Back to basics with a timeless design that offers similarly timeless quality.
The tools we use to build and repair our racecars are utilitarian implements to be sure – but they are also tremendously special to us. We need our tools to be quality, dependable pieces. We need something that will last for years and become an heirloom. At the very least, we need something that works, and won’t fail in a way that will cause damage or injury.
I’m pretty serious about my tools. My leisure time is unfortunately limited, and when I work on a project, I want to enjoy the experience. A big part of that, for me, is using higher end tools. When it comes to “staple tools” like my trusty ⅜” drive ratchet, selection is especially important – I’m likely to use that tool every time I work on my car. A ratchet that feels good will make the experience more enjoyable. For professionals, a well-built ratchet will make the job easier – and get your bills paid.
I live in Akron, Ohio, the birthplace of Goodyear, LeBron James, Banjo Matthews, and, importantly, Cornwell Tools, who still produces this beautiful ratchet in nearby Mogadore. As you might imagine, I take a lot of pride in my hometown. It only makes sense that I’d want to own something built in my backyard – an increasingly rare proposition these days, as manufacturing has slowly drained its way out of the Rust Belt like coolant from a leaking radiator.
A True Classic
This standard length, 36 tooth, ⅜” drive ratchet is about as basic as it gets. Cornwell will happily sell you a ratchet with a quick release ball detent, a flexible head, a soft rubber grip, and a triple-digit tooth count for the ratcheting mechanism. However, I chose this one for the simple fact that every single component, including the ratcheting mechanism, was built less than ten miles from where I live. On the 72 tooth and up ratchets, Cornwell does make use of some imported ratcheting mechanisms, while still producing the body and other components here in Ohio. They also sell more affordable, quality imported ratchets in their entry-level Blue Power line.
That ratcheting mechanism, despite sporting a paltry 36 teeth and a design old enough to be my grandfather, is silky smooth, with minimal backdrag. Each engagement of the pawl results in a satisfying, audible click that will be instantly satisfying to anyone who has worked with an inexpensive, imported department store ratchet with a mushy mechanism. Perhaps my only complaint is the reversing switch – instead of a simple thumb-operated lever, the classic Cornwell ratchet requires deliberate operation with your thumb and forefinger.
The ergonomics of the ratchet are otherwise exceptional. The beautiful, Coke-bottle shaped handle doesn’t just look pretty – it feels exquisite in your hand. Simply put, it’s an absolute joy to hold and use. It truly must be felt to be believed. I’m amazed at how comfortable the Cornwell ⅜” drive ratchet is to use despite its decades-old design. The ratchet is hammer-heavy and feels substantial, but is well-balanced from stem to stern. One area where the design shows its age – besides that selector switch – is the thickness of the head. It’s not as thin as, say, a modern Snap-On ratchet. At $100, it’s also not as expensive.
The Verdict
As you’d expect, it carries a lifetime warranty. If need be, your local Cornwell dealer can replace the ratcheting mechanism – or the entire ratchet – depending on what you managed to do with it. Again, I’m just a home gamer, but given the weight of this beast and the inherently rugged nature of its mechanism, I imagine that you’d have to put some serious oomph behind a cheater bar to damage this thing.
I don’t expect hometown pride to play a part in your tool shopping habits the way it did mine, but I implore you to give the Cornwell guy a chance when he comes around your shop. If the basic ⅜” drive ratchet is this good, I’ve got to get my hands on some of their other models. I hope you enjoyed this tool review – I’m hoping to do more as the snow thaws and I get back into the garage more.
Cornwell 3/8″ Drive Ratchet
Price: ★★★★
Quality: ★★★★★
Features: ★★★
Function: ★★★★
Overall: ★★★★
Photos: Cam VanDerHorst
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