stubby sized screwdriver.
Craftsman’s MAX AXESS ratchets are said to be up to 45% stronger that their most popular ratchets. When asked for clarification, Craftsman got back to us with the model numbers for their teardrop quick-release raised-panel ratchets.
Expect to see these sets on Craftsman.com and at Sears stores around May 2011, with a retail price of $70.
First Impression
I only had a short time to handle the tools, and not in a hands-on testing capacity. That being said, I really liked the design of the ratchets, which look to be heavily inspired by Craftsman’s thin-profile ratchets. The ratchets felt well balanced, and turned easily. The sockets have a nice finish to them, with the metric sockets featuring a ring of engraved lines to differentiate them from similar SAE sizes.
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Without a doubt, this set is closely modeled after Gearwrench’s Vortex and pass-thru ratchet and socket designs. That’s not a bad thing at all, as Gearwrench’s versions are often highly recommended.
I really think that this set will sell well across the board, and not just as a first mechanics tool set for homeowners and beginner DIYers. Although I already have a full set of sockets and more ratchets and accessories than I really need, I think that the MAX AXESS set would serve as a nice portable or auto tool kit. It definitely helps that the case felt well designed – far better than the junky blow-molded one that came with my Craftsman 94-pc mechanics tool set.
The 51-piece set’s $70 price point also makes it more affordable than Gearwrench’s comparable 46-piece set, which is priced at $85-90 on Amazon. You get a full selection of socket sizes, two ratchets with extensions, a screwdriver handle, square drive adapters, and what I think was a 1/4″ hex bit adapter a 1/4″ to 3/8″ pass-thru adapter (thanks, Brian!).
Check price or purchase via Sears (Normally ~$70, but often on sale)
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Gregory Egbert
I just curious on ware there made, and do you like the gear wrench version better?
John
Mine fell apart the first time I used it and they won’t fix or replace it the whole set is no good because you can’t use the sockets on anything
Carlos
I lost the big ratchet and the small ratchet broke. Set is no good if you don’t have the ratchets
JeffD
What is the COO?
brandon
COO= Country of origin
Toolguyd Mobile
I can’t really say if I like these better than the Gearwrench until I have another chance to use them, but they should be comparable.
The set I had the opportunity to preview was not yet marked for retail, but I would be shocked if the COO was not Taiwan or China. There is no way that these could be made in the USA for $70 per set.
William Barnes
Good article, only one question: are these actually max access? I thought max access could also turn 4 and 8 sided nuts and bolts. Thank you.
Porphyre
Those look interesting…
1) What’s the COO?
2) How many teeth?
3) Why would I want this over a ratcheting wrench?
fred
Not sure about you auto mechanics – but plumbers use deep sockets to reach into spaces where a ratcheting box wrench or pass through socket can’t. We even have some extra-deeps (probably originally meant for spark plug wells) to fits some needs.
roman
yeah, i dont see how these would remove the need for deep sockets either, but i they would be good for a nut where the end of the bolt had a key hole on the end like on balljoints and stuff
Bill
Never had places where you just can’t put a deep well? That is without removing other things to gain access? Beside, there is an extension that essentially turns all or your regular length sockets into deepwells?
SledgeFix
Picked up the 1/4″ GearWrench sets recently on sale with the intention of finally getting the entire line, this will match my toolbox better, if they can keep enough in stock for me to get one (new premium ratchets, I’m looking in your general direction with that comment).
I like the handle and reverse design from the thin-profile ratchets, that’s something I’ve heard was often disliked about the GearWrench sets.
Does this set cover sizes as well as GearWrench’s line (not just the comparable set, but their full line of pass-through sockets)? That’s a major problem I have with Craftsman’s combination wrench sets when compared with other brands. Left-out sizes, regardless of how rarely they might be found, make a big difference to me in deciding on a purchase.
Andrew C
I have had the gearwrench variety for several years. One of the advantages of the pass-through socket sets is that the thickness of the ratchet w/ socket attached is much less than that of a conventional ratchet, so they are very good for tight spaces. The craftsman design looks very similar to the Gearwrench design- the only big difference I see is that the Gear wrench ratchets have a plastic insert in the handle. The gearwrench ones are very light and the plastic insert makes me think that the handle is not actually solid metal but has some metal removed for cost/weight.
