KOKEN sockets?

[Magnum440d100]

With koken not too common here in the states, who here has koken sockets? How long have you had them? Have you put them through the paces? Have you had to warranty them? How has the finish held up to chemicals, wear and tear, etc?

I was looking at some online and they sure are purdy.

I am looking at upgrading my sockets from a hodgepodge of craftsman (us and offshore), proto, SK, Indestro, kobalt, etc to something where I can have all one brand.

While I don’t work in a shop, I do use my tools everyday. Everything from motors, transmissions, clutch jobs, suspension work, etc....

I’m heavily leaning toward Koken...

Let’s hear your experience!

 

[M6erfan]

Already several other threads dedicated to Ko-ken and Tools from Japan...

Ko-ken sockets are world class and they probably have the largest socket catalog of any tool manufacturer in the world. Also, they're a damn bargain IMO.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

I have 1/4 drive koken zeal sockets, nut grip sockets, wobble extensions, and the single and double universal. I have the 3/8 standard extensions, single/double universals, and 3/8 nut grip sockets. I use them daily at work, have for about 1 year, and they're great money makers. Zeal 1/4 are shorter than any other brand (snap on sockets require their ratchet to be low profile, it's a pass through design), and IMO the correct base length for 1/4 drive. Nut grip works pretty well; not perfect, but magnetic stuff has disadvantages too. I prefer them for installation more so than removal. As I said, the low profile, plus LONG 1/4 ratchets, makes lots of previously hidden/restricted fasteners within your reach.

I broke one extension, 1/4 approx 1 inch long. Franks tools warrantied it, it broke driving a 7mm hex bolt on my m12 ratchet. I have another with a bad detent ball, I haven't warrantied, I purchased snap-on as replacements. All of this said, I work my 1/4 stuff hard. Wobble angle is very nice, but I do crank on them pretty good. SO is better IMO, but also much more expensive. I'd compare them to my SK wobbles.



My biggest issue with koken, is sizing. No 9mm, no 15mm. IIRC my 3/8 nut grip set omits 16mm. I have needed all of these sizes. Just the way of the world. I've made 4-5 koken orders with frankstools. I am happy with the product obviously, it's a great value. Not sure what all you work on, my I'm telling you the 1/4 zeal sockets are GAME CHANGERS. It's like 1/2 cut VIM torx, changes your whole method and understanding of what you can reach. I'd recommend that socket set for anyone working on cars. It's the height 1/4 drive is supposed to be. The universals are really nice, again my focus is 1/4 as the most valuable. That double universal, plus a zeal socket, and a 2 foot extension, means LOTS of obscured stuff can get removed. Then reinstalled with the nut-grip sockets.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

Best part is the price. I'm quite happy with my new 3/8 extensions after their first week. Time will tell how they hold up. Their counterparts are primarily SK, Williams, and Snap-on. The stuff is so cheap, for what you get. I have their spark plug sockets too, the 16mm retention tab is really cool, and the 12point 14mm is very nicely finished. It's basically snap on levels of fit/finish, at gearwrench pricing.

 

[Magnum440d100]

I have 1/4 drive koken zeal sockets, nut grip sockets, wobble extensions, and the single and double universal. I have the 3/8 standard extensions, single/double universals, and 3/8 nut grip sockets. I use them daily at work, have for about 1 year, and they're great money makers. Zeal 1/4 are shorter than any other brand (snap on sockets require their ratchet to be low profile, it's a pass through design), and IMO the correct base length for 1/4 drive. Nut grip works pretty well; not perfect, but magnetic stuff has disadvantages too. I prefer them for installation more so than removal. As I said, the low profile, plus LONG 1/4 ratchets, makes lots of previously hidden/restricted fasteners within your reach.

I broke one extension, 1/4 approx 1 inch long. Franks tools warrantied it, it broke driving a 7mm hex bolt on my m12 ratchet. I have another with a bad detent ball, I haven't warrantied, I purchased snap-on as replacements. All of this said, I work my 1/4 stuff hard. Wobble angle is very nice, but I do crank on them pretty good. SO is better IMO, but also much more expensive. I'd compare them to my SK wobbles.



My biggest issue with koken, is sizing. No 9mm, no 15mm. IIRC my 3/8 nut grip set omits 16mm. I have needed all of these sizes. Just the way of the world. I've made 4-5 koken orders with frankstools. I am happy with the product obviously, it's a great value. Not sure what all you work on, my I'm telling you the 1/4 zeal sockets are GAME CHANGERS. It's like 1/2 cut VIM torx, changes your whole method and understanding of what you can reach. I'd recommend that socket set for anyone working on cars. It's the height 1/4 drive is supposed to be. The universals are really nice, again my focus is 1/4 as the most valuable. That double universal, plus a zeal socket, and a 2 foot extension, means LOTS of obscured stuff can get removed. Then reinstalled with the nut-grip sockets.

