What is a universal socket?
What is a universal socket?
A universal socket looks like a standard deep socket but the head is full of small metal pins. As the name suggests, they are compatible with a range of fasteners and bolts. This makes them a great tool for any DIYer or professional that uses sockets regularly.
How does a universal socket work?
The pins inside the head of the universal socket are spring-loaded. As the socket is placed over the head of a fastener, the pins in contact with the fastener head are depressed, leaving the remaining pins to surround and grip the fastener head.
This design allows universal sockets to fit many different fastener sizes and head designs, as well as enabling it to turn damaged fastener heads in some cases.
However, the pins inside the socket head do not depress very far, so the universal socket is only able to grip the top of a fastener’s head. Universal sockets can come in general socket sets, read our Best Socket Set Review to see our recommendation.
What universal socket sizes are available?
Universal sockets come in different sizes, but most commonly there are only two: standard and large. The standard size has an overall diameter of 1″ (25.4mm) and can be used on fastener heads ranging from ¼” – ¾” (7mm-19mm). It also has a ⅜” drive for connecting a turning tool.
The large size has an overall diameter of 1½” and can be used on fastener heads ranging from 7/16″ – 1¼” (12mm -32mm). The drive size of the large universal socket is ½”.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of universal sockets?
Advantages
Can be used on both metric and imperial fasteners.
Can turn a wide range of fastener head designs.
Can turn worn or damaged fastener heads.
Can fit several size fastener heads.
Disadvantages
Cant apply as much torque as a standard socket.
Does not fit the fastener head exactly so may round it off.
Pins don’t depress far so limited bolt head clearance.
Larger diameter than many small sockets so may not be able to access fastener heads in confined spaces.
