Huh. I just noticed that Asahi's ratchets are actually made in Taiwan. https://asahitool-online-store.com/products/lvr3180-3-8sq-ratchet-handle-180-mm
Kind of disappointing.
Kind of disappointing.
Tools of Japan
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YukonRally
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Got my first Nepros tools, the 3/8 shallow set and their 3/8 standard ratchet. The ratchet feels so good in the hand, and is super smooth.
Steel_Rain
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That is disappointing. I have several wrench sets / hex keys from Asahi and they are all made in Japan.
Are the Revowave ratchets also made in Taiwan? Or just these light tool versions?
Ratchet handle
The official sales site of ASAHI TOOLS, Niigata Japan. We are hand tools manufacture (spanner, wrench, hexagon wrench) and established in 1931. LIGHTOOL is a super lightweight tool with JIS standard quality. Daxkey wrench, Catcher wrench, etc., which are useful in tight spaces.
asahitool-online-store.com
I went a few pages back but didn't see it mentioned; Did anyone else notice that recently (within last few months) Amazon Japan will no longer ship any Ko-ken tools to the US? Looks like the local distributors/retailers may have complained and got exports blocked from Amazon.
Steel_Rain
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Wow. If that’s true, that’s huge news. The Yen is so weak right now, that I’ve been stocking up, but I use a third party shipper (Blackship) to get my stuff and haven’t has any issues.
If that’s really the case, that *****.
A few items slipped through, but a while ago everything Ko-ken in my cart/lists went from available to "does not ship to this address" seemingly overnight. Similar to what happened with Amazon Germany with Wera/Wiha/Knipex a few years ago.
I might try out Blackship, DM me a referral code if you have one!
Steel_Rain
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Madjik Man
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Haven't heard. Glad I pretty much maxed out all that I need in the past couple of years.
Try ebay... there's always Japanese sellers of Japanese tools there - for the same very low price when converting to USD.
mattstevens
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I've also noticed that Amazon Japan been restricting a lot more items over the last few months. This has happened before though and then they open back up a while later.
What is the cost of shipping through these forwarding services like? I hadn't really considered them because I thought it would end up being more expensive than buying domestically during a sale.
What is the cost of shipping through these forwarding services like? I hadn't really considered them because I thought it would end up being more expensive than buying domestically during a sale.
It seems comparable to Amazon priority. For ~$40/year you get Prime for which gives you free shipping to the forwarder.
Blackship has a shipping calculator on their website. For a 3kg (6.6lb) 30x20x10cm (11x8x4") package they quote about ¥8,000 for DHL, which is roughly what Amazon changes. Seems a little higher, maybe 10-15%?
It looks like you can store packages with Blackship for free up to 45 days and they will do consolidation/re-packing, so it might even work out cheaper if you can consolidate a few orders and aren't paying the $50+ in Amazon shipping every order, assuming you can wait for a few orders to accumulate.
Steel_Rain
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You’re spot on. I’ve been using Blackship for about a year and found, on average, it’s about 15-18% higher shipping charges vs straight Amazon JP.
That said, once you have a Japanese postal address, the world of items really opens up there. In my area, I prefer to use DHL as the carrier, but Blackship offers many different vendors.
I will usually buy things over the course of a month and let them accrue. You get the choice of consolidating everything, keep the original shipping box (they don’t touch the actual product packaging) and can ask at any time for more photos of an item. I try to be as concise as I can about declaring customs for the amount I’ve paid, but I have made mistakes and they shipped it anyways.
Right now, I have about 25 packages in queue that I’m going to consolidate and ship next week.
I’m a real weirdo.
Small post, just two Japanese items from the DRPD sale
Ko-ken 4433A-125
1/2" female to 3/8" male extension. I use a lot of 1/2" and very little 3/8", so these are nice when I do have to use the odd 3/8" tool. Had the 250mm one before, so I got the 125mm this time around.
Keiba ET-226
Just a basic pair of diagonal cutters and my first Keiba product.
I didn't actually order these, it was a mis-ship instead of another Keiba model, but I liked them enough in person to buy them outright instead of returning, so it was a happy accident. My original item will ship out Monday (edit: actually went out Friday), thanks to Mike @DRPD for the great service!
Compared to other cutters I have, the head is proportionately narrower and the handles swoop out wider, which means better access on the business end and better grip when squeezing; neat.
Fit and finish is very good, easily on par with Knipex or Tsunoda. The hinge resistance is light and consistent but not free-swinging.