Best part is the price. I'm quite happy with my new 3/8 extensions after their first week. Time will tell how they hold up. Their counterparts are primarily SK, Williams, and Snap-on. The stuff is so cheap, for what you get. I have their spark plug sockets too, the 16mm retention tab is really cool, and the 12point 14mm is very nicely finished. It's basically snap on levels of fit/finish, at gearwrench pricing.

I work on cars from the 60’s up into about 2010 or so. But anything can come into my “shop”.

Thank you for your write up. This is what I was looking for. Someone who has them and actually uses them

I’ve been doing a fair bit of research through the internet and all I can find is people that have bought them, but no accounts of people who have had them for years and pushed them to their limits.

I’ll go ahead and order a set and use them. If they perform well, I’ll buy the rest. Thank you

 

[lugnut71]

Koken sockets look nice and I might have to try some, snap on 1/4 low profile sockets will work on any 1/4 ratchet

 

[M6erfan]

I Bought my first Ko-ken sockets (chromes) about 5 years ago, they've held up to everything I've asked of them. I haven't tried their impact sockets but from what I understand they're top tier as well. Once you try their extensions with the knurling and flutes on the drive end, you will be spoiled for anything else.

 

[General Geoff]

I have 1/2" drive 12 point Ko-ken sockets, as well as a full assortment of spring clip spark plug sockets. They've been excellent. The 1/2" drive sockets I've had for several years now, subjected a few of them to about ~400 lb ft of torque and they took it without complaint. Still look new if I clean em up.

 

[LXCam]

Come on down the street K and try them out for yourself.

 

[M6erfan]

Yeah, their spark plug sockets are my favorite too. Their Zeal line is great too. I can't recall ever hearing anyone ***** about Ko-ken sockets.

Oh, and if you want the smoothest ratchets on the planet...

 

[Magnum440d100]

Come on down the street K and try them out for yourself.

I just might! I have to pull the fuel pump to address an oil leak on my Lincoln. I could drive it over there It would take a full day abouts. I already have the AC compressor out, so that’ll knock some time off.

Or if you want to head on over here. I can shoot you some gas money. I’ll supply the beers too! Heck, you can even check out the Magnum haha

 

[zarbat007]

Pictures from other thread.

Double universal joints 1/4 and 3/8 drive



21 mm in both 3/8 and 1/2 Drive, deep 14 mm 1/2 drive, all 12-point from Koken's standard line



14 mm 12 point magnetic Zeal spark plug socket




10 mm Koken Zeal short socket on left, Snap-on on right



10 mm deep Koken Zeal and Snap on



All have a nice satin chrome finish on them, kinda "grainy". They are well built and you get the impression they are quality tools. I just got mine last week and haven't used them yet. I am sure they will hold up just fine for everyday use, but if it comes to getting a warranty it would be a hassle.

 

[LXCam]

I just might! I have to pull the fuel pump to address an oil leak on my Lincoln. I could drive it over there It would take a full day abouts. I already have the AC compressor out, so that’ll knock some time off.

Or if you want to head on over here. I can shoot you some gas money. I’ll supply the beers too! Heck, you can even check out the Magnum haha

Gas money, lmfao.......ya sure I'll take your $.08 cents.


I'll call ya tomorrow evening bud.

 

[GrantCee]

Once you try their extensions with the knurling and flutes on the drive end, you will be spoiled for anything else.

^^^ Absolutely true. Superb product that makes you wonder how you ever got along without them.

 

[jimmy_]

Koken essentially doesn't have a warranty. If you are a professional and use your tools everyday support a brand that will take care of you if something breaks. I broke a relatively new 15mm 3/8 socket and they denied warranty.

"Also, we don’t have a warranty in place against breaking sockets once they’ve been in use for an extended period of time as they are a wear item…we really only cover things like obvious manufacturer defects or fluke incidents that could happen shortly after an item is purchased."

This was their response on a socket that was under a year old with not much wear that developed a small crack.

 

[M6erfan]

Koken essentially doesn't have a warranty. If you are a professional and use your tools everyday support a brand that will take care of you if something breaks. I broke a relatively new 15mm 3/8 socket and they denied warranty.

"Also, we don’t have a warranty in place against breaking sockets once they’ve been in use for an extended period of time as they are a wear item…we really only cover things like obvious manufacturer defects or fluke incidents that could happen shortly after an item is purchased."

This was their response on a socket that was under a year old with not much wear that developed a small crack.

Yeah, Japan and Euro tools don't have "lifetime warranties". Seems to be more of a U.S. thing. Plenty of brands that do though. SK, Tekton, HF, the truck brands, Carlyle, etc...

