New Wera Zyklop

[dink]

If you know and love the quality of Wera products like I do you are going to love this

http://www.wera.de/zyklop/EN/zyklop.html

[reversegear]

Do you know who has these in stock? I called a couple of places last week trying to order one, and they all said they were not it yet.

[dink]

You got me....could be a Euro release first

[cruiser808]

Call Samstag Sales at (615) 735-3388. Ask for Andrew. These folks specialize in high end German tools here in the USA. I have no connection with this company except I'm a very satisfied customer.

[lbgradwell]

That's pretty damn cool.

[bchee]

I remember looking at some videos of that ratchet on youtube several months ago. It looks really cool, but I was thinking it looks too nice that I wouldn't want to mess it up by actually using it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=seUo9Ykxikk

Seems like there is some mechanism inside that actually makes it rotate faster when used inline as a speeder.

[Fedwrench]

Do you know who has these in stock? I called a couple of places last week trying to order one, and they all said they were not it yet.

We talked about these a few months ago I think. It was a spinoff of a wera screwdriver thread. If I remember correctly, someone from Wera in the thread wrote that the Zyklop wasn't going to be offered in North America but, was having a big European release. It looks a little too large and strange for my tastes. Wera quality though.:thumbup:

[billymade]

We talked about this in the past; I posted some price exchange rate equivalents on some of their sets: http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=19313&showall=1
The prices may not reflect true USA dist. prices but at least give you an idea of a ballpark price point! They are going to be released in the USA but towards the end of the year; read the link for more info; the Wera rep talked about release dates...

[Merkava_4]

Science Fiction has met Tools. :eek2:

[reversegear]

Wera quality though.:thumbup:

Wera has a good reputation for quality, and these ratchets may be very good. But don't think that they are made in Germany....

[kidatari]

I'd love to get one of those in my hands.

[goodfellow]

Flame away -- but increasingly I see professionals and serious hobbyists alike purchase this ratchet.

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=96782

I was in a restoration shop some months ago and most of the techs had a set of these HF models stacked proudly next to their SNAP-ON and Blue Point Ratchets. At first I thought they were Gearwrench -- imagine my surprise :shocking:

I bought a set and love 'em.

[lbgradwell]

Wera has a good reputation for quality, and these ratchets may be very good. But don't think that they are made in Germany....

I think you're likely right; I can't find any claim/statement that they are made in Germany...:(

[billymade]

Why wouldn't they be made in Germany?

[64merc]

Flame away -- but increasingly I see professionals and serious hobbyists alike purchase this ratchet.

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=96782

I was in a restoration shop some months ago and most of the techs had a set of these HF models stacked proudly next to their SNAP-ON and Blue Point Ratchets. At first I thought they were Gearwrench -- imagine my surprise :shocking:

I bought a set and love 'em.

Good to know that they seem to hold up well enough for pros to be using them. I bought the 1/4" version when they first came out at HF. I noticed that the newer versions don't have that cheap looking plastic insert in the handle anymore. I plan on buying the 3/8" version very soon. Also, I am considering their 3/8" stubby version as well.

[eschoendorff]

We talked about these a few months ago I think. It was a spinoff of a wera screwdriver thread. If I remember correctly, someone from Wera in the thread wrote that the Zyklop wasn't going to be offered in North America but, was having a big European release. It looks a little too large and strange for my tastes. Wera quality though.:thumbup:

What he said.

Wera is too late to the American party...

[ToolGlutton]

I want the SK version. I heard that the SK Roto ratchet have been holding up really well.

Forget about the HF. Man, how can I stand putting a $14.99 ratchet side by side with my other ratchets (mostly Snap On)? :bounce:


Flame away -- but increasingly I see professionals and serious hobbyists alike purchase this ratchet.

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=96782

I was in a restoration shop some months ago and most of the techs had a set of these HF models stacked proudly next to their SNAP-ON and Blue Point Ratchets. At first I thought they were Gearwrench -- imagine my surprise :shocking:

I bought a set and love 'em.

[billymade]

Here are some nice product pics:
http://www.louzampini.com/v/vspfiles/photos/WZYKR-2.jpg


http://www.louzampini.com/v/vspfiles/photos/WZYKR-5.jpg


http://www.louzampini.com/v/vspfiles/photos/WZYKR-3.jpg


http://www.louzampini.com/v/vspfiles/photos/WZYKR-4.jpg
I emailed a USA distributor today about pricing and availability; I'll post their response if they email me back!

http://www.justbehot.com/pics/DSC00286.JPG

http://www.justbehot.com/pics/DSC00287.JPG

http://www.justbehot.com/pics/DSC00288.JPG

http://www.justbehot.com/pics/DSC00289.JPG

http://www.justbehot.com/pics/DSC00290.JPG

I swiped these pics from a Austrian ebay auction here:
http://cgi.ebay.at/ZYKLOP-STECKSCHLUSSELSATZ-1-4-24-TEILIG-NEUWARE-LP-159_W0QQitemZ270251099815QQihZ017QQcategoryZ46459Q QcmdZViewItem
I guess these are shipping in Europe!

[Danglerb]

I'm just waiting for a decent sale on the HF, but I am pretty happy using my SnapOn flex head and rotating the handle up to crank it like a speeder with two hands.

[ToolGlutton]

Try to sell your Snap On ratchets to me before they are worthless. Everyone will use Wera Zyklop ratchets soon.

BTW, how about the warranty? I heard that in Germany, they do not offer life-time warranty. You break it, and you buy a new one.

[chammyman]

the one goodfellow from HF put up look sidentical o the Britool ones we get over here along with the no name ones.

I was/am still thinking about getting the Britool set (1/4, 3/8 and 1/2) as they are cheap on ebay

[logical]

here's one for just $20:bounce:
http://cgi.ebay.com/THOMAS-KONER-ZYKLOP-ORIGINAL-OUT-OF-PRINT-2-CD-lp_W0QQitemZ300256565243QQihZ020QQcategoryZ307QQss PageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

[billymade]

Here is some info that I got from a Wera dealer about these new tools:


Hello- Thank you for your interest in our site and the Wera Zyklop Ratchet set. These tools are manufactured in Germany as you may have guessed, and although we sell many different types of industrial grade tools I would have to say that the precision with which these tools are designed and manufactured is second to none. We are an official USA authorized dealer and distributor of Wera tools and products, and we have been just as anxious to get these tools to the market here as our customers are to purchase them. Currently, Wera is projecting that these tools will be available in the USA in January. The reason for this is that there has been an overwhelming demand for these tools right from their introduction, and the initial production run has already sold out overseas. In addition, they are still working on a pricing structure for the US market, and as a result none of the US dealers have pricing for these tools as of yet. As an active forum member on multiple automotive forums, I understand the value of bringing information to the community as soon as it is available, and I will immediately send you an update to post as soon as I receive any new information on these tools. In addition, once I have a pricing structure I would be happy to facilitate a group buy on these tools if there is enough interest amongst your forum members so that they may receive a discount on their purchases and so that we can get the tools into the hands of people who can fully appreciate their benefits as soon as possible. If you have any other questions on these tools or any other tools that we sell, feel free to email me directly and I will promptly provide any help that I can.

A further update: I just spoke to Wera directly and they are forwarding me a price sheet for the USA. Also, the sockets for the Zyklop series will be available shortly, and they are now looking to get these out in the US by November. Pre-ordering will be available through us as soon as we receive pricing (we will most likely run a discounted pre-order special), and I was assured that the pre-orders will be the FIRST customers in the US to receive these tools. Once I have the pricing I will send you a listing, and we will also be updating our site so that pre-orders can be placed directly online.

