Tools from the old world

[Dave455]

I thought 'soft' magnets are metals that can be easily magnetized and demagnetized like screwdriver tips. Are there metals that stick to magnets without becoming magnetized?

I should have listened more at school.

Well, I’m using compass terminology, which is a bit specialised.

If your screwdriver was put in a magnetic field, say close to a magneto, and it retained some magnetism when the magneto was earthed, then that’s “hard iron”.

If your screwdriver was inserted into the same field, and developed some magnetism again, but this time lost the magnetism when the magneto was earthed, then that’s “soft iron”!

This isn’t something most people need to know...!

 

[pizza]

i'm more familiar with terms like ferromagnetic, paramagnetic, diamagnetic. never heard of hard/soft iron, hm

 

[afazz]

Facom haul from Ultimate Garage. The 440 wrenches are very nice!

 

[Dave455]

i'm more familiar with terms like ferromagnetic, paramagnetic, diamagnetic. never heard of hard/soft iron, hm

They’re terms used in compass adjustment, specifically in reference to compass deviation - errors caused by ferrous objects.

Probably a bit of a diversion from the original problem, but they’re common in aircraft instrumentation, which is more my area than electronics. The presence of “soft iron” is the reason an aircraft compass has to be “swung” (it’s deviation measured) with engines and all electrical systems on!

I suspect the electronic world has its own terminology and definitions, but I’m not familiar with them!

 

[mr.lemons]

From the £1 boxes at the autojumble.

Put to use cleaning up pallets. The Elliott Lucas pincers (Cannock England) work very well as nail removers as they are very close to being flush cutters, so they can grab nail heads that are almost flush to the pallets. A search suggests they may be 'upholstery pincers.'

Not 'old world' but worth mentioning that the Crescent nail pullers that I've had for a while are next to useless as they can only grab at nails that are protruding quite a lot from the pallets.

 

[bargainhuntingking]

The Elliott Lucas pincers (Cannock England) work very well as nail removers as they are very close to being flush cutters, so they can grab nail heads that are almost flush to the pallets.

Good tip. I’ve seen those around but didn’t know their intended use. Now I do. Is that English model better than the Knipex version for nail removal?

 

[Tostal]

Wiha.

The shaky picture is of a Wiha 339, 'T'-handled 3/8" driver. The 2x Stubbies are a 10mm (c. 3/8") wide straight blade and a No.3 Philips, the last 2 are 350mm (c. 14") long blade No.1 and 2 Philips.

Tostal.

 

[Tostal]

Dowidat 'Master Nip' Pincers'/Nippers. I love the color! Might re-finish one of my old bench vises if I can find a match.

Dowidat No. 135 Brake shoe spring pliers.

Dowidat 4mm Nut Driver.

T~

 

[Tostal]

Zubi-Ondo, made in Spain.

9" Adjustable/pipe Wrench. Looks cheap but works fine.

Tostal.

 

[Dave455]

Put to use cleaning up pallets. The Elliott Lucas pincers (Cannock England) work very well as nail removers as they are very close to being flush cutters, so they can grab nail heads that are almost flush to the pallets. A search suggests they may be 'upholstery pincers.'

The Elliott Lucas pincers should work well as nail pullers, that’s what they are designed for!

I’ve found them to be pretty decent too.

The ones shown are regular “carpenters pincers”.

Upholsterers pincers do exist, but they are a slightly different tool.

Here’s a scan from an old catalogue.

 

[mr.lemons]

Is that English model better than the Knipex version for nail removal?

Yes. The Knipex I bought are 'end cutters' though, so not a fair comparison. Knipex make pincers that I assume work well as nail pullers.

The Elliott Lucas pincers should work well as nail pullers, that’s what they are designed for!

I wish that logic was true for the Crescent nail pullers.

'Flush cutting edges' is the main thing I got from this. Most pincers I’ve seen are like this which is a bit useless for nails. Not sure why it's a more common design. Maybe stronger cutting edges.

