Socket Bit Holder?

[Stuey]

I have a few screwdriver bit sockets and hex sockets, but was wondering if I could make better use of all of my insert bits and power bits by getting a bit holder socket.

I know I could just use a 1/4" socket in a pinch, but I'd rather have a proper bit holder that has a ball indent or magnetic base. Do these even exist? I have a 1/4" drive 1/4" hex bit holder that I purchased from a cycling shop, but would like to find a reputable branded one, and one in a 3/8" drive size.

So far I found some made by Proto, but the only ones I could actually find to purchase are impact sockets. Do you guys have any suggestions as to where I can find such an accessory at an affordable price? Also, tool trucks are mostly out of the question.

Thanks!

 

[dxdexter]

These sockets exist , but the only time I have seen them was part of a hand held impact driver set. I'm not sure who sells them separately. Google "Impact driver " and you will may get some results.

 

[Stuey]

I know where to find the impact driver versions; what I'm looking for are bit sockets to use in standard ratchets.

I don't need to use bits with a ratchet that often or I'd just buy the screwdriver sockets that I need. I also know of relatively cheap offset bit holders, but they're meant for light duty driving and don't provide the torque or leverage I need.

Could the impact versions safely work with hand ratchets?

 

[Stuey]

What about the sockets at the top of this page (McMaster)?

Non-impact power sockets??? Could I still use them with manual tools?

There are also more of the same at the middle of this page.

I'm starting to think that as long as they're not in an impact tool they should work fine.

 

[Charles (in GA)]

Apex makes them. I think Lowes has them on the wall in the tool section with the bits. We use 'em at work all the time, both 1/4 drive and 3/8 drive.

Charles

 

[eschoendorff]

These sockets come in GearWrench tool sets all the time....

 

[Stuey]

Like this one?

The site doesn't list a 3/8" drive 1/4" holder though, nor have I have been able to find them by themselves.

 

[Merkava_4]

APEX PDF LINK

Go to catalog page 26 which is PDF page 34.

Look at SC-108. It's a 1/4"drive socket with a 1/4"female hex with a set screw.

That might be what you're looking for.

I would've posted an image, but the upload button at Photobucket isn't working tonight.

I HATE PHOTOBUCKET!

 

[Stuey]

Yup. Those are definitely along the lines of what I'm looking for. Where would I be able to purchase them, though? Paying more in shipping than for the product surely stinks, which is why I would have hoped to have sourced it locally or via McMaster since I always order little doodahs from them anyways.

At least now I know that what I need actually exists!

I can only seem to find the quick release version at $44+ which is way too much. Maybe I'll go for the *shudder* import or Irwin versions w/ or w/o set screw for <$5. I didn't know Irwin made a version of these, but saw it at MSC.

 

[Danglerb]

http://www.google.com/products?q=bit+holder+socket&btnG=Search+Products&scoring=p

 

[Merkava_4]

At least now I know that what I need actually exists!

They probably have it at Gordon's Industrial in downtown Fresno CA. That's where I get all my APEX stuff.

 

[boiler7904]

I've got a 1/4" drive socket made by SK for insert bits. I've got the same thing made by Irwin? in 3/8". Both work fine.

 

[Danglerb]

I've got some 1/2" shank hex bits, even one 5/8", and I haven't figured out how I want to apply some serious torque with them, bit holder sockets, regular sockets, or what.

 

[TNToy]

Matco makes 'em. They use a snap-ring to retain the bit in the socket, so they don't come out as easily as the cheesy magnet-type ones.

AP86DA - 1/4" drive - $9.90

BP86DA - 3/8" drive - $14.10

http://www.matcotools.com/Catalog/toolcatalog.jsp?cattype=T&cat=2328&page=1舚