Tools of Japan

[GeoBruin]

Anyone tried this set?

Vessel Screwdriver Bit Set https://a.co/d/6cnk8xl

 

[four.cycle]

^ not that one, no. I recently gifted a very similar "Tekton" set to a buddy of mine but haven't really gotten any feedback from him on it.

these are tiny little things - 4mm hex drive - DBA93100 Tekton

 

[Andres26tnt]

Anyone tried this set?

Vessel Screwdriver Bit Set https://a.co/d/6cnk8xl

That looks pretty good, I believe a USA exclusive. Haven't seen it here in Japan anywhere.

 

[Stubby1743]

That looks pretty good, I believe a USA exclusive. Haven't seen it here in Japan anywhere.

I have that set and got it from Amazon Japan. I'm very pleased with it.

 

[Andres26tnt]

I have that set and got it from Amazon Japan. I'm very pleased with it.

Nice must be online only, been to many stores here. Fist time seeing them. Vessel has been releasing so many new products in the past year.

 

[Draftpick1]

Anyone tried this set?

Vessel Screwdriver Bit Set https://a.co/d/6cnk8xl

I have one, good set, has a lot of stuff in it great deal for $27

 

[beelsr]

^ not that one, no. I recently gifted a very similar "Tekton" set to a buddy of mine but haven't really gotten any feedback from him on it.

these are tiny little things

well then, here's some...

I bought a couple on tekton's website when they went clearance a couple? months ago. not the exact set but a smaller case - most likely the same tools. they work nice. almost as nice a driver as my old ifixit. 10x better than the cheapo sets. worth it for me to keep one in the house kit, one in the shop, one in the office and one in my electronics repair box.

 

[William Payne]

There's a bit more to it. there is a cultural element to this too. And yes, Tokyo as a metro area is about 1/2 the size of Houston for example, with 38 million people. So the density does drive some opportunity. But, the area a couple of those shops are in Akiba/Akihabara (electronics town traditionally) is super interesting. You'll find small shops like that for almost anything and any hobby, and shops like this exist all over Tokyo. For example there is a building next to the metro station that is filled, 3-4 floors, of the small 'stalls' think, about maybe 8x8' size, and each one is a guy sitting there selling 'stuff' mostly in this case small electronic components. Need a resistor, go see this guy, need an IC, go see that guy. They cater to hobbyists and those doing prototyping etc. But you can find anything there related to electronics.
So it's no surprise to me you'll find the same for a tool guy. My other hobbies have the same sort of stores. Jazz records? Go to Hal's in Shinjuku. Need a needle for a cartridge? go to this guy. Love Manga? Go to Nakano Broadway. It's really unique. Love going there every year.

I’ve heard from people that have been there that you can name your hobby and there will be a store for that in Japan somewhere.

Also they are obsessed with quality. I was talking to a guy who goes over there to buy used cameras. He was saying that something considered “well used” in Japan would be looked at as great condition anywhere else.

Japanese are also more willing to pay for quality and very very picky. So specialty stores for tools etc can survive without necessarily being national online as in the USA. It is a shame that our consumers in the USA tend to go strongly for the lowest price and business is fixated on maximizing profit every year. This leads us to where we are: all must be outsourced since USA labor is too high cost to compete or simply the brand can make more money by just marketing outsourced production. Regardless of what is said (designed in the USA ... give me a break ... if you do not make it you lose control of the details impacting quality). The Japanese people being so picky and their companies more stubborn and not wanting to reduce quality, the domestic market there seems to have driven specialty production to cater. The Japanese brands are being hit by outsourcing and low cost stuff from China etc. But not to the same degree as we are here in the USA. It seems they are several decades behind (in a good way) relative to the USA in that trend. But I do not think they are fully immune to it.

Edit: Curiously, I just rebuilt a 70s Japanese floor jack sold by Craftsman. OMG. The quality of the build relative to stuff today is surreal better. With new seals, this beast looks like a $1000+ jack and it was a standard consumer-line model at the time. With new seals and if the jack oil is cycled now and then it should last 50+ years more no problem. Out of curiosity, I looked at the best models of contemporary Harbor Freight stuff recently and it is *absolute junk* in comparison. I doubt any of those last more than 20 ish years. It is a shame that stuff like this died out even in Japan since I presume it is/was too low profit. That is part of my point that even Japan is not immune to the negative impact of outsourcing -- even if more of their production remains higher quality domestic Japanese.

Culture plays such a massive difference. Different lifestyle expectations, different income expectations, different life expectations.

