Tools of Japan

[scarittagle]

After request of our fellow GJ Negen l am posting a possibly rare version of Panasonic made in Japan!



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They are expensive af as well.

 

[jmhinkle]

I still 8 with boxes and a couple without. Only 2 of them are the newer 3 speed repros. All others are my originals from about 10 years old and on. 2 of my Lunchbox's and my Clod are easily 30+ years old now. They were my first models and the others came after that so they are borderline on being 30.



Newer 3 speed Tundra


And for actual Japanese tools, picked up these scissors and found these paint stirs in a box.


Tamiya Tools are over priced, you can find better ones & also made in Japan.

Who pays retail?

 

[scarittagle]

Re: Just for your amusement

Received a box from Amazon Japan today. As you can see, the contents were undamaged...

]

somewhat a huge box for small items...

 

[superautobacs]

Van Steele,

Nice haul. Would like to see/hear more about the stripping/crimping pliers.

The Gisuke coin driver looks very similar to my TOP one (except mine is blunt-tipped).

<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/27039512812/in/photolist-VTFyS5-VTFyLy-Q9LjbT-Q9LjpZ-L8tHHg-KbNJCU-L8tM9V-L5Ec5E-GG6w4o-2i47WXP-2i47WXZ-2i4amKH-pxsp6C-pxmXJe-pxqhtF-pxqigc-VG8LUB-VG8LUM-VG8LZB-GVwjZA-VuE8br-Hcoz7L-VG8LXx-VrwQL5-VG8LSn-6b51nZ-6gCrWo-5SSpTS-5SN692-5SSpG5-5SSoJf-5SN4Zr-5SSo2W-5SN5sM-5SSpd7-5SN4hi-5SSnEL-5SN3UX-5SSmHd-5SN2ZB-5SN3nn-5SSntS-5SN3bB-5SN28H-5SRei7-5SN2zK-5SSmgS-5SQZGd" title="DSC_7856"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/7754/27039512812_0d66bca9e7_c.jpg" width="800" height="532" alt="DSC_7856"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Some guys at work have small magnets permanently attached to their power bits. I've tried it but find magnetizing the bits works just as well. They do become demagnetized every now and again but not enough to be a problem. Does keeping the Anex magnets on bits have any benefit over using a magnetizer?

Mr.lemons,

I started off with using a magnetizer and found that very handy, then I saw Anex come out with the "Magcatch" and thought I'd give it a try. I still have my PB Swiss magnetizer to magnetize certain bit sockets or bits that the "Magcatch" wouldn't slide over or is too large to fit.


I don't know if I ever shared this here, but this video shows the "Magcatch" in action (video starts at 9:25)

Benefit would be that it does take hold of the fastener a bit better, but that does depend on how close the Magcatch is positioned along the shank. The closer it is to the business end, the better it holds (obviously).

If you're working with fasteners that are in deeply recessed locations, then the Magcatch can get in the way. In those situations one needs a magnetizer.

So, I find both the standard magnetizer and magnetic insert types essential.

 

[mr.lemons]

You have me curious enough so ordered a couple. They are coming from South Korea with an estimated delivery date some time in Feb. Probably be one those orders I forget about and then get a nice surprise when they get here.

 

[darkzero]

The Gisuke coin driver looks very similar to my TOP one (except mine is blunt-tipped).

The TOP coin driver is TRD-45 & has a green handle, yellow is the faucet driver. I was going to buy both the TOP coin & faucet drivers before I ended up getting the Anex ones.

 

[FSUwelder1212]

JiminAZ and Jimmyin3D thanks for the suggestions!

JiminAZ I have been eyeballing those Koken flex spinners 2769H/3769H but man the price is salty for those. I found them cheaper on Rakuten, but have never ordered from them and it seems like the cost of shipping is unknown.

Jimmyin3D I’ll def. have to pick up some of those Anex clip tools, I especially like the stubbys. I see they offer them in both 6mm and 10mm openings, does it make sense to buy both sizes? Also could you elaborate on what the “ KTC Universal Hose Grip tools “ are?

 

[jimmyin3D]

JiminAZ and Jimmyin3D thanks for the suggestions!

JiminAZ I have been eyeballing those Koken flex spinners 2769H/3769H but man the price is salty for those. I found them cheaper on Rakuten, but have never ordered from them and it seems like the cost of shipping is unknown.

