

1/2-Inch Drive 12-Point Short Hand Socket, 8-36mm Range
Precision 12-point short hand socket for 1/2-inch drive. Chrome-plated steel, 8-36mm sizes. Ideal for tight spaces and fastener versatility.
Request QuoteDescription
1/2-Inch Drive 12-Point Short Hand Socket
Brief Overview
This 1/2-inch drive 12-point short hand socket delivers the precision and accessibility professional mechanics demand. The 12-point (double-hex) design engages fasteners at multiple contact points, reducing the risk of corner rounding on both hex and square fasteners—a critical advantage when working with damaged or stubborn hardware. The compact short-length profile makes these sockets indispensable for confined engine bays, transmission housings, and tight assembly areas where standard sockets won't fit. Available across an extensive 8-36mm size range, these sockets complement your existing toolkit or provide a complete independent set. For shops that prefer the six-point alternative, six-point short hand sockets offer deeper fastener grip in less confined applications.
Key Features
- 12-Point Double-Hex Profile: Engages fasteners at multiple angles, reducing corner damage and improving contact with worn fasteners
- Short Length Design: 38-46mm overall length accommodates tight engine compartments, valve covers, and confined work areas
- Chrome-Plated Steel Construction: Industrial-grade finish resists corrosion and extends tool life in shop environments
- Knurled Drive End: Provides tactile grip and prevents slipping during hand-torque operations
- Precise Machined Sockets: Consistent wall thickness and tolerances ensure reliable fit and durability
- Comprehensive Size Coverage: 8-36mm range (16 individual sizes) covers automotive, industrial assembly, and maintenance applications
Business Advantages for Resellers
- High-Volume Compatibility: Mechanic shops and technicians stock these as core inventory—they replace damaged sockets and expand existing 1/2-inch drive collections
- Damage Replacement Demand: Rounded corners and stripped sockets drive repeat orders; these are consumable-adjacent tools with steady turnover
- Accessibility Advantage: The short length feature fills a specific gap in most mechanics' toolkits, creating a unique selling angle versus standard-length alternatives
- Bulk Order Incentive: Available as individual sizes or complete sets; larger orders typical for fleet maintenance, dealerships, and service centers
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Drive Size | 1/2 inch (square drive) |
| Point Count | 12-point (double-hex) |
| Socket Type | Short hand socket |
| Size Range | 8mm to 36mm (16 sizes: 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 21, 24, 27, 30, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36) |
| Material | Chrome-plated steel |
| Finish | Matte/satin chrome plate |
| Overall Length | 38-46mm (varies by size) |
| Drive Recess Diameter (D1) | 13.2-48mm (proportional to socket size) |
| Outer Diameter (D2) | 21-42mm (proportional to socket size) |
| Wall Thickness (T) | 12-22mm (varies by size) |
Application Profile
Best For:
- Engine overhaul and reassembly work
- Transmission pan fasteners and valve cover bolts
- Brake system components and suspension hardware
- Electrical connector fasteners and sensor access
- Precision industrial assembly where fastener access is limited
Mechanic Value Proposition: The 12-point design handles both hex and square fasteners without requiring socket changes, reducing downtime when switching between hardware types. Short length eliminates the awkward angles and leverage issues that standard sockets create in confined spaces. Chrome finish withstands shop humidity and frequent cleaning cycles.
Why This Socket Belongs in Your Catalog
Professional mechanics recognize that a single socket set cannot cover all job requirements. This short-length 12-point range addresses a genuine operational gap: accessibility without sacrificing precision. Shops that invest in these sockets report fewer stripped fasteners and faster job completion in tight-access applications.
Stock these as individual replacement units or market complete sets to growing service centers. The demand is consistent, the margin is solid, and the resale velocity reflects genuine mechanic preference—not marketing hype.
Ready to order bulk quantities or discuss wholesale pricing for this socket range? Our logistics team can accommodate fleet orders and dropship arrangements for high-volume resellers.