Ernst Manufacturing 8496 Socket Boss 3/8"-Drive Socket Organiser, 13" Blue — 28-Clip Twist-Lock, Compact Drawer Tray

The Ernst Manufacturing 8496 Socket Boss is a compact, 13-inch twist-lock socket tray that secures up to 28 3/8"-drive sockets for drawer, bench, or mobile storage.

Designed and made in the USA, this Socket Boss tray puts flexible socket organization into a slim footprint. Two removable universal rails and 28 twist-lock clips give you a customizable layout that keeps sockets locked during transport, prevents loss, and fits neatly into tight tool drawers or tool bags. The tray is light, easy to carry by its end handles, and supports both short and full-length socket runs.

How does the twist-lock system protect sockets when I’m on the move?

The twist-lock clips rotate to clamp each socket by the drive, holding it firmly in place so sockets won’t fall out during transit. The locking action works even if the tray is inverted, reducing the chance of dropped tools or missing pieces.

• 28 3/8"-drive twist-lock clips secure individual sockets
• Clips lock each socket by the drive for low-profile retention
• Tray handles allow easy carrying without opening or spilling
• Twist mechanism resists accidental release from bumps or vibration

Can I rearrange the tray to match different socket types or sizes?

Yes — the two universal rails are removable and interchangeable, so you can configure the layout for SAE or metric sockets, swap clip positions, or change the rail colors. The rails feature molded end stops and added spacing so the full 13-inch length can accept a full run of sockets.

• Removable rails let you mix drive sizes or separate metric and SAE sets
• Swap clip counts and positions for deep or shallow sockets
• Color-coding recommendations: red for SAE, blue for metric
• Rails lock into the tray and release with a button for secure transport

What are the tray’s dimensions and storage advantages?

The compact tray measures roughly 14.88 by 3.63 by 1.24 inches and holds up to 28 sockets, offering maximum capacity with minimal drawer space. Its low profile makes it ideal for crowded tool chests, workbenches, or mobile tool bags where saving surface area matters.

• Compact footprint fits standard tool drawers and backpacks
• Low height stacks easily under lids or inside tote compartments
• Full-length rail allows continuous socket placement across the 13" rail
• Lightweight construction with end handles for quick grab-and-go

Are there features that make identification and customization easy?

The tray accepts ID stickers for each socket position and lets you add or remove clips for custom spacing. This makes it simple to mark sizes, maintain an ordered set, and swap in ratchet or extension holders as needed.

• Label-friendly surfaces for socket size identification
• Clip slots accept accessory holders for ratchets and extensions
• Change rail color or clip arrangement to separate sets visually
• Molded features keep rails aligned and sockets spaced consistently

Who is this for: The Ernst Manufacturing 8496 Socket Boss is aimed at professionals and DIYers who need reliable, space-efficient socket storage—mechanics, technicians, fleet service personnel, and hobbyists who transport tools frequently. If you want a durable, configurable tray made in the USA that keeps a 3/8"-drive socket set organized, visible, and secure in tight spaces, this tray is a practical choice.