Regards,

Jon Zampini

www.LouZampini.com

[bchee]

I swiped these pics from a Austrian ebay auction here:
http://cgi.ebay.at/ZYKLOP-STECKSCHLUSSELSATZ-1-4-24-TEILIG-NEUWARE-LP-159_W0QQitemZ270251099815QQihZ017QQcategoryZ46459Q QcmdZViewItem
I guess these are shipping in Europe!

Those ARE some nice picts. Still, looks too much like a toy for my taste. In that video, when it's used as a speeder, it looks like the head is spinning faster than the handle. Are my eyes deceiving me?

[blue302stang]

i would definitely be in for a group buy. I love wera quality, and am always looking for some new tool to buy.

[dink]

Hmmm I read the original Spamvertasiment on the original link that was stated and that is sad.....I knew Ian Parkhill with Wera that made the 2nd post in that thread and he is a great guy (National Sales Manager for North America and Canada) worked with him a few years ago at a MRO show in Fort Worth.....wish I still represented that company....great company...crapped rep group I worked for

[blue302stang]

Hmmm I read the original Spamvertasiment on the original link that was stated and that is sad.....I knew Ian Parkhill with Wera that made the 2nd post in that thread and he is a great guy (National Sales Manager for North America and Canada) worked with him a few years ago at a MRO show in Fort Worth.....wish I still represented that company....great company...crapped rep group I worked for

Good to see someone else from around these parts on the board.

[dink]

Good to see someone else from around these parts on the board.

What section of Grapevine do you live????

I live off of Mustang

[billymade]

I used to live in Dallas; do you guys ever go to that huge flea market at the airport/fair grounds.... I think it was in???? Can't remember but I've never seen so many used tools in my life!
I think it was this one... http://www.tradersvillage.com/en/grandprairie

[dink]

I used to live in Dallas; do you guys ever go to that huge flea market at the airport/fair grounds.... I think it was in???? Can't remember but I've never seen so many used tools in my life!
I think it was this one... http://www.tradersvillage.com/en/grandprairie

That one is in Grand Prairie and it is HUGE.....but if I went I would be a minority as a white person

[Merkava_4]

How do you change the direction on the thing? :confused:

[MAD]

How do you change the direction on the thing? :confused:

Looks like it would work like the Facom and SK palm control ratchets.

[reversegear]

We got ahold of one. Nice tool, but very wide at the outer dimension of the prongs. Looks and feels strong, but we're not going to bust this one up in the machine just yet. We only got a single piece, so I don't know about the other components of the set.

[eschoendorff]

We got ahold of one. Nice tool, but very wide at the outer dimension of the prongs. Looks and feels strong, but we're not going to bust this one up in the machine just yet. We only got a single piece, so I don't know about the other components of the set.

Is it as bulky as it looks? Somehow, this still looks more user-friendly:

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y17/eschoendorff/42426.jpg

[reversegear]

Much bulkier than that model, as near as I can tell from the pic.

[ToolGlutton]

I prefer the SK version. It is more rugged compared to the cheesy Snap on one.

[MAD]

I prefer the SK version. It is more rugged compared to the cheesy Snap on one.

I have an old SK and I really like it. It seems to me though that you are just trying to start something by pissing in the pool.

[ToolGlutton]

Pissing in the pool? :bounce: You are right, sometimes I am like that, but not this time.

I have an old SK and I really like it. It seems to me though that you are just trying to start something by pissing in the pool.

[blue302stang]

What section of Grapevine do you live????

I live off of Mustang

i live in the apartments on grayson, behind the honda dealership and skate town, right down the road basically

[eschoendorff]

I prefer the SK version. It is more rugged compared to the cheesy Snap on one.

Really? Do you own or have you used one of the "cheesy" Snap On ones? Or are you just running your mouth again?:wtf:

[MAD]

Really? Do you own or have you used one of the "cheesy" Snap On ones? Or are you just running your mouth again?:wtf:

Best to let that kind of bait just drift off. I do believe Rickster has and likes both the SK and Snap-on roto. Maybe he will offer an informed comparison.

[eschoendorff]

Best to let that kind of bait just drift off. I do believe Rickster has and likes both the SK and Snap-on roto. Maybe he will offer an informed comparison.

You're right... but it was late and I fell for it... :mad:

Not saying that the S*K is a bad ratchet. I am sure taht it is a fine tool. But the Snap On versions are anything but cheesy.

[ToolGlutton]

I used to have both the 3/8" and 1/4" versions for the Snap-On roto ratchet. I just sold the 3/8" one on ebay because I like my SK one better. It's a just personal preference.




Really? Do you own or have you used one of the "cheesy" Snap On ones? Or are you just running your mouth again?:wtf:

[Jononon]

Played with one of these today. IMHO, it's a bit compromised by the desire to be both a ratchet and a ratcheting spinner handle (for want of a better description).

It locks straight, as you can see on the website, but, to accommodate that function, the head is enormous. I find it hard to imagine a situation where you'd want a straight ratcheting driver to drive large sockets, rather than using an extension and a ratchet, or to drive small sockets, rather than using a ratcheting nut driver.

For my money, the style eschoendorff posted and a set of locking extensions would be far more use.

Wera has a good reputation for quality, and these ratchets may be very good. But don't think that they are made in Germany....

It says Made in Germany on the box :headscrat

[kidatari]

Anyone else track one of these down yet?

[eschoendorff]

I would be interested in hearing about some real-world experience with this tool, even though I doubt I'd ever buy one...

[superautobacs]

Hello all; I'm new to this forum!

I recently learned about the Zyclop from browsing Wera's website and I voiced an interest to Chadstoolbox. I asked if there was a price structure already set but was told, "we do not have firm info yet. it is a few weeks out and with the way the currency exchanges keep fluctuating. It looks at least for the short term the dollar is gaining on the euro which is good for our pricing until the dollar completely fails and falls away".

They're supposed to be available some time in December this year though.

[amishman]

Flame away -- but increasingly I see professionals and serious hobbyists alike purchase this ratchet.

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=96782

I was in a restoration shop some months ago and most of the techs had a set of these HF models stacked proudly next to their SNAP-ON and Blue Point Ratchets. At first I thought they were Gearwrench -- imagine my surprise :shocking:

I bought a set and love 'em.


I kind of wish I had waited as I have the HF first versions of the cool ratchet but they have the crappy handles, or at least the cheapie inlay that is. I do have the stubby with the newer handles though.

But these Wera tools, real cool.

I would be afraid to scratch them.

I have been using my HF and like them. And I am not afraid to scratch them up.

tj

[billymade]

Looks like these are finally shipping here in the states! Check it out: http://www.jamestowndistributors.com/userportal/show_product.do?pid=54319&familyName=Wera+Zyklop+1%2F4+inch+Ratchet+Set

New .pdf brochure about the ratchets/sets: http://www.pneumatictoolsonline.com/Catalogs/zyklop_PDF.pdf

[Diesel-Mech]

The price is far better than I had figured it would be, I only want one of the ratchets with out the sockets though.

[Stuey]

The price is far better than I had figured it would be, I only want one of the ratchets with out the sockets though.
I'm sure it will be available in time.

I'm debating whether or not I want one now. If it's in the same price range as Gearwrench's swivel ratchets, I'll pick one up.

[Joe B.]

The price for just one is on the website. It is just not very clear. You need to use the drop down towards the top right to select the one you want or select the product info tab.

WER-003500 -- Ratchet Only = $62.37
WER-003534 -- Basic Socket Set = $185.62
WER-003535 -- Premium Socket Set = $233.89

[kartracer55]

looks like a sharper image tool...

[Diesel-Mech]

The price for just one is on the website. It is just not very clear. You need to use the drop down towards the top right to select the one you want or select the product info tab.

