1/4" Hex Bit Mini Ratchet Options (Mac, Matco, etc.)

[centerknurk]

I find myself frequently encountering tight situations where I need to get a 1/4" hex bit in a small space but I can't get them there via a screwdriver-type driver. I need something more 90 degree-ish that can ratchet.

I found this Mac one that looks pretty cool. Double flex end, flat handle, very compact: https://www.mactools.com/products/s...3jdltDL_NR1XVHnlyalFJqiOVQcjY83rNbIUTXIdDQAxU

What's important to me if the clearance between where the bit sits and where the end of the ratchet head is (see picture). Looks like Matco makes a ratchet that's pretty small as well but it's a little bigger than the Mac one. Problem is, the Mac one is $85. Anyone know of an alternative? Anyone own the Mac one and can comment on it's quality?

 

[LeeG]

I picked up one of these a few weeks ago. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09T9J8N5Z?tag=atomicindus08-20
Very small. Seems well made, but I obviously don't have a lot of use on it. Made in Taiwan.

 

[Dave455]

The problem you encounter is all too common. Some years back Bit ratchets were in the “occasionally useful” category, but now they seem to be needed regularly.

You basically have two options. One is the bit ratchets that are essentially variations of 1/4” square drive ratchets. The second is to go for something designed as a bit ratchet. If you need minimal head size, then it is definitely the latter you need.

Almost all of these are made in Taiwan, generally by Hi-Five, so I would see no advantage in paying truck prices. Just pick the variety that you like.

I like the Facom R-PE, and use mine probably the most of any. I appreciate Facom can be difficult to obtain in the U.S. but is the same tool available as Craftsman V Series?


Also by Facom is the R-180, which offers a flex head. Be careful with flex heads on bit ratchets as you often need some downforce to make them work, but this is one of the better ones as it locks.


About the most compact I use regularly is the Wera Zyklop. Every time I use this, usually in a confined space, I marvel at the design. The head is relatively small, the handle just enough, but note how it is cut away just behind the head to enable maximum swing.

Like all these ratchets, the bit holder has a recess behind for finger pressure, and I find this invaluable too.


I have a fair few bit ratchets (more than this) so can offer a rundown of any if needed.

 

[four.cycle]

Thank you Dave.
I contacted Tekton but they have nothing.
I'm not seeing anything from "Titan" (Star Asia LLC) that's going to work either.
Doesn't Harbor freight sell a bit ratchet with a swivel head?
Check out GJ member @AndreaW's set up

 

[CoconutPete]

I have a fair few bit ratchets (more than this) so can offer a rundown of any if needed.

What's the one that's horizontal at the bottom called? My buddy gave me one years ago and it's one of my favorite ratchets, but the name has been worn off.

 

[JABgj]

This is from Klein. Pretty low profile and the ring end lets you use a fingertip to operate. Also has a spinner on the head.

 

[Dave455]

What's the one that's horizontal at the bottom called? My buddy gave me one years ago and it's one of my favorite ratchets, but the name has been worn off.

That’s a Facom R.PE360.

For those not familiar with the design, it’s incredibly clever.

You can use it like a regular ratchet, albeit a “flip over” style. This itself is quite clever for a bit ratchet, and there‘s a free floating spacer that provides a stop for the bit, but enables it to be easily removed.

Now the clever bit. Twist the handle (e.g. clockwise) and you can turn the bit clockwise, without moving the handle about any other axis.

Now the really clever bit, twist the handle anti clockwise, and it also turns the bit clockwise….! This results in a really fast action.

Some folks have said this is the same as the “sidewinder” of the 1990’s, but I’ve got one of those, and it’s not. This is a much more advanced mechanism.

There are relatively few job where this design is essential, but when you encounter one, these can save you a lot of work.

 

[Tarantula]

Doesn't Harbor freight sell a bit ratchet with a swivel head?

They do have two versions in the Icon line. Affectionately referred to as the meme tool by its fans. The classic model here is probably my favorite tool in their catalog just for having something I can throw in a pocket and go with.
Handy little thing for awkward angles or tight spaces. No unlocking the head for free swinging though.

 

[Steel_Rain]

The problem you encounter is all too common. Some years back Bit ratchets were in the “occasionally useful” category, but now they seem to be needed regularly.

