Koken 1/4" universal nut grips vs z series universal nut grips

[Chilly178]

Anyone have any comparison between these two? PN:

RS2441MZ/5​

RS2441M/11​

 

[Fedwrench]

I own both versions. The Z series nutgrip are pinless swivel sockets available in 8, 10, 12, 13, & 14mm presently.

The bases on the Z series seem tiny while the socket portions seem large. The hex ball articulation seems better to me than a standard universal socket. I hope Ko-Ken releases a 5.5mm & a 7 mm Z series size.

The non Z series sets are traditional universal sockets with the nut grip feature.

1/4 Sq. Dr. Universal NUT GRIP® Socket Set, 5mm-15mm - 11 pieces -

2441M: Nut Grip, ¼”drive Universl Joint, Chrome Hnd Sockets. NUT GRIP® is Ko-ken's specil design for non-mgnetic nuts/bolts to be held firmly in - Ko-ken USA

kokenusa.com

1/4" Sq Dr. Z-series Universal NUT GRIP® Sockets - 5 pieces -

The first ever Z-Series® x NUT GRIP® Design. Nut Grip, 1/4” drive, Universals, Chrome Hand Socket Set. NUT GRIP® is Ko-ken's special design for - Ko-ken USA

kokenusa.com

 

[cbracer]

For me I would choose the standard ones. They have a larger angle of movement. And the Z-series may have a base that is too small to utilize the "lock" function on their wobble extensions that people love. The 1/4" sizes smaller than 10mm, along with the 1/4" hex and torx sockets aren't capable of the lock function.

 

[BlitzcrankJapan]

I have many Koken and Zeal sockets. It should be noted that the Zeal sockets are not great for automotive or repair use. The tolerances are too tight; Paint, corrosion, damage (including rounding) to the nut or bolt head, can all cause the Zeal sockets not to fit.
I always recommend the normal Koken range of sockets unless the person knows they need the Zeal version.
For ratchets and extensions it is personal choice. The Zeal versions are definitely nice. How ever I usually grab a regular Koken piece.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

I have many Koken and Zeal sockets. It should be noted that the Zeal sockets are not great for automotive or repair use. The tolerances are too tight; Paint, corrosion, damage (including rounding) to the nut or bolt head, can all cause the Zeal sockets not to fit.
I always recommend the normal Koken range of sockets unless the person knows they need the Zeal version.
For ratchets and extensions it is personal choice. The Zeal versions are definitely nice. How ever I usually grab a regular Koken piece.

Zeal can certainly be a pain due to rust. Sort of like flank drive Xtra from Snap On. But the Zeal have great grip on rotted fasteners.

 

[Hakeem]

I have many Koken and Zeal sockets. It should be noted that the Zeal sockets are not great for automotive or repair use. The tolerances are too tight; Paint, corrosion, damage (including rounding) to the nut or bolt head, can all cause the Zeal sockets not to fit.
I always recommend the normal Koken range of sockets unless the person knows they need the Zeal version.
For ratchets and extensions it is personal choice. The Zeal versions are definitely nice. How ever I usually grab a regular Koken piece.

What’s the intended use then?

 

[cbracer]

The only issues I have ever had with Zeal were their short sockets wouldn't fit on all the fasteners because the bolt stuck up too far and hit the ratchet.... mid length or normal koken were fine. But then again my 99' Porsche Boxster isn't going to have a lot of rust on it living in California.

 

[benne]

How does the smoothness and range of the hex ball compare to the regular universal?

 

[Steve_P]

How does the smoothness and range of the hex ball compare to the regular universal?

The deflection angle is probably 30 degrees for the hex ball vs 70 degrees for the regular. It's just a geometry issue that the hex ball cannot overcome.