WER-003500 -- Ratchet Only = $62.37
WER-003534 -- Basic Socket Set = $185.62
WER-003535 -- Premium Socket Set = $233.89

Ahh those prices are more along the lines of what I expected, not terrible but not a bargain either.

[zuspiel]

billymade, I'm so looking forward to your review of this thing! :beer:

[FNFS2000]

I ordered a complete assortment of metric and inch, and Can't wait to get them!

[billymade]

zuspiel, FNFS2000.. has them on order not me! LOL! Maybe I should order one... hmm, 1/4 or 3/8? I"m finding these days I am using 1/4" ratchets quite a bit! :)
FNFS2000 orderd the kit with the case, sockets, extensions and everything; I would like to have a whole kit to really get the full experience of the Wera product... they are not exactly cheap tho'! I'm still trying to get dual 80s at this point! :)
zuspiel, I wish you were getting a set; that way we would get the true genuine teutonic review on these tools... along with your excellent photos! :)

[zuspiel]

zuspiel, FNFS2000.. has them on order not me! LOL! Maybe I should order one... hmm, 1/4 or 3/8? I"m finding these days I am using 1/4" ratchets quite a bit! :)
FNFS2000 orderd the kit with the case, sockets, extensions and everything; I would like to have a whole kit to really get the full experience of the Wera product... they are not exactly cheap tho'! I'm still trying to get dual 80s at this point! :)
zuspiel, I wish you were getting a set; that way we would get the true genuine teutonic review on these tools... along with your excellent photos! :)

:D Thanks! I do have some other stuff on my review "back burner" though :)
Sadly, nothing as exciting as a Zyklop...

Don't think I'm not tempted to get it... However, sanity seems to prevail. I'm one ratchet away from having all the Dual80s that I "need" and can't seem to justify another ratchet. I love the design of the Zyklop but it just looks too bulky for a lot of places.

About my comment above: I was almost certain you wouldn't be able to resist. You've been talking about that thing for months :bounce:
You know you want one, you know you need one, give in to the dark side... :lol_hitti

[Elroy]

Elroy has purchased air tools from Lou Zampini and is on their mailing list. Received an E-mail this morning at work calling attention to the fact that the new Zyklop ratchets are in stock and available for immediate shipment.

http://www.louzampini.com/

Scroll down and the the entire Wera catalog is available for down load. It's something like 350 plus pages and over 148 MB soo beware dial up.

A 3/8 Zyklop ratchet was listed for $99 with the 1/2" for something like $125 or so. Anyways Elroy though some here would like a current source. Their prices are not that great but they do have stock, ship promptly and from experience service what they sell.

Look around as they are a full line distributor for many of the major air tool brands like Desoutter.

[billymade]

These guys have the best price I have found on the web: http://www.jamestowndistributors.com/userportal/show_product.do?pid=54319&familyName=Wera+Zyklop+1%2F4+inch+Ratchet+Set
Wether they have it in stock or how long it would take to get it; is a whole 'nother issue! :)

[fatfillup]

Is it as bulky as it looks? Somehow, this still looks more user-friendly:

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y17/eschoendorff/42426.jpg

I have 3 of these SO ratchets and love them. !/4, 3/8 in the small body and 3/8 long body. Bought them retail and I'm not complaining.

[amishman]

Thing is, the this Zyklops wrench is really different than any other "roto" ratchet that I have seen, including the Snap-on above. This Zyklops supposed to have some mechanism inside that speeds fasteners out even faster. All these other roto style basically just swing out so you can then use your hand to speed off a fastener, like a nut driver. But the Zyklops say's "They feature a rotating mass design which accelerates the fastening process. This design, in combination with a free-wheel sleeve, lets the user turn the fastener faster than any conventional ratchet."

I wonder if that is a lot of mumbo jumbo or if it really has something over a typical roto style ratchet?

tj

[gotmud13613]

These guys have the best price I have found on the web: http://www.jamestowndistributors.com/userportal/show_product.do?pid=54319&familyName=Wera+Zyklop+1%2F4+inch+Ratchet+Set
Wether they have it in stock or how long it would take to get it; is a whole 'nother issue! :)

I contacted them about the Zyklop and they told me they won't be available till the end of feb-mid march.

[superautobacs]

I'm imagining that the ratchet itself weighs more than a typical ratchet of a similar size; the extra mass should aid in making the shaft rotate more freely, faster, and longer.
I was drooling over this ratchet when it was released in Europe and thinking when it's going to be available on this part of the world. Right now, I'm sorta stepping back...in contemplation mode. For an auto-mechanic (I'm not one myself) I'm not sure how much use the free-wheel sleeve will get. I can't imagine seeing nuts and bolts simply spinning off like that with a flick of your fingers, unless the threads are fairly clean. ....but that feature should do wonders on machinery/equipment where the threads are always clean.

[billymade]

If you want to see the ratchet in action; check out this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lb1PzaDJqUs

[Joe B.]

Still ugly.

[zuspiel]

"They feature a rotating mass design which accelerates the fastening process. This design, in combination with a free-wheel sleeve, lets the user turn the fastener faster than any conventional ratchet."

I wonder if that is a lot of mumbo jumbo or if it really has something over a typical roto style ratchet?


A lot, probably... :D

[48548]

I am up for a group buy if anyone else is, lets see what kind of deal we can get....

[billymade]

I think we should do a group buy for allot of things we all need/want; how do you start this? Do we need to contact a vendor first?

[48548]

Billymade do you to head this up? This is a great idea, if we can get 10-15 or so see if a manufacturer or reseller would hook us up with a deal, but maybe a manufacturer would make us a better deal? Cut out the middle man.

[gotmud13613]

Thats how it usually works, Find out how many people want the item (not just blowing hot air) then contact a few different places and see where we can get the best price. then everyone sends the person there money for item + ship

[WOOS1]

I would be in.

[amishman]

I have been eye-balling these also. I just like the whole idea of the product. Would probably start myself by getting their 3/8" set. Then if those do well, expand to the other 2 sets.

So, if a group buy does come to play, I will keep an eye on this thread. I may jump in and get a 3/8" set. I guess all depends on what kind of pricing they give the group.

TJ

[FNFS2000]

I just got all mine today. Simply AWESOME!

[billymade]

FNFS2000, what the? Who did you order it from? Got some pics and what do you think? :)

[Monte]

I just got all mine today. Simply AWESOME!

Lets see some pics with the ratchet in action !

[amishman]

Lets see some pics with the ratchet in action !

I want to see video with it taking off more greasy nuts and see if this new weighted head action can really quickly take nuts off, or is this only on real clean ones.

tj

[FNFS2000]

I don't have the tech to make videos of it. But I can say they are awesome. Havn't had a chance to play with them yet. Picked them up from ChadsToolbox. PreOrdered a long time ago knowing it would take a while, they said first week of Feb, but it came earlier.
The locking extenstions are great too! First I had any of those. Got a huge refund from them too, they dropped the price after I first ordered... Probably seen others on the market and did some price matching.

[amishman]

I don't have the tech to make videos of it. But I can say they are awesome. Havn't had a chance to play with them yet. Picked them up from ChadsToolbox. PreOrdered a long time ago knowing it would take a while, they said first week of Feb, but it came earlier.
The locking extenstions are great too! First I had any of those. Got a huge refund from them too, they dropped the price after I first ordered... Probably seen others on the market and did some price matching.


So, what did you buy and what were the costs?

tj

[FNFS2000]

I got a super set of metric and inch in all drive sizes. I'm nuts I know... The sets run $200-400 each.

[billymade]

Ouch! I think you really should have a sense of the quality of the tools with a whole set! Thats what I was thinking when looking at all the Wera propaganda! Let us know how you like them; I vote for a "mini review" with pics and a ratchet "autopsy"! :)

[Diesel-Mech]

I still want one of the ratchets mostly out of curiosity but I will be passing on the whole sets I think.

