Sold in sets consisting of a ratcheting wrench handle and a collection of sockets sized to fit various hex nuts and bolts, a socket wrench is the fast way to tighten and loosen fasteners on everything from furniture to cars, offering a secure grip on the hex head. A 3/8-inch drive set such as this Task Force model is a good place to start. Smaller 1/4-inch drive sets are handy for small fasteners in tight spots; larger 1/2-inch drive sets are mostly for heavy mechanical work.

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