Sockets are an important tool for any professional mechanic. A socket wrench is a hand-operated mechanical tool that provides grip and rotation of the nut or bolt to which it is attached, most often in order to loosen or tighten it.
Sockets come in many size variations, with 6 point sockets being most commonly used by automotive mechanics and 12 point sockets typically used by industrial workers. The type of socket you use will depend on your work environment.
If you’re working primarily on automobiles, then 6 point sockets will be more appropriate whereas if you’ll be working in factories or heavy machinery, then 12 points will be necessary.
What is a 6 Point Socket?
A 6 point socket is a type of hexagonal socket that has 6 points in the opening. It is designed for use on standard bolts and nuts, so they are typically used by carpenters, mechanics, people who work with building materials, etc.
6 point sockets have many uses, but their most important function is fitting tools that require massive amounts of force due to the thickness of the walls and less likelihood to slip off. The thick wall will ensure your bolts don’t get stripped while pulling up anything heavy, which is why professionals recommend using this socket over others.
What is a 12 Point Socket?
A 12 point socket is a type of socket that is created for industrial use. A 12 point socket has a hexagonal opening with 12 points in it.
12 point sockets are perfect for tight spaces and tough-to-reach areas. They have more points or vertices, meaning it’s easier to use 12 point sockets in these environments due to their increased ability when it comes to tightening up bolts which require less force as a result of the increased space between each vertex/point.
