Wurth Zebra 3/8-Inch Socket Set Review 096512022

Wurth Zebra 3/8-Inch Socket Set Goes Wherever the Job Takes You

We all love our master mechanics sets, but there’s still room in our lives for smaller sets. Nearly finished with by 1982 Porsche 924 restoration, I’ve been carrying the 22-piece Wurth Zebra 3/8-inch socket set around to make occasional adjustments and for general use as I help with other repairs away from the shop.

Pros

• 12-point sockets
• Includes all socket sizes from 6mm to 22mm
• Two extensions and universal joint included
• Foam rubber insert keeps everything organized
• Set fits in the regular depth drawers of my tool chest
• Compact set is easy to store in your truck box, boat, trunk, or toolbox

Cons

• Sockets were difficult to remove at first, but the drive loosed up after a few projects
• A third extension would let this set reach almost anywhere on passenger vehicles
• The ratchet handle is a little shorter than we prefer, limiting the leverage somewhat

Wurth Zebra 3/8-Inch Socket Set

Sockets

Of the 22 pieces in this set, 18 are sockets ranging from 6mm to 22mm and hitting every size in between.

They’re 12-point sockets, giving you quicker connections to the fasteners you’re working with. We can have the 6-point vs 12-point socket debate all day, but I prefer 12-point, particularly on a 3/8-inch drive ratchet.

Ratchet

The ratchet Wurth includes in the set is a bit different from what we see in many mechanics sets.

It’s not a quick-release version, though. For the first couple of jobs, the detent holding the socket on was pretty tight. However, it did loosen up and I don’t have any issues with it now. Even though it works well, I’d prefer the Zebra quick release.

The forward/reverse mechanism goes the rotary disc collar route instead of a flip switch.

The handle has a rubber overmold that I’m conflicted over. On one hand, I prefer an exposed metal handle. It’s easier to clean and isn’t as prone to collecting gunk over time.

On the other hand, it’s a really comfortable design. The cushioning and contours feel good in my hand and it has better grip security than polished chrome.

The last talking point on the ratchet is its length. It’s a little too short to be my go-to ratchet, somewhat limiting the leverage I get on it. Don’t get me wrong—it’s effective. I’d just prefer more length.

Additional Field Notes

Two extensions and a universal joint come in the set. Between them, you can get to most fasteners. There have been a few times I wished for a third extension to reach deeper, though.

The set comes in a metal box with a foam insert, keeping everything organized in a compact package. It’s even short enough to fit in my regular size tool chest drawers.

Price

You can pick up this socket set direct from Wurth USA for around $135. Here’s what it includes:

Wurth Zebra 3/8-Inch Socket Set

• Ratchet
• 2 extensions
• Universal joint
• 18 multi-sockets, 12-point (6mm to 22mm)
• Metal case with foam insert

The pricing is on the premium side, in line with what we expect from higher-end mechanics brands.

The Bottom Line

The compact size of the Wurth Zebra 3/8-inch socket set lends it to service on a mobile platform. Its physical size fits great in your toolbox, truck box, boat, or vehicle. The shorter ratchet with a covered handle is a big win when you’re having to stop for an unexpected repair or adjustment.

As a mechanic, you’re still going to want your master set back at the shop, but it’s worth having this set on hand while you’re on the road.

It’s also a great set for contractors. You can’t reach every fastener with an impact tool and having a good socket set on hand can save you a lot of time over standard wrenches.

Want more Wurth hand tools? Check out our review of their Zebra PowerDriv Dual Ratchet Combo Wrenches.