Doesn't bother me in the least. If Ko-Ken was charging Truck prices it would, but they're not.

 

[Mr_B]

I got no interest in basic hand tool warranty, best warranty you can get is self warranty .
I've used koken for some socketry over 25yrs.
First introduced to the brand by independent tool truck 'captain tools'
He did warranty most tools he sold within sensible limits.
We had chrome peel issues on some early sockets, bit like get on jaws of snapon open end wrenches, got them swapped out no bother.
Some of the special design sockets, extensions and swivels are hard find alternative options and the ratchets are super smooth.
I got a 24yr old palm ratchets that almost feel gearless, slender sockets are god send at times.
At sensible prices it really worth having so don't over look koken brand and don't worry on warranty as paying 3 times price just for a free t-shirt and warranty not cost effective, self warranty cheaper and you can look after your tool replacements from loss, theft, wear, breakages and just fact want upgrade newer better than anyone else can .

 

[Handyandy23]

Koken essentially doesn't have a warranty. If you are a professional and use your tools everyday support a brand that will take care of you if something breaks. I broke a relatively new 15mm 3/8 socket and they denied warranty.

"Also, we don’t have a warranty in place against breaking sockets once they’ve been in use for an extended period of time as they are a wear item…we really only cover things like obvious manufacturer defects or fluke incidents that could happen shortly after an item is purchased."

This was their response on a socket that was under a year old with not much wear that developed a small crack.

I don't own any Koken stuff, but it's hard to find fault in the logic of their answer. Really a warranty on anything should only be for manufacturing defects or infant mortality.

They also don't advertise a warranty or lifetime replacements, so it isn't like they're misleading people. It's definitely a cultural thing - Americans expect lifetime warranty on inexpensive hand tools and just take for granted that's what they'll get, without even checking on the warranty. If that is an important thing for some then they should likely stick with American marketed brands.

On the flip side there are a lot of companies here that throw out LIFETIME HASSLE FREE WARRANTY like it's nothing, and then fail to live up to it. Craftsman is the classic example, but there are lots of others. Kobalt is all but dead and there's been several accounts of people being given the run around on simple replacements. Also multiple accounts of GearWrench giving people a hard time on warranty items.

To me it's a lot more egregious when a company makes it a point to promise a lifetime warranty, and then fails to live up to it.

 

[Yarpo]

I've been looking to buy a Koken zeal set and am only dragging my feet because outside of amazon.jp I dont know where to buy them. Also considering my use for them is very limited, should I just get the OEM tools low profile stuff? I'm sure koken quality is exceptional but this is me buyingy something more as a want than a need, so I'm torn.

 

[jimmyin3D]

I've been looking to buy a Koken zeal set and am only dragging my feet because outside of amazon.jp I dont know where to buy them. Also considering my use for them is very limited, should I just get the OEM tools low profile stuff? I'm sure koken quality is exceptional but this is me buyingy something more as a want than a need, so I'm torn.

I honestly thought the same way but if you want sockets that have a nice precise fitment onto bolts and low profile these are it. If I somehow lost these I would definetly buy another set. And the magnet rail these come on are awesome. I pull my 3/8 set for most work.

I’ve heard of people trying global rakuten but I think amazon Japan is the best. Ships super fast usually 3-5 days and price is relatively cheap.

 

[LXCam]

I've been looking to buy a Koken zeal set and am only dragging my feet because outside of amazon.jp I dont know where to buy them. Also considering my use for them is very limited, should I just get the OEM tools low profile stuff? I'm sure koken quality is exceptional but this is me buyingy something more as a want than a need, so I'm torn.

Franks tools


https://www.frankstools.com/

 

[M6erfan]

I've been looking to buy a Koken zeal set and am only dragging my feet because outside of amazon.jp I dont know where to buy them. Also considering my use for them is very limited, should I just get the OEM tools low profile stuff? I'm sure koken quality is exceptional but this is me buyingy something more as a want than a need, so I'm torn.

If you're on the fence, get what you want. If not, you'll always regret it. The Zeals are top notch.

 

[shteii01]

I got: Z-eal (shallow) 8, 10, 13mm; nut holder 8, 10, 13mm from Japanese Amazon. My American account login worked there. About 60 USD delivered for six sockets, but I got exactly what I wanted.

 

[Handyandy23]

Franks tools


https://www.frankstools.com/

I can't verify it, but I was told Frank's has stopped selling Koken. They were selling off what they already had on hand and wouldn't be getting any more.

 

[Jim Hunter]

We have some large 2.1/2" drive impact sockets down there for some time , works fine so far...

 

[Yarpo]

If you're on the fence, get what you want. If not, you'll always regret it. The Zeals are top notch.

