I found a set of Snap-On standard duty torx bits for a price I'm willing to pay. However, reading back through old posts opinions on the standard duty bits seemed to be mixed. Some thought they were ok, while others had issues with them twisting off. Currently I am using VIM torx bits and Zephyr 1/4" or 5/16" bits in a bit holding socket. Would the Snap-On torx bit sockets be any better than what I'm currently using?
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Snap-On standard duty torx bits?
- Thread starter 65k10
- Start date
sweet victory
Well-known member
Are you talking about 1/4" hex bits, or bit sockets?
As far as hex bits go, Zypher is the private label manufacturer for Snap On's hex bits. I would not be surprised if they made the bits for their bit sockets as well.
I own Snap On's torx bit sockets, and have not had any issues with them. I also make sure the head of the fastener is fairly clean before trying to break something loose.
As far as hex bits go, Zypher is the private label manufacturer for Snap On's hex bits. I would not be surprised if they made the bits for their bit sockets as well.
I own Snap On's torx bit sockets, and have not had any issues with them. I also make sure the head of the fastener is fairly clean before trying to break something loose.
Sorry for not being clear. I am looking at bit sockets like this.
https://shop.snapon.com/product/TOR...ve-TORX-T30-Standard-Bit-Socket-Driver/FTX30E
What I have is working fine, but I like having backups since I don't really have quick access to stores that sell tools.
https://shop.snapon.com/product/TOR...ve-TORX-T30-Standard-Bit-Socket-Driver/FTX30E
What I have is working fine, but I like having backups since I don't really have quick access to stores that sell tools.
purplezr2
Well-known member
Sorry for not being clear. I am looking at bit sockets like this.
https://shop.snapon.com/product/TOR...ve-TORX-T30-Standard-Bit-Socket-Driver/FTX30E
What I have is working fine, but I like having backups since I don't really have quick access to stores that sell tools.
I don't like them as much as the gold bits personally.
I’m pretty sure the bits are interchangeable (black and gold). My 2 cents save your money but if you need another set the standard snap-on will be fine. If you happen to break one just replace it with a gold bit now you have a heavy duty. My snap-on guy replaces all broken bits with the gold If possible.
Buckgnarly
Well-known member
I have both, the gold are tapered for a tighter fit. I usually grab those first and have had no problems, in fact I like the fit. Of course most **** I see up here is just that, rusted ****!
Htscheg
Well-known member
Ive had a set for years and they work just fine
ssdave
Banned
My set works fine. I've been using them for 6 or 8 years.
I put some extras up for sale in the classified a while back, haven't sold yet:
https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=461508
I put some extras up for sale in the classified a while back, haven't sold yet:
https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=461508
FuzzyTiger
Well-known member
From what I understand the gold bits are coated with titanium nitride. Just like your drill bits. The titanium nitride keeps the bit from wearing so the more tightly machined edges continue to bite over time. Essentially the same function it serves for the drill bits. I believe they also have a different metallurgy so they are stronger too.
I think they will do as advertised - take more abuse and last longer. I imagine a new standard duty and a new heavy duty will perform comparably. But after they've been used a few times the standard duty has begun to wear and becomes more prone to slipping. Look at a stripped torx bolt for example, there is usually quite a bit of material on the edges that didn't strip out because it just wasn't engaged. That's why hammering in a larger size sometimes works, you're trying to engage the remnants that your original bit didn't. The heavy duty bit would continue to engage those edges since it won't wear as easily. Also worth pointing out that there is a lot more surface area on the outer edges of the fastener than the inner so it's not even a linear drop off in performance. It's like using a smaller sized torx than what it actually is - you'll strip immediately.
I think they will do as advertised - take more abuse and last longer. I imagine a new standard duty and a new heavy duty will perform comparably. But after they've been used a few times the standard duty has begun to wear and becomes more prone to slipping. Look at a stripped torx bolt for example, there is usually quite a bit of material on the edges that didn't strip out because it just wasn't engaged. That's why hammering in a larger size sometimes works, you're trying to engage the remnants that your original bit didn't. The heavy duty bit would continue to engage those edges since it won't wear as easily. Also worth pointing out that there is a lot more surface area on the outer edges of the fastener than the inner so it's not even a linear drop off in performance. It's like using a smaller sized torx than what it actually is - you'll strip immediately.
B_Bimmer
Well-known member
All bits wear, the advantage of snap on is it's easy to get a quality replacement if you have access to a driver.
Wamsutta
Well-known member
I have the standard set that comes on a clip rail. I like them. The bit doesn't wiggle inside the socket like Craftsman and Proto does. The bits are replaceable via dealer.
Mohawk Dave
Well-known member
Snap-on makes all their SDM short bits in house since before 2000, and all of their bits for their Torx sockets including the longer 210EFTXL set. They also make their own hex bits.
Only their power bits longer than 1" are outsourced to Zephyr which are stamped with a Z.
This is typical myth/misinformation that's been passed around until it becomes fact.
I guess it's time for me to go make some popcorn.....