



3/8-Inch Drive E-Type Short Hand Socket, Chrome-Plated Steel
Precision E-type short hand socket for 3/8-inch drive ratchets. Available in 10 sizes (E4–E18). Ideal for electronics assembly and tight-space fastening.
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3/8-Inch Drive E-Type Short Hand Socket, Chrome-Plated Steel
Brief Overview
This 3/8-inch drive E-type short hand socket is engineered for precision fastening in electronics assembly, automotive electronics, and applications requiring access to external Torx fasteners in confined spaces. The extended cylindrical shank combined with the short socket body delivers the reach and control needed for delicate, high-accuracy work. Chrome-plated steel construction resists corrosion and maintains appearance through heavy workshop use. Available in 10 sizes (E4 through E18), this socket family covers the most common Torx fastener specifications in modern electronics manufacturing and repair. Complement your toolkit with precision bit sockets for maximum coverage across all fastener types.
Key Features
- E-Type (External Torx) Six-Lobed Design – Optimized for external Torx fasteners; prevents cam-out and fastener damage on delicate assemblies
- Short Socket, Long Shank – Reaches recessed fasteners while maintaining compact footprint; ideal for tight assembly spaces
- Chrome-Plated Steel Body – Durable metallic finish resists oxidation and maintains professional appearance
- Knurled Grip Ring – Textured collar near the drive end improves tactile control during precision work
- 3/8-Inch Square Drive – Compatible with standard 3/8″ ratchets, impact ratchets, and torque-limiting tools
- Size Range E4–E18 – Covers miniature electronics (E4/E5) through larger industrial fasteners (E14–E18)
Business Advantages for Resellers
High-Margin Precision Segment: E-type sockets command stronger margins than standard hex sockets due to their specialization in electronics and high-tolerance assembly. Electronics repair shops and precision manufacturers actively stock these sizes.
Bulk Order Efficiency: The 10-size range allows resellers to stock a complete set for electronics assembly lines without redundant inventory. Mechanics and technicians purchase multiple sizes per order.
Professional-Grade Durability: Chrome plating and heat-treated steel ensure long service life, reducing replacement frequency and building customer loyalty. Electronics shops value tools that won't damage sensitive fasteners.
Complementary Cross-Sell: Bundle with impact sockets and standard hex sockets to create comprehensive 3/8-inch drive kits for automotive and industrial customers.
Technical Specifications
| Size | D1 (mm) | D2 (mm) | Thickness (mm) | Length (mm) | Part ID |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| E4 | 6.9 | 17 | 5 | 63 | 33604 |
| E5 | 8.0 | 17 | 5 | 63 | 33605 |
| E6 | 9.2 | 17 | 6 | 63 | 33606 |
| E7 | 10.6 | 17 | 7 | 63 | 33607 |
| E8 | 11.8 | 17 | 7 | 63 | 33608 |
| E10 | 12.0 | 17 | 8 | 63 | 33610 |
| E11 | 13.0 | 17 | 8 | 63 | 33611 |
| E12 | 14.5 | 17 | 8 | 63 | 33612 |
| E14 | 18.0 | 17 | 10 | 63 | 33614 |
| E16 | 20.0 | 17 | 10 | 63 | 33616 |
| E18 | 22.0 | 19 | 12 | 6 | 33618 |
Material: Chrome-plated steel
Drive Type: 3/8-inch square female
Socket Type: Short hand socket with extended shank
Fastener Compatibility: External Torx (E-type) fasteners, sizes E4–E18
Application Context
These sockets excel in environments where fastener access is limited and precision is critical:
- Electronics Assembly & Repair: Assembling and servicing consumer electronics, telecommunications equipment, and industrial control systems
- Automotive Electronics: Service work on engine control modules, sensor assemblies, and circuit board fasteners
- Precision Manufacturing: Production assembly where tool access is constrained and fastener damage must be prevented
- Medical Device Assembly: High-tolerance work requiring delicate fastening without surface contamination
Why Choose This Socket Family
The E-type specification (also called external Torx or spline) differs fundamentally from standard hex sockets. Its six-lobed geometry distributes load across more contact points, dramatically reducing the likelihood of fastener stripping—a critical advantage when working with delicate electronics. The short socket/long shank design solves a common problem: reaching recessed fasteners on circuit boards or in tight cavities without overshooting or losing control.
For resellers, this product fills a gap in the precision fastening segment. While hex sockets dominate general-purpose shops, electronics manufacturers and specialized repair facilities stock E-type sockets in multiple sizes. A complete 10-size range (E4–E18) allows you to serve these high-value customers with a single SKU family.
Ready to Stock: Order now to establish your shop as a trusted source for precision fastening solutions. E-type sockets are non-commodity tools with consistent demand in the electronics and precision manufacturing segments.