Don't get me wrong I am not saying beam type are the best to use. Viewing angle affect what reading you think you are getting, it can be difficult to apply sufficient torque and see the needle. I would never want to use one to set the 100ft.lbs. on my lugs.

As Kevin above MEASURED the clickers can be accurate as can the dials BUT they depend on calibration which can be lost over use and time. Clickers are going to be the easiest and therefore the most consistent for most users and uses.

 

I have 5 Snap-on click type wrenches. Every year we have a company called team torque come into work and test/repair all the techs wrenches. They are consitently testing very well. My 1/2 drive was slightly off last year but still in spec. It was off in the low range where I never use it so I did not bother fixing it. The Snap on wrenches are some of the best out there but they do not make them. Do your self a favor and search for Precision industries. They make all of the wrenches for Snap-on and you can buy them on the net for 40% less than Snap on prices.

BTW, I have 1/4" drive inch lb, 3/8" drive inch lb, 3/8" drive 20-100 lb, 1/2" drive 50-250 lb, and a 3/4" drive 200-600 lb wrench all from Snap on.

For your average shade tree mechanic a sears or any other brand click type will do just fine. If you a pro and use them on a regular basis get a click type with a dial, reversible head, or even a newer style electronic vib/ beeping ones are good as well.

 

I can't really comment much, I just borrow wrench to my neighbors . . . As long as its work and fits! BTW, my son do the hardwork . . .

 

i think your question is a little too advanced for the advanced tech forum

 

Something to keep in mind about the Sears/Craftsman torque wrenches. The beam type have a lifetime warranty and the clicker type have a one year warranty. So if you think the beam one is reading wrong just take it to the store and get a new one.

 

Like somebody already mentioned...make sure and set it back to ZERO after you are done.

One thing that I haven't seen anybody mention is try not to drop it.

I know that you can really jack one up if it gets dropped.

Good luck,
Ivan

 

I've used a snap-on clicker and I liked that a lot but I have a Sears Craftsman clicker and it works well but the snap-on was a little nicer to use........but I'm just a poor redneck farmer so I just have the sears wrench

 

All of our's are tested and calibrated each year - always have been within 5%, I personally use the Snap-On electronic Tech-wrench's.