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Help me find a bit set

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AJHD

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AZ
I'm looking for a comprehensive bit set to keep and use with my 1/4" hex impact driver.

I don't want the normal driver bits sold at Home Depot by Milwaukee or other similar sets.

I'm also not looking for something like the Sunex 9726 set either. In fact, I also already have that set.

What I'm looking for is something with longer bits. Preferably between 3" and 6" long. I'd like hex (both metric and SAE) and various torx.

These are just two examples, but I'd like to find something with more bits.

Snap-on Store

shop.snapon.com shop.snapon.com

Snap-on Store

shop.snapon.com shop.snapon.com


I'm looking into the Wera kits. But I want to explore any other available options.
 
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d.mcfarland

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I don't have much to add because I've been looking for something similar for a while also, and have been unsuccessful. The Snap-On sets have no warranty so when one breaks or becomes badly worn, you have to buy a replacement anyways. So, with that in mind, would it just be better to piece out a comprehensive set of bits you will actually use. Realistically, how often (outside of electrical cover plates) do you run into a situation you need flat tip screwdrivers?

Plus, a Phillips #2 in an impact driver will be worn within the first hundred screws. That's why the sets at Home Depot have a boatload of them. At least when driving screws into wood.

Best I've found so far have been Zephyr bits (on Amazon), however, they don't have everything in every size. Next best would be KC Tool buying everything individually.
 
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AJHD

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These are the sets I'm looking at currently. I don't feel like they have everything I want or they have things I don't need.

The 3rd set would be perfect if it just had more bits. It's lacking.

Having a few phillips and flat bits are ok, but I'm primarily looking for hex and torx. My primary application/use is automotive repair. I need something that is more easily portable and takes up less space/weight than a bit socket set in 1/4", 3/8" and 1/2" drive. It would be perfect if I could find just the bits with a 1/4" hex shank.


Wera 056490 Tool-Check Plus Bit Ratchet Set with Sockets - Metric https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I8MYMT2/?tag=atomicindus08-20

WERA 200995 Tool Check Automotive Bit Ratchet Bit Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0153WEGOA/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Wera 5059295001 KK 60 Kraftform Bitholding Screwdriver and 3 1/2-Inch Bit Pouch Set, 17-Piece, Multi https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000X1R2K2/?tag=atomicindus08-20
 
X

Xcursion88

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Apr 18, 2013
Messages
785
Here is a hex set 3/8 dr... r.b.r.t. from Mac
www.mactools.com

14-PC. 3/8" Drive Combination R.B.R.T. Long Hex Driver Set

Innovative and exclusive anti-slip dual directional driver .Bi-Directional - works for both loosening and tightening fasteners .Prevents rounding of new fasteners .Effective at removing compromised fasteners .S2 tool steel bits are precision machined .
www.mactools.com www.mactools.com


Use a 1/4 to 3/8 drive bit....


And torx...
www.mactools.com

13-PC. R.B.R.T.™ Long Star Driver Set

Rounded Bolt Removal Technology (R.B.R.T.™) designed to prevent the rounding of star fasteners .Anti-slip dual-directional star driver is effective at removing compromised star fasteners .S2 tool steel bits are precision machined for use on standard or compromised star fasteners .Bi-directional...
www.mactools.com www.mactools.com


Good luck
 
F

Formerjeeper

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May 10, 2019
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Cincinnati, OH
www.tekton.com

37-Piece 1/4 Inch High-Torque Driver and Bit Set with Case) | TEKTON

An essential on-the-go screwdriver set with a magnetic driver and 36 bits in phillips, slotted, star and square tip bits.
www.tekton.com www.tekton.com

Tekton just released this. Good Taiwan bit selection though not the long ones. They also sell the bit strips separately.

I have the same desire and may just give up and self-assemble a set.
 
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jmf535

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Nov 16, 2021
Messages
170
AJHD said:
These are the sets I'm looking at currently. I don't feel like they have everything I want or they have things I don't need.

The 3rd set would be perfect if it just had more bits. It's lacking.

Having a few phillips and flat bits are ok, but I'm primarily looking for hex and torx. My primary application/use is automotive repair. I need something that is more easily portable and takes up less space/weight than a bit socket set in 1/4", 3/8" and 1/2" drive. It would be perfect if I could find just the bits with a 1/4" hex shank.


