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Tools of Japan

Two Speed

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Joined
Sep 20, 2014
Messages
1,278
Location
Ontario Canada
For an upcoming visit to Tokyo... is there a retail store to walk into that has browsable aisles of these tools? I am aware of "Tokyo Hands".
Stumbled on this guy on youtube a while back;

国内13店舗、海外3店舗を展開するファクトリーギア

translation; Factory gear with 13 stores in Japan and 3 stores overseas
 
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Odd-job

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Joined
Aug 13, 2017
Messages
2,291
Location
SF Bay Area
Oh man. My latest Amazon Japan tool order couldn't clear customs. Do you guys just try again and hope it gets through?
 

Odd-job

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Joined
Aug 13, 2017
Messages
2,291
Location
SF Bay Area
What do you mean it couldn't clear customs? What did they tell you?
Here's the email that I just received (not much in the way of explanation unfortunately):

Thank you for shopping at Amazon.co.jp.

We’ve been informed by our shipper that your package couldn’t clear the customs.

Order ID:**
Tracking ID:**

Since it couldn’t clear the customs, the package will be returned to our distribution center. Once we receive it at our Returns Center, we’ll issue a refund.
 

dukefx

Well-known member
Joined
Aug 24, 2022
Messages
389
That's something that'd happen if you try to import something you aren't allowed to... like... drugs, or a nuclear warhead. What did you order? :D
 

Odd-job

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Joined
Aug 13, 2017
Messages
2,291
Location
SF Bay Area
That's something that'd happen if you try to import something you aren't allowed to... like... drugs, or a nuclear warhead. What did you order? :D

Here's my order in case it inspires anyone else. Guessing the most controversial item I ordered was the bike tire.

31vjA7eKaJL._SY90_.jpg

Tone 2BAF-08 Oscillating Socket Adapter for Electric Drills, Bit Insertion & 1/4" (6.35 mm)
Sold by: アマゾンジャパン合同会社

¥ 712
Condition: New
Buy it Again
31Gcw8TKyhL._SX90_.jpg
Panaracer Tubeless Compatible Tire [27.5 x 1.75] Gravel King SK F650B43-GKSK Black (For Touring Vehicles, Mountain Bikes/Gravel Touring, Long Ride)
Sold by: OKクリエイション

¥ 4,761
Condition: New
Buy it Again
31T342o5LrL._SY90_.jpg
KYOTO TOOL (KTC) Handy Remover AP201-10A
Sold by: アマゾンジャパン合同会社

¥ 669
Condition: New
Buy it Again
51C2X1rR6kL._SY90_.jpg
????? ??????????52 ???????
Sold by: アマゾンジャパン合同会社

¥ 989
Condition: New
Buy it Again
31oifKQ7F4L._SX90_.jpg
konekutahauzingu Linesman's Pliers
Sold by: アマゾンジャパン合同会社

¥ 6,749
Condition: New
Buy it Again
41qaUzEQltL._SY90_.jpg
Engineer DBZ-20 Nejisaurus Mole Set, Removes Stripped Hex Hole Bolts, Set of 4 Bits
Sold by: アマゾンジャパン合同会社

¥ 2,390
Condition: New
Buy it Again
4105TWyTCZL._SX90_.jpg
Gym (anex) Channeled Super Short Bit Holder Set Plus Hex Wrench, 8 Pairs, AK – 51P – B8H
Sold by: アマゾンジャパン合同会社

¥ 882
Condition: New
Buy it Again
31TfRv49CTL._SY90_.jpg
TSUNODA LRP-280 Long Reach Pliers with Grooves, 11.0 inches (280 mm)
Sold by: アマゾンジャパン合同会社

¥ 2,756
Condition: New
Buy it Again
31533BmA3zL._SY90_.jpg
ANEX Car Clip Remover, 0.4 inch (10 mm) No. 9136
Sold by: アマゾンジャパン合同会社

¥ 1,169
Condition: New
Buy it Again
31T5R8pbASL._SY90_.jpg
Gym (anex) Clip 6 mm No. (A Little Bit Of... 9135
Sold by: アマゾンジャパン合同会社

¥ 1,077
Condition: New
Buy it Again
41TZUyiPhlL._SY90_.jpg
Kyoto Tool (KTC) Clip Clamp Pliers CCP-190
Sold by: アマゾンジャパン合同会社

¥ 4,039
Condition: New
Buy it Again
 

dukefx

Well-known member
Joined
Aug 24, 2022
Messages
389
I don't think there's anything that wouldn't go through customs. Another guess would be bad paperwork, but it's Amazon, they even do customs so really no clue. Are you sure you didn't order the world's most dangerous thing: a Kinder Surprise egg? :D
 

garfieldzzz

Well-known member
Joined
Jun 30, 2014
Messages
306
Location
BY
For an upcoming visit to Tokyo... is there a retail store to walk into that has browsable aisles of these tools? I am aware of "Tokyo Hands".