Eli
I think the real comparison is not to the amazon offering but to this set:
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00930049000P?prdNo=1&blockNo=1&blockType=G1
Which is cheaper and also sold in Sears
Stuart
Eli, you’ve got a point there. I’ve seen that set a few times but forgot all about it. I wouldn’t be surprised if Sears stores kept both sets available in-store.
I really liked the Craftsman MAX AXESS ratchets, though, and as far as I could tell, they were as solid as their thin-profile ratchets. The original thin-profile ratchets are $75 for a set of three, or $58 for the individual 1/4″ and 3/8″ models. It’s reasonable to assume that the MAX AXESS versions are at least partially responsible for the price premium of the Craftsman set over the Gearwrench one.
Unfortunately, I could not determine the tooth count in the limited time I had with the ratchets, so I can’t say if they’re finer than the Gearwrench versions or not.
Joe
@fred, much of the rest of the world uses an extension if it is simply to reach. The pass-thru types do have extensions. (as seen in upper left corner of case)
If there is a long bolt/but combo that REQUIRES a deep well, the pass-thru’s “extensions” are hollow and act as a deep well. As a matter of fact, you could stack a few to create an extra extra deep socket if need be. There are a few times when it won’t work, not the end-all be-all tool for sure.
They appear to have the common danaher “spline” pattern as seen in gearwrench/matco/kobalt versions. Obviously no surprise, but note worthy if you want to interchange drive handles or use various sockets with the gearwrench/matco serpentine tool.
mmiller2002
Why can’t I fond this set on sears’ website? Does anyone know if there are larger sockets available for purchase that fit these max axess handles?
John Smith
The New craftsmen Max Axess ratchet sets will be on sale in the sears store in June 2011
John Smith
Also they will be online from craftsman .com in June also for $69.99
mmiller2002
John, I don’t know about those June dates.
I bought the max axess set in-store on 3/21. I recieved a mailer from craftsman club a week or so ago that said it was on sale for a member price of $59.99 from 3/21-28 in-store or online. Funny, I can’t even find the part number of the set I bought on sears’ web site.
On the other hand, yesterday I bought the gearwrench vortex set for $17 less and it has lerger sockets up to 19mm instead of only 13mm for the max axess set. Oredered online, store pickup an hour later, easy. I’ll return the max axess set unopened.
Stuart
I was told that the Max Axess sets would be available in May, but it looks like a June release is becoming more likely.
I’m a bit surprised that you were able to find them in-store in late-March, but it seems that limited stock rolled out to stores ahead of time. It is strange that the tools would be available in-store but not online, although this has happened a few times with certain items especially when they’re just released.
The Gearwrench Vortex set is also a nice one, although I can’t help but think it’s never been too popular. Both of my local Sears have had the same 2-3 sets, marked by their torn cellophane wrappers, on their shelves for several years now.
mmiller2002
Oh, sorry, It was May 21. The craftsman club said May 21-28 sale. Oops.
Isn’t the max axess just repackaged gearwrench vortex products? maybe sears is just doing a craftsman branded marketing push. The gearwrench vortex set may not have been popular because of limited expandability.
Does anyone know if there’s craftsman or gearwrench extra sockets available?
Stuart
Gearwrench Pass-Thru sockets are available individually, but I’ve only seen them listed individually at Sears.com.
The Max Axess does look like repackaged Gearwrench, but the ratchets, screwdriver handle, and case are fresh designs. There could be differences with the sockets and accessories as well, but there’s no real way to tell for sure.
Dan Richards
The Gearwrench Vortex 49pc kit is an excellent value when they have a half-off promotion. The ratchets in this Craftsman kit look much more comfortable though.
Brian
They are made in China. The 3/8″ ratchet is approx. 76 tooth. The 1/4″ ratchet is approx 72 tooth. There is no 1/4″ hex bit adapter, there is a 3/8″ to 1/4″ pass thru socket adapter in addition to 3 square drive adapters 1/4″ to 1/4″ square, 3/8″ to 1/4″ square, and 3/8″ to 3/8″ square.
Stuart
Thank you Brian for those details!
Will
I bought the Gearwrench Vortex 49pc kit with $24.99 and it works great.
The lowest price of this craftsman set is more than $55. With that price and quality, I prefer gearwrench.
