Dave455
Well-known member
Here are a few other tools with red handle acetate handles that I have readily available.
Very nice!
I guess it‘s “thread drift” if I say that I really like the look of those Elora’s!
Tools of Japan
- Thread starter Frankstools
- Start date
Very nice!
I guess it‘s “thread drift” if I say that I really like the look of those Elora’s!
RoundedNut
Well-known member
I bought these without a clear understanding of what they were intended for, but I thought they would serve to mark/punch. I'm hoping someone with an understanding of Japanese language/techniques may help:
Amazon | トップマン コンクリート針 大 2本入 | 差し針
トップマン コンクリート針 大 2本入が差し針ストアでいつでもお買い得。当日お急ぎ便対象商品は、当日お届け可能です。アマゾン配送商品は、通常配送無料（一部除く）。
www.amazon.co.jp
"Concrete needle"
pizza
Well-known member
i believe it's for tiling work to anchor string guides.
RoundedNut
Well-known member
merkyworks
Well-known member
Discovered Vessel screwdrivers while working at a bicycle shop years ago, best screwdriver I’ve used hands down. Finally rationalized with myself on why I needed a set, very happy to have them 
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merkyworks
Well-known member
Also reading this thread someone was asking about replacement plastic sleeves for Koken wheel nut sockets. Flipping through the catalog and saw this and thought it might be helpful for others.
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Yes, I have this exact same Koken four (4) set of lug nut sockets and they are sweet to use! 
Thanks merkyworks for posting and sharing this info about the replacement plastic sleeves.
I was not aware of them.
Thanks merkyworks for posting and sharing this info about the replacement plastic sleeves.
I was not aware of them.
Also reading this thread someone was asking about replacement plastic sleeves for Koken lug nut sockets. Flipping through the catalog and saw this and thought it might be helpful for others.
mercifiknow
Well-known member
Some how this came in my Amazon order today. I didn’t order it on purpose but was in my list to get later. Oh well…***** to be me!
I like it. Good feel and well built. I thought this might be good for regular slip joint pliers-type of thing (and to some degree it is), but it’s really about the grabbing the head of fastener or the nut.
I like it. Good feel and well built. I thought this might be good for regular slip joint pliers-type of thing (and to some degree it is), but it’s really about the grabbing the head of fastener or the nut.
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R25_GTS
Well-known member
Not the most exciting show and tell. Ko-ken 7mm nut setter with magnet. 100mm long.
It was a little expensive at £15, but I'm struggling to find any mid-price alternatives that are available in a choice of lengths. Just these or unbranded cheapies direct from China on ebay.
Compared to a cheap ebay nut setter.
Ko-ken has a thinner wall and shallower hex. To be fair, the unbranded one has been working fine. The only issue I've had is that the magnet is weak.
Gave the Ko-ken a try today. Was worried that the shallow hex may be an issue, but in this case, with interior screws, it meant that the screw head touches the magnet, and so holds much stronger than the unbranded nut setter with deeper hex. The shallow hex may be an issue when bagging away with an impact driver, but I guess setters without a magnet would be more appropriate for that.
It was a little expensive at £15, but I'm struggling to find any mid-price alternatives that are available in a choice of lengths. Just these or unbranded cheapies direct from China on ebay.
Compared to a cheap ebay nut setter.
Ko-ken has a thinner wall and shallower hex. To be fair, the unbranded one has been working fine. The only issue I've had is that the magnet is weak.
Gave the Ko-ken a try today. Was worried that the shallow hex may be an issue, but in this case, with interior screws, it meant that the screw head touches the magnet, and so holds much stronger than the unbranded nut setter with deeper hex. The shallow hex may be an issue when bagging away with an impact driver, but I guess setters without a magnet would be more appropriate for that.
mercifiknow
Well-known member
I was thinking about buying the Koken Zeal Flex Head Long 72T 1/4” ratchet. I’m a little concerned about the “comfort” grip though taking the abuse of normal shop work, meaning concrete floors, chemicals, etc. All my Koken stuff has held up well but they are chromed.
Another issue is the weld. Not sure what to think about that. I know welds are to be as strong or stronger than the separate pieces but honestly the look and finish bother me. Anyone have experience using them day in and day out?
