Indeed. Just give me a few months and I'll have subconsciously manufactured a situation in which the tool would have been useful, so then I can order it for the next time after
Are you me?
Tools of Japan
- Thread starter Frankstools
- Start date
Are you me?
CGarage
Well-known member
Not that I know of.
The Horotechs are top of the line.
I have them and the Bergeons.
Firebrick43
Well-known member
Do you have the MSA 01.218 Horotecs or MSA 01.020 screwdrivers?
I have been leaning towards the 30081 Bergeon set. The MSA 01.218 would be really nice but not at 2. times the price. The MSA 01.020 look nice but I wonder about the longevity of the aluminum shafts that they have compared to SS of the others.
CGarage
Well-known member
30081 Bergeron and 01.218 Horotecs.
I actually have a need for them, for looking after some of my watches. It is considered a major offense if one scratches or damages a screw head during routine maintenance. Thus, the screwdriver requirement.
You may also want to look at AF Switzerland / A&F screwdrivers. Very, very nice for the money. The company recently sold to a new buyer.
I actually have a need for them, for looking after some of my watches. It is considered a major offense if one scratches or damages a screw head during routine maintenance. Thus, the screwdriver requirement.
You may also want to look at AF Switzerland / A&F screwdrivers. Very, very nice for the money. The company recently sold to a new buyer.
Firebrick43
Well-known member
I have looked at those and i am willing to spend some more than that which is why I was thinking the ss 30081 instead of the chromed brass A&F or eurotool i think they are called now.
Unless you think the 30081 are not worth it?
Beerhippie
Well-known member
I'm adding 01.218 Horotecs to my technobabble dictionary. "Cap'n, I'm getting a reading of 01.218 Horotecs in the atmosphere!"
CGarage
Well-known member
I have never broken any or worn any of them out in ~ 20+ years. The dozens of watch factories I have visited all have them and it is normal for watchmakers to ‘dress’ the tips as needed to keep them square, sharp and true.
My answer to you is buy them all.
I own 150-200 standard screwdrivers and dozens of miniature electronics and watchmakers/jewelers screwdrivers. I have more than I need and less than I want. It is a great feeling to be able to take things apart without damaging expensive fasteners. One single, replacement screw can easily cost more than the full set of precision screwdrivers from one of these manufacturers. Buy them all.
cherrybomb
Well-known member
Does anyone know if Asahi makes a 16-18 D.O.E In the Light Weight .I have the other sizes that I really like and I got those thru Palmac,Thanks
jobo1004
Well-known member
I assume you're referring to the LSX double open end spanners linked here.
LSX 両口スパナ | スパナ・めがねレンチ | 製品案内
www.asahi-tool.co.jp
If so, they don't appear to offer 16 nor 18 MM and I assume it's because that's not a JIS bolt head size.
Dave455
Well-known member
Reading the discussion on flexible / flush cut saws.
I bought this one a couple of years ago for one job, and I can’t believe how much I use it. Simple inexpensive tool. Blade (albeit a decent one) and a simple riveted wooden handle.
The flex is useful, but more often than not it’s the flush cut that’s nice. I hardly ever use dowels, so I’m mostly using it around the house.
Mine is a Gyokucho, and I was so impressed I subsequently bought the folder shown below. The Gyokucho do seem to be superior.
I am a great traditionalist, and I take some persuading that traditional British / American pattern woodworking tools can be bettered. For most tools they can’t.
But time moves on, and I don’t use hand saws like I once did. The folding Gyokucho is a great tool to keep in a tool box, and a perfect companion for a jigsaw or circular saw.
I bought this one a couple of years ago for one job, and I can’t believe how much I use it. Simple inexpensive tool. Blade (albeit a decent one) and a simple riveted wooden handle.
The flex is useful, but more often than not it’s the flush cut that’s nice. I hardly ever use dowels, so I’m mostly using it around the house.
Mine is a Gyokucho, and I was so impressed I subsequently bought the folder shown below. The Gyokucho do seem to be superior.
I am a great traditionalist, and I take some persuading that traditional British / American pattern woodworking tools can be bettered. For most tools they can’t.
But time moves on, and I don’t use hand saws like I once did. The folding Gyokucho is a great tool to keep in a tool box, and a perfect companion for a jigsaw or circular saw.
YesIHaveAHammer
Well-known member
- Joined
- Jun 1, 2025
- Messages
- 843
A folding pull saw that's a bit smaller and a bit cheaper than that Gyokucho while still being decent quality might be just the ticket.
