Impact Sockets are an integral part of quite a few tool chests. If you work on cars or work in construction and perform a lot of fastening through difficult materials you know just how valuable a good set of sockets can be. Today we are checking out the iconic Sunex Tools, a brand with a solid history of providing incredible tools behind them. Since Impact Sockets are one of the first tools you think of when you think of Sunex, it seemed like the perfect introduction. Let’s see what sets these Impact Sockets apart in the Sunex Impact Sockets Review.
Sunex Impact Sockets Review Overview
Sunex Tools is a brand that has been around quite a while. They are a family-owned company that puts a lot of pride in their high-quality materials and innovative designs that make a huge difference in how their tools perform. Sunex Tools began in 1977, where they set out to manufacture Impact Sockets that would change the industry. To say the least, they were successful. Today they manufacture a wide range of aftermarket tools, as well as a wide of hand tools, tool storage options, and air tools. They also design and manufacture automotive specialty items like lifting equipment and hydraulic presses.
So many people wonder what the difference is between traditional hand sockets and Impact Sockets. Can they get away with only one set? Sadly the answer is no. In short, if you intend to use sockets on an impact wrench, you will definitely need a good set of Impact Sockets. While they look a lot alike, there is actually a lot that varies between the two types of sockets. Generally, traditional sockets are chrome with thinner walls for increasing access and are also made with harder materials that are heat treated and designed to resist wear. Impact sockets are often times black, come in a variety of depths and are made of slightly softer material. Generally, Impact Sockets aren’t heat treated, and if they are it is to a much lesser degree.
This may seem strange, that in order to be used on a power tool a socket would need softer material. Impact Sockets though are designed to withstand incredible torque and resist breaking. Impact Sockets resist breaking well, even in their high-torque usage, but they are known to wear more so than hand sockets.
This is why purchasing a high-quality set of Impact Sockets is essential to your investment. Sunex opts to use Chrome-Molybdenum alloy steel over the lesser and more common, Chrome Vanadium Steel. This material is meant to resist the wearing traditional impact sockets suffer from, but still withstand torque without breaking. Sunex offers a full lifetime warranty on all of their hand tools and Impact Sockets, something that ensures your investment is sound.
Sunex Impact Sockets Review Features
We are looking at three sets of Impact Sockets and a set of Impact Ready Nut Setters to cover virtually every application.
Sunex Impact Sockets are made of Forged Chrome-Molybdenum alloy steel for a longer useful life.
The Chrome-Molybdenum alloy steel compound is superior to other materials as it provides additional strength and gives them rust resistance. The additional benefit is it helps prevent rounding of fasteners during use, something common in Impact Sockets.
All Sockets from Sunex Tools have a lifetime warranty, ensuring they will replace your sockets should they have any defects.
The Extra-Thin Wall Deep Impact Socket Set, item #2611 features 11 sockets with a range of both SAE and Metric.
This set includes a 3-inch extension as well as SAE socket sizes: 3/4 in., 13/16 in., 7/8 in., 1 in. and 1-1/16 in., Metric sizes: 17 mm, 19 mm, 21 mm, 22 mm and 23 mm.
The extra thin walls on these sockets give better access in tight spaces.
The extra deep sockets also improve access, especially when used with recessed bolts, common in automotive work.
The 1/2-inch drive is a standard size socket, and fits well on the Impact Wrench. They are snug but not overly difficult to change, the ideal blend for socket fit. 
The Case is made of thick plastic for extra durability and protection.
The case comes with size-labeled molds for each socket to keep you organized.
Low Profile Impact Socket, Item 2674 features 11 SAE six- point sockets with a hex shank and ½-inch drive.
The Sockets included in this set are 3/8, 7/16, 1/2, 9/16, 5/8, 11/16, 3/4, 13/16, 7/8, 15/16, 1-inch.
Low Profile Impact Socket, Item 2673 features 15 Metric six-point sockets with a hex shank and ½-inch drive.
The Sockets included in this set are 10mm to 24 mm.
The Hex Shank on these two sets provides the option to use with hand tools in recessed applications.
The low profile of these sockets gives better maneuverability in tight spaces, something common in automotive work.
The storage rail strips allow for easy organization of the sockets and are color-coded based on metric or SAE.
Last but not least is the 14-piece Impact Ready Nut Setter Set, item 9933.
Both SAE and Metric sizes provide a wide range of uses. Included in this set are- 6 to 14 mm, and 1/4, 5/16, 3/8, 7/16 and 1/2-inch.
The color rings on easy nut setter provide a quick and easy way to identify sizes
The internal magnet allows the setter to hold the fastener in place for more accurate driving.
The included hard case is molded for bit organization and is made of durable plastic for protection.
Sunex Impact Sockets Review Performance
If there is one thing I always say, is invest a few extra dollars in your accessories to get the best performance. I tell people constantly if you can’t afford a high end saw, the few extra dollars spent on the blade will make all the difference. Impact Sockets are no different. Sunex is known for its Impact Sockets, and there is a reason for that legacy. When you look at most products on the market today, most don’t offer a lifetime warranty. Companies that do have a guarantee in place don’t offer it because they intend people to have to use it. The warranty is there because they have designed their tools to stand up to real use conditions. Simply put, they want their customers to know they believe in their product and are willing to guarantee it.
I had a great experience all around with these Impact Sockets. I had several sets prior that I have purchased over the years. Some more on the lower end, and others that were professional grade too. There was definitely something different about the Sunex Sockets. Their attention to detail on their sockets is impossible to miss. They are clearly made well and have an excellent finish and feel. They did exactly as you would expect them too. Their fit was precise, allowing excellent grab and hold while not causing rounding or damage to the fastener. The organization is a bonus too, providing easy access and visibility as well as protection of the sockets.
I am a huge fan of the Magnetic Nut Setters. So often I find myself reaching for these in day to day use. Nut setters offer a lot of advantages. They can be installed right into an impact driver and the magnets help hold the fastener in place which is both convenient and assists accuracy. I love that Sunex included a solid case with it, and the color-coded markings are a huge bonus in ease of use.
Sunex Impact Sockets Review Value
Extra Thin Wall Deep Impact Socket Set #2611 is available from Amazon for $100.00.
Low Profile Impact Socket SAE 11-Piece Item # 2674 is available from Amazon for about $47.00.
Low Profile Impact Socket MM 15 Piece Item #2673 is available from Amazon for about $50.00.
Impact Ready Magnetic Nut Setters- Item # 9933S is available from Amazon for $54.00.
Sunex Tools offers professional grade tools, they are exceptionally reasonable given their quality. I would expect to pay quite a bit more than Sunex is charging based on the build material and overall features. For something like sockets, I would say Sunex is a great value for the majority of users as their quality and performance far exceed the cost. Impact Sockets aren’t something you should have to buy repeatedly. Invest in a solid set from a brand like Sunex with a warranty you can’t beat, and you have a lifetime of reliable performance.
Sunex Impact Sockets Review Final Thoughts
Sunex Impact Sockets are among the best on the market. The combination of features, performance, and exceptional value make them a great option for users of all kinds. Professionals and hobbyists alike will love the long term assurance their warranty offers and the wide variety of options available. With a lot of importance placed on quality and innovation, Sunex Tools is an excellent manufacturer to add to your lineup of brands to consider.