Was considering getting the Nepros but not sure I feel an extra degree is worth the price unless the comfort grip isn’t tough enough.
Another issue is the weld. Not sure what to think about that. I know welds are to be as strong or stronger than the separate pieces but honestly the look and finish bother me. Anyone have experience using them day in and day out?
Was considering getting the Nepros but not sure I feel an extra degree is worth the price unless the comfort grip isn’t tough enough.
GrantCee
Well-known member
I have that ratchet. For reference, the 1/4 drive Zeal is 36 tooth, not 72.
The Zeal grip is made of a really tough material. I don't know what it is, but it shrugs off oils and solvents. None of mine show any deterioration or even wear.
What weld are you talking about?
The Zeal grip is made of a really tough material. I don't know what it is, but it shrugs off oils and solvents. None of mine show any deterioration or even wear.
What weld are you talking about?
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mercifiknow
Well-known member
That’s good to hear about the grip! Yes, I got the 3/8 and 1/4 mixed up.
I thought I read here about the end being welded on. Might have saw it on YouTube.
GrantCee
Well-known member
I have the 3/8 flex 72t as well. Wonderful ratchet.
Oh, I think you mean the end cap on the hollow handle of the Nepros ratchets, which is welded on, then ground and polished so well it doesn't show. Of course it's not under any real stress, so strength is a non-issue.
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mercifiknow
Well-known member
How does the head hold up with flexing? Meaning does it flop around like a wet noodle?
GrantCee
Well-known member
Not quite sure what you mean, but the head has only one detent at the 180 degree (straight) position. There are no other stops, but the head is under tension — it doesn't move around when I shake the ratchet. I put a 17mm deep socket on it, and the head stays put at any position or orientation (in other words, if I tilt the ratchet down while the head is at an angle, the weight of the socket doesn't move it.)
mercifiknow
Well-known member
Thanks!
Meursault74
Well-known member
I just recently bought those pliers from amazon as well. Actually came into use the other day......... changing out the pull switch on a ceiling fan. Some other pliers would have gotten the job done, but this was easier. Always some satisfaction when using a new tool for the first time and it makes the job easier, which is why I purchased it in the first place.
mercifiknow
Well-known member
I’m sure it will get used in some emergency before long…lol
Truecraft Tools
Was this brand ever produced in the US, or has it always been overseas?www.garagejournal.com
Me neither but i found this older thread
TrueCraft made tools both in both Japan and New Jersey. Their ratchets, torque wrenches and combination wrenches were quality pieces. TrueCraft was a brand of Daido. TrueCraft Tools disappeared from our shores around 2005. Here is some history: http://alloy-artifacts.org/japanese-tool-makers.html#daidoTruecraft Tools
Was this brand ever produced in the US, or has it always been overseas?
Me neither but i found this older thread
superautobacs
Well-known member
Daido sourced/imported tools from various tool makers, not just in Japan, but from Spain, and even South Korea.
I researched this myself over a decade ago and found that one of the major Japanese OEM for the Truecraft brand was SEK (Suekage Tool Co.) for the socketry stuff. Ko-ken also played a role as an OEM, too! For wrenches, Aigo was definitely one OEM.
Thanks for the link to Alloy Artifacts.
I've previously seen the Spanish made wrenches here on GJ years ago. They are obvious as they were clearly forged with "Palmera" (now part of SNA Europe).
Browsing down the list on their site, the less obvious but not too difficult are the TOP adjustables and the lineman's pliers with the 3.Peaks logo. Pretty cool
Just watched a bzeug video that reminded me about these insulated bits from Anex. I am thinking about trying one at work in a Bosch 12v driver. The bits are only recommended for drivers up to 7.2v, so it may not go very well.
Got me thinking, a plastic cased, cordless drill/driver should keep you insulated without the need for special bits, right?
Has anyone drilled into live mains? Does a plastic, cordless drill keep you insulated?
R25_GTS
Well-known member
Managed to get pictures today with the rest of arrivals from Japan.
Spanners from Super and Asahi. The holders for both are not the most intuitive and easy to use. The tools feel good in the hand and of decent alloy. Haven't tried them yet.