Dave455
Well-known member
That‘s probably one of the Silky saws.
I keep the blue one in my “property maintenance” box.
But the Gyokucho is on a different level quality wise.
Gyokucho offer a similar folder as well.
Ohio Andy
Well-known member
Someone posted about that specific set and I've considered getting it cuz the price is so good and the quality is good. But with all the other sets I have I just couldn't convince myself I needed it
Yes, @Etchase found a good deal on the set. I ordered a set myself and I know others did as well. We'll see what it's all about!
CGarage
Well-known member
I ordered a set as well, thanks to this thread.
Not usually my first choice either - too heavy. But when I’m up to my elbows in some sort of automotive fluid or I need to bang on ‘em, they’re perfect. Shedding black flakes doesn’t sound right.
And they are purple. Just purple.
51dueller
Well-known member
I finally have something to post here. These style of wrenches haven't had much love in this tread. Been some mentions of the Deen version or SP Tools. Was originally looking at double box end double flex as I don't have much need for another set of open ends. The KTC either was missing sizes or doubled sizes. Tone was about the same but availability on Amazon Japon wasn't good. Came across these and was about a complete set as you'll get in Japan. Of course Amazon didn't want to ship the 13mm, 15mm and 19mm to Canada so I had to use Tenso Japan to get the complete set. 
Steel_Rain
Well-known member
- Joined
- Apr 23, 2024
- Messages
- 1,367
Thoughts and prayers to those of you in Japan today, 07/30/2025, with the current Tsunami warning. I’m watching this live on NHK World live on YouTube.
Tools are great, but your lives are more important.
Your safety matters.
Tools are great, but your lives are more important.
Your safety matters.
CGarage
Well-known member
Prayers and well wishes to Japan 
Andres26tnt
Well-known member
- Joined
- May 11, 2018
- Messages
- 994
I finally have something to post here. These style of wrenches haven't had much love in this tread. Been some mentions of the Deen version or SP Tools. Was originally looking at double box end double flex as I don't have much need for another set of open ends. The KTC either was missing sizes or doubled sizes. Tone was about the same but availability on Amazon Japon wasn't good. Came across these and was about a complete set as you'll get in Japan. Of course Amazon didn't want to ship the 13mm, 15mm and 19mm to Canada so I had to use Tenso Japan to get the complete set.
I'll say it again SK11 is an underated budget brand, I can't believe not many in the USA have rebranded the tools they rebrand. Same with Signet, they have some really good quality stuff.
So far nothing crazy here, no Tsunami here where I'm at.
Qualitytools
Well-known member
Prayers to our friends and families in Japan
four.cycle
Well-known member
Oh my... tsunami warnings for Alaksa, west coast... 
Fedwrench
ALLIANCE MEMBER
Nice wrenches!!!I finally have something to post here. These style of wrenches haven't had much love in this tread. Been some mentions of the Deen version or SP Tools. Was originally looking at double box end double flex as I don't have much need for another set of open ends. The KTC either was missing sizes or doubled sizes. Tone was about the same but availability on Amazon Japon wasn't good. Came across these and was about a complete set as you'll get in Japan. Of course Amazon didn't want to ship the 13mm, 15mm and 19mm to Canada so I had to use Tenso Japan to get the complete set.
I have a very similar if not the same set from SP Tools. Wish they included an 18mm. Kind of like the Goldilocks of double boxed end ratcheting wrenches, not too long, not too short, just right 
I don't think mine are actually made in Japan though. 
8PC METRIC REVERSIBLE LOCKING FLEX-HEAD GEAR DRIVE DOUBLE BOX WRENCH SET - SP10628
Set Includes: 8, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17 & 19mmChrome Vanadium Steel (Cr-V) for high strength & durabilityMeets & exceeds international ANSI & DIN standardLifetime warranty
www.sptoolsusa.com
51dueller
Well-known member
They are made by Infar in Taiwan. Sp Tools wants $273 usd for their set and the SK11 version was $170 cad for the wrenches. It did cost $52 cad to get them shipped from Japan and an additional $42 cad for duty/taxes. They did arrive in a week from when Amazon shipped, Tenso forwarded and to when Canada Post delivered.
An 18mm and 16mm would be nice. 9mm and 11mm aren't common enough to worry about.
An 18mm and 16mm would be nice. 9mm and 11mm aren't common enough to worry about.
