What Size Are Ball Lock Keg Posts?

There are two primary post sizes for standard ball lock kegs.  11/16″ and 7/8″.  These can come in both 6 point and 12 point, compatible variations.  I’ve seen two other post sizes. 5/8″ and 9/16″.  I consider those more non-standard.  This post focuses on 11/16″ and 7/8″.

I usually use a wrench when dealing with ball lock keg posts.  I have one wrench that works with both sizes – See: Hands on Review: “Ball Lock Keg Wrench” – 11/16″+7/8″ Ratcheting Wrench – via Apollo Tools Wrench Set – but having a socket is sometimes super handy and sometimes potentially required.

What about 12 Point vs 6 Point Posts?

For the larger 7/8″ posts I’ve seen both 6 point and 12 point styles.  A 12 point socket will work on a 6 point post, but not vice versa.  For the smaller 11/16″ posts I have only seen 6 point.  Not to say that 12 point don’t exist, I just don’t recall seeing any.

This post looks at both sizes to prove what I’m saying here, however, when looking for a 7/8″ socket, I recommend a 12 point design.  That gives you the flexibility to work with both 6 and 12 point style posts.  For the smaller 11/16″ socket, a 6 point design should work.

These Only Work With Ball Lock Kegs, Why?

These sockets will only work with standard Ball Lock Keg Posts.  Pin Lock Kegs require a special socket that has a notch in it to allow the post pin to slip through.

Lots more info… What’s the Difference Between Ball Lock Kegs and Pin Lock Kegs?

If you need a Pin Lock Socket, See: Keg Sockets – Choose Your Sockets – via Keg Connection, choose the Pin Lock Option

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Hands on Review Craftsman Sockets for Ball Lock Keg Posts

This post looks at four Craftsman Deep Sockets.  I purchased these at Amazon.  Note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear when you click on the product link

• 11/16″ 6 point: CRAFTSMAN Deep Socket, SAE, 3/8-Inch Drive, 11/16-Inch, 6-Point (CMMT43336)
• 11/16″ 12 point: CRAFTSMAN Deep Socket, SAE, 1/2-Inch Drive, 11/16-Inch, 12-Point (CMMT47524)
• Not Recommended, See Conclusions at the end of this review – 7/8″ 6 point: CRAFTSMAN Deep Socket, SAE, 3/8-Inch Drive, 7/8-Inch, 6-Point (CMMT43339)
• 7/8″ 12 point: CRAFTSMAN Deep Socket, SAE, 1/2-Inch Drive, 7/8-Inch, 12-Point (CMMT47528)

Canada:

• CRAFTSMAN Deep Socket, SAE, 1/2-Inch Drive, 7/8-Inch, 12-Point (CMMT47528)
• CRAFTSMAN Deep Socket, SAE, 3/8-Inch Drive, 11/16-Inch, 6-Point (CMMT43336)

Since the driver that I keep in my brewery area is 3/8″ drive, I also used this adapter

Craftsman Socket Adapter 1/2″ Drive to 3/4″ (04271)

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