Owner was on my chainsaw repair group facebook yesterday.
Just saving info.
After a summer of using the tool, I got used to putting the socket on the nut, then turning the socket (to tighten/loosen the nut) and then finishing off with a few cranks of the ratchet. Worked great! (And you subconsciously remember to flip the switch, because your nut is either already tight or already loose).
As for maintenance of the tool, crud will get in the slot, but it never quit working for me. A compressed-air blast is probably a good idea from time to time. And bar oil is a perfect lubricant!
The RatchetScrench is made of high-carbon steel and is heat-treated. I used the prototype all last summer with no problems.
To clarify, we left out modifications, not features. Modifications to the tool are at the buyer's discretion; you may choose to drill a hole for a lanyard, or paint it hot pink... many will leave the RatchetScrench the way they receive it. On the other hand, the features are things everybody will appreciate, and use. For example, the flathead screwdriver tip is specifically designed to fit inside your bar chain-groove, so you can clean the gunk out of your bar, even when you're in the field. Our wildland firefighters will love that feature when they're spiked out on day 10!
I am curious where the lanyard holes will go, though. Some will definitely do it. (Looking at the lanyard in your thread, I wonder if a hole in the socket--near the collar-- would cause the lanyard to get in the way of the ratcheting action).
But I'd like to see a nice, leather-made holster of some sort. There are some great leatherworkers out there. Mark Fanders of Newberg, OR comes to mind; I bought a Leatherman holster from him six years ago and beat the heck out of it year-round, and it's good as new. Best $30 I've spent on eBay. I'm going to hit him up and see if he's inspired to create a RatchetScrench holster.
Custom-made leather RatchetScrench-holsters would be evidence that this tool is a winner, in my opinion! Even if you could'a had a case of beer, instead.
We went with 12-point sockets for a more precise "feel," especially when used under 3/4 or full-wrap bars. (As you put the tool on the nut, you're closer to an immediate fit with a 12-point socket).
The RatchetScrench is made by good people in China. (No child-labor). While we may eventually add a manufacturer in the USA, for now we are happy to offer this quality tool at an affordable and competitive price. And for what it's worth, the business is owned by me, a red-blooded American--born and raised
If you're ordering a few tools, your best bet is probably Priority mail which will be around $7.75 (I can fit up to 8 in a flat-rate envelope). However I did just mail a single tool from CA to VT for $5.00 (USPS First Class, 3-days). Two tools with USPS First Class is about $5.75, CA to NC, so I'd guess that three going to ID would be around $6.
Hope that helps and hope to see your REVIEW!
The RatchetScrench fits on Stihl and Husky, fits under 3/4-wrap and full-wrap bars, and fits on your standard 19mm spark plug. (The flathead screwdriver tip even fits into your bar chain-groove, to clean out the gunk)! I decided to make this tool after 5 seasons as a hotshot, constantly fumbling around with traditional screnches. I'm proud to say the RatchetScrench is finally available, here:
https://ratchetscrench.com/purchaseThe RatchetScrench is heat-treated 45# high-carbon steel so bent handles or spiraling won't be a problem. (The flathead tip can even withstand a 4' drop directly onto concrete with no problem).
The finish is nickel-plating, which helps resist rust. To spray paint nickel-plating, you'd probably want an etching primer, followed by an enamel paint. It'd be cool to see some custom colors by you guys!
Here is what was said why on plug and style. = As for spark plugs, you're correct; some are compatible, some aren't. (For example, some Stihls require a deep socket...some will work with the RatchetScrench). We had to decide between a deep socket or fitting under 3/4 and full-wrap bars.
It is compatible with many Husky spark plugs.