Gearwrench Magnetic Extension Review

If you find that you often need to use tape, putty, or shims to hold fasteners inside of sockets, then you will definitely want to consider Gearwrench’s new magnetic drive accessories. Gearwrench’s new magnetic lineup includes 6″ extensions, universal-joint adapters, and drive-size adapters, all available in 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ drive.

In this review, we put Gearwrench’s 6″ magnetic extensions to the test - read on for a detailed scrutiny, or skip ahead to the verdict.

Close-up of Knurling and Overall Finish

Examining the physical properties of Gearwrench’s 6″ magnetic extensions, we notice that the ball detent, knurling, chrome, fit, feel, and finish are all of the high quality we’ve come to expect from Gearwrench. As for their length, each extension measures approximately 5  5/8″ from one drive end to the other, with a stud protruding by an additional 3/8″ from the male drive end.

Close-up of Magnetic Tip

Examining the male-drive side of Gearwrench’s magnetic extensions, you’ll find a protruding stud with a neodymium magnet embedded at the tip. With the extension attached to a shallow socket, the magnetic tip passes through the drive base to connect with an inserted steel fastener, to hold it securely inside the socket.

To demonstrate their holding power, we took the 3/8″ extension, attached a 9/16″ socket, and used a 3/8″ bolt to suspend the extension in midair by its magnetic strength.

Demonstration of Magnetic Holding Strength

To take the demonstration a bit further, we then took the heavier 1/2″ extension and used a bolt to suspend it a few inches over a cellphone. You should now be as convinced as we are that these magnetic extensions are strong enough to securely hold most reasonably sized fasteners. Although we trust the holding power of these extensions enough to put our personal electronics in harm’s way, please don’t try this at home!

One final observation about the magnets: in our experiences, the use of these extensions did not impart nor induce any noticeable residual magnetic field in any of the fasteners or tools that they were used with. Your experiences may vary, of course.