A weighted socket is a type of power socket where some extra weight has been added to increase the efficiency of the socket. The more it becomes weighted, the more efficient it becomes. If you take two same-size sockets and one of them is more weighted and use them with the same power tools, you will see the weighted socket can generate more torque than the other one. Weighted socket companies claim that they can generate 50% extra torque, but let’s see what our test shows.
What is The Point of Weighted Sockets?
The main point of the weighted socket is to generate some extra torque and use it more efficiently. When we use the power on the socket, it loses some of the power, as you know that no machine can use 100% of the power. But what weighted socket does that? It decreases the amount of lost power. You can see the extra circle around the socket that puts some extra weight on the socket. It increases the torque rate and also makes it sturdier.
To understand if it really works, I have experimented with different sizes and weights of the socket to see the result. To be honest, I didn’t have that experiment. The Torque Test Channel did it, and I am using their data to help you understand easily and shortly. I am leaving the link below if you want to see that long video. Now let’s come to the test result.
Youtube video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qVd8Bx6AAQc
Tools Used for The Experiment
- 8-inch coarse thread
- Stubby capri 15/16-inch impact socket
- 12-point shallow craftsman
- Modern 15/16-inch craftsman shallow impact socket
- Deep makita 15/16-inch impact socket
- Thin wall deep lug nut socket
- Ingersoll rand 15/16-inch power socket
- Matco power tool
Experiment Data
| Socket Type | Socket Mass | Torque |
|---|---|---|
| Stubby Impact Socket | 0.227 lb | 405 bns |
| Shallow Impact Socket | 0.353 lb | 422 bns |
| 12-point Shallow Craftsman | 0.251 lb | 403 bns |
| Deep Impact Socket | 0.771 lb | 437 bns |
| Deep Lug Nut Socket | 0.740 lb | 445 bns |
| Ingersoll Rand Power Socket | 1.500 lb | 562 bns |
Here you can see from the experiment data that a Weighted socket produces around 25% more torque than other regular sockets. During this test, different types of power tools were used in different conditions, and the result shows that a weighted impact socket produces 25% to 65% more torque than other sockets. You may find a slightly different result as per your power tools, but you will get at least a 25% result. So, we can say that the company’s claim is valid.
Frequently Asked Questions Are Answered
Does Impact Socket Weight Matter?
Yes, impact socket weight really does matter a lot. The heavier you get the socket, the more torque it will produce.
How Much Does a 10 mm Socket Weigh?
It depends on the type or company you are buying from. In general, a 10 mm socket weight can vary from 0.1 lb to 0.3 lb.
Conclusion
I hope you understand a weighted socket and whether it works as described in the company manual. I was going to do this experiment for my readers by myself, but then I found that video on Youtube and thought of using their data. Then I tried to simply describe the data and show you the actual result quickly. I hope you enjoyed this article and if you have any other questions, feel free to ask me.