Tokyo hands is not as interesting in my opinion. I went to world import tools and the factory gear store should be worth a visit. If you search this thread there are some good places.

Edit world import tools seems to be out of business…
 

Jeff

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Joined
Dec 10, 2009
Messages
2,706
Location
Sonova Beach
Sweet! What's that ball at the end of the Vessel?

"The weight of the steel ball keeps the end cap in an optimum position for a grip."

I'm not sure if this is really necessary or not, but I will try it out. It's worth the $5.

 

cleeny

Well-known member
Joined
Jan 9, 2014
Messages
161
Location
NY
"The weight of the steel ball keeps the end cap in an optimum position for a grip."

I'm not sure if this is really necessary or not, but I will try it out. It's worth the $5.


Either way, it's just cool. 👍
 

Dave455

Well-known member
Joined
Mar 19, 2013
Messages
5,821
Location
Sussex, England
Are there any other color options for the Trusco ST-350-B 2-Level Toolbox or it is only available in blue?

I've had one for a couple of years now and recently the wife told me that she was jealous of mine and wanted one of her own, but I'd rather not have two identical boxes.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002A5S3ZM/?tag=atomicindus08-20
I think the Trusco boxes are generally available in blue or silver.

You probably know that they are made by Toyo Steel, and sold under both names. The Toyo boxes are available in many more colours - red, olive green and black for sure!708840BF-8505-41D2-9E43-F8676534177E.jpeg613DD597-DD9C-43DC-9013-92F6CD6D6940.jpeg767CF1AF-BB93-4BA9-B61E-22AF9E404F98.jpeg
 

LHSA

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Joined
Apr 22, 2020
Messages
64
Location
PNW
I believe it is. I bought the special edition 3-60N version in black/gold last year and it's served me well. Unfortunately I paid 2021 exchange rates:( Definitely a great buy at current exchange rates.
 

cleeny

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Joined
Jan 9, 2014
Messages
161
Location
NY
Haha, been eyeing one of these tool boxes myself; just kinda hard to find the exact model/size in the color that I want.
 
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Odd-job

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Aug 13, 2017
Messages
2,291
Location
SF Bay Area
I believe it is. I bought the special edition 3-60N version in black/gold last year and it's served me well. Unfortunately I paid 2021 exchange rates:( Definitely a great buy at current exchange rates.
While the $ goes further, these exchange rates are hurting my wallet ultimately. Trying to convince myself I don't need a 4th digital torque wrench. Ohhhh... this Tohnichi torque wrench is only $57 that I have been lusting after....


Mind you this is all because some customs agent rejected my last order so now I am adding more to my cart in my reorder...
 

tamaraw

Well-known member
Joined
Jun 6, 2022
Messages
843
While the $ goes further, these exchange rates are hurting my wallet ultimately. Trying to convince myself I don't need a 4th digital torque wrench. Ohhhh... this Tohnichi torque wrench is only $57 that I have been lusting after....


Mind you this is all because some customs agent rejected my last order so now I am adding more to my cart in my reorder...
Man, I would like that for spark plugs and not a bad price either. I'm just a little scared of what shape it might arrive in :rolleyes2
 

Odd-job

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Joined
Aug 13, 2017
Messages
2,291
Location
SF Bay Area
Man, I would like that for spark plugs and not a bad price either. I'm just a little scared of what shape it might arrive in :rolleyes2
Good point. I am a bit scared of the packing minimalism. I can't tell if they come in one of those thick plastic cases (the Tohnichi clickers do) that take up too much room in the tool box. Hopefully someone can comment or in the order comments maybe I can request some extra packing.
 

Madjik Man

Well-known member
Joined
Dec 3, 2015
Messages
1,531
Received my pliers upgrade from Amazon Japan. For some reason they're shipping the IPS long reach straights separately. That's awesome for the carbon footprint.

Koken ratchet was bought of Amazon from that listing for $39. No idea how or why it's so cheap but fine by me. I confirmed it is the 72T batwing pawl design.