[zuspiel]

Ouch! I think you really should have a sense of the quality of the tools with a whole set! Thats what I was thinking when looking at all the Wera propaganda! Let us know how you like them; I vote for a "mini review" with pics and a ratchet "autopsy"! :)

Second! :beer:

[48548]

I want a ratchet or a whole set of ratchets, meanting 1/4. 3/8 and maybe a 1/2 if the price is good, but I am not up for spending that much on a set, I am not a mechanic and it is hard to justify that much money when it doesn't bring in any for me.

[Monte]

Look what i found today at the distributor:
:shocking::D

http://i552.photobucket.com/albums/jj347/mrblvd_album/DSC00006-1.jpg

a 3/8 zyklop:bounce:

[zuspiel]

Finally, we got one!!! :bounce: :beer: :beer: :beer: :bounce:

Could one of the admins please exempt Monti from the 10k word limit, so he can give us an in-depth review? :D

More pics, comparison, etc.

How bulky is it???

Can you tell I'm a bit anxious? :willy_nil

[48548]

Maybe monte can get a cheaper price for us in germany, hahahaha.

[Monte]

:bounce::bounce: LOL @zuspiel :bounce::bounce:

a short review since i have to go to bed earlier today :bounce:

Model: Wera 8000 B Zyklop
weight: 310 grams
overall depth: 35,96 mm (Height from square to button)
head depth: about 24,30 mm (without square)
overall width: 39,01 mm
length: 199 mm

Pro`s:
-Very comfortable Kraftform handle
-very nice ratcheting (no need for permatex :D )
-no wobbling of the square
-quick release button
-Head can be fixed in the 0,15 and 90 degree position.
-pushbutton and reverse levers can be operated in all fixed positions
-Head is screwed in not riveted
-no split beam (stronger?)

con`s:
US-$ price :D

Materials:
Body + head: Steel
Handle: 2 components
Sleeve: plastic
reverse lever: plastic
locking lever: plastic

It works like the Turbo T-handles from Bluepoint with this sleeve thing so you can hold the ratchet while you turn it with the other hand or spin it.
Actually i like it very much, they also had this US-style swivel ratchet with the split beam and the riveted head, but i dont like the idea of a split beam somehow plus the other ratchet was wider.

[zuspiel]

Thanks a lot, Monte. Will need some quite time to digest (and talk myself out of getting one) :D

[amishman]

I got a super set of metric and inch in all drive sizes. I'm nuts I know... The sets run $200-400 each.



Do the actual sockets have sizes on them? The Wera web site picture just shows pretty socket but no numbering on them.

Curious how nicely the sockets are labeled?

And close up picture of the actual sockets finish would be nice.

tj

[FNFS2000]

they are laser etched with the size, part number, and WERA logo.

I still don't have a digi camera.

[amishman]

they are laser etched with the size, part number, and WERA logo.

I still don't have a digi camera.


Damn, someone give this man a camera. :spit:

You can afford all these full sets of Wera Zyklop but can't get a cheapie digi cam.

Just fooling with ya.

Wishing I had these sets right now.

tj

[billymade]

The suspense is killing me! Ahhh, were are those pics! :) LOL! Any first impressions on the quality and how they work?

[Joe B.]

Are they as ugly in person as they are in the pictures?





sorry, can't resist

[FNFS2000]

Are they as ugly in person as they are in the pictures?





sorry, can't resist

great looking tools, great packaging and "presentation" in the custom case!

[jerk_chicken]

Look what i found today at the distributor:
:shocking::D

http://i552.photobucket.com/albums/jj347/mrblvd_album/DSC00006-1.jpg

a 3/8 zyklop:bounce:

Monte,

Which distros have them and where can I get a good price short of ebay? I'm an American living in Dresden, and I make frequent trips to NRW.

I'm particularly interested in the 1/2 Zoll 8800 SC 2 with the smaller bits and adapters.

Speaking of which, who sells good tools in Germany? Everyone says I should go to the Baumarkt, but they all sell Proxxon for high prices, and only Hornbach seems to carry Wiha and Wera screwdrivers, but that's it for the good quality stuff.

The German is work in progress :thumbup:

[jerk_chicken]

Does anyone have experience with the bit holders, such as what comes with the 8800 sc2? Those are kind of foreign to me, coming from the US, and I wondered how well the bit holders work for hexes and higher torques compared to using hex sockets.

Could give me an excuse to get a Zyklop now, as opposed to getting the hex sockets ;)

[jerk_chicken]

Not in the Wera catalog I got a few weeks ago. New set:

http://i23.ebayimg.com/03/i/001/31/b0/0798_1.JPG

1/4 and 1/2, with an interchangeable bit screwdriver. Priced under the 8100sc2.

I'm also wondering about the bit adapter with the SC2, and if it's good enough to be a good substitute for fixed bits in sockets. Could save some money, I guess.

[billymade]

OMG! How much does that set run? Gotta be in the $400-$600 range!

[NugeConstruction]

Hey JC , the following might help answer your question as to whether the Zyklop is
"good enough to be a good substitute for fixed bits in sockets".

German link:

http://www.werkzeug-news.de/Forum/ftopic14836.html

English translation link and excerpt:

http://translate.google.com/translate?prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.werkzeug-news.de%2FForum%2Fftopic14836.html&sl=de&tl=en

"Cyclops had only in the hands of the fiddle, but have a few "bolt-situation" in the simulated load - Conclusion was sobering for me, or better said, to bulky, too many frills, no head-timer and the power to form handles which can disrupt a different attitude than the screwdrivers has (Find it on to the super-hung screwdriver) and it is hard to clean.
"So I was ne other"

Maybe one of our German-speaking members could polish up the above translation, and even chum around that German forum and let us know what they find out!

Bonus pic from the same thread of an apparent Zyklop promotional object (Zpo):

http://www.werkzeug-news.de/Forum/userpix/712_zyklop_1.jpg

JC, I see that the pic you put up of the the 1/4 + 1/2 + long bits + long bit driver set is being sold in eBay Germany, e.g...

http://cgi.ebay.de/Wera-Zyklop-Steckschluesselsatz-43-tlg-1-4-und-1-2-Zoll_W0QQitemZ300292886525QQcmdZViewItemQQptZDE_Ha us_Garten_Heimwerker_Handwerkzeug?hash=item3002928 86525&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=66%3A2|65%3A10|39%3A1|240%3A1318

...and now here I am wondering the following about it:

* When will it be listed in the U.S.?
* When and if there will be an SAE/fractional equivalent?
* Am I correct that the picture shows the included extensions as being the locking type?
* Why the substitution of the handle bitdriver and long bits for the adaptor and short bits?

I have been eying the Wera Zyklop line with keen interest as I am starting basically from scratch (after having gotten ripped off), but am wondering whether the bits would work a whole lot better with the 1/4" ratchet than with the 1/2" ratchet out of the simple principle of proportion, and so I if I would want to buy some combination of the available-for-retail-sale-in-the-U.S. 1/4", 3/8", and 1/2" sets, I would have to get them all with bits in order to get the locking extensions included, and there would as such be a lot of duplication there.

Wondering if the Wera guy is still following this forum,

Nuge

[jerk_chicken]

Thanks a bunch. Part of my problem is right now having a fixed budget for some toys at this point, and wondering if I should go with the Hazet hex sockets plus a combo wrench set, or a 8100 SC2 Zyklops with those bits, for about the same price, provided this one place I found is legit. I'm also in the market for some quality German sockets in all sizes, so it wouldn't kill me to get a Zyklop to get the sockets as well.