CGarage
Well-known member
I finally have something to post here. These style of wrenches haven't had much love in this tread. Been some mentions of the Deen version or SP Tools. Was originally looking at double box end double flex as I don't have much need for another set of open ends. The KTC either was missing sizes or doubled sizes. Tone was about the same but availability on Amazon Japon wasn't good. Came across these and was about a complete set as you'll get in Japan. Of course Amazon didn't want to ship the 13mm, 15mm and 19mm to Canada so I had to use Tenso Japan to get the complete set.
Please post brand and model or part number.
51dueller
Well-known member
The brand is SK11 and part number is MFR-__WL. Replace the __ with the size of the wrench like 8, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17 or 19.
Amazon.co.jp: SK11 MFR-19WL Flex Glasses Ratchet Wrench 0.7 inch (19 mm) : DIY, Tools & Garden
Amazon.co.jp: SK11 MFR-19WL Flex Glasses Ratchet Wrench 0.7 inch (19 mm) : DIY, Tools & Garden
www.amazon.co.jp
NFT5
Well-known member
Japanese tools include more than just spanners and screwdrivers.
These arrived this week and almost complete the process of rebuilding my gun collection after selling a lot of them when I sold the shop a few years ago. I have Devilbiss and Iwata mainly, with a few others for more specialised tasks. Iwata are, without doubt, up there with Devilbiss and SATA for quality and the guns I already have have proven themselves beyond doubt, over the years. Like other hand tools where I only buy if it comes with a lifetime warranty, spray guns are not worth wasting money on the cheap ones. I need tools that are capable of working every day, reliably, and if they do need parts I can get those quickly and easily.
All Anest Iwata Kiwami4, which is the replacement for the venerable W400. In fact, the one on the right in that photo I bought a little while ago but wanted to be sure by using it for a while before ordering the others. Bought as basecoat guns, each is a little different and optimised for different types of base. The first one is a bit more general purpose but is awesome with metallics and lays clear almost as well as my Devilbiss ProLites with the T110 aircap. Very impressed, which I knew I would be, given that I've used the W400 before and these are the next generation, plus one.
The other two have different aircaps and fluid nozzle tips which, notably, have Iwata's notched tip. Makes for a more even spray pattern and they also have the "I" shaped pattern, which is better for getting more consistent overlaps, and therefore coverage. All are "RP" or "Compliant" guns, meaning that they have very high transfer efficiencies, much better than HVLP without the huge droplet size and massive air usage that comes with HVLP technology.
All are 1.3mm, given that I have other 1.4mm guns for the occasional use cases I have for that size and I also have 1.2mm guns in both full size and midi. A 1.3mm can be easily wound back to work just like a 1.2mm or opened right up like a 1.4mm.
They're not necessarily available worldwide yet, even though these ones are the second generation of the Kiwami range. Certainly not being sold here in Australia, although the related Wider range are now available, indicating the Kiwamis are coming. So, bought online from Japan. Have to say, the Japanese set the standard when it comes to customer service. Communication at every step along the way and the parcel arrived 3 working days after I ordered, looking like it had only travelled from next door. Pretty good for Japan to Australia.
There are a few places in Japan that sell Anest Iwata guns. They're not necessarily tool stores, some sell all kinds of stuff. But if you're patient and wait for the specials then the savings can make the wait worthwhile. These three guns cost just on $1500AUD (about $1000USD). That represents about 40% less than full retail price which is being asked everywhere else because they're not yet generally available.
These arrived this week and almost complete the process of rebuilding my gun collection after selling a lot of them when I sold the shop a few years ago. I have Devilbiss and Iwata mainly, with a few others for more specialised tasks. Iwata are, without doubt, up there with Devilbiss and SATA for quality and the guns I already have have proven themselves beyond doubt, over the years. Like other hand tools where I only buy if it comes with a lifetime warranty, spray guns are not worth wasting money on the cheap ones. I need tools that are capable of working every day, reliably, and if they do need parts I can get those quickly and easily.
All Anest Iwata Kiwami4, which is the replacement for the venerable W400. In fact, the one on the right in that photo I bought a little while ago but wanted to be sure by using it for a while before ordering the others. Bought as basecoat guns, each is a little different and optimised for different types of base. The first one is a bit more general purpose but is awesome with metallics and lays clear almost as well as my Devilbiss ProLites with the T110 aircap. Very impressed, which I knew I would be, given that I've used the W400 before and these are the next generation, plus one.