 

[Monte]

Laser external deburring/chamfering tool

 

[bargainhuntingking]

I thought his was an interesting discussion of some German tools:

EDIT: This link has a good discussion on the origin of traditional German tool manufacturer names (Dowidat, Hazet, Geodore, Rahsol, Stahlwille) starting after 20-21 minutes. The names are contractions of combinations of the founders' names and location of the factory:

Also, some additional practical opinions here.

Also, has anyone noticed this increase price in German tools imported to the US mentioned in a post from last year?

https://toolguyd.com/german-hand-tool-tariffs-102019/

A further discussion of tariffs affecting more import tool prices starting next month:

https://toolguyd.com/little-machine-shop-tariffs-notice-102020/

 

[Cynical huckster]

A small gift from King Tony distributor By the way, these are real 6 mm combination wrench and same size socket.

 

[E.T.]

I thought his was an interesting discussion of some German tools:

Also, has anyone noticed this increase price in German tools imported to the US mentioned in a post from last year?

https://toolguyd.com/german-hand-tool-tariffs-102019/

A further discussion of tariffs affecting more import tool prices starting next month:

https://toolguyd.com/little-machine-shop-tariffs-notice-102020/

My last order from Amazon.de, On October 13th, I noticed a much higher shipping cost than usual even for standard, as well as less local tax removed from final price. Usually shipping out of EU removed 15% in local taxes. This order only 7%. Will probably be my last order for a while. Got a couple individual Hazet 3/8” sockets, Hazet 1/2 “smart case”, and a Knipex snap ring pliers set. Standard shipping was $32. Items prices themselves appear to be normal, at least for now.

Ordered a set of hammers last year and shipping was only like $10!

I am wondering if tariffs are factored into the shipping cost? Or will US customs be sending me a bill?

 

[mr.lemons]

'Hultafors launches ergonomic colour-coded screwdrivers.'

Anyone know who makes them? I thought they maybe Bahco handles, but according to their website, they are made in Germany.

https://www.hultafors.co.uk/news/screwdrivers_2020

 

[JBH]

My last order from Amazon.de, On October 13th, I noticed a much higher shipping cost than usual even for standard, as well as less local tax removed from final price. Usually shipping out of EU removed 15% in local taxes. This order only 7%. Will probably be my last order for a while. Got a couple individual Hazet 3/8” sockets, Hazet 1/2 “smart case”, and a Knipex snap ring pliers set. Standard shipping was $32. Items prices themselves appear to be normal, at least for now.

Ordered a set of hammers last year and shipping was only like $10!

I am wondering if tariffs are factored into the shipping cost? Or will US customs be sending me a bill?

Shipping has skyrocketed. That is because of Covid, and exacerbated by our criminally mismanaged response to it (vote!).

The lower tax rebate is because Germany temporarily lowered the national MwSt (VAT) as a stimulus measure.

 

[Monte]

'Hultafors launches ergonomic colour-coded screwdrivers.'

Anyone know who makes them? I thought they maybe Bahco handles, but according to their website, they are made in Germany.

https://www.hultafors.co.uk/news/screwdrivers_2020

I don´t know....just a guess....if you look at the Hultafors flexible shaft driver and then at this Athlet driver...:

 

[Reed Prince]

A couple of recently emailed promos that others might find interesting.

 

[mr.lemons]

Mr Monte Do you know anything about Athlet? They make pretty looking, German made screwdrivers, but no one seams to care. Not on here anyway. Do you know if they make more sales as an OEM for other brands rather than under their own brand name, similar to Oplast or Bost?

btw I hear that Wiha may be moving screwdriver manufacturing to Poland, so there may not be many German screwdrivers available soon. My source was a random, but friendly chap on Reddit so it could be bull poop.

 

[measuredtwice]

Don't know any details but, according to Wiha, their facility in Poland does "molding and assembly". Not sure what is encompassed by "molding". Screwdriver handles?? Plastic cases??

Wiha Factory Locations

Wiha Mönchweiler Germany
Production & Heat Treat of Screwdriver Blades and Hex Tools

Wiha KWB Buchs Switzerland
Wiha measurement tools and articulated hose systems, VDE Pliers & Cutters

Wiha Gadansk Poland
Molding & Assembly

Wiha Song Cong Vietnam
Forging, Grinding, Milling

 

[mr.lemons]

Oh, so maybe current Wiha drivers are not fully made in Germany then. Could just be the blades. I'm sure it makes no difference to the product, but interesting to know.