...or I'm sure there are some that will tell me to get the Hazet sockets or a Hazet socket and ratchet set ;)

The Hazet 900 is looking quite nice as a stand in:
http://www.tbs-aachen.de/product_info.php?info=p3922_Hazet-900-Steckschluessel-Satz-1-2-.html

I dunno, really. I could always get a Hazet, then get the Zyklop later. My life sucks, doesn't it?

[jerk_chicken]

if you're in the EU, here's another good deal on the 1/2 full Zyklop set:

http://www.shop-seltmann.de/default.aspx?TY=item&ST=1&IT=3083&et_cid=1&et_lid=12&EkiaRefTyp=ps&EkiaRef=ps_4

I think I might end up pulling the trigger, finally. I was looking to get a used Hazet 954 set from Fleabay, but lost out last night. That had the bitholder. Might as well cure the shakes I have about getting this set. The used set went for ~150€ and the new price is over 400€.

Hopefully it's a legit place.

[billymade]

If you can find them,used tools seem like a no brainer to me; German tools seem just as good, if not better then Snapon. My used Snapon sockets I have gotten even from the 1950's have looked hardly used, show very little wear if any; many times after I have put them in a rust remover, they look new! Just goes to show you that a professional tool, no matter what the brand or era; will stand up to the test of time and work for a lifetime! Some of the older stuff had chrome peel but I am sure, that with the matte finish; this would be even less of a issue!

[jerk_chicken]

Pulled the trigger on the 1/2" metric full set (8100 sc2). Hopefully I'll have some feedback soon. Hazets will come at a later time, over time.

What I liked about the set was the grooved sockets, which can be helpful with my Armstrongs which don't have socket releases. I just hope they are of high quality. The other thing is the videos don't show them as marked with their sizes.

If I like them, I'll get the 3/8 and 1/4 as well, or get some Hazets and just get the Zyklop. It's admittedly attractive to get the whole set in the nice metal box and carry everything just like that, including the bit holder. Don't worry, I'll still be duplicating lots of this as Hazet, and possibly their tool cart, so I could just container everything when I come back to the US.

Speaking of bit holders, it appears the one included with the 1/2 set is 5/16". I assumed most were 1/4 (which is actually available as well separately), but I don't know how that works out since I've never used one before.

I have to do an oil change on my car soon, so this might come in handy to get the undertray bolts off faster.

[jerk_chicken]

Just received my 1/2" "Top Line" set in metric. The note about that is the "deluxe" set has the so called "top line" extenders with the locks on them, as well as more pieces, such as the bit adapter and wobble. I don't know if there are any differences to the sockets. Likely not, but I also read some wording that only eluded to it.

The sockets are pretty damn heavy, as are the extenders. The ratchet itself is really heavy, but that's part of the design, which does as advertised. That weight helps the ratchet spin when inline and spin bolts off. I have to say it does work, and it, as well as the extenders, have composite "slip sleeves" that allow spinning. Just grab the sleeve and spin the handle.

Reversing using that toothed ring was a bit odd for me. It takes roughly 95-100 degrees of turning to change directions. I haven't used round heads in years, so I have nothing to compare. Regardless, in the limited use I had today, it worked well and I really dug the engagement. It's still a bit tight, and on that note, there appears to be lube in the mech and on the head angle switch. Handle feels good, though I didn't have a change to use it under other circumstances requiring large torques.

It's an aside, but the box is metal and really nicely made. If the rest of the term with it is as good, then I'll likely be getting the two smaller drive sets. They aren't that expensive here (this set was €193 shipped, and the 1/4" runs in the low 100's, with the 3/8" right around the same price as the 1.2").

I won't go so far to say they might be up there as a daily use set, either for the ratchets or sockets, but there is likely a place for them. Maybe the occasional use, handyman at a company, occasional mechanic, etc. I have no evidence to limit its use, other than common sense about such things as the bolts. You guys might have better daily use info with your own swivel heads from Britool, HF, and SO.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a326/sknightx1/P3070003Small.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a326/sknightx1/P3070006Small.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a326/sknightx1/P3070007Small.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a326/sknightx1/P3070008Small.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a326/sknightx1/P3070009Small.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a326/sknightx1/P3070011Small.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a326/sknightx1/P3070012Small.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a326/sknightx1/P3070013Small.jpg

[FNFS2000]

beautiful tools!

[jerk_chicken]

Oh, should mention also a small touch: the case's handle is of the Wera handle design, but as a miniature. The case itself is pretty heavy.

[billymade]

Jerk, everything from the sockets to the ratchet; look so beefy, I can't see how they wouldn't hold up to use! :) The quality looks better then most tools I see in the market place; are you going to buy the other sets as well? Keep us posted on your opinion and thoughts of your Zyklop set, the more you use them! :) Also, are the socket spaces have a spring loaded button that makes them easier to remove? I thought I remembered something about that in the video...... ?

[jerk_chicken]

I will get the other sets based on more use from this. I also have some stahlwille and hazet lined up on the wish list, but preliminarily, I like these enough to get them. They are convenient for trips and bike repair, owing in part to their casing and combinations. I've wanted a fine tooth ratchet for a while, so this fits that criteria as well. I need more use out of it, but unfortunately, my days of major auto repair are behind, aside from eventual brake jobs and the odd repair here and there. Most of it goes into bike repair.

I would likely not buy this at full price, owing in part to the non-German manufacture (I've learned that if anything in Germany does not have the country of origin anywhere, that means it's made overseas, and most products here are scams where they let people think they are German by omitting the origin altogether). However, at the pricing I got it, I feel it was pretty fair. Only time will tell, as far as proving me right or wrong.

Nice souvenir of Germany, I would say.


Nothing spring loaded to eject the sockets. Just a conventional QR button and that's it. The actuator shaft goes through the end, but it doesn't push off the socket.

[48548]

So how is the group buy coming along, I am getting to point where I am going to have to buy one soon... Have we come up with any deal yet? I am serious about wanting all 3 sizes, ratchets only for now.

[FNFS2000]

Do group buys ever work? I imagine if a bunch of people lived close to eachother they could all pick up from someone that got a big shipment.

[billymade]

The group buy was never initiated; because, none of the vendors I emailed responded.....

[Monte]

Already available as rebranded version from "Förch"....

http://i552.photobucket.com/albums/jj347/mrblvd_album/1197669911_20091307091108_800_800_0.png
http://i552.photobucket.com/albums/jj347/mrblvd_album/-1202670881_20091307091110_800_800_.png
http://i552.photobucket.com/albums/jj347/mrblvd_album/-1526726068_20091307091625_800_800_.png

[48548]

Is it any cheaper?

[Monte]

They are offered through on of these direct distribution companies (like "wurth") so usually these tools are more expensive than the original...(don`t have a price though)

[S85B50]

Hi,
I found some Zyklops on eBay Germany. I would buy it for you and send it to the us if you´re interested.



