Flex head ratchets are really the best way to reach those annoying nuts or bolts that a traditional ratchet won’t work on. Oftentimes a flex head ratchet will save you a ton of time that you would otherwise spend searching for the right combination of extensions to use your normal ratchet. There is a reason they are one many mechanics must-have and first-to-reach-for-ratchets in the toolbox. While I used to always hate flex head ratchets because they would be way too floppy and hard to control, with the invention of locking flex head ratchets it completely eliminates that problem.
What is the difference between a flex head ratchet and a regular ratchet? Quite simply the ratchet head can pivot up and down meaning you can move the ratchet handle out of the way so you can loosen or tighten in tons of weird spots.
When I was researching the best flex head ratchets for the money, it is important to consider the drive size you need. Make sure to get the correct ratchet for the correct size sockets you will be using. A 3/8-inch drive ratchet is the most commonly used for automotive repair purposes, but many people also have matching socket sets and ratchets in 1/4″ and 1/2″. They each serve their own purpose for auto repair, however, if you are just looking for the most common ratchet size grab the 3/8″ (assuming you are working as a mechanic).