Wera 056490 Tool-Check Plus Bit Ratchet Set with Sockets - Metric https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I8MYMT2/?tag=atomicindus08-20

WERA 200995 Tool Check Automotive Bit Ratchet Bit Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0153WEGOA/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Wera 5059295001 KK 60 Kraftform Bitholding Screwdriver and 3 1/2-Inch Bit Pouch Set, 17-Piece, Multi https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000X1R2K2/?tag=atomicindus08-20
Click to expand...

I have several of the Wera socket/bit sets, and while they are very convenient, and the ratchet/sockets are pretty good, I'm not a fan of their bits. The hex bits destroy everything they touch, and the phillips cam out too easily, especially when compared to other Euro/German brands. My favorites are Hazet and Felo, but would recommend going with Felo due to them being easier to source.

If you want to order from the US, I would recommend this set https://www.kctool.com/felo-61563-30-piece-insert-bit-set-with-handle/

But, if you are open to ordering from Amazon Germany, this is a nice set and includes longer bits, as well
https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/B00M490WT4/

They also make a 1/4 socket and bit set, if you want an all-in-one set Felo XL

Another brand that I've and good results with, is Vessel. They are impact bits, but I've used them in regular bit holders/drivers, as well
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08WHYFQYL/?tag=atomicindus08-20
 
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d.mcfarland

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AJHD said:
These are the sets I'm looking at currently. I don't feel like they have everything I want or they have things I don't need.
Click to expand...
That second Snap-On set you listed for ~$60 seems like a good start in my opinion. I, just like you, wish a full set was available that didn't cost $200 and have no warranty.

@Astro_Pneumatic_Tools this might be a really good seller for you. Seems like with some wide ranging opinions we could get ideas together for a very comprehensive and affordable set.
 
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LeeG

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Phoenix, AZ
I buy these 2” high x 3” diameter plastic jars from McMaster and then drop in a piece of plastic with holes drilled in it. I have made a few of different capacities.





Lee
 
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kbeefy

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Harington, Eastern Washington
I have a few of the combination sets and was never satisfied with them.
I finally pieced together what I wanted with individual long bit sets, none were very expensive or high quality, but it grabbing just the style you need makes it a bit easier than grabbing one of those huge assortments just for a t27 torx.
 
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AJHD

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kbeefy said:
I have a few of the combination sets and was never satisfied with them.
I finally pieced together what I wanted with individual long bit sets, none were very expensive or high quality, but it grabbing just the style you need makes it a bit easier than grabbing one of those huge assortments just for a t27 torx.
Click to expand...

What brand did you go with? Where did you buy them?
 
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minke

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Dec 1, 2018
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477
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fly over country
AJHD said:
These are the sets I'm looking at currently. I don't feel like they have everything I want or they have things I don't need.

The 3rd set would be perfect if it just had more bits. It's lacking.

Having a few phillips and flat bits are ok, but I'm primarily looking for hex and torx. My primary application/use is automotive repair. I need something that is more easily portable and takes up less space/weight than a bit socket set in 1/4", 3/8" and 1/2" drive. It would be perfect if I could find just the bits with a 1/4" hex shank.


Wera 056490 Tool-Check Plus Bit Ratchet Set with Sockets - Metric https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I8MYMT2/?tag=atomicindus08-20

WERA 200995 Tool Check Automotive Bit Ratchet Bit Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0153WEGOA/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Wera 5059295001 KK 60 Kraftform Bitholding Screwdriver and 3 1/2-Inch Bit Pouch Set, 17-Piece, Multi https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000X1R2K2/?tag=atomicindus08-20
Click to expand...

Somewhat off topic: If you have a torx bit with a hole thru it why would you want another the same size without the hole?
 
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AJHD

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minke said:
Somewhat off topic: If you have a torx bit with a hole thru it why would you want another the same size without the hole?
Click to expand...

Never said I did... But I would prefer the bit without the hole (aka non-security torx). I think the hole in the center is stupid and actually weakens the bit. But then again, I could go on a rant about unneeded fastener designs and the right to repair, etc...

Having said that, I'm also more concerned about buying what I actually need based on what I work on, in this case and for the purposes of this thread. If I don't need it or work on anything that uses it, security torx for example, I'm not going to buy it or otherwise want it in my "portable tool kit".

