Zero Degree 1/2 Drive Gearless Ratchet

Small but mighty — perfect for tight spaces and precision work I’m very happy with this Zero Degree 3/8" gearless ratchet. It’s compact, well‑made, and gives excellent control in tight areas where a conventional ratchet won’t fit. The gearless mechanism lets you turn fasteners with virtually no wasted motion — great for under dash work, engine bays, or any confined spot. The nickel finish resists corrosion and the head feels solid; sockets lock on securely. Pros: - Extremely low swing arc — ideal for cramped spaces - Positive, precise engagement — good for delicate/precision tasks - Compact, sturdy construction and corrosion‑resistant finish - Comfortable handle and easy socket changes Minor cons: - Not as smooth when spun freely compared with high‑end full‑size ratchets (doesn’t affect performance in tight work) - If you need heavy torque frequently, a larger ratchet is still preferable Bottom line: A great addition to any toolbox for mechanics, DIYers, and anyone who frequently works in confined spaces. Highly recommended for precision and accessibility.

After reading negative reviews on Amazon & local box stores, I purchased the 3/8” version of this gearless ratchet. It worked perfectly to remove & tighten the infamous starter mounting bolts on the ‘04-‘08 F150 three-bolt starter (top bolt), as there is virtually no room for a standard ratchet with backdrag to get a single click. Before use, I disassembled it (snap ring) and greased the head with white lithium (it was already lubricated with a light oil out of the box). Be careful if you disassemble it because the roller bearings will fall out; make sure the ratchet is horizontal when pulling out the guts & stand in an area where the roller bearings can be easily found should one or more fall out. (I was fortunate to find one that disappeared in a cluttered overstocked residential garage.) Notes: 1) I broke the starter mounting bolts with a standard 72-tooth ratchet, as I suspect the gearless ratchet is rated only for lower-torque applications. 2) The direction-switch lever is a tad rough, but it doesn’t affect ratchet performance. 3) The release button & drive gear are solid & operationally smooth. 4) Consider using a grease lighter than WL or stick with an oil lubricant. [Even though this is a specialty tool that will most likely spend more time in the tool bag than in my hands, I am contemplating purchasing the 1/4” version.]

first zero degree ratchet I've owned and it works great in tight spaces where a regular ratchet wont work, i can move the handle a fraction of a regular ratchet, and it operates smooth. great tool

I absolutely love this ratchet. It works so well when rotation is confined. It seems to be built extremely well and is so smooth in operation. Even so, I don't subject it to very heavy torque (or hitting it with a mallet ect) -- if needed, I'll use one of my geared ratchets to take any abuse...otherwise it's my go-to.

It’s a decent ratchet but I did have the dial turn under a good amount of torque. Overall it’s built nice and great value for the money.

I bought the 1/4 inch version a while ago. I was very happy with is so I decided to get the 3/8 ratchet. There is virtually ZERO degrees of swing before the internal bearing engages. Back drag is very low. The head is a little then a standard ratchet. For me, this is more of a tool for when a standard ratchet just will not work. I do not plan on using this day to day, but only when I need that extra little of grab when I have very little room to use a standard ratchet. The chrome quality id very good. The markings on the handle is laser etched. I much prefer stamped markings. But it is a minor thing. As you can see in my photo, the socket has a pretty large gap under the ratchet head. I got mine on sale, so overall I am very happy with it. Since I have he 1/4 and 3/8 ratchets, I do not think I will have a need for the 1/2 since I think this more of a specialty tool.

I initially bought it out of curiosity, but after just one use, I'm convinced it's the most significant upgrade to my toolbox in years. My first chance to use it was on a nightmarishly tight, bolt buried deep in a car's engine bay the kind of spot that usually requires skinned knuckles. This one is worth every single penny. Trust me, you'll fall in love with it, too. I'd like to see this design built-in to a flex head ratchet.

These ratchets are OK. I do have some different brand zero turn that are better. The issue with these is they have backlash so when you go to set the turning angle, there is a little bit of wiggle room before it locks in my other brand has no backlash wiggle room it’s solid.