1/4 54$
http://cgi.ebay.de/WERA-8000-A-Zyklop-Knarre-mit-1-4-Antrieb-2-Einsaetze_W0QQitemZ400056207888QQcmdZViewItemQQptZ DE_Haus_Garten_Heimwerker_Handwerkzeug?hash=item5d 25354a10&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=65%3A12%7C66%3A1%7C39%3A1%7C72%3A2140%7C 293%3A1%7C294%3A25

3/8 61$
http://cgi.ebay.de/WERA-8000-B-Zyklop-Knarre-mit-3-8-Antrieb-2-Einsaetze_W0QQitemZ400056208135QQcmdZViewItemQQptZ DE_Haus_Garten_Heimwerker_Handwerkzeug?hash=item5d 25354b07&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=65%3A12%7C66%3A1%7C39%3A1%7C72%3A2140%7C 293%3A1%7C294%3A25

1/2 62$
http://cgi.ebay.de/WERA-8000-C-Zyklop-Knarre-mit-1-2-Antrieb-2-Einsaetze_W0QQitemZ400056417693QQcmdZViewItemQQptZ DE_Haus_Garten_Heimwerker_Handwerkzeug?hash=item5d 25387d9d&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=65%3A12%7C66%3A1%7C39%3A1%7C72%3A2140%7C 293%3A1%7C294%3A25


Shipment would be about 19 $

I found this set for 382$
http://i23.ebayimg.com/03/i/001/31/b0/0798_1.JPG

http://cgi.ebay.de/Wera-Zyklop-Steckschluesselsatz-43-tlg-1-4-und-1-2-Zoll_W0QQitemZ300292885585QQcmdZViewItemQQptZDE_Ha us_Garten_Heimwerker_Handwerkzeug?hash=item45ead9c c51&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=65%3A12%7C66%3A1%7C39%3A1%7C72%3A2140%7C 293%3A1%7C294%3A25

[2LCENTER]

In stock and ready to ship. www.toolcenterinc.com

[FiftyCalAl]

In stock and ready to ship. www.toolcenterinc.com

went to your website and left after 5 minutes of frustration trying to find pricing info for Wera:(

[Monte]

:)

http://www.worldimporttools.com/staff_blog/blog/2008/10/photo/15d.gif

[southpier]

Why wouldn't they be made in Germany?

china's cheepa.


no one can seriously think the US is the only country outsourcing....

[Monte]

ps: made in czech republic

[kidatari]

In stock and ready to ship. www.toolcenterinc.com

Sooo.... Price? Info page?

I love drive-by posters.

[reversegear]

ps: made in czech republic

pps: Assembled in Czech Republic.

[superautobacs]

uh-oh...are you inferring that Wera's socketry tools are produced thousands of kilometers away? :shocking:

[Monte]

ahhh reversegear ! What were you doin lately ?? Making the gears for the ratchet ?? :D

[reversegear]

Superauto: I am only implying that at least some of the components of the Zyklop are made across town from me. Nothing against Wera, their product development and Q.C. guys are pretty sharp.

Monte: Trade secrets and all that good stuff. But if you are in or near Cologne Feb. 28 - Mar. 3, 2010, stop by our booth and say hi. I'll show you all our cool new stuff, and then we can walk over to the China hall and you can see me get into fistfights with the infringing companies there. I'll let you know our booth number when I know it, or you can just find us in the show guide.

Karl

[superautobacs]

:lol: Karl, when you're at those shows, scoping out other Chinese vendors, do you hide your name tag to disguise yourself, or is your face well known that you stick out like a sore thumb? :D ;p

[reversegear]

:lol: Karl, when you're at those shows, scoping out other Chinese vendors, do you hide your name tag to disguise yourself, or is your face well known that you stick out like a sore thumb? :D ;p

Naw, the Chinese companies are clueless as to who I am, just as they are clueless as to the existence of the patents they are infringing. A lot of Taiwanese companies know me in general, and one local trade publication refused to give me a copy of their magazine at the Shanghai show. When I asked why, the publisher said "Because you'll sue all my advertisers". Well, better to be feared than loved I suppose.

[Monte]

haha yeh cool ! I`ll shoot the fistfights so you can put the movie on your website as the intro.... ;) Headline: "Don`t copy our stuff or Karl will visit you !" :D

But it should be no problem if you bring the patent specification to germany and have a lawyer , the police and customs officers will quickly collect all infringements.

[48548]

Does anyone have this set? 05003594001 WERA Zyklop 3/8" SB 2 . I was curious how people like it, my gf said she would get for me for christmas if I want it. I wanted the snap on 1/4 and 3/8 set, but the 566 price tag turned her off and she said no way, but should would be up for the wera set at 259. I would ask Jerk Chicken, but it appears he got banned for some reason....

[FiftyCalAl]

I do, and I love it. I have a 1/2 set 2 extra 1/2 drivers, the 3/8 set and an extra driver. I am now starting to save money for the 1/4 set. If you are are going to buy a 'set', you can find no better than Zyklops. I own snap on extensions and ratchets and torque wrenches from both.

I like the duel twin 80s and Snappy offers different variations, whereas as the zyklops only has the one size per drive size. As far as getting a complete useful set- ZYKLOPS all the way. Chad's Toolbox has proven to me to be the cheapest. And if you use this code when you check out (testthebest), you get 10 % off.

[48548]

I have the zyklops in 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 and 4 of the zyklops extensions in each size locking and non-locking now(12 extensions total), you have me convinced to try to get the 1/4 set also... I also got a couple of free sockets and the bit holders for 1/4 and 3/8 they seem awesome.

[48548]

I do, and I love it. I have a 1/2 set 2 extra 1/2 drivers, the 3/8 set and an extra driver. I am now starting to save money for the 1/4 set. If you are are going to buy a 'set', you can find no better than Zyklops. I own snap on extensions and ratchets and torque wrenches from both.

I like the duel twin 80s and Snappy offers different variations, whereas as the zyklops only has the one size per drive size. As far as getting a complete useful set- ZYKLOPS all the way. Chad's Toolbox has proven to me to be the cheapest. And if you use this code when you check out (testthebest), you get 10 % off.

Any Pictures?

[FiftyCalAl]

nothing better than what maunfacturer shows, plus Jerk Chicken posted some good ones already. What particularly are you wanting to see that isnt already been shown?

[SteveG]

Chad's has a couple of 3/8 sets on sale. A pretty sweet deal if you need a set!

http://chadstoolbox.com/05003594001werazyklop38sb2.aspx

[scottmlew]

Does anyone know Chad's normal price for that item?
I'm trying to figure out how good of a sale this is, and if I need to take advantage of it :)

[SteveG]

Google it and I'm sure you'll find other vendors to compare prices. If I was in the market for a 3/8 set I'd jump all over this....

[48548]

That looks like the same price I have seen for a while, but I have only been looking for a month...

[FNFS2000]

I paid about $60 more for those sets several months back from them... its a good deal, especially if your getting multiple sets.

[48548]

I spoke to Chadstoolbox today and they said the 2 deluxe 3/8 zyklops kits would be on sale until 12/31 because the factory lowered the prices, so that is why they are on sale. Just wanted to let people know when the sale would be over. I was hoping to get the 1/4 sa2 on sale, but they don't think they are going on sale, but they will price match for 60 days, so I am think I might pull the trigger.

[FiftyCalAl]

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x283/FiftyCalAl-50/Ellie1stchocolate001.jpg

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x283/FiftyCalAl-50/Ellie1stchocolate002.jpg

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x283/FiftyCalAl-50/Ellie1stchocolate004.jpg

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x283/FiftyCalAl-50/Ellie1stchocolate005.jpg

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x283/FiftyCalAl-50/Ellie1stchocolate006.jpg

[TireTracks]

Weird looking.

[scottmlew]

Fifty, have you tried the Zyklop or did you just buy on faith? I sure hope you like them! I have an SB2 set on order, btw.

[FiftyCalAl]

SCOTT post 666-yuck!

anyways, yes, I have tried them. USe them a lot and have nothing but praise for them. I did buy my first set (sight unseen) on faith, but am very glad I did. I have all the SAE size sets now and will probaly buy the 1/2 and 3/8 metric.

I use Snap On as well. For daily use on general around the house stuff, I go for the Zyklops first. If I need a specialized size/length - I obviously go for SO


TIRETRACKS

did you not have a MOM?

you know, what they say...if you can't say something nice.....don't sya anything at all:)

[TireTracks]

SCOTT post 666-yuck!

anyways, yes, I have tried them. USe them a lot and have nothing but praise for them. I did buy my first set (sight unseen) on faith, but am very glad I did. I have all the SAE size sets now and will probaly buy the 1/2 and 3/8 metric.

