Socket Bit Holder?

[Stuey]

I have a few screwdriver bit sockets and hex sockets, but was wondering if I could make better use of all of my insert bits and power bits by getting a bit holder socket.

I know I could just use a 1/4" socket in a pinch, but I'd rather have a proper bit holder that has a ball indent or magnetic base. Do these even exist? I have a 1/4" drive 1/4" hex bit holder that I purchased from a cycling shop, but would like to find a reputable branded one, and one in a 3/8" drive size.

So far I found some made by Proto, but the only ones I could actually find to purchase are impact sockets. Do you guys have any suggestions as to where I can find such an accessory at an affordable price? Also, tool trucks are mostly out of the question.

Thanks!

[dxdexter]

These sockets exist , but the only time I have seen them was part of a hand held impact driver set. I'm not sure who sells them separately. Google "Impact driver " and you will may get some results.

[Stuey]

I know where to find the impact driver versions; what I'm looking for are bit sockets to use in standard ratchets.

I don't need to use bits with a ratchet that often or I'd just buy the screwdriver sockets that I need. I also know of relatively cheap offset bit holders, but they're meant for light duty driving and don't provide the torque or leverage I need.

Could the impact versions safely work with hand ratchets?

[Stuey]

What about the sockets at the top of this page (McMaster) (http://www.mcmaster.com/nav/enter.asp?pagenum=2753)?

Non-impact power sockets??? Could I still use them with manual tools?

There are also more of the same at the middle of this page (http://www.mcmaster.com/nav/enter.asp?pagenum=2775).

I'm starting to think that as long as they're not in an impact tool they should work fine.

[Charles (in GA)]

Apex makes them. I think Lowes has them on the wall in the tool section with the bits. We use 'em at work all the time, both 1/4 drive and 3/8 drive.

Charles

[eschoendorff]

These sockets come in GearWrench tool sets all the time....

[Stuey]

Like this one? (http://www.gearwrench.com/catalog/bit_sockets/insert_bits_and_bit_holders/index.jsp?view=stock)

The site doesn't list a 3/8" drive 1/4" holder though, nor have I have been able to find them by themselves.

[Merkava_4]

APEX PDF LINK (http://www.cooperpowertools.com/catalog/pdffiles/TC-100_EN.pdf)

Go to catalog page 26 which is PDF page 34.

Look at SC-108. It's a 1/4"drive socket with a 1/4"female hex with a set screw.

That might be what you're looking for.

I would've posted an image, but the upload button at Photobucket isn't working tonight.

I HATE PHOTOBUCKET! :mad:

[Stuey]

Yup. Those are definitely along the lines of what I'm looking for. Where would I be able to purchase them, though? Paying more in shipping than for the product surely stinks, which is why I would have hoped to have sourced it locally or via McMaster since I always order little doodahs from them anyways.

At least now I know that what I need actually exists!

I can only seem to find the quick release version at $44+ which is way too much. Maybe I'll go for the *shudder* import or Irwin versions w/ or w/o set screw for <$5. I didn't know Irwin made a version of these, but saw it at MSC.

[Danglerb]

http://www.google.com/products?q=bit+holder+socket&btnG=Search+Products&scoring=p

[Merkava_4]

At least now I know that what I need actually exists!


They probably have it at Gordon's Industrial in downtown Fresno CA. That's where I get all my APEX stuff. :D

[boiler7904]

I've got a 1/4" drive socket made by SK for insert bits. I've got the same thing made by Irwin? in 3/8". Both work fine.

[Danglerb]

I've got some 1/2" shank hex bits, even one 5/8", and I haven't figured out how I want to apply some serious torque with them, bit holder sockets, regular sockets, or what.

[TNToy]

Matco makes 'em. They use a snap-ring to retain the bit in the socket, so they don't come out as easily as the cheesy magnet-type ones.

AP86DA - 1/4" drive - $9.90

BP86DA - 3/8" drive - $14.10

http://www.matcotools.com/Catalog/toolcatalog.jsp?cattype=T&cat=2328&page=1舚
http://www.matcotools.com/ProductImages/ap86da.jpg