Koken zeal breaker bar plus the 21mm wheel socket. Really nice both. Can't fault them.
Koken bits set and the 1/4 mini ratchet. Really small with the same very low back drag.
Considering the paid price I'm really pleased with them.
Spanners from Super and Asahi. The holders for both are not the most intuitive and easy to use. The tools feel good in the hand and of decent alloy. Haven't tried them yet.
Koken zeal breaker bar plus the 21mm wheel socket. Really nice both. Can't fault them.
Koken bits set and the 1/4 mini ratchet. Really small with the same very low back drag.
Considering the paid price I'm really pleased with them.
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BigBoreFan
Well-known member
- Joined
- Oct 16, 2010
- Messages
- 311
I think you did well choosing ARS pruners. Everyone always gushes over Felco (which are fine, I have a pair) but ARS are excellent quality.
CoreyB
Member
Also reading this thread someone was asking about replacement plastic sleeves for Koken wheel nut sockets. Flipping through the catalog and saw this and thought it might be helpful for others.
I saw this myself when browsing Koken's catalog, but couldn't find anyone selling them. I suppose I could send Palmac an email to see if they have them.
The sleeves seem to be well made so I doubt I'll have issues with them, still would be nice to have a source. The socket itself is much nicer than the standard wheel sockets being sold by other brands and are much better at protecting wheels.
Also, does anyone know if a cracked socket will get warrantied or should I expect to buy another if I break one? Not sure how Koken handles broken items or if their warranty is as good as what I'm used to with tool truck items.
GrantCee
Well-known member
From the Ko-ken USA website: "Koken warrants that each product sold by it shall be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal application, use and service for the life of the product. Koken’s sole obligation under this warranty, in Koken’s sole discretion, is to repair or replace, free of charge, any part or parts found to be defective, provided that the product (i) is delivered, postage prepaid, to Ko-Ken USA, LLC, 10 Kidder Road, Chelmsford, MA 01824; (ii) has not been misused, subject to unusual stress, modified or serviced in any manner."
In short, they'll replace it if it's their fault, but not because it experiences normal expected wear or broke because it was over-stressed. For that kind of warranty, you have to over-pay at the tool truck.
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I've been trying to get some of those plastic sleeves for a few years. As of a few months ago, even Amazon.JP doesn't ship to the US.
the real answer to your question requires more info about what you're ordering and how it's declared.
brief explanation:
- declared total value of under $800: rarely inspected because $800 is the de minimis threshold (no tax due on shipments that small). google usa customs de minimis.
- above $800 but below $1500: sometimes inspected depending on how the package looks and what it was declared as. what it's declared as matters because the contents are taxed accordingly. some things over $800 are not taxed at all.
- above $1500: almost always inspected.
if it's inspected, you're definitely going to have to pay tax if any is due. everything you need to know is here:
Harmonized Tariff Schedule
hts.usitc.gov
also, even if your shipment is assessed at 0% rate, you'll end up paying a Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) if it gets inspected. plus a convenience fee of about 15usd to the courier.
As of a few months ago, I've never paid tax or duties for $100-300 orders from Amazon.jp. The same was true for Amazon.de until ~6 months ago, but on my last order I was charged state sales tax. Even so, it was still cheaper than buying from Amazon in the US. How this is possible, I don't know, but....
mercifiknow
Well-known member
Was going to get my wife a pair of them but couldn’t get them. Out of stock. Been a few months ago
BigBoreFan
Well-known member
- Joined
- Oct 16, 2010
- Messages
- 311
Got mine on Amazon.
The insulated bit is specially built for "fastening" applications but not drilling LoL, right ? The reference/restriction to 7.2V drivers is probably from a torque perspective since insulated bits can only take much lesser torque (compared to regular all metallic bits) before shattering. If you use the insulated bit in a 12V driver AND reduce the torque settings on the driver, you should be fine as long as you dont try applying crazy force to tighten/loosen screws.
Just watched a bzeug video that reminded me about these insulated bits from Anex. I am thinking about trying one at work in a Bosch 12v driver. The bits are only recommended for drivers up to 7.2v, so it may not go very well.