I want the zeal I for sure. I've been buying a few things I don't need but have been handing off extras to relatives or friends, so that's how I justify it I guess. Might have to look up a translator for amazon.jp and order this set this week 50 dollars~ seems more than reasonable

https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B00CP4SUH4/

 

[tomdog]

Hit the button to the left of the Japanese flag at the bottom. It’ll let you toggle between languages, and most/enough of the pages should be translated to figure things out.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Yarpo]

Hit the button to the left of the Japanese flag at the bottom. It’ll let you toggle between languages, and most/enough of the pages should be translated to figure things out.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

That worked, never knew that existed. I knew you could translate pages pretty easy with certain browsers but didn't know amazon had it all setup for you. Thanks!

 

[J.C.]

I want the zeal I for sure. I've been buying a few things I don't need but have been handing off extras to relatives or friends, so that's how I justify it I guess. Might have to look up a translator for amazon.jp and order this set this week 50 dollars~ seems more than reasonable

https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B00CP4SUH4/

I’m keen on the 1/4” set too... I got the 3/8” not long ago - beaut set, has been really helpful for access in tight spots and they’re top notch sockets.

My initial thoughts and a size comparison:

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8I_BIXu5Aoc" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

 

[Fluelikesymptoms]

I dont personally own ko-Ken sockets but I use them everyday in a manufacturing setting.

Same socket, every minute of every day non stop for years, no failures.

If your life depended on a single socket, koken wouldn't let you down

 

[Qualitytools]

I purchased from Frank's tools the 3/8 Zeal 12 piece sets in regular and deep and love them! The fit and finish are superb and as others have already said the magnetic rail is awesome

 

[jimmyin3D]

I can't verify it, but I was told Frank's has stopped selling Koken. They were selling off what they already had on hand and wouldn't be getting any more.

Yeah I bought both my Zeal sets from franks but it looks like he is not handling Koken anymore. If I remember correctly he had an issue with them over the years , too bad because his prices are pretty competitive and he ships out quickly. (He still sells tons of Japanese Made tools though)

I just checked amazon JP and the 3/8 Zeal 12 pc set is $64 including shipping. That’s cheaper than what I paid for it. Honestly for the price and quality you are getting it’s a no brainer.

And if you take a look at Kokens tool catalog you’ll see they carry so many variations of socketry items. They handle industrial companies in Japan and I don’t think they would survive this long if their tools sucked. Try them! You won’t be disappointed!

 

[German Satin]

Koken sockets are very good, exceptional even, for the money.

 

[bixxjs]

I use a Koken 19mm impact socket daily and it’s a fantastic well engineered tool,would definitely buy more of their tools.

 

[BarryWells]

I use a Koken 19mm impact socket daily and it’s a fantastic well engineered tool,would definitely buy more of their tools.

Get after it. I use Tekton. Nary a problem

 

[jimmyin3D]

Koken Zeal 1/4 and 3/8 socket sets, and got the extra sockets to complete the 3/8 set.

The only gripe that someone pointed out already is that the Zeal line does not carry the 9MM socket, even though their regular line has it. Minor inconvenience.








Sent from my iPhone using The Garage Journal mobile app

 

[giants]

I tried amazon.co.jp and found the RS3400MZ/12 for only $61 vs. Amazon.com at $80.31 (I can't find the 8 pack on amazon.com:

https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B005I7HWM4/

However, when I tried to log in to amazon.co.jp, it gave me an error message. When I clicked on the American flag at the bottom of amazon.co.jp, it redirected to amazon.com and the American pricing.

Anyone have a workaround?
How much is shipping to the US?
Are there any other vendors?

 

[jimmyin3D]

I tried amazon.co.jp and found the RS3400MZ/12 for only $61 vs. Amazon.com at $80.31 (I can't find the 8 pack on amazon.com:

https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B005I7HWM4/

However, when I tried to log in to amazon.co.jp, it gave me an error message. When I clicked on the American flag at the bottom of amazon.co.jp, it redirected to amazon.com and the American pricing.

Anyone have a workaround?
How much is shipping to the US?
Are there any other vendors?

I think I had to make a new account for amazon.JP but just used the same email that I use for American amazon.

Shipping says $7, total comes out to $65 shipped Nov.7-9 arrival.

I just checked and I’m able to buy it. This is probably the cheapest they have been but if you still can’t get on try global rakuten but they are more expensive.

 

[The Fall]

I didn't know about the lack of solid warranty with these tools. That's good to know. They were on my radar. I'll now pass and stick with SK and the industrial brands (Wright, Proto, etc.).

 

[M6erfan]

I didn't know about the lack of solid warranty with these tools. That's good to know. They were on my radar. I'll now pass and stick with SK and the industrial brands (Wright, Proto, etc.).

Ko-ken USA in Massachusetts handles warranty.