The 1/4in Parallel Socket is a 1/4-inch square-drive hand socket designed to engage hex fasteners with a parallel-walled internal profile; it is primarily used for low-torque fastening and removal of small nuts and bolts where access is limited, and for use with T-handles, 1/4in ratchets, torque wrenches and compatible air/ratchet tools. The parallel internal face gives continuous contact with the flats of the fastener to reduce rounding and improve torque transfer on small fasteners.

This socket is manufactured from chrome vanadium steel (Cr-V) and is heat treated to provide the wear resistance and toughness required for workshop and industrial use. The external finish is bright chrome plating to resist corrosion and allow easy cleaning. The product conforms to recognised dimensional and performance expectations for sockets and is produced in accordance with DIN, ISO and BS socket standards for 1/4in drive tools, ensuring interchangeability with other manufacturers’ 1/4in-drive accessories. The drive type is a 1/4in square drive and the internal profile is a six‑point (6PT) parallel hex, suitable for hexagonal fasteners rather than slotted or Torx heads.

Typical applications include light engineering, electrical and instrumentation assembly, bicycle and motorcycle maintenance, automotive trim and interior work, HVAC servicing and field service kits where small, accurate fastener control is needed. The socket is equally at home in professional workshops and on-site maintenance boxes and can be used with manual T-handles, compact ratchets or air-operated mini-ratchets for faster removal and fitting.

Key benefits of this 1/4in Parallel Socket are its good corrosion resistance from chrome plating, the strength and fatigue resistance of chrome vanadium construction, and the parallel six-point internal form which improves grip on flats and reduces the chance of fastener damage. Its 1/4in square drive makes it compatible with the widespread range of 1/4in-drive extensions, adaptors and handles.

Duchy Fasteners stocks the 1/4in Parallel Socket individually and as part of 1/4in-drive socket sets; common small imperial and metric sizes are held in single-piece packs and multi-socket sets—please see our catalogue or contact us for current size and pack availability.