Got me thinking, a plastic cased, cordless drill/driver should keep you insulated without the need for special bits, right?
Has anyone drilled into live mains? Does a plastic, cordless drill keep you insulated?
If you are not using the insulated bit and just want to go with all metallic bits for "fastening" applications, the plastic body and trigger of the drill will most definitely keep you insulated from 110-220V AC but i'm not too sure if the electronics within the drill will have sufficient protection to survive it ? Arc flash is a hazard (and FATAL) that could happen even at lower voltages if a live conductor makes contact with ground. Think of the risks of the bit slipping during such an activity and you could come in contact with the live conductors/components or the chuck of the drill. The risk is not worth the convenience/time saved. My suggestion - Don't risk it. Make sure you isolate the conductor before performing any fastening applications using a power tool with metal bits.
If you intend to really "Drill" into live mains conductors and not just use the drill to "fasten" screws etc, i would most certainly suggest you to refrain from such an experiment unless you disconnect the conductor/isolate it and ensure its dead before drilling into it. In this case too, Arc flash is a fatal hazard that could happen even at lower voltage levels if a live conductor makes contact with ground. My suggestion again - Don't risk it.
mercifiknow
Well-known member
Yes they were out of stock. I was going to get them from another place but wasn’t going to pay 50%. I got her another pair.
I think we got a bit mixed up. Sorry if I was incoherent. I'm aware that it's a screwdriver bit.
Was just wondering if insulated bits provide any extra safety, and if they do, why they are they not more popular?
At work, it's up to 450-500V AC for power supply caps. We are supposed to discharge caps before removing components, but complacency/laziness means this is not always the case. Also, mistakes happen.
Sorry for the confusion. I was certainly aware that you knew its a screwdriver bit. I was trying a bit of irony in my question but please ignore that now. English is not my first language.I think we got a bit mixed up. Sorry if I was incoherent. I'm aware that it's a screwdriver bit.
Was just wondering if insulated bits provide any extra safety, and if they do, why they are they not more popular?
At work, it's up to 450-500V AC for power supply caps. We are supposed to discharge caps before removing components, but complacency/laziness means this is not always the case. Also, mistakes happen.
To answer your original question - Yes, the plastic body of a drill/driver will provide insulation at domestic voltage levels (110-220VAC) and probably even upto 450-500VAC.
Do insulated bits provide extra electrical safety ? - Absolutely yes, upto their rated voltage value.
Why are they not more popular - probably because of the fact that they are rated for much lower torque.
Would i use an insulated bit with a power tool on live electrical connections ? - No, i wouldn't. A cordless tool has no option to be grounded and hence has the potential for Arc flash occurring. A corded tool with a 3 pin plug (dedicated ground wire) is safer IMO. I wont mention Arc flash once again since i assume you're aware of the hazard but if you're not and you're working on electrical equipment, its worth a read.
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Sorry for the confusion. I was certainly aware that you knew its a screwdriver bit. I was trying a bit of irony in my question but please ignore that now. English is not my first language.
To answer your original question - Yes, the plastic body of a drill/driver will provide insulation at domestic voltage levels (110-220VAC) and probably even upto 450-500VAC.
Do insulated bits provide extra electrical safety ? - Absolutely yes, upto their rated voltage value.
Why are they not more popular - probably because of the fact that they are rated for much lower torque.
Would i use an insulated bit with a power tool on live electrical connections ? - No, i wouldn't. A cordless tool has no option to be grounded and hence has the potential for Arc flash occurring. A corded tool with a 3 pin plug (dedicated ground wire) is safer IMO. I wont mention Arc flash once again since i assume you're aware of the hazard but if you're not and you're working on electrical equipment, its worth a read.
Sorry bud, went over my head. Your English is perfect. I was being dense.Thank you for the reply. I may try one, just out of curiosity, but will heed your warning.
Qualitytools
Well-known member
Thanks for sharing, I just placed an order for the rotating handle one to try out.
Factory Gear has just announced that Nepros is doing a run of Gold tools. It looks like they take chromed tools and ion plate the gold on top.
Looks like reservations start Sept 01.
ec.f-gear.co.jp
Looks like reservations start Sept 01.