Security bit set

[savas]

I am looking to buy the most complete security bit set there is. I am not interested in low quality bits that easily break. Currently I am considering two bit sets: iFixit Manta and Wurth 0614250300. Are they any good? Is there anything else you would recommend to buy (in Europe)?

 

[Rabid Badger]

I can vouch for the quality of the iFixit bits. I have a Mako set that I use daily. Their handles are nice, too.

 

[Bubba Fett]

Their customer service is excellent. I have an older precision micro bit set. It's pretty good, but the newer ones are apparently better.

Wiha is another brand that offers a nice set of security bits in various configurations.

 

[measuredtwice]

Looking for the largest security bit set that's high quality is like looking for a quality set of tools in a blow molded case that includes a hammer, pliers, screwdrivers, and 3 socket sizes.

The large sets are typically low cost imports targeting the general public. Industries buy bits by type, not by set. They know what they need. Consumers like to buy the biggest and cheap imports love selling big sets because they can sell you more stuff.

It looks like you want to buy both microbits and standard bits. Although it's not the biggest standard bit set, the Felo security bit set is made in Germany and the bits are good quality. I've previously seen the set on Amazon UK. If PB Swiss is within your budget, you might also take a look at their security bits. PB Swiss is expensive in the USA but I haven't looked at prices in the UK.

I think the sets you linked are probably made in Taiwan. I don't have them but there are LOTS of bit sets from Taiwan that are very inexpensive. I don't know about availability in Europe though. You might also take a look at Wiha bits (Vietnam).

 

[Rabid Badger]

Looking for the largest security bit set that's high quality is like looking for a quality set of tools in a blow molded case that includes a hammer, pliers, screwdrivers, and 3 socket sizes.

The large sets are typically low cost imports targeting the general public. Industries buy bits by type, not by set. They know what they need. Consumers like to buy the biggest and cheap imports love selling big sets because they can sell you more stuff.

It looks like you want to buy both microbits and standard bits. Although it's not the biggest standard bit set, the Felo security bit set is made in Germany and the bits are good quality. I've previously seen the set on Amazon UK. If PB Swiss is within your budget, you might also take a look at their security bits. PB Swiss is expensive in the USA but I haven't looked at prices in the UK.

I think the sets you linked are probably made in Taiwan. I don't have them but there are LOTS of bit sets from Taiwan that are very inexpensive. I don't know about availability in Europe though. You might also take a look at Wiha bits (Vietnam).

iFixit sets are quality tools. The bits are machined and hardened S2 tool steel. They fit fasteners precisely, all the way down to near-microscopic T2 Torx.

I've used my set to repair everything from smart watches to happy meal toys. After 3 years of daily use the only bit that has any visible wear is the #1 Phillips. Even that is only cosmetic, it still fits fasteners perfectly.

 

[savas]

Looking for the largest security bit set that's high quality is like looking for a quality set of tools in a blow molded case that includes a hammer, pliers, screwdrivers, and 3 socket sizes.

The large sets are typically low cost imports targeting the general public.

I am not sure why do you think PB, Wiha or Felo could not make such sets (high quality, consisting of many different types) if they really want. They do make large regular bit sets.

Although it's not the biggest standard bit set, the Felo security bit set is made in Germany and the bits are good quality. (...) If PB Swiss is within your budget, you might also take a look at their security bits.

I have bits from Felo and screwdrivers from PB. Yes, they are good. The problem is that the biggest set from Felo is 020 326 16, which is relatively small. PB does not offer any security bit sets at all, you cannot even buy Clutch and Spline bits separately from them.

Does anyone have any info who makes bits for Wurth? I have looked if there are any similar sets of 105 bits from other manufacturers, but I could not find any.

 

[Sumboodie]

I've had a couple sets for 20+ years and I can't even recall the last time they came in handy.

I had a Holley carb with a "clutch" fastener. I thought, great, I can finally use those bit sets I have. Nope. Nothing fit. Napa had it for under $2.

 

[measuredtwice]

I am not sure why do you think PB, Wiha or Felo could not make such sets (high quality, consisting of many different types) if they really want. They do make large regular bit sets.


I have bits from Felo and screwdrivers from PB. Yes, they are good. The problem is that the biggest set from Felo is 020 326 16, which is relatively small. PB does not offer any security bit sets at all, you cannot even buy Clutch and Spline bits separately from them.

Does anyone have any info who makes bits for Wurth? I have looked if there are any similar sets of 105 bits from other manufacturers, but I could not find any.

What companies "could" do "if they really want" is not what they actually do. Those 3 don't make the biggest sets. And some industrial manufacturers only sell in multiples, not sets.

The biggest sets are typically cheapos. They are made for consumers. Wiha's 39 piece set is a lot smaller than the 100 piece $10 Taiwan sets widely available in the USA. And although I suggested you look at Wiha, they aren't my first choice for bits.

Why do you need the "the most complete" set? Is it going to be mostly unused? Do you actually use 100 different types of security bits every day? If they are rarely used, buy a $10 set and then replace the bits that break with quality bits or drivers.

 

[cstmg8]

I've had no issues with sunex 9729 master bit set.

Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk

 

[Steve_P]

the majority of my bits and drivers are Wiha from Germany. Bulletproof.

