I have some questions about tools if you don’t mind.



First of all, what makes a teardrop ratchet different than a standard style ratchet? I’ve read on some sites that they have a “compact” head, but it looks larger than a standard ratchet to me.



Second, I don’t want to buy tools that I don’t need. 12-point sockets are pretty-much unnecessary, right?



Also, besides recessed fasteners and studs, do deep sockets have any other uses?

 

12 point sockets are great for 12 point bolts. But, those are pretty unusual. I think I've only seen them holding on my flywheel. Only other advantage is for those times when your ratchet won't quite click over in a tight space, but that can be solved much more effectively with a better ratchet with less throw between clicks.



Deep sockets are nice for a few things. Sometimes they're just nice because they act like a short extension to get your ratchet handle out past something. They're mostly useful for when you're going over a stud or putting a nut on a bolt that would bottom out on a standard socket like you mentioned.