Blue Spot Tools Individual 8mm Shallow Hex Socket (1/2" Drive) 01720

Blue Spot Tools Individual 8mm Shallow Hex Socket (1/2" Drive)

MPN: 01720

Barcode: 5028734017205

Size: 8mm

Weight: 0.06kg

Overview:

The Blue Spot Tools 8mm Shallow Hex Socket is a 1/2" drive CrV steel hand tool socket rated to 94Nm for small metric fastener applications. Chrome vanadium provides the material integrity for hand-driven work at the smallest end of the metric socket range.

Mirror polishing and a knurled mid-section band give a clean finish and a reliable grip point. The 38mm shallow depth keeps it usable in confined areas - it attaches to all standard 1/2" drive tools.

Key Features and Benefits

• Chrome Vanadium (CrV) Steel: Provides material integrity for hand-driven torque work at this compact metric size
• 94Nm Rating: Covers the torque demands for 8mm metric fasteners in hand tool applications
• Six-Point Hex Profile: Drives the flat faces of the fastener head, not its corners
• Mirror Polished Finish: Hard, corrosion-resistant surface across the socket body
• Knurled Mid-Section: Reliable grip for handling and positioning the socket
• 1/2" Drive: Attaches to ratchets, torque wrenches, and breaker bars
• Shallow 38mm Depth: Stays usable in confined access points

Specs & Attributes

• Size: 8mm
• Drive: 1/2"
• Type: Hex (6-point)
• Material: Chrome Vanadium (CrV)
• Finish: Mirror polished with knurled grip band
• Max Torque: 94Nm
• Depth: 38mm
• Weight: 0.06kg

Typical Applications

• Small trim fasteners and interior bracket hardware
• Vehicle bodywork panel fixings
• Electronic component mounting bolts
• Small fasteners on the underbonnet auxiliary components
• General hand tool works on 8mm metric fasteners with a 1/2" drive

How to Use

• Confirm the Fastener Size: Measure the bolt head to confirm it is 8mm across the flat faces.

• Fit to the Drive Tool: Attach the socket to a 1/2" drive ratchet, breaker bar, or torque wrench.

• Seat the Socket: Set the hex opening squarely over the fastener and confirm full engagement before turning.

• Apply Controlled Force: Drive the fastener in the correct direction - do not exceed 94Nm.

• Remove the Socket: Detach the drive tool and use the knurled band to retrieve the socket.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is an 8mm socket used for?
  An 8mm socket covers small trim fasteners, bodywork panel fixings, electronic component brackets, and small auxiliary hardware across metric vehicles. It is one of the smallest metric socket sizes in regular automotive and general mechanical use.

• Why is it important to keep the socket fully seated throughout the turning stroke?
  A socket that lifts or rocks during rotation can shift from flat-face to corner contact with the fastener head. This concentrates the applied load at fewer points, increasing the risk of rounding the fastener under torque. Maintaining downward pressure throughout the stroke keeps full engagement and reduces wear on both the socket and the fastener.

• What is the best way to identify an unlabelled socket?
  The most accurate method is to measure across the internal flat faces directly using a calliper. Many sockets also carry stamped markings on the body that can be read under good light, even when worn. Where physical measurement is not possible, test-fitting on a known fastener gives a practical check.

• What is the difference between a speed wrench and a standard ratchet when used with sockets?
  A speed wrench is a fixed handle designed to be spun quickly between the fingers to run a fastener in or out fast, without the ratchet mechanism. It is useful for long runs of loosely threaded fasteners, but it cannot apply the sustained leverage a ratchet provides for the final tightening pass. Both use standard 1/2" drive sockets.

• Can sockets be used effectively in a long multi-extension setup?
  Extension bars do not significantly reduce torque delivery for standard hand tool applications. However, a long extension setup introduces more flex at the socket end, making it harder to keep the socket seated square on the fastener. For stubborn fasteners, keep the extension as short as the task allows to maintain accuracy and control.

Summary

The Blue Spot Tools 8mm Shallow Hex Socket is a CrV 1/2" drive hand tool socket rated to 94Nm, covering small metric fasteners in automotive and general workshop use. The 38mm shallow depth keeps it usable in restricted access points. This socket is backed by the Blue Spot Tools Lifetime Guarantee.