There are a couple of YouTube channels with western guys who went to Japan and one of them did a video on what a wealthy neighbourhood looks like in Tokyo and it was far more humble than what would be considered wealthy anywhere else.

I do kind of envy the simple life.

They work like crazy though.

 

[four.cycle]

^ I ordered that for a buddy of mine who needed a tiny "TORX" bit to open up a security camera. Unfortunately the head of the screw was down in a recessed hole, so unfortunately the Tekton bit wasn't able to reach it.
Not sure if there exists such a thing as a "long reach" teeny-tiny TORX bit.

 

[Nobody-named-Olli]

(…)
Not sure if there exists such a thing as a "long reach" teeny-tiny TORX bit.

If T5 qualifies as teeny-tiny, there is. Even with 1/4” hex drive.

Not a recommendation, just a pointer. Available in 75, 100 and 150mm length.

https://www.amazon.de/Saipor-St%C3%BCck-Torx-Bit-100mm/dp/B0DYDH8CYY?th=1

I’m sure with more in-depth research one can find similar from a reputable, quality manufacturer.

Kind regards,
Olli

 

[four.cycle]

thanks. it was a T6
the Tekton bit was only maybe 1/4" shy of engaging the screw.

 

[Steel_Rain]

Does anyone own this Vessel product?

Part #900RT5PU:



I can find hardly anything about it online. I don't think it's discontinued.

 

[gmt]

Does anyone own this Vessel product?

Part #900RT5PU:



I can find hardly anything about it online. I don't think it's discontinued.

I bought one recently from Amazon. (check Harry J. Epstein, they have a better price.) Case is nice, enough extra room for another screwdriver and bits. Screwdriver handle is great if you like the megadora screwdriver handle. Ratcheting is good and smooth and direction selector is just like their crystaline handle ratcheting screwdriver. Now my issue with it is the bit holder. Side to side is decent, but the bit sitting is poor. Way too much play for my tastes. but when you think about it, if you are tightening or loosing a screw you are pressing against the screw so the play shouldn't effect how it works. I think a locking bit holder would be better. I'm pretty sure it is new and I think it is for the US market.

 

[Steel_Rain]

Really appreciate the review and heads up.

Now my issue with it is the bit holder. Side to side is decent, but the bit sitting is poor. Way too much play for my tastes.

So axial play is acceptable, but there is end slop with the bits moving in/out of the holder? Do you know how much (3-4mm maybe)?

I have a few of these to get rid of that play in my JDM Makita's when I'm using a USDM 9mm shank bit end.

Pardon Our Interruption...

www.ebay.com

For those who don't know:

 

[gmt]

Really appreciate the review and heads up.



So axial play is acceptable, but there is end slop with the bits moving in/out of the holder? Do you know how much (3-4mm maybe)?

I have a few of these to get rid of that play in my JDM Makita's when I'm using a USDM 9mm shank bit end.

Pardon Our Interruption...

www.ebay.com

For those who don't know:

That's the amount of play (about 4mm). Was using the bits that come with the screwdriver.
I just tried a Japanese bit and it fits nice and tight. Nice catch, didn't think about that as the reason why the bits had play.

 

[rick carpenter]

I have found a ratcheting Anex 397 bit holder (handle) with a Wiha Centrofix bit holder to be a superb combination. The Anex has a tight 40mm friction-fit bit insertion depth. There is no wobble & no end-play with any 6.35mm bits (cannot use shorties tho!). I've always intended to glue my Centrofix into the Anex handle but the Anex holds the Centrofix securely. The Centrofix locks in both SAE 9mm anvil bits and Japanese 13mm bits with no wobble & no end-play.

 

[Fedwrench]

Does anyone own this Vessel product?

Part #900RT5PU:



I can find hardly anything about it online. I don't think it's discontinued.

I think it's really new might be why information is scant. I have the set and as others have said, I don't care for the bit retention system. Waay too much in and out play with the detent retention system. Non Magnetic too. I want to like it but, I don't.

 

[Andres26tnt]

Does anyone own this Vessel product?

Part #900RT5PU:



I can find hardly anything about it online. I don't think it's discontinued.

that's a USA exclusive, its just a crystaline ratchet driver with a different handle. very good for what it is, they choose that small shank because its the one made in Japan. the longer shank crystaline driver is made in Thailand. Usually the wait a few months to release USA exclusives in JP. Bit fitment is not the greatest.

I did the same with my custom ratchet driver, use the same one.