Jimmyin3D I’ll def. have to pick up some of those Anex clip tools, I especially like the stubbys. I see they offer them in both 6mm and 10mm openings, does it make sense to buy both sizes? Also could you elaborate on what the “ KTC Universal Hose Grip tools “ are?

They’re cheap enough on AmazonJp to just get both I have both 6/10 in the stubby sizes. KTC AE931 and AE932 Hose clamp pliers, super useful and strong Can take any hose clamps off. Also my favorite is the KTC Ae921 is a 3/8 drive version that fits in confined spaces. I hate hose clamps but these tools make it so much easier.

 

[FSUwelder1212]

I’m wondering if you guys can help me out. I really want vessel ball drivers in T10 and T15 torx. Unfortunately, they don’t offer them in torx. So I was thinking of buying their ball driver for interchangeable bits/shanks like the 220W. My issue is I don’t know what shanks to buy to best fit this driver since there is the Asian and International retention styles. Can someone recommend T10 and T15 1/4” shanks in 100-150mm length that would fit the vessel 220W driver? Thanks!

 

[measuredtwice]

I’m wondering if you guys can help me out. I really want vessel ball drivers in T10 and T15 torx. Unfortunately, they don’t offer them in torx. So I was thinking of buying their ball driver for interchangeable bits/shanks like the 220W. My issue is I don’t know what shanks to buy to best fit this driver since there is the Asian and International retention styles. Can someone recommend T10 and T15 1/4” shanks in 100-150mm length that would fit the vessel 220W driver? Thanks!

Japanese or International bits will both work with the 220w. Some of the bits that bundle with the 220 don't even have a notch.

If you want Vessel bits you might take a look at the catalog. I posted a link to the catalog on a page or so back. Start on page 62 for Torx with the Japanese format and a length of 110.

Here's one example of a set available on Amazon.co.jp I think these are 100 long.
https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B07JJZ8M4D/

Lots of other options from Vessel as well as other brands. But that should give you a start.

 

[FSUwelder1212]

Those are perfect! Exactly what I was looking for. Thank you! Is there a superior bit manufacturer or are Anex and Vessel considered top of the heap?

 

[measuredtwice]

Those are perfect! Exactly what I was looking for. Thank you! Is there a superior bit manufacturer or are Anex and Vessel considered top of the heap?

Vessel offers a wide range of products of varying quality and cost (like most manufacturers). I consider some of their stuff as industrial and some of it as home owner stuff. Not all of their stuff is made in Japan. Some is made in China and Taiwan. If it's made in Japan, it's usually clearly marked. Amazon Japan sometimes shows both sides of the packaging and you can check the country of origin.

I've seen the Anex stuff online but never had it in hand so I can't really comment on it.

The best bits could be a huge topic for debate. Vessel is popular for the JIS standard Phillips. If I were to drop a lot of money on bits, I'd probably buy PB Swiss. The industrial Vessel bits are good but I would recommend doing a price comparison with other good brands like Zephyr USA, Apex USA, Montana Brand USA, etc. To really get at the best, you need to look at each specific type individually. For example, the WERA holding function and wedge torx bits are nicer than their regular torx bits. And Wiha also has a similar line of premium torx bits that are better than their others.

 

[Bigblue&Goldie]

MrSubaru1387 just released a great video on YouTube showing a bunch of Koken tools. Really impressive stuff.

 

[Reed Prince]

^

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[Van Steele]

Van Steele,

Nice haul. Would like to see/hear more about the stripping/crimping pliers.

The Gisuke coin driver looks very similar to my TOP one (except mine is blunt-tipped).

The wire strippers are excellent.
Although I've only done 14, 18 and 22 AWG stranded wire so far they strip much better than the Jokari I used before - that one always had trouble with cutting silicone insulation and would occasionally take a out a few strands.
Apparently for solid wire you have to use the next size up according to the instructions.

The crimper has taken a little to get used to coming from a ratchet crimper but a after a dozen or so takes I think I've got the knack now.

Although similar I think the Gisuke coin driver looks to be having a few differences. If I'm seeing right the TOP one has "MADE IN JAPAN" moulded into the handle versus "JAPAN" on the Gisuke one. Also the spacing between the ridges on the upper half of the TOP one looks different.