And just ignore the Knipex diagonal cutters and the pocket pry bars. IMG_1957.JPG
 

rick carpenter

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Joined
Jan 20, 2011
Messages
3,782
Location
Huntsville, East Texas
I am surprised how well the Engineer works. Only just grips though, so only good for very mildly torqued screws. Good for electrical stuff, but would probably be useless on anything rusted/seized.

I filmed a bit about using Engineer pliers, but cut it out to lessen the amount of blabbing on. They definitely work on the screws in the vid, but most laptop screws are recessed, so you cannot get pliers on them.

sdryhtderythedryhrdyh.jpg


jhmfhj-mfhj-mfhjjhm.jpg

Mr Lemons,

The DBZ-58 bits sure look interesting. I may have to get one of them. I got a pair of the PZ-57s in early August and have used them at least 6-7 times per week on average since then. I use Vessel 9900 drivers for cracking open chromebook cases for repair but use the PZ-57s when the screws are not fully seated but frozen in place. I am very pleased with them.
 

Jack_K

Well-known member
Joined
Aug 7, 2021
Messages
338
Location
Australia
A tool store is closing down soon so they are discounting a lot of stuff. I ordered an endeavour air die grinder and an air ratchet at about 50% off which are rebranded Shinano tools. The Shinano model numbers are basically "SI" instead of "E", not sure if the B in the Shinano model means any difference or not.

I had been looking for used quality air tools like these and normally people want about these prices for used tools.

Endeavour E2002 - Shinano SI-2002
Endeavour E1108 - Shinano SI-1108B
image_2022-10-13_213909645.png
Of course with my luck the die grinder box is missing the die grinder. I was wondering whether any air fitting was going to be included with the ratchet since the inlet is 1/8. What was included was a genuine Nitto fitting made in Japan (Nitto "style" are the most common fitting type here in Australia) at least one of the two Shinano distributors here normally includes knockoff made in Taiwan fittings.
20221013_174330.jpg
20221013_174351.jpg
I will sort out a hose whip to make it actually fit into tight spots.
size_img_si1108b.jpg
ex_1108b_02-1.jpg
I have now received the die grinder.
20221024_190323.jpg
 

Vicks

Well-known member
Joined
May 23, 2019
Messages
178
Location
Dubai
My first (and probably last) Nepros purchase. I bought it purely for novelty (not ashamed of it haha) because i "wanted" to have something that's as beautiful as a NBR390.

F56A7A16-18E9-4E4B-8F95-448D6A6AA1D4.jpeg

A1A074F7-1C91-401C-9796-B4C49448C4F2.jpeg

And the novelty wore off when i put it to use 2Hrs later to remove some M6 screws using regular Ko-ken deep sockets and immediately noticed the flimsy selector switch (plastic ?) and its operation (clunky and rigid) to be not at all to my liking. My Ko-ken Z-eal 3/8 ratchet selector switch is MUCH smoother.
1CC1F9EA-87AD-4567-9580-1643BD247158.jpeg


Next disappointment was when it came to screw removal - the backdrag on NBR390 is WAY more than what i'm used to with the Ko-ken Z-eal ratchet. The NBR's quick release is a benefit but not to the extent to make me prefer it over the Z-eal ratchet. It is beautiful, i give full marks to that but the 90 tooth gear and quick release do not make it equal to the better selector switch and lesser back drag on the Z-eal. Functionally, i think i will always prefer the Z-eal ratchet. Edit: not to mention the feature available on Z-eal ratchets where you can reverse spin the ratchet by pressing the centre portion (black coloured) with a finger when the ratchet back drag exceeds fastener thread friction.

8BB37775-CB54-4211-AEAC-01F2328C1604.jpeg

While at it, bought a Lobster adjustable - i rarely use adjustables but i wanted to have this one in the Car road tool kit. I already like the smoothness of the adjuster tumbscrew and the lightweight handle.
66A7A397-AE7B-4E2C-9525-BB42A87AE816.jpeg


Kakuri pruning saw with a variety of blades since these are all 5-6US$ each. I love the Kakuri Ryoba saw i've been using so far and hope to get to use these soon.
5E4FDF68-9B03-4B41-BB56-10A4090399D3.jpeg
 
Last edited:

antman213

Well-known member
Joined
Nov 19, 2017
Messages
328
Recent haul from amazon jp. Oddly enough they shorted me a couple items. (Anyone ever have bad luck with amazon.jp?)

I picked up a Tone & Lobster adjustable. The Tone has a enormous screw much like some of the Husky branded adjustables. I show the Lobster up against my favorite adjustable (Fleet) as well as an oddball Bahco. The lobster is very nice but not perfect like the fleet.