I use Snap On as well. For daily use on general around the house stuff, I go for the Zyklops first. If I need a specialized size/length - I obviously go for SO


TIRETRACKS

did you not have a MOM?

you know, what they say...if you can't say something nice.....don't sya anything at all:)


Just saying what i thought, not that it's anything bad, they just look different than most other tools:)

[FiftyCalAl]

TT,

You are , of course, correct. They are 'different' looking. But they are a pleasure to use. Especially good on repetitive actions, like when assembling/disassembing stuff, like furniture, appliances, recreational equipment, etc. I found them exceptional in a plumbing sitrep, b/c in the tight confines, the ability of the head to change angle of presentation was extremely helpful.

I really like their screwdrivers as well. They are wonderfully ergonomic and have heads that , when properly sized, bite like none other. The two torque drivers I have pictured are also handy for using Brownells inserts to properly torque firearms applications.

[48548]

I also got sets for christmas and I now have the SA2, SB2, and SC2 and a spare set of all three ratchets and 12 extensions as well. I would total recommend them to anyone and think they are great. I can take more pictures if people want to see the metric sets.

[48548]

Here are some pictures of the metrics sets to go with the pictures FiftycalAl provided of the sae sets.

http://i421.photobucket.com/albums/pp296/48548/Tool%20Box%201-2010/IMG_4206.jpg

http://i421.photobucket.com/albums/pp296/48548/Tool%20Box%201-2010/IMG_4207.jpg

http://i421.photobucket.com/albums/pp296/48548/Tool%20Box%201-2010/IMG_4208.jpg

http://i421.photobucket.com/albums/pp296/48548/Tool%20Box%201-2010/IMG_4209.jpg

http://i421.photobucket.com/albums/pp296/48548/Tool%20Box%201-2010/IMG_4211.jpg

[Monte]

nice !!:shocking: :thumbup: :drool: :bowdown:

i only can contribute this:

http://i552.photobucket.com/albums/jj347/mrblvd_album/vbcgtz3-1.jpg

[48548]

I like that bit driver, I am going to have to get one of those... I think these are some of the nicest and best tools I own, and I would put them up to snap on any day of the week. I think the sockets look really strong and they are very heavy compared to the same size craftsman socket. I think they will last a long long time, even under heavy use.

[Monte]

I think they did a good job. Also with the sockets. The knurling is good if you use them to turn nuts + bolts by hand, the recess/groove is good to remove the socket with oily hands if you use them with different ratchets without "locking" feature and the hole if you use the sockets with an electric/pneumatic nutrunner so you can use the pin/o-ring so the sockets are also useable in industrial applications (e.g. assembly-line work)

[Snap50]

Do the Zyklop rackets work properly with other manufacturer's sockets?

[Stuey]

Do the Zyklop rackets work properly with other manufacturer's sockets?
Yes, they do.

[Monte]

They also offer several sets with foam inserts for your tool box

http://www.wuppertools.de/images/product_images/popup_images/Wera8100_SC_5.jpg

[48548]

The same as the sets above you can pull out the foam in put them in a drawer in a tool box and then never lose a tool again because you can look and see it missing.

[scottmlew]

One of the items in my Chads order (received yesterday) was the Wera SB2 3/8" drive metric Zyklop set. I haven't used the tools for anything real yet, but so far I'm very impressed with them, especially given the price I paid (which sadly is higher now...it's back to the pre-discount levels).

The fit and finish on all of the items in the set is near perfect -- this will be of little surprise to anyone that has had their screwdrivers. I mean, everything is impressively perfect. I've had each piece out and have been unable to find any flaws.

As for the kit itself:

1. I wish it came with regular Torx bits instead of tamperproof Torx. I knew this when I ordered, but I still thought I'd point this out.

2. the bit adapter is very nice, the nicest I've seen. I am inspired to buy more bits to go with it.

3. the hex plus bits are very nice (I also got the hex plus keys as part of my order). I compared how they engage with my PB Swiss keys...I think the PB Swiss are still better for "intact" fasteners, but if the fasteners have seen some wear, I think the hex plus will work better.

4. the Zyklop ratchet is admittedly a little bit gimicky, and it does have plastic on it, but I think it's a great tool for certain applications. In particular, I suspect that this is going to become my go-to ratchet for "clean" work, where the fasteners are in near-perfect shape. I'm talking about things like furniture, appliance repair, working on computers, etc.

5. the "rotating mass" concept seems to be BS. I don't think the ratchet is heavy enough for this to make much of a differenc e in practice. Between the lack of weight and the friction between the plastic sheath and the underlying metal, I was unable to get the ratchet to spin freely as shown in the promo videos.

6. the socket locking mechanism, with the extra pin to aid with removal, is the nicest I've seen anywhere. It's really awesome. Very solid and easy to use.

7. the locking option on the extensions is also a nice touch...a very nice idea. With the push of a button, you can make the extension locking, and then change it back just as easily. Also, you can get your sockets off of the extension without using a tool!

8. the included universal seems OK at best. I need to play with it some more, but it doesn't measure up to a Snap On as far as flexibility and overall fluidity of movement. It's better than Craftsman quality-wise and strength-wise, but it seems to bind about as easily.

9. I like the way the head swivels. It can be set to free swivel, or lock in a variety of useful positions, including 90*, 0*, and 15*. The 15* is sure to come in handy, as it gives that little bit of extra clearance.

10. the direction changing mechanism is a "turn type" as seen on a Hazet ratchet, but with a really welcome improvement -- you don't need to hold the anvil to change the direction. This is a great mechanism, that like the Hazets, should prove near-impossible to accidentally switch, but is more convenient to use.

11. I often hold my ratchets at the head for quick tightening. The Zyklop accommodates this very nicely, with ergonomic recesses that your fingers fit on.

As you can probably tell, I'm very impressed with this product. I am considering if I want to get the 1/4" set, or just the ratchets, or what, and also what bits I want to add.

[arkangel06]

kind of scary

[48548]

One of the items in my Chads order (received yesterday) was the Wera SB2 3/8" drive metric Zyklop set. I haven't used the tools for anything real yet, but so far I'm very impressed with them, especially given the price I paid (which sadly is higher now...it's back to the pre-discount levels).

The fit and finish on all of the items in the set is near perfect -- this will be of little surprise to anyone that has had their screwdrivers. I mean, everything is impressively perfect. I've had each piece out and have been unable to find any flaws.

As for the kit itself:

1. I wish it came with regular Torx bits instead of tamperproof Torx. I knew this when I ordered, but I still thought I'd point this out.

2. the bit adapter is very nice, the nicest I've seen. I am inspired to buy more bits to go with it.

3. the hex plus bits are very nice (I also got the hex plus keys as part of my order). I compared how they engage with my PB Swiss keys...I think the PB Swiss are still better for "intact" fasteners, but if the fasteners have seen some wear, I think the hex plus will work better.

4. the Zyklop ratchet is admittedly a little bit gimicky, and it does have plastic on it, but I think it's a great tool for certain applications. In particular, I suspect that this is going to become my go-to ratchet for "clean" work, where the fasteners are in near-perfect shape. I'm talking about things like furniture, appliance repair, working on computers, etc.

5. the "rotating mass" concept seems to be BS. I don't think the ratchet is heavy enough for this to make much of a differenc e in practice. Between the lack of weight and the friction between the plastic sheath and the underlying metal, I was unable to get the ratchet to spin freely as shown in the promo videos.

6. the socket locking mechanism, with the extra pin to aid with removal, is the nicest I've seen anywhere. It's really awesome. Very solid and easy to use.

7. the locking option on the extensions is also a nice touch...a very nice idea. With the push of a button, you can make the extension locking, and then change it back just as easily. Also, you can get your sockets off of the extension without using a tool!