Gühring drill bits + Portasol hot knife tip.

Autojumble tools after a vinegar bath. Amazingly, the Knipex are survivors with sharp and true cutting edges.

Tried the cheap power bit chuck. Not surprisingly wobbly, even compared to power bit drill bits, but does function in a pinch.

 

[Monte]

Mr Monte Do you know anything about Athlet? They make pretty looking, German made screwdrivers, but no one seams to care. Not on here anyway. Do you know if they make more sales as an OEM for other brands rather than under their own brand name, similar to Oplast or Bost?

I think they are mainly a OEM for others. If you look at the parent company of Athlet which is Wuro www.wuro.de and if you click here: https://www.wuro.de/sonderwerkzeuge.html and scroll through the pics and watch the short video sequence you will recognize screwdriver handles from tools sold as "Matador", you will see (surprisingly) "CK" pliers handles and "C.K." VDE screwdrivers and a "Wago" screwdriver handle (the green one) or a green T-handle which you also can find in blue from "Dönges" ...just a couple of examples...

btw I hear that Wiha may be moving screwdriver manufacturing to Poland, so there may not be many German screwdrivers available soon. My source was a random, but friendly chap on Reddit so it could be bull poop.

Probably could make sense for them...If the already have a factory there... bits are from Vietnam and it works out for them too it seems.....

Don't know any details but, according to Wiha, their facility in Poland does "molding and assembly". Not sure what is encompassed by "molding". Screwdriver handles?? Plastic cases??

Mold the handles onto the blade i guess...

 

[dkroth]

Leichtung wood drill bit set. 1/8" - 1/2", by 1/64" Made in Austria.

I don't know if these are any good, but I can use a set of wood specific bits. Notice the 1/2" is from a different set, but I think I already have a random 1/2" bit that will slot right in there.

.

 

[JBH]

Mr Monte Do you know anything about Athlet? They make pretty looking, German made screwdrivers, but no one seams to care. Not on here anyway. Do you know if they make more sales as an OEM for other brands rather than under their own brand name, similar to Oplast or Bost?

btw I hear that Wiha may be moving screwdriver manufacturing to Poland, so there may not be many German screwdrivers available soon. My source was a random, but friendly chap on Reddit so it could be bull poop.

The current 26-in-1 units are made in Poland.

 

[cheechi]

Yeah it's official. I tried really hard to like the Kraftform Kompakt Turbo. I bought two.

The Kobalt double drive is a better product in every capacity except comfort. The fact it has like 0 in-lb of torque is useful in situations. but if i am picking only one of them up out of the drawer it will be the double drive 10/10 times.

 

[dutchgray]

Gühring drill bits

Those the cheap sets from Zoro?
I got a few sets on order if they are
Look like they ought to be a decent general purpose drill bit.

 

[mr.lemons]

Yes. £16 Zoro.

 

[Dave455]

Yes. £16 Zoro.

That’s a seriously decent price!

That includes VAT, and delivery too if you can make the order up to £20!

I’ve just ordered two more sets, and I already have spares in stock!

I’d rather hold my wealth in drill sets than money right now anyway!!!

 

[dutchgray]

That’s a seriously decent price!

That includes VAT, and delivery too if you can make the order up to £20!

I’ve just ordered two more sets, and I already have spares in stock!

I’d rather hold my wealth in drill sets than money right now anyway!!!

Thats what I thought too when I saw the post in the deal section, its a lot less then the going rate for the set. I don't think its a good a deal as the plastic box sets of Cleveland drills that were on Cromwell a while ago, which were £6 for the same range of drills if memory serves, but no COO listed.

But any drill set from a named drill bit maker for the same ish price as unknown Chinese manufacturer diy grade rubbish has got to be good for the user.

Heck they are under 1/2 the price of an equivalent Dormer set and we know those are rubbish nowadays.

