Your socket organizers

fidowanttobe · Feb 22, 2017

A gazillion choices and prices out there. What do you have that you LIKE? For me, I need to be able to grab a set and move it to the work area, not run back and forth for each socket. Don't like the snap-onto ones as with oily hands, hard to wrestle on and off. The stand up trays with the pins sticking up are what I am leaning toward, but no matter what I decide, will be an investment as I will need many for all 4 sizes, and SAE and Metric. So,.... what can you all suggest, (brands, stores, online, etc.) so I don't have to learn what you already did?? Thanks in advance.

jjmarotz · Feb 22, 2017

I had the rails with the snap on style clips and hated them. Went with the trays with pegs and love it!!!!!
Instead of the pricey ones I just did the Harbor Freight ones. Grab a whole tray and off you go. Easy to read the sizes too when laying under a rig.
Fairly well priced I think. Even on sale currently. 3 Pc SAE Socket Tray/Organizer
Ones that won't fit on the peg trays I took a pc of composite 2x6 decking and drilled a series of holes for different wobble sockets, torx bits, allens, etc. Still able to grab the whole tray and go.

Laderbuilt · Feb 22, 2017

I use what's linked below and there the cats pajamas!
Westling Machine - Milaca, MN

KubotainNH · Feb 22, 2017

I got some of these recently because of the good reviews. So far I really like them. I like this type because I can easily throw them in a bag.

Amazon.com: Olsa Tools | 1/2-Inch Drive Aluminum Socket Organizer | Premium Quality Socket Holder (RED): Automotive

CADplans · Feb 22, 2017

I hate any that require the socket to snap in.

The only successful one I have is a magnetic tray,,,
you can move the entire set easily,,,,

I got it at Sears.

TractorGuy · Feb 22, 2017

You're posting this in the "Build it yourself " section so make your own and show us what you came up with.

I have a variety in my toolbox. Everything from the post type to none at all. Some I made myself by cutting snug fitting holes in foam insulation with hole cutters. Those seem to work as good and hassle free as any.

CADplans · Feb 22, 2017

JD855guy said:
You're posting this in the "Build it yourself " section so make your own and show us what you came up with.

I THOUGHT that putting the sockets INTO trays WAS DIY,,,?? :confused2:

Well,, that is as close as I can get to DIY,,, :thumbsup:

kennyd · Feb 22, 2017

I have 6 of the Hanson trays, they are fantastic. I see now they sell a 6-pack, I bought mine individually.

Amazon.com: 6 Pc. Hansen Socket Tray Organizer Set 1/4",3/8",1/2": Home Improvement

Big Barn · Feb 22, 2017

kennyd said:
I have 6 of the Hanson trays, they are fantastic. I see now they sell a 6-pack, I bought mine individually.

Amazon.com: 6 Pc. Hansen Socket Tray Organizer Set 1/4",3/8",1/2": Home Improvement

I'm all over the place with what I use, but I have to agree with kennyd!

Terry

CADplans · Feb 22, 2017

I only have one drawer tall enough for "stand-up deep well sockets.

My toobox must have come with the insert,, it FILLS an entire drawer,, in a big Craftsman toolbox
So, I do use it,,, but, I do not like it,, NO taking it to the "job" :thumbdown:

MossRoad · Feb 22, 2017

I saw one like this in a junk store the other day. It was small, for 1/4" sockets. It has a magnetic base. Didn't need it, so didn't buy it. Can't find any more on the internet but one discontinued at Menard's.

Big Barn · Feb 22, 2017

MossRoad said:
I saw one like this in a junk store the other day. It was small, for 1/4" sockets. It has a magnetic base. Didn't need it, so didn't buy it. Can't find any more on the internet but one discontinued at Menard's.

View attachment 499645

That style is handy for all the "oddball" socket related items such as swivel joints, drive adapters ( up AND down in size ) , socket hex, torx etc.

Terry

Fossil Farm · Feb 22, 2017

I just use a case that can fit sockets (SAE and metric), wrenches (3/8 and 1/2), extensions, swivels, etc. Grab and go. Each socket fits in a depression shaped for its size. Got a couple at Sears years ago. Not sure who carries them now. No close Sears hardware stores to me anymore.

Toyboy · Feb 23, 2017

I use the Hanson organizers also. I've always shied away from the magnetic type for fear the sockets would pick up some residual magnetism

LD1 · Feb 23, 2017

Another vote for the harbor freight trays/pegs

topbuilder · Feb 23, 2017

I think the snap on rails get a bad rap because there are a lot of cheap ones out there. I use the ones from actually from Snap-On Tools. Surprisingly, they are reasonably priced. Different lengths available. Much better fit on and off. I also use and like the factory metal trays.