There are ratchets on the market for working in tight spots, such as the Proxxon Rotary.
This nifty tool can be operated at an angle by simply twisting the handle grip.
If space is limited, you sometimes face the problem that the bolt cannot be properly tightened or loosened with your standard ratchet; there’s simply not enough room to swing to the next ratchet position.
Tool makers overcome this by offering the likes of the featured Proxxon ½” Rotary Ratchet (we used the 23084 version, which is around £40 online) that come with extra angling.
The special feature on this tool is the twist grip. This allows the 52-tooth ratchet to be turned and pre-tensioned. The rotational direction of the socket is set by operating the reversing mechanism, just like a normal ratchet, so it doesn’t matter if the handle is then turned anti-clockwise or clockwise. This eliminates the need to readjust your grip. Because the loosening or tightening force comes from the ratchet stroke, you only need to apply minimal power to the handle.
Use with caution
It is possible to insert another tool with a 1/4″ drive to the other end of the handle to apply more force if needed. But Proxxon advises that applying too much power can overload the twist handle mechanism.
The ½” socket of the 0.8kg ratchet has a ball lock that is released by pressing on a button — nice.
We found the reversing mechanism stiff. To operate it, the tool holders must be locked in place. The handle does fit comfortably in the hand and is about 40mm in diameter, so it’s generously sized.
Alexander Bertling
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