US PRO B1340 Review

An impact wrench is only as effective as the socket on the end of it. Standard chrome sockets are designed for hand tools — ratchets, breaker bars, and torque wrenches — where the load is gradual and predictable. An impact gun delivers sudden, violent rotational hammer blows that concentrate stress at the corners of the socket. Chrome sockets are hard but brittle; under impact loads they can crack, shatter, or deform — and the chrome plating can flake off, creating sharp shards. Impact sockets are made from a tougher, more ductile alloy steel (typically chrome-molybdenum or chrome-vanadium) that flexes slightly under impact rather than fracturing, and they are finished with a black phosphate or oxide coating rather than chrome. A good impact socket set is not an optional accessory — it is essential safety equipment for anyone who uses an impact wrench, and the right set covers the full range of fastener sizes you encounter without gaps that force you to improvise.

US PRO is a value-focused tool brand that has built a loyal following among home mechanics and semi-professional users who want functional tools without the premium price tag. The B1340 is a 16-piece deep impact socket set covering every millimetre size from 10 to 32 mm in a 1/2-inch drive — a genuinely comprehensive range that leaves no common automotive fastener uncovered. Each socket is 76 mm deep, forged from chrome-vanadium steel, and finished in black phosphate for corrosion resistance. Before buying impact sockets, check whether you need deep or shallow — deep sockets clear long studs and recessed nuts, while shallow sockets fit into tighter spaces. A deep set is the more versatile first purchase, and a shallow set can be added later for access-restricted applications.

In this review we examine the US PRO B1340 set's build quality, size accuracy, wall thickness, coating durability, and real-world impact performance with both pneumatic and cordless impact wrenches. We also compare it to similarly priced sets from Laser, Sealey, and Draper.

The US PRO B1340 is a 16-piece 1/2-inch drive deep impact socket set covering sizes 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 24, 27, 30, and 32 mm. This range covers virtually every hex fastener encountered on European and Asian passenger vehicles — from small 10 mm trim and bracket bolts through the common 17, 19, and 21 mm suspension and wheel nut sizes, up to 32 mm hub nuts and crankshaft bolts. Each socket is 76 mm long, providing enough depth to clear long studs and threaded rod without bottoming out. The sockets are forged from chrome-vanadium steel and heat-treated for the toughness that impact use demands.

The 6-point hexagon design grips the flat sides of the fastener rather than the corners — this is the correct choice for impact use. A 12-point socket distributes force across more contact points but applies it closer to the corners, where the fastener is weakest and most likely to round off under high torque. A 6-point socket transfers force to the strongest part of the bolt head, dramatically reducing the risk of rounding. The black phosphate finish provides corrosion resistance without the brittleness and chipping risk of chrome — the sockets will develop a natural patina with use, but this is cosmetic and does not affect strength.

The 76 mm deep format is practical for the majority of automotive impact work. It clears the protruding stud on hub nuts, reaches recessed brake calliper bolts, and accommodates the long threaded sections on suspension components. The sockets have their size clearly stamped on the side — large, legible markings that remain readable even when covered in oil and grease. The 1/2-inch square drive end has a spring-loaded retaining pin hole that engages with the retaining ring on impact wrenches to prevent the socket flying off during use — always check the socket is securely retained before pulling the trigger.

The set comes in a blow-moulded plastic storage case with a labelled recess for each socket. The case keeps the set organised, prevents loss, and makes it immediately obvious if a socket is missing at the end of a job — a practical feature for mobile mechanics and anyone who values tool organisation. The case is sturdy enough for toolbox drawer storage and occasional transport but would not survive being thrown into a van daily; for professional mobile use, a socket rail in a tool chest drawer offers better durability. The sockets are easy to wipe clean after use, and the phosphate finish stands up well to workshop oils and greases.

The B1340 set holds an excellent 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 2,000 customer reviews and ranks #157 in the Socket Sets category — a remarkable satisfaction rate for a budget tool. At €43.95 for 16 deep impact sockets in a case, it represents exceptional value: less than €3 per socket. For comparison, a single premium-brand 19 mm deep impact socket can cost €8–12. The set is manufactured in China under the US PRO brand, distributed by Bergen. For the home mechanic building a first impact socket collection or the professional needing a comprehensive backup set, the B1340 delivers genuine impact-rated performance at a price that makes it an easy recommendation.

A comprehensive and affordable 16-piece deep impact socket set for home mechanics and semi-professionals who need a complete 1/2-inch impact socket range from 10 to 32 mm.