 

[gmt]

I think it's really new might be why information is scant. I have the set and as others have said, I don't care for the bit retention system. Waay too much in and out play with the detent retention system. Non Magnetic too. I want to like it but, I don't.

Try the Vessel GO-SAI bits with the screwdriver. You'll like the way the bits fit way better.

 

[Phang]

Nepros NBR390X​

 

[NitroExpress]

Nepros NBR390X​

I’d be curious to hear how you like it, once you have a chance to use it. I have one on order and almost cancelled because they confirmed the order and took my money and I received no product or communication for several weeks. I decided to see if they would answer email first, and they replied after a few days that they were back ordered and would ship by end of month, so I’m letting the order stand. Hoping this one and the 1/4” drive Nepros I ordered are worth the time and money!

 

[rick carpenter]

Got the Anex ACMM-1865 -1.8mm x 65mm bits in today. Trying to get a good precision bit & driver collection going.

Pic shows my Vessel 270 handle, my new bits, & my Vessel 9900 drivers (-1.8mm, +00, & +0). Love these drivers, used them heavily at work.

The generic gray "Precision Screwdrivers" kit is something every tinkerer gets at birth I think. The slotteds served me well for many years, but time to upgrade. My 65mm bits are L to R, a +00, a +0, two Anex +1's, two Vessel +1's, three +2's, a -3mm, & a -4mm.

Gonna get more of the Vessel 9900 - & + drivers and an Anex 3610 handle for the 65mm bits. The 270 handle is a bit clunky for close-in work. Why every Japanese bit doesn't have Anex's dual-anvil base (they call them "W" bits) I don't know.

 

[Phang]

3.peaks locking pliers/mole grips/vise grips

 

[ecotec]

Got the Anex ACMM-1865 -1.8mm x 65mm bits in today. Trying to get a good precision bit & driver collection going.

Pic shows my Vessel 270 handle, my new bits, & my Vessel 9900 drivers (-1.8mm, +00, & +0). Love these drivers, used them heavily at work.

The generic gray "Precision Screwdrivers" kit is something every tinkerer gets at birth I think. The slotteds served me well for many years, but time to upgrade. My 65mm bits are L to R, a +00, a +0, two Anex +1's, two Vessel +1's, three +2's, a -3mm, & a -4mm.

Gonna get more of the Vessel 9900 - & + drivers and an Anex 3610 handle for the 65mm bits. The 270 handle is a bit clunky for close-in work. Why every Japanese bit doesn't have Anex's dual-anvil base (they call them "W" bits) I don't know.

I got the Vessel version of your Moody style screwdriver set a couple weeks ago.

 

[Andres26tnt]

Another great tool store like factory gear, World Import Tools Okayama Store.

Located in Yokohama, Okayama to be exact. Great selection of tools from imports to japanese. It's a little farther away from the center of Tokyo, but still reachable.

 

[Etchase]

Anyone tried this set?

Vessel Screwdriver Bit Set https://a.co/d/6cnk8xl

An innocent question costing me money again. I like this better than the Wiha just because of the form factor of the case. The vessel is more compact, and the kickstand shape takes up little space on the work surface. Perfect for working on small units that use these types of fasteners. Bits are typical vessel fit, excellent. The box says made in Taiwan.

 

[spyerx]

Another great tool store like factory gear, World Import Tools Okayama Store.

Located in Yokohama, Okayama to be exact. Great selection of tools from imports to japanese. It's a little farther away from the center of Tokyo, but still reachable.

The post code they give 701-0304 is in Okayama which is s. Japan, not near Yokohama. Maybe they have another branch? I do see a store in Yokohama but it's in Tsuzuki. This one you can get to on train/metro w/o bus and not too long of a walk:

1 chome-17-4 Edaminami, Tsuzuki Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa

 

[Andres26tnt]

The post code they give 701-0304 is in Okayama which is s. Japan, not near Yokohama. Maybe they have another branch? I do see a store in Yokohama but it's in Tsuzuki. This one you can get to on train/metro w/o bus and not too long of a walk:

1 chome-17-4 Edaminami, Tsuzuki Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa

Yeah good catch, they have it wrong on the video. This must be their new location in okoyama. The stores are different for sure. Still great stores to visit if your in the area.

 

[Outahere]

Can someone help me understand the differences in the lobtex adjustable wrench line? There seems to be a lot of overlap

Wrench - General handtools - Products - LOBTEX CO.,LTD.

Also, where can I buy them in the US?

This is the only place that pops up

https://us.misumi-ec.com/vona2/maker/lobster/

I bought 3 of them at WesTorque.com 2-3 years ago.