I haven't had a chance to use them much besides nipping at some test materials, but they feel good and cut well.
Ko-ken 4433A-125
1/2" female to 3/8" male extension. I use a lot of 1/2" and very little 3/8", so these are nice when I do have to use the odd 3/8" tool. Had the 250mm one before, so I got the 125mm this time around.
Keiba ET-226
Just a basic pair of diagonal cutters and my first Keiba product.
I didn't actually order these, it was a mis-ship instead of another Keiba model, but I liked them enough in person to buy them outright instead of returning, so it was a happy accident. My original item will ship out Monday (edit: actually went out Friday), thanks to Mike @DRPD for the great service!
Compared to other cutters I have, the head is proportionately narrower and the handles swoop out wider, which means better access on the business end and better grip when squeezing; neat.
Fit and finish is very good, easily on par with Knipex or Tsunoda. The hinge resistance is light and consistent but not free-swinging.
I haven't had a chance to use them much besides nipping at some test materials, but they feel good and cut well.
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I think the only time I have heard a lever called "backwards" is people complaining that something isn't made by Snap-On.
I don't know which way is forwards or backwards, but for the sake of comparison, here are a few ratchets set for clockwise rotation. I just use the tool and switch the direction as needed if it's not going the right way. Obviously the Cornwell switches or round heads are a little different. Beta is the only one that actually displays the currently selected direction of rotation. I don't have a Snap-On or Nepros ratchet handy, but there is a regular KTC in there.
I honestly didn't notice the Plombs point a different direction than some of the others until I lined them up for the photo. Ko-ken's original pear head models are (nice) copies of the original Plomb design, so while the Z-series are a different design, it kind of makes sense for them to maintain the same direction. It may also just be down the mechanism used since the selector switch on z-series is separate from the pawl.
Lots of other models showcased on this channel, check videos as well as shorts: https://www.youtube.com/@mono-story
superautobacs
Well-known member
In Japan, Lobster tools are more commonly referred to as "ebi", which translates to "shrimp".In the early 2010's, when the 72-T models came out with the more "modern" ratchet head, it was a tell-tale sign of outsourcing.
The original Lightool ratchets with the 24-T mechanism were made in Japan though.
I think the only time I have heard a lever called "backwards" is people complaining that something isn't made by Snap-On.
I don't know which way is forwards or backwards, but for the sake of comparison, here are a few ratchets set for clockwise rotation. I just use the tool and switch the direction as needed if it's not going the right way. Obviously the Cornwell switches or round heads are a little different. Beta is the only one that actually displays the currently selected direction of rotation. I don't have a Snap-On or Nepros ratchet handy, but there is a regular KTC in there.
I honestly didn't notice the Plombs point a different direction than some of the others until I lined them up for the photo. Ko-ken's original pear head models are (nice) copies of the original Plomb design, so while the Z-series are a different design, it kind of makes sense for them to maintain the same direction. It may also just be down the mechanism used since the selector switch on z-series is separate from the pawl.
Lots of other models showcased on this channel, check videos as well as shorts: https://www.youtube.com/@mono-story
Same. When I bought ratchets I never cared about whether the directional switch was "backwards" or not.
It's not far-fetched to think that Ko-ken's ratchets may have been modeled after Plomb ratchets. Yamashita Soichiro, founder of Ko-ken, was a mechanic who worked and lived in the US and worked for Ford in the 1920s. In the 30's, back in Japan, he worked for GM. So, I'm sure he was exposed to many American tool brands, like Plomb. Btw, I love that pebble Plomb!
When the original 36-T Z-series mechanisms were being developed, Ko-ken adhered to their roots by keeping the directional switch oriented the same way as their standard series mechanisms. Again, same thing with their latest 72-T mechanisms. Probably one of the reasons why the Z-series have a truely unique pearhead mechanism.
ronkz650
Well-known member
The Nepros ratchet lever is what is considered "normal" direction, where the Koken is reverse direction. The problem I have with the reverse direction is if you have your hand up near the direction lever it gets bumped and you change direction when you didn't want to. Other than that I don't care $0.01 what way the lever points, but that one little annoying attribute can be annoying.
Thanks i keep hearing how amazing nepros ratchets are but I want the lever direction to match my snap ons. And I tried a KoKen from my cousin he let me borrow it and I hated the lever direction.
