Anyone seen XI-On Sockets for rounded fasteners before?

[The Rusty Gear]

I was in Princess Auto yesterday and I noticed a new product:

Xi-On sockets
http://cens.com/cens/html/en/product/product_main_37523.html

Are these an old tool reborn? A gimick tool? Maybe not a bad idea?

The package claims they can be used on fasteners which are "rounded up to 85%"

I thought the concept was interesting. Would they mar "normal" fasteners? They kind of look like the offspring of a normal socket and a pair of vise grips!

 

[chrislehr]

Wright wrenches have similar markings on the inside of open end wrenches..

 

[kf4zht]

If a bolt head is 85% rounded (do they have a gauge for bolt rounding percentage?) the bolt or nut needs to be replaced anyway. I have no issue with skipping straight to the bolt outs and heat if needed.

 

[Monte]

There is already this: !?

Looks like another flank drive variation:

 

[volvo420coupe]

How much for a set? It would be a good set to have around, just for that purpose, They might be nice enough to be everyday sockets, but I would want to keep them as new as possible for as long as possible.

 

[Fedwrench]

Thiose look similiar to the MAC Edge line of Taiwanese made tools.
http://www.mactools.com/product/tabid/120/p-320304-sxg126br.aspx