The other two have different aircaps and fluid nozzle tips which, notably, have Iwata's notched tip. Makes for a more even spray pattern and they also have the "I" shaped pattern, which is better for getting more consistent overlaps, and therefore coverage. All are "RP" or "Compliant" guns, meaning that they have very high transfer efficiencies, much better than HVLP without the huge droplet size and massive air usage that comes with HVLP technology.
All are 1.3mm, given that I have other 1.4mm guns for the occasional use cases I have for that size and I also have 1.2mm guns in both full size and midi. A 1.3mm can be easily wound back to work just like a 1.2mm or opened right up like a 1.4mm.
They're not necessarily available worldwide yet, even though these ones are the second generation of the Kiwami range. Certainly not being sold here in Australia, although the related Wider range are now available, indicating the Kiwamis are coming. So, bought online from Japan. Have to say, the Japanese set the standard when it comes to customer service. Communication at every step along the way and the parcel arrived 3 working days after I ordered, looking like it had only travelled from next door. Pretty good for Japan to Australia.
There are a few places in Japan that sell Anest Iwata guns. They're not necessarily tool stores, some sell all kinds of stuff. But if you're patient and wait for the specials then the savings can make the wait worthwhile. These three guns cost just on $1500AUD (about $1000USD). That represents about 40% less than full retail price which is being asked everywhere else because they're not yet generally available.
KnurledNut
Well-known member
Discussing these over in the Klein thread. Thought I’d mention here too:
NFT5
Well-known member
Pictures didn't work? I'll try again.
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Steel_Rain
Well-known member
- Joined
- Apr 23, 2024
- Messages
- 1,367
Discussing these over in the Klein thread. Thought I’d mention here too:
Made by Fujiya I would assume? I want these.
Looks more like the Marvel MVA-200N if you ask me.
Beerhippie
Well-known member
Was that the one where Spiderman fights Doc Oc for the first time?
anyone have a recommendation for some real nice files? Specifically for deburring aluminum.. I handle lots of billet aluminum and sometimes I need to manually break an edge. I got those hooked blade deburr handle tools too, but still use files for some stuff. Aluminum doesn’t really wear down a file much so I have some beaters I’ve been using for as long as I can remember. I wonder if there’s anything I’m missing out on in a premium file.
Dave455
Well-known member
They’re not Japanese, but F.**** make a dedicated aluminium file. They are a single cut design, and the teeth are relatively coarse, so they don’t clog.
I’ve used these and they are good.
Pretty sure Vallorbe offer something similar.
A number of Japanese firms (Tsubosan come to mind) offer small precision files with coarser teeth than their Swiss or German counterparts, but they will not be as good as the dedicated tool.
Aluminium is odd stuff to de burr. If you can get parts “flash” deburred (never seen it done on billet, but don’t see why not) that's the way to go.
If not, The easiest way seems to be to get a sharp blade and simply cut off the burr. I use a Swann Morton “Major” scalpel (a heavy duty scalpel) with a “V” blade, but anything similar would probably do.
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Nice, I want to look at these and see what options they have for aluminum files. How did you find this one on their website? I am struggling to find anything as far as aluminum files on the website.They’re not Japanese, but F.**** make a dedicated aluminium file. They are a single cut design, and the teeth are relatively coarse, so they don’t clog.
I’ve used these and they are good.
Pretty sure Vallorbe offer something similar.
A number of Japanese firms (Tsubosan come to mind) offer small precision files with coarser teeth than their Swiss or German counterparts, but they will not be as good as the dedicated tool.
Aluminium is odd stuff to de burr. If you can get parts “flash” deburred (never seen it done on billet, but don’t see why not) that's the way to go.
If not, The easiest way seems to be to get a sharp blade and simply cut off the burr. I use a Swann Morton “Major” scalpel (a heavy duty scalpel) with a “V” blade, but anything similar would probably do.
KnurledNut
Well-known member
Car body files work great on aluminum.
Dave455
Well-known member
I just searched on F.**** Aluminium file and found some straight away.
I found their website is a bit of a struggle too - they offer a lot of files and it’s hard to see what category the aluminium files fall into.
Ohio Andy
Well-known member
That's how I felt searching the Proto website on my phone for 6. Point combination wrenches. I know they can sell you a set but I didn't find a set on the Proto website.
Have you looked at Pferd files? They have flat and half-round files for aluminum.
special-file-file-for-aluminium-hand
special-file-file-for-aluminium-half-round