What Size Torque Wrench Should I Buy First
 

I'm inclined to get a 1/2 in drive torque wrench first because I know I need it for tightening my lug nuts but do the more experienced wrench turners out there think that a 3/8 drive would be more useful? I am planning on getting a Craftsman microtorque wrench.

I think you will need the half inch more.

I have both and I seldom use my smaller one.

Tom W

Thank you sir. Thats what I thought but I wanted to get another opinion. Actually I have a cheapo 3/8 currently so I guess I could use it in a pinch anyway.

Well its hard to have one, I'd get both because a 3/8 is kind of light for lug bolts.

I have a good Snap On 3/8 for important stuff, and a cheapo 1/2 I got on Ebay for $25 just for lug bolts. Even the cheap wrench will get them within 10% and thats plenty good enough for lugs.

Which torque wrench to buy largely depends on the type of work you do most often. I currently have three, all from Snap-On. Small, Medium, and Large. :D

X2.

The small one is essential for transmission work and plastic parts (like BMW thermostat covers) , but not much else.