Hozan tweezer is a beast, very rigid.

Also picked up some more ball type screwdrivers like the vessel. To be honest the Anex feels better in the hand and the Victor ball end is by far the softest and grippiest of the 3.
 

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dukefx

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Joined
Aug 24, 2022
Messages
389
Damn, that Hozan tweezer is really thick. Must... resist... urge... to buy one!
 

Dave455

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Joined
Mar 19, 2013
Messages
5,821
Location
Sussex, England
Damn, that Hozan tweezer is really thick. Must... resist... urge... to buy one!
Yes, they do look really decent.

I often need a tool smaller than a pair of fine pliers (for things like assembling small springs) but watchmakers tweezers are far too delicate. These look perfect!
 

Dave455

Well-known member
Joined
Mar 19, 2013
Messages
5,821
Location
Sussex, England
My first (and probably last) Nepros purchase. I bought it purely for novelty (not ashamed of it haha) because i "wanted" to have something that's as beautiful as a NBR390.

F56A7A16-18E9-4E4B-8F95-448D6A6AA1D4.jpeg

A1A074F7-1C91-401C-9796-B4C49448C4F2.jpeg

And the novelty wore off when i put it to use 2Hrs later to remove some M6 screws using regular Ko-ken deep sockets and immediately noticed the flimsy selector switch (plastic ?) and its operation (clunky and rigid) to be not at all to my liking. My Ko-ken Z-eal 3/8 ratchet selector switch is MUCH smoother.
1CC1F9EA-87AD-4567-9580-1643BD247158.jpeg


Next disappointment was when it came to screw removal - the backdrag on NBR390 is WAY more than what i'm used to with the Ko-ken Z-eal ratchet. The NBR's quick release is a benefit but not to the extent to make me prefer it over the Z-eal ratchet. It is beautiful, i give full marks to that but the 90 tooth gear and quick release do not make it equal to the better selector switch and lesser back drag on the Z-eal. Functionally, i think i will always prefer the Z-eal ratchet. Edit: not to mention the feature available on Z-eal ratchets where you can reverse spin the ratchet by pressing the centre portion (black coloured) with a finger when the ratchet back drag exceeds fastener thread friction.

8BB37775-CB54-4211-AEAC-01F2328C1604.jpeg
I have the older version of that Nepros ratchet (Chrome though). The selector lever on mine looks identical, but it definitely isn’t plastic. Looks like anodised aluminium.

Surprised that the action is “clunky”. It may benefit from breaking in, but surprised on a 90 tooth.

Nepros and KoKen Zeal are actually very different ranges of tools. Nepros are, for the most part conventional tools, but made to the highest standard of finish. Z Series / Zeal are entirely new designs of tools, designed to be as compact as possible.

I have the same Z series ratchet as yourself though, and have to admit it’s a gem! I wish they would offer it with an all metal handle.
 

jmf535

Well-known member
Joined
Nov 16, 2021
Messages
170
My first (and probably last) Nepros purchase. I bought it purely for novelty (not ashamed of it haha) because i "wanted" to have something that's as beautiful as a NBR390.

F56A7A16-18E9-4E4B-8F95-448D6A6AA1D4.jpeg

A1A074F7-1C91-401C-9796-B4C49448C4F2.jpeg

And the novelty wore off when i put it to use 2Hrs later to remove some M6 screws using regular Ko-ken deep sockets and immediately noticed the flimsy selector switch (plastic ?) and its operation (clunky and rigid) to be not at all to my liking. My Ko-ken Z-eal 3/8 ratchet selector switch is MUCH smoother.
1CC1F9EA-87AD-4567-9580-1643BD247158.jpeg


Next disappointment was when it came to screw removal - the backdrag on NBR390 is WAY more than what i'm used to with the Ko-ken Z-eal ratchet. The NBR's quick release is a benefit but not to the extent to make me prefer it over the Z-eal ratchet. It is beautiful, i give full marks to that but the 90 tooth gear and quick release do not make it equal to the better selector switch and lesser back drag on the Z-eal. Functionally, i think i will always prefer the Z-eal ratchet. Edit: not to mention the feature available on Z-eal ratchets where you can reverse spin the ratchet by pressing the centre portion (black coloured) with a finger when the ratchet back drag exceeds fastener thread friction.