 

[Steve_P]

They’re cheap enough on AmazonJp to just get both I have both 6/10 in the stubby sizes. KTC AE931 and AE932 Hose clamp pliers, super useful and strong Can take any hose clamps off. Also my favorite is the KTC Ae921 is a 3/8 drive version that fits in confined spaces. I hate hose clamps but these tools make it so much easier.

I have the 921- I like it but wish it was 1/4 drive. Who needs 3/8 drive for hose clamps? I always just reduce it down. Lisle also makes a similar tool in 1/4 drive

 

[FSUwelder1212]

Well, I wish I could be showing off my Amazon Japan haul. Unfortunately, my first attempt at ordering from them has not gone smoothly. After my order sat “processing” for 3 days I got a text from my bank flagging it as a fraudulent charge, I approved the charge but 2 days later my order is still “processing”. I attempted to cancel the order so I could re order, but it tells me the order can’t be cancelled because it has been processed. Not sure what to do but wait at this point, but I could really use those JIS drivers I ordered on a project I have coming up.

 

[jimmyin3D]

Well, I wish I could be showing off my Amazon Japan haul. Unfortunately, my first attempt at ordering from them has not gone smoothly. After my order sat “processing” for 3 days I got a text from my bank flagging it as a fraudulent charge, I approved the charge but 2 days later my order is still “processing”. I attempted to cancel the order so I could re order, but it tells me the order can’t be cancelled because it has been processed. Not sure what to do but wait at this point, but I could really use those JIS drivers I ordered on a project I have coming up.

Oh yeah that happened to me my first time ordering off amazon.JP and DE it should go smoothly if the arrive by date is only a few days.

 

[M6erfan]

^

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Nice. Wamsutta's gonna explode when he sees the S-o/Ko-ken socket to ratchet slop comparison...

 

[jimmyin3D]

I have the 921- I like it but wish it was 1/4 drive. Who needs 3/8 drive for hose clamps? I always just reduce it down. Lisle also makes a similar tool in 1/4 drive

Yeah I have the lisle 1/4 drive one but it’s more finnicky the KTC has that worm screw that’s a bit stronger. I use the KTC ae921 in combination with the Koken 3/8 flex spinner 3762. I’ve gotten ridden of my MAYHEW hose clamp pliers due to this combination.

 

[FSUwelder1212]

Yeah I have the lisle 1/4 drive one but it’s more finnicky the KTC has that worm screw that’s a bit stronger. I use the KTC ae921 in combination with the Koken 3/8 flex spinner 3762. I’ve gotten ridden of my MAYHEW hose clamp pliers due to this combination.

I’ve been debating between the Lisle or KTC, can you tell me if one opens wider than the other? Although, I think lisle offers two sizes.

 

[DEEBO]

Well, I wish I could be showing off my Amazon Japan haul. Unfortunately, my first attempt at ordering from them has not gone smoothly. After my order sat “processing” for 3 days I got a text from my bank flagging it as a fraudulent charge, I approved the charge but 2 days later my order is still “processing”. I attempted to cancel the order so I could re order, but it tells me the order can’t be cancelled because it has been processed. Not sure what to do but wait at this point, but I could really use those JIS drivers I ordered on a project I have coming up.

Strangely one of my credit cards won’t approve any Amazon Jp purchase. When I queried it they said it has a high fraud level so they don’t touch it. I’ve had no problem using a diff card so it may be your credit card provider that’s the problem not the site.


Sent from my iPhone using Garage Journal

 

[1foxracing]

Not sure what to do but wait at this point, but I could really use those JIS drivers I ordered on a project I have coming up.

Just order them here, in stock in the USA.
https://www.vesseltools.com/handtools/screwdrivers

 

[16again]

Well, I wish I could be showing off my Amazon Japan haul. Unfortunately, my first attempt at ordering from them has not gone smoothly. After my order sat “processing” for 3 days I got a text from my bank flagging it as a fraudulent charge, I approved the charge but 2 days later my order is still “processing”. I attempted to cancel the order so I could re order, but it tells me the order can’t be cancelled because it has been processed. Not sure what to do but wait at this point, but I could really use those JIS drivers I ordered on a project I have coming up.

Happened to me as well when I placed my first order. No problem, it will arrive just fine in a few days.


Sent from my iPhone using Garage Journal

 

[Reed Prince]

Was looking at a tool on Amazon Japan and this was a "sponsored product related to this item", lol.

 

[RV8guy]

Was looking at a tool on Amazon Japan and this was a "sponsored product related to this item", lol.

