CollectingSnapOn.com

Hi
This is my first post so would like to say hi

So the reason for post is that i kind of collect good tools and snap-on of course being the main quality brand. I have just purchased this 1/2" 71-M ratchet and cannot find anything on the internet to confirm its 100% genuine.
I from whats available think its got a 1995 date symbol but it has the older logo and the end hole does not look the same as vintage 71-m so all in all does not match with anything i can find? What do you guys think?

This is a odd one. Looks like it may have been an industrial version, looks like the hanger hole was added. usually the 71M has a factory hole, so this one has a different type of end. I would say it is real. Post a close up pic of the date code. the 71M was made in the 50-60s.

Thanks snapmom
I too thought the hole might have been added and will add photo when i get the ratchet but going off the large listing pic i have it definitely looks like 1995 symbol which does not make sense at all???

looks similar to a gs71

Yes i agree

Can't wait to get it open

So here are two more closeups as the ratchet came today and looking close the date code seems to be more like 55 which would make more sense.

This probably started as a 20 tooth, been up graded.

Thanks snapmom

Well i must say it feels nice with the extra teeth. And re-checking the date code it appears more like 1965 so i wonder if as being different from the usual it may have been a test for a higher tooth count?
What do you think? Also when did they stop the 71-m?

About 66-67

No. 71-M
Flat Reversible Ratchet with the modern Lever
1948-1965

71-M
Flat Ratchet
(20 tooth)
1950-1965

Per collecting snap-on forum
https://collectingsnapon.com/1-2-drive-ratchet-adaptor/
Collecting Snapon
For Collectors and History Buffs

I just cleaned one up with a date code from 1961.