Socket Sets: A Must-Have for Every Tradesperson and Serious DIYer

Some tools sit in the box for months. Socket sets aren’t one of them. If you’re working on machines, sorting out repairs, or piecing something together, chances are you’ll reach for a socket before much else.

They’re not flashy. They don’t need to be. They just work—and they work often.

At HLS, we’ve stocked plenty over the years. The sets that last? They hold up. They’re made to take knocks, handle torque, and keep going. That’s what you want from a good socket set. If you’re new to the trade or your old kit’s gone walkabout one too many times, it helps to know what actually makes a set worth buying.

So… What Exactly Is a Socket Set?

You’ve probably used one before. But in case you haven’t: it’s a set of sockets that connect to a ratchet handle, letting you tighten or loosen nuts and bolts without rounding them off or wrecking your hands. They come in a few different sizes and fit all sorts of bolts depending on the job.

You’ll find them in garages, workshops, plant rooms, sheds, and site vans. They’re everywhere because they do what other tools can’t—especially when access is tight or the bolts are awkward.

Ever tried loosening an old, rusted bolt with a spanner that slips? Once is enough. A decent socket grips properly, gets the job done faster, and saves a lot of hassle.

A Quick Look at the Main Types

Socket sets vary. A lot. Some are made for delicate work, others for heavy-duty jobs. Here’s what usually separates them

Drive Size

The “drive” is the square connection between the ratchet and the socket. Common drive sizes include:

• ¼ inch – Best for light, precise jobs in tight spaces. Often used in electronics or small engine work.
• ⅜ inch – A good all-rounder. Covers most everyday jobs, both in the workshop and at home.
• ½ inch – Built for heavier tasks like working on cars, agricultural machinery, or large fixings.

Some sets include all three drive sizes, with adaptors and accessories, giving you flexibility across multiple job types.

Metric vs Imperial

Most sets sold in Ireland are metric, which suits the majority of modern bolts. However, if you’re working on older machinery or American imports, an imperial set (or a mixed one) might be a better fit.

Deep vs Standard Sockets

Deep sockets reach recessed nuts on long bolts—very handy when the bolt sticks out far beyond the nut. Standard sockets are more compact and fit most common applications.

What to Look for in a Good Socket Set

Whether you’re picking up a set for daily site use or investing in one for your home garage, there are a few essentials worth keeping an eye on:

• Durability – Chrome vanadium steel is the gold standard for strength and longevity.
• Case layout – A solid, well-organised case saves time on the job. Loose sockets rolling around? That gets old quickly.
• Range of sizes – You don’t want to hit a snag because you’re missing a single socket. A complete range means fewer interruptions.
• Reliable ratchet – The ratchet handle should feel solid, with a smooth action and a firm grip.

This is where a Teng Tools socket set stands out—they’re built with professionals in mind, come in sturdy, well-designed cases, and include everything you’d expect from a premium set.

Common Use Cases

Here’s where socket sets really prove their worth:

• Automotive – From changing spark plugs to replacing brake calipers, socket sets are essential for vehicle work.
• Construction – Steel framework, heavy fixings, and anchor bolts all call for a strong socket and ratchet.
• Maintenance – Whether it’s tightening plant equipment or disassembling an appliance, a reliable socket set makes the job quicker.
• Home DIY – Installing shelving, assembling furniture, even putting together a shed—there’s always a bolt that needs the right fit.

It’s not just about brute force either. A proper ratchet and socket allow you to work smarter, with better access and control.

Final Thoughts

Socket sets might not be exciting, but they’re one of the most-used tools on the job for a reason. A good set will last for years, make your work more efficient, and save your knuckles from a few unwanted slips.

Whether you’re working on site or tackling a weekend project at home, it pays to invest in quality.

Browse our full range of socket sets, built for trade professionals who rely on their tools day in, day out.