Sockets: 12 poiint vs 6 point: what's the difference?

[AnotherLee]

Yes, I know there's a different number of points, but what's the difference in use? Why do they make the two kinds?

Tnx-

[dirtrider]

Evening Lee

 

The big difference is the way the socket grips the nut. In a "good" quality 6 point the socket grips the nut on either side of the nut points farther from the peaks so it grips the nut with a little more drive than the shallower notches of the 12 point.

 

For hard to remove or high torque situations the 6 point is usually stronger as the 6 point socket has more meat in the side walls & deeper notches that grip the nut more securely.

 

The advantage to 12 point sockets is they are easier to clock on the nut (more starting places) & as a rule thinner walls so they will usually go into smaller openings.

 

The 12 point is also good for square nuts (4 points) & obviously needed for 12 point nuts.

 

The 6 point is usually stronger with more nut grip so is less likely to round the nut off.

 

My socket of choice for most auto/motorcycle uses is the 6 point but a good set of 12 points are handy at times due to the thinner walls or sometimes deeper center.

 

 

[smiller]

All of that, plus... it's a way to have more tools!

[Selden]

Thanks, DR. It never occurred to me that since 12 is divisible by 4, a 12-point socket can be used on a square nut.

[AnotherLee]

Thanks, DR !

[UberXY]

I usually do not use 12 pts unless I have a limited access problem.