Gearwrench is coming out with a full range of 120XP flex-head ratchets, which is great news since users have been asking for them since the standard length 120XP ratchets debuted a few months ago.
The design of the 120-position 120XP ratcheting mechanism allows for swing arcs as small as 3°.
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I took apart a 120XP 3/8″ ratchet to see how the stacked dual-pawl system worked, and was pleased with how robust the components were. You would think that a 120-position ratchet would have tiny and fragile fine-toothed gearing, but it doesn’t.
As with Gearwrench’s other flex-head ratchets, the new 120XP version is also longer than their standard length ratchets. This allows for both greater leverage and reach.
Sizes, Sets, and Prices
1/4″
Full polish length is 7″, list price is $42.24.
Cushion grip length is 8-1/4″, list price is $54.91
3/8″
Full polish length is 11-1/2″, list price is $77.08
Cushion grip length is 13-1/2″, list price is $100.20
Stubby full polish version is also available.
1/2″
Full polish length is 17″, list price is $83.99.
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Sets
- 2-piece 1/4″ and 3/8″ with cushion grip set
- 4-piece full polish ratchet set, including 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ sizes plus the 3/8″ stubby ratchet
The new ratchets will soon be available via ISN, Medco, and independent mobile distributors.
Because I know I’m going to get an email about this – no, the flex-heads do not lock in place. For that matter I don’t think Gearwrench offers locking flex-head ratchets at all, although they do make locking flex ratcheting wrenches.
jesse
Made in Taiwan?
Stuart
I presume so.
Harry
I see retail prices have climbed a bit. I think I’ll stick with my 60 and 84 toothed versions for now.
Stuart
These are “list prices,” which are typically higher than retail prices. I don’t expect for street prices to be this high.
DC
On a side note…I keep going back and forth on this but, I may side with the pro-locking flex crowd more often than not. What are your thoughts on this?
Randy
Do you think the locking handle off of one of its relatives like an Armstrong would work?
Stuart
Like the one a contributor reviewed for us (https://14cyiuhvcgv.com/armstrong-maxx-locking-flex-head-ratchet-review/%3C/a%3E%29? Possibly. They do look pretty similar. But if the Armstrong is made in the USA and Gearwrench in Taiwan or China, there might be slight manufacturing variations that block compatibility.
Randy
I wonder if APEX plans on bringing the 120xp technology stateside and including it in any of their Made in USA brands? If they do and they include a locking mechanism for the flex handle I’d definitely get a set.
In the non-flex variety, I opted for the Craftsman Premium 3pc set because its Made in USA. There are many serious wrenchers out there like myself that prefer Made in USA. I think I want to hold out a little longer on getting a set of flexy handle ratchets to see if this tech does make it stateside.
Stuart
Production of most of Craftsman’s mechanics tools have been moved overseas. Ratchets, wrenches, and sockets. Their premium ratchets are quite good, but it might only be a matter of time before their production gets sent overseas as well.