Andres26tnt
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Such a silly complaint, always cracks me up. Fyi bumping the switch isn't just a "backwards" switch problem(never had that issue on a koken). I've had that issue on some "correct" switch ratchets more often, specifically ones that protude or super light. Preferences are Preferences no hate. Since I use multiple ratchet styles it's become a habit to check direction with the socket on. I've never let it dictate my ratchet enjoyment 
. I understand tho, you like what you like, I prefere qr ratchets, so most of my collection is that.
. I understand tho, you like what you like, I prefere qr ratchets, so most of my collection is that.
I only use one and all my ratcheting wrenches got the same levers so I don’t check I just flick my thumb in that direction and go. Not complaining they can do whatever they want it’s there company and their rules but doesn’t mean i got to buy their stuff
since the nepro matches the same lever as the snap on regular American style I’m going to look more closely at there stuff and maybe pick one up to see what the hype is about
Andres26tnt
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I only use one and all my ratcheting wrenches got the same levers so I don’t check I just flick my thumb in that direction and go. Not complaining they can do whatever they want it’s there company and their rules but doesn’t mean i got to buy their stuff
since the nepro matches the same lever as the snap on regular American style I’m going to look more closely at there stuff and maybe pick one up to see what the hype is about
[/QUOTE)
My ratchet wrenches are the stahlwille 15* offset(Kabo), all kinds of switch directions. I think I want the nepros or tone next. Great products
Same for me.
Steel_Rain
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I've been searching for one of these for awhile and one popped up on eBay recently. Scored it as "lightly used" for $75 shipped from Canada. I think the retail was in the ~$200 range about a decade ago.
Panasonic EY7410:
A good paring with the rest of my Japanese (but not made in Japan) electric screwdrivers (impact driver in the case of the Makita):
I've always been fascinated with Panasonic's power tool line. I feel like it's vastly outdated and with few updates over the last 10+ years, even in the home market, but these are still apparently very popular overseas and Panasonic continues to sell them. I will say that this unit is very well built and heavy duty. Nothing can top the impact power of the Makita, but the Panasonic feels strong and solid along with being the most quiet of the bunch.
This has me curious about the other power tools in the Panasonic lineup on Amazon Japan...hmmm.
Panasonic EY7410:
A good paring with the rest of my Japanese (but not made in Japan) electric screwdrivers (impact driver in the case of the Makita):
I've always been fascinated with Panasonic's power tool line. I feel like it's vastly outdated and with few updates over the last 10+ years, even in the home market, but these are still apparently very popular overseas and Panasonic continues to sell them. I will say that this unit is very well built and heavy duty. Nothing can top the impact power of the Makita, but the Panasonic feels strong and solid along with being the most quiet of the bunch.
This has me curious about the other power tools in the Panasonic lineup on Amazon Japan...hmmm.
Maido!
Our new Tanuki seems pleased with his Factory Gear Osaka Ko-ken Z-EAL 1/4sq "Shibuichi Set"
Requisite interior shots. Quite the candy store, but I did my best to keep it in check!
My better half doing an excellent impression of me in the makeup/skin care dept. at a Mega Don Quixote's
Cool shop, nice employees, and was tax-free as I was hoping. I also grabbed a shirt and a few other knick-knacks,
but was mostly there to fondle kit that usually isn't in most US hardware stores. A fun time, I highly recommend!
Our new Tanuki seems pleased with his Factory Gear Osaka Ko-ken Z-EAL 1/4sq "Shibuichi Set"
Requisite interior shots. Quite the candy store, but I did my best to keep it in check!
My better half doing an excellent impression of me in the makeup/skin care dept. at a Mega Don Quixote's
Cool shop, nice employees, and was tax-free as I was hoping. I also grabbed a shirt and a few other knick-knacks,
but was mostly there to fondle kit that usually isn't in most US hardware stores. A fun time, I highly recommend!
IRQVET
Well-known member
Where is this store at?Maido!
Our new Tanuki seems pleased with his Factory Gear Osaka Ko-ken Z-EAL 1/4sq "Shibuichi Set"
Requisite interior shots. Quite the candy store, but I did my best to keep it in check!
My better half doing an excellent impression of me in the makeup/skin care dept. at a Mega Don Quixote's
Cool shop, nice employees, and was tax-free as I was hoping. I also grabbed a shirt and a few other knick-knacks,
but was mostly there to fondle kit that usually isn't in most US hardware stores. A fun time, I highly recommend!
