Tools are hard to read Metric from SAE?

Question

I have a fairly large selection of sockets in my tool box.  Is there anyone who knows if anyplace sells some sort of sticker that that has all the sizes on it that I can just peel off and place on each socket to identify the sizes in readable, bigger print?, the sizes are etched into each socket but they are hard to see making it necessary to waste time to make sure I have grabbed the correct size by rolling them in the light until I can see the etching(s).

FleetTech · Accepted Answer

Stickers/ labels will come off first time or so they get oil soaked. 
Some of my sockets are in trays, I took a sharpie and marked the size of each socket in the side of the tray for my metric sockets.
standard sockets are on rails from left to right , largest to smallest.
Some things I used red nail polish ( asked the wife for it so she gave me a color she is tired of ) to hi-lite the sizes.
Clean the tools with a degreaser or carb cleaner before marking/ painting, etc so it will stick.
Impact stuff I sprayed some white paint on , then wiped off leaving recessed lettering/ numbers in white.
Thankfully MATCO tools is marking their sockets in a gold etching, large enough for my old eyes to see. BUt I just replace as necessary, or buy only sizes needed instead of full sets.

R J · Answer

I have these (in orange) for each set of metric and SAE.  

http://www.amazon.com/Lisle-40210-Magnetic-Socket-Holder/dp/B0002STSUI

There is space enough between the sockets that you could write the size with a Sharpie.

Keeps them organizes and easy to grab.  You can carry a tray of just 3/8" drive if that is what you are using at the moment.

Nigel M · Answer

I have socket rails, that keep everything lined up, and keep the metric on one side of the drawer, and the inch on the other.  

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=1147

You could also print your own labels with Avery or similar label stock.  If you choose to label the sockets, clean them with isopropyl alcohol (medical alcohol from drug store or pharmacy section) immediately before applying the labels.

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Tools are hard to read Metric from SAE?

3 Answers