You basically have two options. One is the bit ratchets that are essentially variations of 1/4” square drive ratchets. The second is to go for something designed as a bit ratchet. If you need minimal head size, then it is definitely the latter you need.

Almost all of these are made in Taiwan, generally by Hi-Five, so I would see no advantage in paying truck prices. Just pick the variety that you like.

I like the Facom R-PE, and use mine probably the most of any. I appreciate Facom can be difficult to obtain in the U.S. but is the same tool available as Craftsman V Series?


Also by Facom is the R-180, which offers a flex head. Be careful with flex heads on bit ratchets as you often need some downforce to make them work, but this is one of the better ones as it locks.


About the most compact I use regularly is the Wera Zyklop. Every time I use this, usually in a confined space, I marvel at the design. The head is relatively small, the handle just enough, but note how it is cut away just behind the head to enable maximum swing.

Like all these ratchets, the bit holder has a recess behind for finger pressure, and I find this invaluable too.


I have a fair few bit ratchets (more than this) so can offer a rundown of any if needed.

A true, first class reply from @Dave455

You are a GJ legend sir! +1

 

[Ohio Andy]

Many are discussed here:

Battle of the Bit Ratchets

I learned on here that Swiss Army Knife manufacturer “Victorinox” has an even smaller bit ratchet than Facom/USAG. So I had to buy one. I am impressed! Pics enclosed comparing it to the fixed and flex head Facom / USAG bit ratchet. The Facom / USAG version has saved me countless times due to...

www.garagejournal.com

Including extensive comparisons.

I really like the look of the MAC because of the double flex head, makes me think it might get into some really interesting places.

 

[Dave455]

A true, first class reply from @Dave455

You are a GJ legend sir! +1

I feel honoured!

I possibly got into bit ratchets at an early stage. I can recall when they were pretty much a dedicated aerospace tool, but that didn’t last.

Sometimes a bit ratchet is the only option, but I’m an exceptionally lazy individual, and often a bit ratchet saves me having to remove no end of stuff. Some BMW header tanks (the ones that split, which is actually most of them) come to mind.

But I’ve used mine even in domestic situations, working behind a hot water tank, and doing electrical work. I carry one in my road box now.

 

[Dave455]

One thing I would like is one with slightly longer reach.

This Gearwrench might be a good option, but I have heard mixed things.


I would have total confidence in this Tone, although it is slightly shorter.


With regard to best value, I can’t really comment on the U.S. but in the U.K. and Europe these Toptul can be had for the equivalent of 40 USD.

 

[mikey03]

A true, first class reply from @Dave455

You are a GJ legend sir! +1

Dave is the best honestly.

 

[Ohio Andy]

One thing I would like is one with slightly longer reach.

This Gearwrench might be a good option, but I have heard mixed things.


I would have total confidence in this Tone, although it is slightly shorter.


With regard to best value, I can’t really comment on the U.S. but in the U.K. and Europe these Toptul can be had for the equivalent of 40 USD.

The 45 piece set had been ok for me, but I don't use it often because of where I store it.... So I only use it when I really need it. About $50 today

Amazon.com

Ratchet alone is $32

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078Z3FNX7?tag=atomicindus08-20

Tone set is also about $50 with only one ratchet

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083WCCGXN?tag=atomicindus08-20

The toptul set is $90, is it really worth that much more? Never tried they're stuff.

Amazon.com: TopTul 45PCS Professional Grade 1/4" DR Mini Ratchet Socket & Bit Set : Tools & Home Improvement

Amazon.com: TopTul 45PCS Professional Grade 1/4" DR Mini Ratchet Socket & Bit Set : Tools & Home Improvement

www.amazon.com

Even vim has something similar... I like all the other things I have from them, but I have never tried that variety (about $40, but only three pieces)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09GL29FCJ?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[Dave455]

Dave is the best honestly.

You folks are too kind!

The 45 piece set had been ok for me, but I don't use it often because of where I store it.... So I only use it when I really need it. About $50 today

Ratchet alone is $32

About the same price for me. I might be tempted…!

Tone set is also about $50 with only one ratchet

That’s still a good price I think. The Tone obviously uses the same “reverse gear” ratcheting mechanism that most of the Taiwan made tools do, and it’s decent. Like the metal box too.

