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A sturdy 3/8 torque wrench will help you get all of your light automotive work done on time without wearing out or breaking down on you.
But how do you pick out the best one with so many different brands and options available to you?
Buying the wrong one will result in it not fitting correctly and working like you need it to, and this can leave you out of pocket because you’ll have to buy another.
Our guide gives you five suggestions on the best 3/8 torque wrenches on the market today that can fit into virtually any budget.
Quick Picks
Here's 3 products we picked out that thought you would be interested in depending on your budget...
Best 3/8 Torque Wrench with Reviews
Here's a list of some of the best 3/8 torque wrenches we found on the market:
1. CDI 1002MFRMH 3/8 Torque Wrench
Pros
- Spring loaded pull-down lock ring
- Rugged, industrial strength materials
- Audible clicking mechanism
Cons
- Scale may not line up correctly
- Laser engraving is light
- Accuracy concerns under 20 pounds
Overview
The CDI 1002MFRMH is a 3/8 torque wrench that is a great pick if you want an industrial-strength wrench that is a higher quality. It has several nice features to help justify the higher price point. The torque range of 10 to 100 foot pounds is broad enough for a variety of applications.
However, the wrench is supposed to give an audible click when it reaches your desired torque range. The click is very quiet, but you can feel it vibrate slightly when you should stop applying pressure. It comes calibrated to work out of the box, but it’s more accurate when you work clockwise.
Any professional mechanic or tradesman will seriously want to consider adding the CDI 1002MFRMH to your lineup of tools to have it on hand. It comes from a reliable brand, and it offers the ability to work both clockwise and counterclockwise. The positive lock will keep the wrench at your desired torque setting to ensure high accuracy, and this will keep your projects moving along from start to finish.
2. GearWrench 85062 3/8 Torque Wrench
Pros
- Weighted feel
- Sliding lock mechanism
- Dual engraved scale
Cons
- Measurement markings are light
- Has a lower number of gear teeth
- Too long for some jobs
Overview
The GearWrench 85062 is a great pick if you’re trying to balance a mid-range torque wrench with several nice features. It’s slightly more affordable, and it has a thin profile with a high-strength teardrop head that allows you to reach into tight spaces without a problem.
The gear teeth number is lower on this torque wrench, and this allows for slipping when you use it on certain fasteners. If you’re not careful, you could hit your hands on whatever you’re working on when it slips. However, you should use it slower to ensure you get the correct torque.
Any part-time mechanic or DIYer who likes working on their vehicles can benefit from adding the GearWrench 85062 to their collection.The audible clicking noise and slight vibration remove any uncertainty about the torque rating, and the sliding lock mechanism keeps you in your desired range. If you have a few smaller jobs lined up, the engraved dual scale can help you get the job done faster and smoother while saving your arms from fatigue.
3. Tekton 24330 3/8 Drive Torque Wrench
Pros
- Ships pre-calibrated
- Handle is durable
- Heavier build for better durability
Cons
- Scale is very light
- Only torques clockwise
- Storage box locks are flimsy
Overview
The Tekton 24330 is a great torque wrench for anyone on a strict budget that wants a durable tool with a torque range of 10 to 80 foot pounds. It will emit an audible click when it reaches your pre-set torque range to prevent shearing off your fasteners.
There is a scale with this wrench, but it’s lightly stamped into the metal. This makes it difficult to see under dim lighting conditions, and it also makes it easy to wear away with repeated use. But, it does come with a dual range to remove the need for conversion charts.
If you’re a DIYer who routinely works on bicycles or light automobiles, consider adding the Tekton 24330 to your toolkit. The reversible ratchet head will drive both directions for your convenience, and the all-steel construction removes the possibility of part failure. It ships pre-calibrated and ready to go out of the box, and it can help you complete your project quickly and easily without any costly delays.
4. Precision Instruments PREC2FR100F 3/8 Drive Wrench
Pros
- Calibrated upon arrival
- Full year warranty
- Storage case is durable
Cons
- Ratchet head has less teeth
- Difficult to get a firm grip on the handle
- End has an exposed design
Overview
The Precision Instruments PREC2FR100F is a solid pick if you want a high-quality torque wrench that has a slightly higher price attached to it. It’s made in the United States with a full metal design to add durability. Additionally, it comes with a hard-shelled case to protect it when it’s not in use.
The scale does have a protective covering over it, but this can fog over in certain environments to make it difficult to read. It’s also difficult to read in lower lighting. However, you get a dated calibration certificate with every order, and it’s ready to use out of the box.
If you’re a mechanic or professional tradesman, it’s a good idea to consider adding the Precision Instruments PREC2FR100F to your toolkit. Not only does it come from a reputable brand, but it comes with a full year warranty against damage or wear. If you have several big jobs lined up ahead of you, using this tool can help you finish each one within your deadline.
5. TACKLIFE HTW1A 3/8 Torque Wrench
Pros
- 2.95-inch extension bar included
- Passed international calibration standards
- Hard storage case included
Cons
- Torque setting is hard to read
- Only torques clockwise
- Bulky design
Overview
The TACKLIFE HTW1A is a mid-range torque wrench that works well for applications around the house. It’s more affordable without skimping on materials, and it comes with a high accuracy rating of +/- 4%. It’s also packed with nice features to make it more versatile.
Although this torque wrench clicks when you reach your pre-set range, the click and vibration are very subtle. If you’re working quickly, it’s easy to miss them and shear off the bolt. However, it has a deep scale that is easy to read and won’t wear away.
If you’re a DIYer who likes to tinker in the garage, consider adding the TACKLIFE HTW1A to your collection. It comes from a very well-known brand, and it offers a great value in terms of the price. The all-steel construction makes it resistant to rust, corrosion, and shocks. You can get into smaller spaces due to the ability to ratchet it both clockwise and counterclockwise, and this can ensure you finish all of your projects without delays.
Wrapping it up
Whichever 3/8 torque wrench you choose, it should have a broad torque range. A nicely marked scale is another bonus, and it should have a full metal design that makes it resistant to shocks and damage. Having it calibrated to torque both directions is another thing to watch for, and this is why we chose the CDI 1002MFRMH as our pick for the best 3/8 torque wrench. The positive lock keeps us inside our necessary torque range, and it gives an audible click to remove any guesswork.
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