Robert
I have this set as well as a similar 1/2 in drive Craftsman ratchet. It appears that these ratchets are built on the same platform as their top of the line ratchets. If you were purchasing the equivalent ratchets with standard 3/8 and 1/4 drives, those alone would exceed the cost of this set. The ratchets definitely exceed my expectations for something in a kit at this price. When wiped clean, they’re like jewelry. They are much nicer than the ratchets that come with the Craftsman standard sets.
Robert
Bruce
I could have used these sooooo many times. Please pick me!
Delbria Cain
This would be a great tool set for my husband to add to the few that he has.
salena
What range of sockets does this product have? I need a deep 5/16 socket regularly and am interested in this product.
Patrick
I would give these to my children to allow them to be able to work with dad
Tyler
Looks slick! Me want!
Jeffrey
I just got the black pass-thru set for Christmas and my only complaint is that these tools are not made in the USA. one of the things I had loved about Craftsman tools is that they were made in the USA and now even Craftsman has outsourced to China.
Eric Nowak
I haven’t seen any Craftsman hand tools made in China at all, as of 3/15/2013. Craftsman tools are still made in the US.
Derek
I just got this set, and I really like it.
BUT, I have one complaint/question.
Can you use this set with an impact drill?
Basically I’m wondering if they make some sort of adapter that can make a standard 3/8’s (&/or 1/4 & 1/2) square head fit into these sockets?
Stuart
These are hand sockets, and use with an impact driver is not recommended. At the very least it might damage the sockets, at worse it can lead to bodily harm if the sockets fail catastrophically.
In any case, I don’t know of any adapter that makes it so that these sockets can be used with standard square drive tools.
John Lawrence
Needed a “special” wrench for adjusting headlights on my wife’s ’04 Grand Marquis. Would have cost $15.00 for a Lisle 14540 Headlight Adjusting Ratchet, or Kastar 5529A 4mm x 4.5mm Ford Headlight Adjusting Wrench. That’s what caused me to ultimately discover the GearWrench Pass-Thru system. Sears actually had them locally in a 49pc kit, item number 00930049000, on sale for $35.00.
The Sears “tool guy” offered to sell me Sears new similar Craftsman kit when I told him I was concerned about future warranty issues. When I told him I needed it to have a 4mm socket, the Craftsman set didn’t even come close. Bought the $35.00 GearWrench kit, which was only double the price of the specialty headlight wrenches, and it did the trick perfectly. Now, I have a full set of very useful Pass-Thru wrenches, SAE and metric, instead of one proprietary headlight adjusting wrench, or limited range Craftsman knock off set.
I’m a believer now. Already purchased a GearWrench 1/4″ (891400), and 3/8″ (893800) Flex Head ratchets to add to my kit. Will no doubt buy the 1/2″ (891226) set in the future.
thomas linjala
i wrench on cars, trucks, snowmobiles, atv’s,tractors, ect. ect. more often then not i need a low profile tool for nuts and bolts. a standard rachet and socket won’t work. i could really use a set like this to get me out of a jam. my tool set is a craftsmen set i bought in 1980. thomas linjala
thomas linjala
now i read other reviews and see the max access is made in china. not happy! t.l.
Bob Harvey
I’ve been using a Draper “Vortex” set for around 5 years now, and it is fantastically useful and quite a lot lighter than a conventional socket set.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00023T9RA/ref=asc_df_B00023T9RA9079995 is the one I have.
TnT Poof
It’s a joke when u see people leaving reviews or comments on a item when they are tottaly clueless in it’s real use..These are nothing like the gearwrench set..as the gearwrench set will not work on 85% of the bolts nuts out.. I see the 1st 10 posters r idiots.. These are a great item if you are a WRENCH..Bad reviews from clueless idiots..Great Tool.. i use mine when needed and thats every day..
Stuart
Are you mistaking this for the universal Max Axess socket set? This set comes with 6-point sockets that very well might be identical to Gearwrench pass-thru sockets. Either way I am in agreement that this is a very nice and useful set.
Greg Shilley
These are the greatest new tool design to hit the market, and leave it to Craftsman to come up with it. I would love to have a set of these
Tommy
I am supprised that kits from Chapman Manufacturing Tools in Connecticut were not referenced in the comparisons here. THEY ARE….and always have been made in the USA.
Tommy
I would use a set of “OLD” visegrips and any american made hammer before I would ever use Craftsman again! SEARCH AMERICAN MADE. Don’t sell out by buying anything from SEARS! Look what they did to Loggerman. I am sure there are American Made alternatives to anything sears is stealing…. I mean selling.