8BB37775-CB54-4211-AEAC-01F2328C1604.jpeg

While at it, bought a Lobster adjustable - i rarely use adjustables but i wanted to have this one in the Car road tool kit. I already like the smoothness of the adjuster tumbscrew and the lightweight handle.
66A7A397-AE7B-4E2C-9525-BB42A87AE816.jpeg


Kakuri pruning saw with a variety of blades since these are all 5-6US$ each. I love the Kakuri Ryoba saw i've been using so far and hope to get to use these soon.
5E4FDF68-9B03-4B41-BB56-10A4090399D3.jpeg


My selector switch is metal, as well, but I do (mostly) agree with you regarding the Nepros ratchet...it's beautifully made, and I think that it has the best handle shape, but the actual "in use" experience of it is kind of a let down. I much prefer my Koken or Hazet ratchets to it, and pretty much only grab it if I need the quick release feature...or when I feel guilty for spending so much on it, and never using it.

Their sockets I like a lot, though.
 

rick carpenter

Well-known member
Joined
Jan 20, 2011
Messages
3,782
Location
Huntsville, East Texas
I'm looking for a pair of IPS/Igarashi Bent Long Nose pliers...


Can't get them from Kital since I'm not wholesale. How do people find the great Amazon Japan deals I read about here? One seller wants 2,090 yen = $14.29 and Amazon Japan wants 4,961 yen = $33.90 to ship, for a total of $48.19. A Japanese ebay seller wants $37.00 plus $4.05 tax but free shipping.

I know things from Japan have to come halfway around the world, but I read about a lot of GJ-ers getting great prices from Amazon Japan.
 

Madjik Man

Well-known member
Joined
Dec 3, 2015
Messages
1,531
I'm looking for a pair of IPS/Igarashi Bent Long Nose pliers...


Can't get them from Kital since I'm not wholesale. How do people find the great Amazon Japan deals I read about here? One seller wants 2,090 yen = $14.29 and Amazon Japan wants 4,961 yen = $33.90 to ship, for a total of $48.19. A Japanese ebay seller wants $37.00 plus $4.05 tax but free shipping.

I know things from Japan have to come halfway around the world, but I read about a lot of GJ-ers getting great prices from Amazon Japan.

The key is to buy multiple items to combine shipping.

The plier order I just place and received was 9 pieces (7 pliers and (2) 2-packs of soft grip head replacements). Total was $70 + $22 shipping.
 

Caa311

Well-known member
Joined
Jan 2, 2016
Messages
763
Location
Virginia
I have the older version of that Nepros ratchet (Chrome though). The selector lever on mine looks identical, but it definitely isn’t plastic. Looks like anodised aluminium.

Surprised that the action is “clunky”. It may benefit from breaking in, but surprised on a 90 tooth.

Nepros and KoKen Zeal are actually very different ranges of tools. Nepros are, for the most part conventional tools, but made to the highest standard of finish. Z Series / Zeal are entirely new designs of tools, designed to be as compact as possible.

I have the same Z series ratchet as yourself though, and have to admit it’s a gem! I wish they would offer it with an all metal handle.
I love my zeal ratchet. I have the 72 tooth version.
 

LWB

Well-known member
Joined
Oct 6, 2019
Messages
1,241
Location
ON, Canada
You guys are a bad influence... ;) I've been looking for a shorter set off box end/ratcheting box end. These DEEN's seemed to fit the bill and was my first order from Japan. Ordered on the the 22nd and came today.

DEEN wrenches.jpg

14mm in my hand. Perfect

DEEN 1.jpg

The swivel ends are nice and stiff and can be adjusted via allen key. The only negative I can see so far is that the edges could be more rounded. These will see lots of use. I will be selling my Gearwrench ratcheting with the open ends.

I have some Asahi tools on the way lol
 

Fedwrench

ALLIANCE MEMBER
Joined
Dec 9, 2007
Messages
14,955
Location
Valley of the sun
You guys are a bad influence... ;) I've been looking for a shorter set off box end/ratcheting box end. These DEEN's seemed to fit the bill and was my first order from Japan. Ordered on the the 22nd and came today.

DEEN wrenches.jpg

14mm in my hand. Perfect

DEEN 1.jpg

The swivel ends are nice and stiff and can be adjusted via allen key. The only negative I can see so far is that the edges could be more rounded. These will see lots of use. I will be selling my Gearwrench ratcheting with the open ends.

I have some Asahi tools on the way lol
Those look nice. I have a similar set from SP tools with locking ratcheting flex heads. I wish it had an 18 mm in it.
 

LWB

Well-known member
Joined
Oct 6, 2019
Messages
1,241
Location
ON, Canada
They look great. I've never seen them before. How do you like them?

I actually wanted a JIS smaller set. I have two Japanese cars and most often am using 10-12-14
 
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