 

[Lasu]

WGB wrench set

 

[dede2897234]

Hey Guys,

Here are a couple PB Swiss purchases I made several months ago:

Onlyqualitytools (UK)

PB 2212.LH-10 100 degree angle 1.5-10mm hex key set

IMG_20201018_162014983 by david_edelman_ohio, on Flickr

Comparison of Wera Hex-Plus (90 degree angle; top) vs. PB 100 degree angle

IMG_20201018_162512226 by david_edelman_ohio, on Flickr

PB center punches with carbide tips (8, 10, and 12mm X 120mm length)

IMG_20201031_173639107 by david_edelman_ohio, on Flickr

Dave

 

[kiraj]

Beta 3/4

 

[BOG]

Unior Reversible Combination Ratcheting Flex Wrench

Very impressed with the finish and quality made in Slovenia I think...

 

[Alaniho]

Mr Monte Do you know anything about Athlet? They make pretty looking, German made screwdrivers, but no one seams to care. Not on here anyway. Do you know if they make more sales as an OEM for other brands rather than under their own brand name, similar to Oplast or Bost?

btw I hear that Wiha may be moving screwdriver manufacturing to Poland, so there may not be many German screwdrivers available soon. My source was a random, but friendly chap on Reddit so it could be bull poop.

Athlet are mainly an OEM made in Germany forging company, while they do sell under their own brand, they dont push it so much. They were recently taken over by Rotar Group in Holland but there is no change in their setup (so far). I suspect they do a lot of the screwdriver as well as driver and impact bit manufacturing for a lot of the better known brands. Their quality is really excellent. They are probably best known over here for their chisels and punches that are regarded as class leaders.

 

[_Ben_]

Talking of Wiha, I've just picked up a few bits n bobs. I wish they would sell their latest XXL 3 electricians mobile tool case empty. I contacted them direct about it and was told it isn't on their radar. Shame really.

 

[Kedukettu]

Unior Reversible Combination Ratcheting Flex Wrench



Very impressed with the finish and quality made in Slovenia I think...

Im pretty sure that the origin is Taiwan. Maybe finished in Slovenia.


Lähetetty minun S62 Pro laitteesta Tapatalkilla

 

[mr.lemons]

Athlet are mainly an OEM made in Germany forging company, while they do sell under their own brand, they dont push it so much. They were recently taken over by Rotar Group in Holland but there is no change in their setup (so far).

Is this Rotar? Searching for Rotar group mostly brings up Taiwan/Toptul.
https://www.rotar.com/en

Talking of Wiha, I've just picked up a few bits n bobs.

Very nice. Microfinish seams to be getting harder to find in the UK. There's not much of a range on the German website either. Wonder if they are phasing it out. Seams to be loads available on US websites though. I've been looking for a Microfinish bit driver for ages.

Package from Germany arrived today while I was outside servicing my car.

Terrible packing, spanners were falling out.

Contents are not German.

Bought a 10mm a while ago and have been trying it. Really like the deep offset. Find it helpful more times than not. Nice to have clearance for my knuckles.

Ring ends are a bit thicker than more premium spanners and the beam edges are a little sharp/thin on the smaller sizes. Probably not the best quality, but hopefully good enough. They are standard length or short when compared to Snap on or Stahlwille 14s. Cheap as chips from motointegrator, even with quite high postage cost to the UK. Think they took seven days to get here.

May try the offset ring spanners. Five offset ring spanners, covering 10-19mm is less than 15 Euro.

Anyone found any other good deals from motointegrator worth adding on to an order, other than the long Toptul spanner set?

 

[c7z06]

Here is a well used framing hammer I found the other day while rummaging through an old tool box.

 

[Kedukettu]

Pic 1 Coupe of todays fleamarket finds, unused McEvans Japan made wrench, German stecoge, Polish Derby and VBW 12mm combination wrench.
Pic 2 Set of adjustables, 6" Dowidat, 4" Irega, 8" Bahco and a 8" Finnish made Billnäs wrench which are kind a rare here at this condition.
Pic 3 Set of Jungk german double ended wrenches, filling my Jungk collection.

Lähetetty minun S62 Pro laitteesta Tapatalkilla