I'm in the market for a 6 point Spanner Set, preferably in SAE and Metric with no skips (if that's even possible). Been doing some shopping around, not finding a lot. Most are small like 6 piece sets.
Oh wow, yeah Koken availability from Amazon.co.jp dried up. Actually just got a shipping notice for koken socket set I ordered back in June so I went to go look around again and everything in my saved list is no longer available.
Steel_Rain
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Hmmm. The yen is still very weak against the dollar. I’m wondering if Koken USA is somehow involved to keep the pricing high here in the US? I
have no idea how Amazon works in other countries, but I do know that manufacturers have pull over how/what Amazon markets as the “sale” pricing is for certain products.
Steel_Rain
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Vessel pry/pick set:
The Koken USA markup is beyond unreasonable, in my opinion.
Take RS3300MZ/12 set for example. $190.50 from Koken USA or currently ¥14,482/$95 from Amazon Japan. Buying from Amazon Japan is a no brainer, I can definitely understand why Koken USA would try to shut that down.
four.cycle
Well-known member
You could have saved halve the money for the same item from KTC (exactly the same I did not expected that, only for the stamping)
Ko-Ken 2769F 1/4" drive spinner w/bolster
This is taking tool-making to another level. Exquisite workmanship. First item of theirs I've purchased. Wish the handle were a bit fatter for my huge hands, but ... c'est la vie!
i hade both KTC and Ko-ken , gave the cheaper KTC away
Steel_Rain
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You could have saved halve the money for the same item from KTC (exactly the same I did not expected that, only for the stamping)
i hade both KTC and Ko-ken , gave the cheaper KTC away
I had no idea that Koken made the KTC version but upon comparing the two, your 100% correct. Thanks for the heads up, I had the Koken in my AJP cart in time for the holidays. I've switched it to the KTC version because I'm a cheap son of a *****.
four.cycle
Well-known member
^ My total purchase price was $19.82 including the shipping, which (considering the cost of shipping currently) seemed pretty reasonable to me, considering it was a single-item purchase. My only complaint is that I was hoping for a "fatter" handle for my monstrous paws, but that's not Ko-Ken's fault.
I sold a "Herbrand" (Triangle-era) set yesterday and while packing it noted that they made an oversize spinner handle, but it's a bit too fat and clunky for my liking.
There's a sweet spot there in the middle somewhere - I just haven't found it yet.
What I'd really like would be a 1/4" spinner with a "Vessel" "Megadora" or "Ball Grip" handle.
I sold a "Herbrand" (Triangle-era) set yesterday and while packing it noted that they made an oversize spinner handle, but it's a bit too fat and clunky for my liking.
There's a sweet spot there in the middle somewhere - I just haven't found it yet.
What I'd really like would be a 1/4" spinner with a "Vessel" "Megadora" or "Ball Grip" handle.
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How does Blackship work
I haven't used it myself, but it is a freight forwarding service.
Basically, you pay them a fee and they give you a Japanese address that you can have things delivered too. When you are ready, they pack everything up and ship it to your real address.
This means that you can order things that don't normally ship outside of Japan and that you can combine orders from multiple vendors to one international package.
Steel_Rain
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Here are two video's to show the process:
Watch 1st:
Watch 2nd:
Basically, it's a intermediate between you and Japan. They give you an address in Japan (with your name) that is forwarded to them in Yokohama. They intake the package, photo it, weight it and have a website interface that allows you to declare customs and pricing. After that, you have them sit it for 45 days (if you want to have several items shipped at the same time) or ship it at once using FedEx, DHL, UPS and others to where you live.
Expect to pay about 15-20% more to ship it to the USA (in my experience) and they charge a small fee for each transaction.
The website is easy to use and they are very responsive. I've been using it for two years and never had an issue with pricing or a lost package.
IRQVET
Well-known member
I was messing around on Amazon Japan, but then I had a thought. Migrated over to eBay and typed in "Craftsman Tools Made in Japan." (Most circa 1970's) Found a bunch of NOS in original packaging.
Based on the selection (and prices), I think I found the cheat code that most have overlooked . . .
Turns out, a lot of Craftsman collectors, don't care for those tools Made in Japan . . .
Their loss is our gain, Happy Hunting . . .
Based on the selection (and prices), I think I found the cheat code that most have overlooked . . .
Turns out, a lot of Craftsman collectors, don't care for those tools Made in Japan . . .
Their loss is our gain, Happy Hunting . . .
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