Has anyone done any sort of comparison between the Vietnam bits and the German? Just because they're now Vietnam doesn't mean the quality can't be equal. I'm not saying it is, but COO is not the sole determination of quality. there's no reason Wiha couldn't ship their machines and German steel to a country with 10% the labor rate and produce an equal quality product. In theory

 

[savas]

Why do you need the "the most complete" set? Is it going to be mostly unused? Do you actually use 100 different types of security bits every day? If they are rarely used, buy a $10 set and then replace the bits that break with quality bits or drivers.

From time to time I need to unscrew some fancy screws. If I do not have a bit I am looking for that means a lot of time will be wasted ordering it and waiting for the delivery. That is why I want to have an extensive set.

Having $10 bit set is like having no bit set at all. At the worst possible time the bit you need will break. You most likely will not be able to order a spare bit, so you will end up buying a new set - a set that will let you down again and again.

 

[Bubba Fett]

I use security bits quite often, since I do IT and A/V work.

Klein sells a magnetic screwdriver with a set of 1/4" x 1" security bits, and a set of regular bits is also available, but not with a driver for some reason. I can say the bits are good quality, and the driver is one of my favorites. The handle is comfortable and the magnet is very strong. Part Numbers: 32510 for the Driver/security bit set, and 32526 for the regular bits. This will cover most of your needs, but Pentalobe and Pozi-drive bits are noticeably absent, likely because these sets are aimed at electricians.

Again, ifixit is highly recommended. The 112-piece Manta set include a bunch of 1/4" and 4mm bits, and drivers for each size. This company was started by electronics technicians, and the bit selection is based on real-world needs. If I had to start my tool collection over, this would be at the top of the list.

There are a lot of identical 100+ or 200+ bit sets in blow mold cases from various brands. Most of these are rather poor quality, have a lot of duplicates, or missing sizes. They are cheap for a reason. I can't say for certain that there is one complete bit set that will cover everything. More than likely, you will have to get more than one set.

There are downsides to regular insert bits...mainly the length. They are often too short to reach recessed screws, so you still need to get standalone screwdrivers - at least in the most common sizes. Wiha and Wera are the best there is when it comes to precision screwdrivers.

 

[measuredtwice]

From time to time I need to unscrew some fancy screws. If I do not have a bit I am looking for that means a lot of time will be wasted ordering it and waiting for the delivery. That is why I want to have an extensive set.

Having $10 bit set is like having no bit set at all. At the worst possible time the bit you need will break. You most likely will not be able to order a spare bit, so you will end up buying a new set - a set that will let you down again and again.

I would be wary that you don't pay a lot of money for an expensive Taiwan set that is the same as a cheap Taiwan set except with fancy packaging.

If quality is important, I'd skip the microbits and get precision drivers from PB Swiss, Wera, or Wiha. But that might not be an option for you.

 

[Rabid Badger]

Why do you need the "the most complete" set? Is it going to be mostly unused? Do you actually use 100 different types of security bits every day? If they are rarely used, buy a $10 set and then replace the bits that break with quality bits or drivers.

Why on Earth are you recommending generic Chinese pot metal over quality tools with an excellent warranty?

 

[erswill]

Why on Earth are you recommending generic Chinese pot metal over quality tools with an excellent warranty?

BTW ifixit Mako & Manta are made in China

 

[Rabid Badger]

BTW ifixit Mako & Manta are made in China

Even if that's accurate, there is a vast difference between hardened S2 and the soft cheese used for the bits in cheap kits. Also, if I ever do wear out any of my iFixit bits, they'll send me a replacement.

Where else can you get that level of service for $35?

 

[ttpete]

I also have the Ifixit Manta set, and it includes both the 1/4" and 4 mm hex aluminum handle drivers that have ball bearing swivel end caps. Top-quality!

Wiha has some really nice 4 mm hex sets that include security bits, even pentalobe and Torx, with a ratchet and driver handle.

 

[jeffmoss26]

I have this one made by Multicomp Pro, sold by Newark Electronics who are worldwide.

https://www.newark.com/multicomp-pro/mp700128/screwdriver-set-32pc/dp/34AH5387

 

[savas]

I have decided to try iFixit Manta.

 

[ttpete]

I have decided to try iFixit Manta.

Look at what $65 buys:

https://www.ifixit.com/Store/Tools/...yRec2t3vFextc6ncqJM8Ybp02ySeHBncaAqYbEALw_wcB

 

[RoundedNut]

^ those drivers look real nice. I have all the bits but not the drivers... oh the compulsion

 

[FuzzyTiger]

Another recommendation for the iFixit sets.

And on a side note - I think the guy that designed the iFixit sets is actually a member on here. Edit: It probably isn't a single guy. More of a team I'm guessing but it does speak to them actually caring about their product on a personal level.

 

[savas]

I have received my iFixit set today. The time will show of course, but my first impressions are positive. The only thing I could complain is its case. It is made of ABS and does not feel robust.

 

[JazzBlueRT]

I bought this Tekton awhile back. For $24 has nearly everything needed to take most devices apart that use security bits.

https://www.tekton.com/everybit-tech-rescue-kit-28301