While we're off-topic, it's a discussion for another day, but I'm trying to narrow down and focus only on my most used and favorite tools and put together a "portable tool kit". I don't have a tool box anymore and 90% of my tools are in storage, mostly in tool bags. Until things change, I'm trying to keep with me just what I need to get by with basic automotive repairs and maintenance. It's a work in progress.

At the moment, my focus is on torx and hex bits. As I said before, I'm looking for an alternative to a full hex and torx socket set, and something I can use with a 1/4" hex impact driver. I want a bit of kit that's smaller, lighter weight and more easily portable.
 
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alinc100

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minke said:
Somewhat off topic: If you have a torx bit with a hole thru it why would you want another the same size without the hole?
Click to expand...
First thing I can think of is if you are using a 1/4" hex impact there is a chance of twisting,cracking,weakening the bit with the hole when using it on a non-security screw that would accept/fill/support the center hole. It may be unlikely to do so,might use it 1000 times without issue..but.....
 
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AJHD

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alinc100 said:
First thing I can think of is if you are using a 1/4" hex impact there is a chance of twisting,cracking,weakening the bit with the hole when using it on a non-security screw that would accept/fill/support the center hole. It may be unlikely to do so,might use it 1000 times without issue..but.....
Click to expand...

I can absolutely see that happening, especially with torx. I'm personally not a fan of torx or hex at all to be honest. I don't see what's wrong with a standard 6 point bolt head. But I digress... I've seen too many bits break or twist. Torx loves to twist, even with a socket and ratchet or hand driver.
 
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KnurledNut

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@AJHD
I have come to appreciate 6” bits, mating them with 1/4 and 5/16 receiving handles, or impact driver.
It takes up much less space, and allows portability.
Lacking available comprehensive options, I pieced together my own set, streamlining it over time.
I currently use a pencil roll for my hex, and what i call “The Bit Bible” (multi zippered case) for everything else: PH, PZ, SL, SQ, Torx, XZN, nutdrivers, bit ratchet, magnetic tools, specialty bits.
The bits are a Heinz 57 mix of quality brands. I try not to buy cheap bits.
 
Last edited:
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d.mcfarland

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I ordered a set. It's not a needed item but when you come across something it can come in handy, at least that's my take. I figured for $16 it could be well worth it after a few uses.

Beats paying $60 for the Blue Point set just to see if they are reasonably good bits.
 
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AJHD

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d.mcfarland said:
I ordered a set. It's not a needed item but when you come across something it can come in handy, at least that's my take. I figured for $16 it could be well worth it after a few uses.

Beats paying $60 for the Blue Point set just to see if they are reasonably good bits.
Click to expand...

I actually picked up the BluePoint set when I was on the truck after I posted this thread. Haven't used the bits yet, but they seem to be good quality. I'm sure my driver will warranty them for me too. He always has open sets missing pieces via warranty exchange.

I ordered that set on Amazon earlier today. It will be Thursday. I figure even one successful use will be worth the $16. But we'll see if they are any good.
 
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nezzman

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I find my PB Swiss bits work well.

I have 25mm, 50mm and 95mm bits.

There but holder is the best thought out I have used.

Screwdriver Bits

Buy PB Swiss Tools Screwdriver Bits here. Unlimited guarantee. 100% Swiss Made. Free next day delivery for UK mainland orders over £100 net. We ship worldwide.
www.onlyqualitytools.com www.onlyqualitytools.com
 

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Milton Shaw

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Klein sells a insert bit screwdriver with a full set of the weird bits in a holder for about $30. I went on line and bought the matching set of regular bits in the same size holder. Both go on the screwdriver shank and that gives you just about every size/type you need in one hand. The other thing I hate is the plastic holders that hold the bits so tight you have to use pliers to get the bits out and just about a hammer to get them back in. Milwaukee has about the tightest bit box retainers I have ever tried to use. Then I hate the bit holders for your drill that don't prevent the bit from sticking and staying in the screw. I eventually found one that was adjustable with an "O" ring that could be tightened to keep the bit in the drill.
 
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carmantl

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Got the cheapo Amazon bit set in today, they seem to be well built, will update after some severe use.
 
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