The toptul set is $90, is it really worth that much more? Never tried they're stuff.

Sadly, I don’t think it’s worth anything more. The attraction where I am is the price!

 

[four.cycle]

I feel honoured!

You are one of a very few here who have something more along the lines of a "comprehensive view" of what's available on the market, and how various brands perform, with what appears to be a fairly minute degree of "confirmation bias".

The "bit ratchet" thing has been going on for several years now.
Different manufacturers are taking stabs at it.
I do not think that all of the manufacturers actually have a grasp of the reality facing a modern-day "automotive repair technician" when he opens the hood of a late-model car to replace some widget.

The tiny Utoku would be a solution, if they hadn't maddeningly put a 1/4" square drive anvil on the other side of the head. I wonder if it could simply be sawn off?

 

[Steel_Rain]

I have quite the variety at home, but I do tend to favor the Wurth and Wiha most often:

I picked up one of these a few weeks ago. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09T9J8N5Z?tag=atomicindus08-20
Very small. Seems well made, but I obviously don't have a lot of use on it. Made in Taiwan.

Excellent choice @LeeG , I also picked this up recently:



Like @Dave455 already implied, the use case really decides what's best for your needs. For me, being a GJ member, I just want them all .

 

[CoconutPete]

That’s a Facom R.PE360.

For those not familiar with the design, it’s incredibly clever.

You can use it like a regular ratchet, albeit a “flip over” style. This itself is quite clever for a bit ratchet, and there‘s a free floating spacer that provides a stop for the bit, but enables it to be easily removed.

Now the clever bit. Twist the handle (e.g. clockwise) and you can turn the bit clockwise, without moving the handle about any other axis.

Now the really clever bit, twist the handle anti clockwise, and it also turns the bit clockwise….! This results in a really fast action.

Some folks have said this is the same as the “sidewinder” of the 1990’s, but I’ve got one of those, and it’s not. This is a much more advanced mechanism.

There are relatively few job where this design is essential, but when you encounter one, these can save you a lot of work.

Thank you!!!! I love that little thing.

 

[LXCam]

I can’t add to the wealth of info already provided. I’ve got a really good assortment of the small stuff as well. But what I did want to point out is the gearwrench extra long ratchet that I more or less bought as a joke has become a major go to unit. I can’t tell you how many times that extra length has made accessing a small area so much easier to manage. Not having your hands or fingers in the same 4” space can be a godsend.

 

[u2slow]

I have the Canadian Tire version, and ordered a couple other cheapos from amazon, for work.

I dont use them often or for high torque.

 

[orangeblood]

Take a look at the boxed set from Felo. there are few variations (different bit assortments) of this set but i like this one because of the variety of bits.

Felo Bit Ratchet

Mini ratchet 1/4" Hex
Adapter 1/4" hex to square drive (30mm)
Bit Holder 58mm
Slotted: 1/8", 3/16", 1/4"
Hex (Metric): 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 4.0, 5.0, 6.0, 8.0mm
Phillips: #0, #1, #2 (x2), #3
Pozidriv: #1, #2 (x2), #3
Torx: T6, T7, T8, T9
Security (Tamper Resistant) Torx: T10s, T15s, T20s, T25s, T27s, T30s, T40s

 

[Dave455]

You are one of a very few here who have something more along the lines of a "comprehensive view" of what's available on the market, and how various brands perform, with what appears to be a fairly minute degree of "confirmation bias".

You are all too kind!

I’m probably in a slightly fortunate position, being located in the U.K. where Domestic tools, U.S, European, and Far eastern are all equally available.

The "bit ratchet" thing has been going on for several years now.
Different manufacturers are taking stabs at it.
I do not think that all of the manufacturers actually have a grasp of the reality facing a modern-day "automotive repair technician" when he opens the hood of a late-model car to replace some widget.

I would agree 100%. Sadly, every generation of vehicle seems to be worse in this regard, with screws put in from the side of a component, and then another part located to obscure the screws!

There is really no one bit ratchet that solves all the problems, hence so many of us have several, although a “conventional” tool, based on a 1/4” drive ratchet is a good start.

