Craftsman  3 pc. Quick Release Extension Bar Set, 1/4 in. Dr.

Unable to keep sockets on the extensions - the locking slide did not work on any of the three extensions.

I bought this extension set to use for ligt mechanical work. However, it proved o be extremely helpful to change the spark plugs in my ford pickup. The extension grips tight to the socket and will not lose its grip. So far I am extremly pleased with the perfoance and the quality of this product. I recommend it.

The set is not strong. The locking parts were soon worn out and would not hold sockets any more. Probably springs inside got contracted and couldn't push the metal ball against the sockets. Once it happens, extension bars is useless. Sockets fall down. It leave socket with bolts. You'll need magnet to retrive them. It is really frustrating. You get the picture. The locking mechanism has to be much stronger and more durable. The structure of the locking part is not for professional or severe use.

After using this set for only 3 weeks, i have broken all 3 quick release switches.  This is easy to do when working in close tolerance areas where the switch rubs against something.  The worst part is that once the switch breaks, the extension completely looses any locking capability and your sockets will just fall off the end.

I spend a great deal of my spare time in the garage. Together with my son, Nathan (age 27) we buy and restore 1980 era Porsches. Nathan is the real mechanic in the family. I pretty much offer moral support and fetch tools.

Most people would tell you that these import cars are a nightmare to work on. We haven't found that to be the case. The mechanical design of these high-performance vehicles is pretty straight-forward. That is a hallmark of the German craftsman and engineers that have developed them. It is true, however that these engineers are extremely efficient with their use of space under the hood. Large engine, small chassis and very light-weight create an environment that is sometime complicated to work in.

We have learned that the best way to deal with this challenge is to own a complete collection socket accessories. Through the use of various extension bars, adapters and universal joints we can replicate the wrench configuration that was originally used to assemble the vehicle. Craftsman calls these tools accessories! I don't think that's right! The term accessary, to me, implies that it is a "nice extra" but not really necessary.

Take it from me, if you are going to perform much mechanical work on a 1983 Porsche 944, a complete set of socket accessories is NOT optional.

Best quarter inch extensions I've ever used. Wish they would make 3/8 & 1/2 ones now

They work but the locking knob is tiny and made of plastic. I had them lock up a couple of times. Got them cheap, though...

These locking 1/4 inch extensions solved my problem about having sockets fall off into whichever appliance I was working on. I don't have to worry about losing a socket inside the stove top or washing machine anymore, as the slide lock holds the socket until you release it. A big plus is how slender the slide lock is, so it doesn't stick out past the thickness of a small socket. BUT a possible negative for you would be how slender that slide lock is, you need to be able to fit your finger on the release. The socket fits loosely on the extension, but the locking pin keeps it on. The Sears store near me also sells these locking extensions individually, not just in three piece sets.