Stuart
Most if not all Craftsman hammers are made in the USA.
Regarding Loggerhead, there were tons of these tools left unsold on store shelves and pegs after the 2012 winter holidays. Maybe that’s why Sears didn’t want to follow through in ordering many thousands more of them.
Steve Cullen
I saw an ad for Kobalt extreme access on TV and was impressed , went to Loews and they didn’t seem to know what I was talking about regarding the specific set. So I have been looking on the internet and it seems you have the best set of tools of this type available, and the Kobalt appears to be lacking.
tool man
actually sears sells two types of max axxes tools. the chrome set has regular shaped sockets with 6 sides. the black set mts has the spline type universal sockets,, both types have the pass thru feature. but for 55 dollars you can get a full set with allen head sockets, screwdriver bits , metric and american sockets, in 1/4 and 3/8. in the chrome type with 6 sided sockets. put one in every car. thats about 1 dollar for each piece. add a couple wrenches and take them on every trip. handles most problems
Michael Brandenburg
From the very first time I seen these tools I have tried to save up enought money to buy a set (85 piece). I have gone as far as to pawn off most of my old sets. It seems whenever I’m getting close to buying a set the car needs some kind of repair. I checked them out at a sears store,they are perfect so who ever wins this set I hope they know how lucky they are. Good luck to all who reply.
David
I love the max Axess socket set, use it all the time but my only issue with them is, more and more i need to use sockets in my impact driver, and can’t seem to be able to find an adapter, does anyone know if there is such an animal? I don’t want to get another set just for my impact driver…????
Stuart
Sorry, but you’re going to have to. Hand sockets such as these should NOT be used with impact wrenches or drivers. They are hardened, making them brittle enough to potentially chip, break, or shatter if used with an impact tool. Impact sockets are tougher, which makes them less prone to chipping and brittle fracturing when used with impact tools.
Impact tools should only be used with impact-rated accessories. Yes, you could get away with using regular sockets and accessories with impact tools, but it is not recommended due to the increased risk of damage and personal safety hazards.
CB
Searspartsdirect.com has some of the max axess sets available that are out of stock at Sears.com (at a higher price of course).
http://www.searspartsdirect.com/replacement-parts/tools_clearance.html?intcmp=ClearanceTools
Sam
Love my set. Have had it since 2013. Problem
Is these are now discontinued. So when I lose a socket or when my 3/8 ratchet stripped out I had to resort to EBay. Don’t understand why craftsman quit making these. Now their on eBay as a set for 300 bucks.
Scott Clayton
I have a set and broke my 3/8 ratchet Sears can’t replace it or get me a Repair kit for it because it’s been discontinued. Apex tool group made them and makes the gear wrench version as well as others. I’ve been trying to find out if one of the other brands gear wrench or crescent might have a repair kit that would work on my craftsman. I’d rather fix my ratchet than buy another brand because it won’t fit in the case. I really like the set they do work very well in places where you’d need a deep socket it’s one of my favorite tool sets any ideas would be appreciated
Franck B.
Scott, sorry this reply is over six months later. I have a lot of Gearwrench Vortex tools as well as a few MaxAxess sets with individual pieces. I’ve looked at the GW 3/8 ratchet (the non-flex, flat handle with rubber inserts) and it appears to have the same “guts” as the chrome MaxAxess ratchet (the black ones appear different but not sure). The selector on the CM is like the LP 60/72/84 tooth ratchets, but the GW selector is like the old CM raised panel ratchets. The old selector would probably still work. The Crescent X6 also looks like the same guts but a different selector (ratchet only version, not the one with an adjustable wrench on the other end). They don’t come apart easily–actually they don’t go back together easily, at least not for me, so I’m not willing to take them apart and look (it took me a long time the reassemble one I took apart many years ago).
You can get the regular GW Vortex 3/8 ratchets easily for under $25, or upgrade to a long handled flex head for more, but I also prefer the handle on the Craftsman version. But if you buy one of the GW ratchets, you can take it apart and see how it goes before you decide to mess with the Craftsman. I have a list (possibly incomplete) of Craftsman repair kits and the Vortex style weren’t listed. I also looked quickly through a few older GW catalogs and didn’t see any repair kits listed.
If you’re still looking, I hope maybe this was of some help!