Next need seems to be a small head, and the tools based on, or incorporating, the Hi Five / Reverse Gear mechanism seem to be good here. Most incorporate a dished area to hold the tool in the screw, and I find this really useful!

I see Wera have just introduced these short bit ratchets with a hex. I wonder if these will be useful, perhaps combined with Wera’s bit holders, which they offer in many different lengths. Or would I just end up using it as an ultra short bit ratchet?

 

[zimman]

So here's a question for y'all. What are you working on that has hex head fasteners in tight places?
Zim

 

[wafrederick]

There is also VIM

 

[Madjik Man]

I have the VIM RFB400K. I don’t get a lot of use out of bit ratchets but this one came in handy last month when replacing the rear quarter panel glass in my friend’s truck.

Maybe I’ll try a locking flex head one. As someone mentioned above, too much downforce changes the head position on this VIM one.

 

[Dave455]

So here's a question for y'all. What are you working on that has hex head fasteners in tight places?
Zim

I think the majority are not hex head. I wish they were, it’s just about the easiest type to work on with a bit ratchet.

Torx are probably the most common, with Phillips and Pozidriv (for me) not far behind.

But, sometimes, when you have a bit ratchet it’s just the easiest tool to use. I do a bit of work with machine tools and often a bit ratchet is faster a hex key, and machines mostly use hex recess cap screws

 

[whateg01]

I find myself frequently encountering tight situations where I need to get a 1/4" hex bit in a small space but I can't get them there via a screwdriver-type driver. I need something more 90 degree-ish that can ratchet.

I found this Mac one that looks pretty cool. Double flex end, flat handle, very compact: https://www.mactools.com/products/s...3jdltDL_NR1XVHnlyalFJqiOVQcjY83rNbIUTXIdDQAxU

What's important to me if the clearance between where the bit sits and where the end of the ratchet head is (see picture). Looks like Matco makes a ratchet that's pretty small as well but it's a little bigger than the Mac one. Problem is, the Mac one is $85. Anyone know of an alternative? Anyone own the Mac one and can comment on it's quality?

I can't imagine trying to keep a Phillips bit from camming out with that flex head

 

[four.cycle]

You are all too kind!

Well... most everybody I know here at home thinks I'm a raving *******, but I try to be brutally honest.

 

[four.cycle]

I looked at every offering at O'Reillys, Harbor Freight, and Tacoma Screw yesterday.
I am beginning to think that the "Holy Grail" bit ratchet we're searching for isn't being produced by anyone.
That MAC unit mentioned in the first post is close, but is it reversible?
And it doesn't have the super-short handle that seems to be required in some instances.
And it's an $82 price point.
I put one of these little things in my "cart" a moment ago. $21
Doesn't USAG make something? Yes, they do... @AndreaW put one into her kit, but it doesn't have a "shorty" handle.

What's needed is something along the lines of that tiny "Utoku" model I posted above, but withOUT the 1/4" square drive anvil on the opposite side of the head. I believe that would address the issue so many seem to be having - getting into a hole with limited headroom and no space to work within that allows the use of a "normal" length handle.

As well: most of these bits are kind of a "standard" length. But if you buy the tiny little "Titan" 11318 (below) you get tiny "shorty" bits.
Unfortunately, as you can see in the photo, the height of the drive head is not going to allow the clearance that seems to be needed in some cases.

Tekton needs to address this.

 

[whateg01]

I looked at every offering at O'Reillys, Harbor Freight, and Tacoma Screw yesterday.
I am beginning to think that the "Holy Grail" bit ratchet we're searching for isn't being produced by anyone.
That MAC unit mentioned in the first post is close, but is it reversible?
And it doesn't have the super-short handle that seems to be required in some instances.
And it's an $82 price point.
I put one of these little things in my "cart" a moment ago. $21
Doesn't USAG make something? Yes, they do... @AndreaW put one into her kit, but it doesn't have a "shorty" handle.

What's needed is something along the lines of that tiny "Utoku" model I posted above, but withOUT the 1/4" square drive anvil on the opposite side of the head. I believe that would address the issue so many seem to be having - getting into a hole with limited headroom and no space to work within that allows the use of a "normal" length handle.

As well: most of these bits are kind of a "standard" length. But if you buy the tiny little "Titan" 11318 (below) you get tiny "shorty" bits.
Unfortunately, as you can see in the photo, the height of the drive head is not going to allow the clearance that seems to be needed in some cases.