8. the included universal seems OK at best. I need to play with it some more, but it doesn't measure up to a Snap On as far as flexibility and overall fluidity of movement. It's better than Craftsman quality-wise and strength-wise, but it seems to bind about as easily.

9. I like the way the head swivels. It can be set to free swivel, or lock in a variety of useful positions, including 90*, 0*, and 15*. The 15* is sure to come in handy, as it gives that little bit of extra clearance.

10. the direction changing mechanism is a "turn type" as seen on a Hazet ratchet, but with a really welcome improvement -- you don't need to hold the anvil to change the direction. This is a great mechanism, that like the Hazets, should prove near-impossible to accidentally switch, but is more convenient to use.

11. I often hold my ratchets at the head for quick tightening. The Zyklop accommodates this very nicely, with ergonomic recesses that your fingers fit on.

As you can probably tell, I'm very impressed with this product. I am considering if I want to get the 1/4" set, or just the ratchets, or what, and also what bits I want to add.

1. Some of the sets I have mainly the bigger 5/16 does come with torx bits with no hole in them, but if they are as strong with the holes as if they didn't I don't care. Now if we can get someone to find out, :lol_hitti

2. The bit adapter is the best I have used and I ordered the other version they have that are all metal and don't have the collar on it that spins, but again I wanted the all metal, but agree either one is great. The 1/2 kit doesn't come with the collar and is all metal, but then it is 5/16 and not 1/4 bits.

4. Someone on here said they have used the ratchets everyday in a work environment and never seen any issue with the plastic on the ratchet and I asked chads if the plastic broke, he said as long as it didn't look abused it would be replaced.

5. The rotating seems to be fine, when on something that the threads aren't super easy for a nut or bolt to turn, but I haven't really tested this feature, so not sure what to think... I think it would work fine, but again haven't used that feature and at the very least should be better than the snap on versions I have the th737 and f747a or even the 100 tooth version which I have as well.

6. The quick release is the greatest I have ever used and nice how it does work no matter what position the head is in, either pressing on the head or the plastic lever in "screwdriver mode"

7. The locking extensions are the best because they are smaller and the on/off lever is almost flush with the ratchet as compared to the snap on or others that have the collar that makes the pretty big in diameter where the collar is.

8. The u-joints in mine seem to be fine and quality looks first rate, but I haven't tested them as for the movement so I can't say yet, but do like how they are held in with scews because it looks like you can rebuild them if needed.

9-10 Nothing more to add.

11. You are correct these are the best ratchets to put thumb against or other hand for more leverage and the shape and texture works perfectly... I love the feel of the finish against my skin, really nice and I like it better than chrome for some reason not as slippery.:lol_hitti

[48548]

Maybe Monte, FNFS2000 or FiftyCalAl can add about how durable the plastic pieces on the ratchet are after lots of use in a non clean environment. I am sure it is durable as it appears to be to me. Also the case is nice and metal and has the nice foam as well... Shows that they care about the little things and not just the tools and putting them in a cheap case, they care about every aspect of the tool and case, the whole package.

[scottmlew]

1. Some of the sets I have mainly the bigger 5/16 does come with torx bits with no hole in them, but if they are as strong with the holes as if they didn't I don't care. Now if we can get someone to find out, :lol_hitti


This was discussed elsewhere, in fact I believe in a thread I started. Executive summary: the tamperproof variants are not as strong as the non-tamperproof variants when used in a non-tamperproof fastener, and several members have experienced failures related to such use.

[scottmlew]

...how durable the plastic pieces on the ratchet are after lots of use in a non clean environment


My observation about using it in "clean" environments wasn't a commentary on the durability of the ratchet as a whole or its components. I just think that the benefits of the ratchet are most applicable to fasteners typically found in those environments, and to fasteners that are very low friction since they are not gunked up and corroded.

[48548]

This was discussed elsewhere, in fact I believe in a thread I started. Executive summary: the tamperproof variants are not as strong as the non-tamperproof variants when used in a non-tamperproof fastener, and several members have experienced failures related to such use.

I was joking that maybe wera used some sort of super material from outerspace or star trek that was stronger and still had the hole, :pimpflash:beer: I figured they would be weaker, but seriously you would think the star tips would be the weakest part and not sure if that has an impact because of the hole or not, but I could see it being a little bit weaker, but I still hope the fact that it is wera maybe it would still be better than we both expect.

[FNFS2000]

I think the tamper hole on a WERA is a non issue, I see it as a plus. I can't imagine a screw holding up to the torque it would take for the bit to fail. You'd twist the head off of most any fastener before you broke the bit because of the little material milled out of the center.

[Mule]

I'll submit some images here..

I've had the Zyklop since 06/09. I use it and other Wera products in an industrial environment. The selector has held up well as have the Kraftform handles.

In the one image, you can see that I damaged the freewheel sleeve. It still spins fine, however. That image also has a close up of the handle. The Kraftform handle cleans up pretty well when you use a good degreaser. I clean them when they are totally covered in grease, oil, or other gunk. Most of the time though I just put them back in the box. The ink seems to hold up better on the ratchets as compared to the screwdrivers.

The ratchet has defined locking positions. The detent ball is pretty strong, as it has left marks where it locks.

I also included an image of some other misc Wera products. The plastic sleeve on the SPKL hex keys has been worn in some places but the Hex-Plus almost doesn't look worn. I've had the hex keys since 04/08.

Hope you enjoyed.

[the spyder]

Thanks for the photos, I just started to use my Wera stuff today. Good to see it will last several years in a tough environment.

[Monte]

@Mule:
thx for the pics and your shared impressions with the tools.

[48548]

Thanks Mule for the info, they look great after all of the hard use!!!!

[Joe B.]

A few are on clearance at Sears:
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/search_10153_12605?keyword=zyklop&x=0&y=0&vName=

This one looks like a pretty good price:
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00980887000P?keyword=zyklop

Still the ugliest tool currently in production. Looks more like a marital aid than a tool.

[Stuey]

I don't think they're on clearance - I've been watching them for a few weeks, and the price hasn't dropped any further. I'm now thinking that *.88 prices are temporary reductions.

[48548]

Don't forget if you get them at chads to have them add the "testthebest" code and get 15% off as well..... Also they will meet any price you find within 60 days.

[billymade]

When I worked @ Sears, .88 on the prices meant clearance... wether this applies to online sales... is anyone's guess! Too bad these weren't stocked in the stores; clearance prices seem to fall lower in the stores... I guess we should keep on eye on these! :)

[48548]

I looked at the link again and the 1/2 prices aren't that great because I had gotten chads to sell the 1/2 sc 2 kit for about 379.50 minus the 15% for around 322 and that set is all metric with all of the bits, that is the most expensive kit. Because I had them change the price, that is cheaper than the kit with out the bits. The 1/4 from chads is 62.37 and then you can get 15% off and if you spend over 200 free priority mail. Just trying to help a bro out.

[Joe B.]

I think these two are the same:
Sears @ $279.88
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00980887000P?keyword=zyklop

Chad's Toolbox @ $414.32
http://chadstoolbox.com/05003647001werazyklop12sc4.aspx

Granted, Chad's might price match to an even lower price and most of the other Sears items were not very discounted.

[48548]

Chads will match the price and still give you 15% off, like they have done for me the in the past.

[Stuey]

When I worked @ Sears, .88 on the prices meant clearance... wether this applies to online sales... is anyone's guess! Too bad these weren't stocked in the stores; clearance prices seem to fall lower in the stores... I guess we should keep on eye on these! :)

That's what I thought, but last week I saw a few *.88 prices on non-Craftsman tools jump back up to the respectice tools' full prices.