WANT

 

[Steve_P]

I’ve been debating between the Lisle or KTC, can you tell me if one opens wider than the other? Although, I think lisle offers two sizes.

I have the small Lisle. The KTC opens a few mm wider than it. The Lisle uses a typical screw thread, works fine for me; the KTC is an acme style very coarse pitch thread. Also works fine. If I could only have one I guess I would go KTC . But they are both great. I also have the Mayhew cable pliers and a few other choices. Because I'm a true GJ idiot

 

[djfergus]

Koken Z-Series is not designed to be compatible with any internal standard and that's the reason why they don't hold socket of other brands firmly. For compatibility, you should use its normal series.

 

[FSUwelder1212]

Well, my amazon Japan order showed up last night. It may have taken forever to process but Damn DHL is quick, shipping was only 2 days from Japan! I ordered some vessel 930 series drivers and some of their ball drivers, as well as Kokens clip retention spark plug sockets. I haven’t used any of it yet but those 930 drivers are hefty! I wasn’t expecting that, but they feel nice with well machined tips, I should be trying them out shortly. The koken sockets are very nice, I would say at least on par with my snap on. I love their satin finish. I can definitely see myself becoming addicted to Koken. The only let down was, I saw my ball drivers were made in Thailand, but they are still very nice and I can’t wait to try them out.

 

[M6erfan]

The koken sockets are very nice, I would say at least on par with my snap on. I love their satin finish. I can definitely see myself becoming addicted to Koken.

Oh yeah

 

[Mr. Tool]

.........."....as well as Kokens clip retention spark plug sockets"

Believe me once you use them they'll be your go to spark plug sockets from then on.



.........."....I can definitely see myself becoming addicted to Koken"

It'll happen.

 

[superautobacs]

A setup I used recently.

<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/49363259087/in/dateposted-public/" title="Koken 1/4 Hex Locking Bit Holder with Anex Bit and 'MagCatch' Magnetic Holder"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49363259087_9c241367b0_c.jpg" width="800" height="450" alt="Koken 1/4 Hex Locking Bit Holder with Anex Bit and 'MagCatch' Magnetic Holder"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>



I ran into a job where I needed to get to a Torx fastener (T-50) so that I could remove the passenger seatbelt retractor. To do so, you needed to remove the side panel, the rear bench seat, and some trim panels. The job would be simple if it wasn't for the two child seats that were securely strapped and buckled in place on the rear seats.

I don't want to mess with child seats and won't touch them if I can avoid it.
So, to bypass removing the rear bench seat, I wanted to use my 1/4 drive VIM half-cut T-50 bit socket with a ratchet.

But.....

<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/49362585608/in/dateposted-public/" title="VIM Half-Cut Torx Socket with Ratchet = No Access"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49362585608_53ded9bf34_c.jpg" width="499" height="800" alt="VIM Half-Cut Torx Socket with Ratchet = No Access"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>



Then I remembered I had the 12mm-hex format bits from Ko-ken in a T-50 size (the two pictured on the left):


<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/37644170825/in/photolist-Zmudu2-21BYzjA-21BYzkY-21BYzef-YaH4zq-YaH4Hm-UN4dFz-UWcuYL-UN4dJv-T4cVnC-U6C9ab-SdExkw-SVbdmA-Tgne5u-Tgne3A-Q9LjbT-Q9LjpZ-Pmsn4w-Pmsn27-Pmsn3E-PpE3mP-NMCY19-NUHTAu-NXXnCg-NQbfSF-Q9MLFV-Fg27YN-TgnedW-Rorh3x-Q9LjmT-Q9LjAv-PpE3hF-PpE3r8-NvnHVu-MeDewx-L8teLK-KYertm-KYeroS-KYeryG-KYerkf-KYerDG-KYeruU-KYerBs-VmwRxZ-ULihfm-VmwRYD-L8tM9V-KbNJCU-L5Ec5E-Q72atS" title="Ko-ken Stubby Torx, 5.16 Torx bits"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/4568/37644170825_77e052c773_c.jpg" width="800" height="451" alt="Ko-ken Stubby Torx, 5.16 Torx bits"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>




I combined it with a 12mm ratcheting wrench and...

YES!!!