Lobster/Lobtex Wrenches

 

[Phang]

 

[Phang]

the black one arrived from Japan today

it stacks higher if you turn it 180 degree

 

[Steel_Rain]

It appears that Vessel released a new impact wrench in Japan this week:

Amazon.co.jp: Vessel SP-8141J SP LINE Rechargeable Impact Wrench for Cars, Maintenance, Tire Replacement, Temporary Tightening, High Output, Hand Crank Mode : DIY, Tools & Garden

Amazon.co.jp: Vessel SP-8141J SP LINE Rechargeable Impact Wrench for Cars, Maintenance, Tire Replacement, Temporary Tightening, High Output, Hand Crank Mode : DIY, Tools & Garden

www.amazon.co.jp

I thought this could be Japanese made (like the power screwdriver), but sadly, it looks like just another Chinese copycat:



Damnit.

 

[Andres26tnt]

It appears that Vessel released a new impact wrench in Japan this week:

Amazon.co.jp: Vessel SP-8141J SP LINE Rechargeable Impact Wrench for Cars, Maintenance, Tire Replacement, Temporary Tightening, High Output, Hand Crank Mode : DIY, Tools & Garden

Amazon.co.jp: Vessel SP-8141J SP LINE Rechargeable Impact Wrench for Cars, Maintenance, Tire Replacement, Temporary Tightening, High Output, Hand Crank Mode : DIY, Tools & Garden

www.amazon.co.jp

I thought this could be Japanese made (like the power screwdriver), but sadly, it looks like just another Chinese copycat:



Damnit.

Yeah forgot to post that one, was available for purchase early 2 months ago in rakuten or forget what site. It's just another rebranded Chinese model. I was looking for another impact to buy when I look at it. I believe it's the same as the brand called DCK here in Japan, well same manufacturer. Ended up just buying a craftsman mid torque on my base.

DCK is a really nice "budget" brand, but with top tier specs.

I've shared a Brand Store on Amazon with you. https://www.amazon.co.jp/stores/DCK...0FDN9CK60RV&store_ref=bl_ast_dp_brandLogo_sto

 

[YesIHaveAHammer]

Today I learnt JIS has standards for complete tools. So my Tsunoda RP-150 (160mm) meets the standard for long nose pliers (JIS B 4631). It appears to cover lengths 140-160-200, although Tsunoda says only the middle size exists.

 

[Phang]

 

[IRQVET]

It appears that Vessel released a new impact wrench in Japan this week:

Amazon.co.jp: Vessel SP-8141J SP LINE Rechargeable Impact Wrench for Cars, Maintenance, Tire Replacement, Temporary Tightening, High Output, Hand Crank Mode : DIY, Tools & Garden

Amazon.co.jp: Vessel SP-8141J SP LINE Rechargeable Impact Wrench for Cars, Maintenance, Tire Replacement, Temporary Tightening, High Output, Hand Crank Mode : DIY, Tools & Garden

www.amazon.co.jp

I thought this could be Japanese made (like the power screwdriver), but sadly, it looks like just another Chinese copycat:



Damnit.

I took one look at the battery and noticed it looks like all the cheaply made batteries coming out of China. They all use that same looking cheap battery, seems like a universal part for all the various companies battery powered lines.

 

[rick carpenter]

I've had this Kershaw Kai 1099 Blade Trader in my garage forever. Came via family, never used by me and by the looks of it maybe never ever used. I think it was made for camping/rv-ing so I guess it counts as a tool, right? Apparently 1980s vintage, internet dudes say Snap On sold them. Gen 1(?), rosewood handle, stainless blades, made in Seki, Japan. Blade retention feels solid though the blade lock is only spring steel so any kind of prying action might destroy it.

 

[Psiber]

Apparently 1980s vintage, internet dudes say Snap On sold them.

I can confirm, I have the exact same knife I bought from the Snap-on truck in about 1983. Honestly don't use it much, blade change isn't as convenient as just grabbing the appropriate knife. Would be good for camping or similar small space need.

 

[GeoBruin]

I can confirm, I have the exact same knife I bought from the Snap-on truck in about 1983. Honestly don't use it much, blade change isn't as convenient as just grabbing the appropriate knife. Would be good for camping or similar small space need.

Yes, but this way you get to own a small katana without having to explain/justify owning a dedicated katana.

"I don't know man, it just came with the set."

 

[four.cycle]

^ I'd put it up on ebay and see if anyone bites. ><((((°>