Tekton needs to address this.

I hate that so many stick the 1/4 hex socket part out from the head like that. Lots would work better if it was recessed into the body.

 

[four.cycle]

^ Yes, but the gimbal-mounted head is the advantage on that unit.
It's under $20 bucks.
Most of these I've purchased are so cheap, I buy two - one for me, one for my buddy. So we both have ... oh hell... 6 or 8 or 10 ratchets in our kits now....

 

[zimman]

I think the majority are not hex head. I wish they were, it’s just about the easiest type to work on with a bit ratchet.

Torx are probably the most common, with Phillips and Pozidriv (for me) not far behind.

But, sometimes, when you have a bit ratchet it’s just the easiest tool to use. I do a bit of work with machine tools and often a bit ratchet is faster a hex key, and machines mostly use hex recess cap screws

Cool. The OP mentioned tight places. I kept thinking computer or electronic spaces??? Just wondering. I've got several of those little ratchets and many bits but most are accessible with normal reach tools.
Zim

 

[KnurledNut]

I find myself frequently encountering tight situations where I need to get a 1/4" hex bit in a small space but I can't get them there via a screwdriver-type driver. I need something more 90 degree-ish that can ratchet.

I found this Mac one that looks pretty cool. Double flex end, flat handle, very compact: https://www.mactools.com/products/s...3jdltDL_NR1XVHnlyalFJqiOVQcjY83rNbIUTXIdDQAxU

What's important to me if the clearance between where the bit sits and where the end of the ratchet head is (see picture). Looks like Matco makes a ratchet that's pretty small as well but it's a little bigger than the Mac one. Problem is, the Mac one is $85. Anyone know of an alternative? Anyone own the Mac one and can comment on it's quality?

The Mac is made by Kabo, a well-known and highly-reputed Taiwanese manufacturer.


Like everything, the Mac version used to be cheaper:


While it's possible, I am not aware of any other brands that offer this particular bit ratchet.

There are loads of options and configurations out there, and as this thread has already shown many collect them but few heavily use them. Nothing wrong with either and valuable info can be gained from both, but the needs of collectors vs. users will certainly vary. Some of the bit ratchets I use are not glamorous and may not receive the accolades of the premium ones, but they work well and do the job.

I see you are a new member so welcome to the most expensive free forum.
Perhaps think about replying to the threads you create. It helps keep it alive and keeps appreciated contributions coming and interest flowing instead of that ghosted feeling.

 

[T45]

There is also VIM

The clearances on the heads are pretty reasonable/small.

The have 1/4 + 5/16ths w/ square drive adapter also very useful. or 1/4 with zero and 15˚ offset on each end, take your pick. $15-20 on amazon.

This bluepoint pretty much a clone, but like extra inch longer. Also nearly $90 or something crazy.

 

[four.cycle]

many collect them but few heavily use them.

Because the instances where we need to use the goofy things are not an every day occurrence.
Most of the time, the "regular" tools accomplish the task without difficulty.
But there always seems to be one screw somewhere that you just cannot get to without going around a corner, or down into a hole, or you're working with very limited clearance.
And in the process of acquiring different models, hoping that one of them is going to offer a solution, it does indeed become quite a "collection".

I'm not seeing that unit on Kabo's site:
Kabo / Kabo Tool Co., No.367, Pei Yang Road, Feng Yuan Dist., Taichung City 42084, Taiwan / http://www.kabotools.com.tw/ /

 

[wafrederick]

The clearances on the heads are pretty reasonable/small.

The have 1/4 + 5/16ths w/ square drive adapter also very useful. or 1/4 with zero and 15˚ offset on each end, take your pick. $15-20 on amazon.

This bluepoint pretty much a clone, but like extra inch longer. Also nearly $90 or something crazy.

I like VIM's warranty, they warranty their tools even your fault, I have the VHC77 set and FRBS89 set which have been great coming in handy

 

[Steve_P]

I have 2 or 3 by Vim, an Ez Red, and an Anex. They are all nice but anything like these aren't going to withstand a lot of torque on a frozen torx screw as they have fine teeth for a compact size. Tekton also makes one but not a flex head last I looked.