<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/49363259282/in/dateposted-public/" title="Ko-ken Bit and Ratcheting Wrench Works"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49363259282_6bf4e12981_c.jpg" width="509" height="800" alt="Ko-ken Bit and Ratcheting Wrench Works"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>


Got the job done without having to mess around with child seats and saved me time. Win!


This made the difference.

<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/49363047741/in/dateposted-public/" title="Height Comparison"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49363047741_ec43bcbf1f_c.jpg" width="800" height="660" alt="Height Comparison"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>



Some other height comparisons:


<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/30684888077/in/photolist-NKw5br-NKw58k-24XywfF-26SAvxY-DY8iHg-Uy3A93-Vip6Uq-UN4dAp-UN4dzc-TqSqQC-228aDBG-FiDFZj-225bFQF-ZmudgB-21BYz71-Zmudu2-21BYzjA-21BYzkY-21BYzef-YaH4zq-YaH4Hm-UN4dFz-UWcuYL-UN4dJv-T4cVnC-U6C9ab-SdExkw-SVbdmA-Tgne5u-Tgne3A-Q9LjbT-Q9LjpZ-Pmsn4w-Pmsn27-Pmsn3E-PpE3mP-NMCY19-NUHTAu-NXXnCg-NQbfSF-Q9MLFV-Fg27YN-TgnedW-Rorh3x-Q9LjmT-Q9LjAv-PpE3hF-PpE3r8-NvnHVu-MeDewx" title="PB Swiss Torx key, VIM shallow T50 with 1/4" drive ratchet, Ko-ken 179B.12H-T50 with Nepros 12mm wrench"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/1957/30684888077_8c90f37ac1_c.jpg" width="800" height="600" alt="PB Swiss Torx key, VIM shallow T50 with 1/4" drive ratchet, Ko-ken 179B.12H-T50 with Nepros 12mm wrench"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[RKA]

These shallow bits are so handy! I could have used a shallow bit like that today. My Koken M12 triple square and ratchet wouldn’t fit between the fan housing and idler pulley bolt I needed to remove. And the bit is round until it goes into the socket, so no flats to grab with a wrench. I thought no problem, I’ll get a VIM half cut bit and a long ratcheting bit wrench. Joke was on me, the triple squares in that set stop at 10mm! Just my luck. Then I thought about the Astro hex socket bits with a hex on the back side to allow you to put an open end wrench on it. But no triple squares, only hex in that set. . My only option was to knock the bit out of my socket and use a wrench it, but it wasn’t worth mutilating my socket. So I guess the bumper will have to come off for this one. Audi 1, me 0. Fortunately that pulley was still good for now, the other one bit the dust (this one won’t be far behind), so I can deal with it when the timing belt gets done.

 

[ChrisLS8]

Nice. Wamsutta's gonna explode when he sees the S-o/Ko-ken socket to ratchet slop comparison...

There is no possible way that they can get the detents right

 

[Qualitytools]

Was looking at a tool on Amazon Japan and this was a "sponsored product related to this item", lol.

I like it! I looked it up and they come in different colors also

 

[superautobacs]

RKA,

Ko-ken has you covered. Part # 179B.12H.M12
You can add that M12 into your toolbox, ready for the next time you need to work on that idler pulley.

 

[FSUwelder1212]

Has anyone tried the vessel gel grip screwdrivers? I’m wondering what your thoughts are. I’m gonna need another set of JIS drivers for work and would like to try some more of vessels range.

 

[BMack37]

Has anyone tried the vessel gel grip screwdrivers? I’m wondering what your thoughts are. I’m gonna need another set of JIS drivers for work and would like to try some more of vessels range.

I have, I like them a lot. I think a lot of people would be a fan(If you like cushion grip screwdrivers) if they gave them a try. The gel is basically the density you'd imagine it is, very comfortable.

 

[Duker]

I have, I like them a lot. I think a lot of people would be a fan(If you like cushion grip screwdrivers) if they gave them a try. The gel is basically the density you'd imagine it is, very comfortable.

I might have to give the gel version a try. I just got the tang through versions in but I like the heft and feel.




Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

 

[RKA]

RKA,

Ko-ken has you covered. Part # 179B.12H.M12
You can add that M12 into your toolbox, ready for the next time you need to work on that idler pulley.

Thanks Chris! I was looking through the catalog, but didn’t see it.

*edit* Went with a shallow OTC triple square set instead (has the 16mm/5/8" hex fitting on the back side). Another order from Amazon.jp probably would have cost me another $200!