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Are 12-point sockets as good as six-point sockets? Find out the answer—and why—before you buy that expensive set of socket wrenches at the auto supply store.
Flop open your socket wrench set and you’re likely to notice two different versions of sockets: six-point and a 12-point sockets. So which one should you use?
For the most part, you’ll want to stick with the six-point socket. Most of the fasteners you’re likely to encounter in typical DIY projects are going to be of the six-point variety. Plus, the six-point socket has some distinct advantages over its 12-point cousin when it comes. Both will work with the standard six-point fasteners you’ll encounter around the house or in the garage. However, there are occasions where a 12-point socket will come in handy for you, so to know the difference, read on!
What Is a Six-Point Socket?
What Is a 12-Point Socket?
Which Socket Should You Use?
Chrome-Plated Sockets
What Is a Six-Point Socket?
The first thing you’ll notice about six-point sockets is the standard hexagonal shape. There are six points, evenly spaced, with 60 degree angle between them.
Six-point sockets have thicker walls and more surface contact area with a six-point fastener. A six-point socket is designed to contact the head of a fastener well away from the corners, so that contact is made on the thickest part of the fastener. This dramatically reduces the likelihood of slippage and rounding over of the corners.
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