Tools of Japan

[CGarage]

More of the Japanese tool companies need to establish a US presence.


There is no reason for the dramatic increase in shipping costs from Japan to US other than to prevent US customers from taking advantage of the favorable exchange rates.

 

[Madjik Man]

I think they have been changing their shipping algorithms to a more per item basis after a flat fee to discourage exchange rate arbitrage and encourage US orders (this was the case on my last order and previous posts in this thread). It might still make sense to eat the shipping on certain higher dollar items if the exchange rate savings more than justify the shipping. Hope this helps.

This.

They caught on and first limited what items would even ship to the US. Now more items are available but the shipping rates have been jacked up.

To mitigate that exchange rate exploitation.

Every once in awhile a Japanese seller will pop up on eBay or Amazon where you can get those amazing deals of yesteryear.

Glad I bought the majority of my Amazon.jp stuff two years ago and last year.

 

[m6z]

Any made in Japan options for hex key screwdrivers? Something similar to this.

 

[tamaraw]

Any made in Japan options for hex key screwdrivers? Something similar to this.

Lots of options; Vessel, Sunflag, Anex, Engineer, KTC, etc.

 

[Dave455]

Any made in Japan options for hex key screwdrivers? Something similar to this.

Vessel Power Grip.

Sadly only available in metric, but very nice.

 

[fireplug]

Hey gang, I'm looking for another Vessel ball grip driver. I absolutely LOVE mine but it won't hold a typical North American driver bit.

Rather than waste time on Google, I figured I'd go to the source. You guys!

As a Canadian I want to be able to use Robertson drivers which would mean using a long driver bit in the handle. Does such a beast exist? The ball form factor is the real reason I love it, so any company with this solution would be good enough for me.
They have this https://vessel.co.jp/english/product/screwdriver/125329 which is a more typical design (one ended driver) but as I understand it the Japanese and North American bits don't interchange right?

 

[tamaraw]

Hey gang, I'm looking for another Vessel ball grip driver. I absolutely LOVE mine but it won't hold a typical North American driver bit.

Rather than waste time on Google, I figured I'd go to the source. You guys!

As a Canadian I want to be able to use Robertson drivers which would mean using a long driver bit in the handle. Does such a beast exist? The ball form factor is the real reason I love it, so any company with this solution would be good enough for me.
They have this https://vessel.co.jp/english/product/screwdriver/125329 which is a more typical design (one ended driver) but as I understand it the Japanese and North American bits don't interchange right?

The main difference between US/Euro/Japan bits is how the quick release retention groove is machined. I think they all fit for the most part but some may not lock in place or have a little sliding play in the connection.

Isn't that Vessel handle just friction fit though? If you want Vessel-branded bits, think the links below might be what you are looking for. They abbreviate Robertson as "SQ" for "square":

Double End Square GO-SAI Bit No.GS14SQ2150(SQ2 x 150 2PC Set) | PRODUCTS INFORMATION | VESSEL CO., INC

full range of information on product groups ranging from tightening tools such as drivers, bit sockets and air tools to anti-static products in the factory

vessel.co.jp

Double End Square GO-SAI Bit No.GS14SQ3150(SQ3 x 150 2PC Set) | PRODUCTS INFORMATION | VESSEL CO., INC

full range of information on product groups ranging from tightening tools such as drivers, bit sockets and air tools to anti-static products in the factory

vessel.co.jp

 

[Reed Prince]

The main difference between US/Euro/Japan bits is how the quick release retention groove is machined. I think they all fit for the most part but some may not lock in place or have a little sliding play in the connection.

Isn't that Vessel handle just friction fit though? If you want Vessel-branded bits, think the links below might be what you are looking for.

I believe there is a ball bearing in the well of these handles, but it is near the tip and doesn't slip into any detents in the bits when they are fully inserted. Using the 150mm bits makes the driver a little longer than a traditional one. Vessel makes many styles that will fit this driver, but I'm not sure about square availability.






Another option is the Anex 397. That ratcheting driver has turned out to be the one I use almost every day. Its direction ring has a center detent that allows you to use it like a standard screwdriver, which is a nice feature. Amazon has them right now for $20.80 which is about as low as they have ever been.

 

[fireplug]

The main difference between US/Euro/Japan bits is how the quick release retention groove is machined. I think they all fit for the most part but some may not lock in place or have a little sliding play in the connection.

Isn't that Vessel handle just friction fit though? If you want Vessel-branded bits, think the links below might be what you are looking for. They abbreviate Robertson as "SQ" for "square":

Double End Square GO-SAI Bit No.GS14SQ2150(SQ2 x 150 2PC Set) | PRODUCTS INFORMATION | VESSEL CO., INC

full range of information on product groups ranging from tightening tools such as drivers, bit sockets and air tools to anti-static products in the factory

vessel.co.jp

Double End Square GO-SAI Bit No.GS14SQ3150(SQ3 x 150 2PC Set) | PRODUCTS INFORMATION | VESSEL CO., INC

full range of information on product groups ranging from tightening tools such as drivers, bit sockets and air tools to anti-static products in the factory

vessel.co.jp

Thanks those indeed might work.

There is a detent of some sort in my handle. However there isn't really enough friction to even use a North American bit without a ton of frustration.

 

[fireplug]

I believe there is a ball bearing in the well of these handles, but it is near the tip and doesn't slip into any detents in the bits when they are fully inserted. Using the 150mm bits makes the driver a little longer than a traditional one. Vessel makes many styles that will fit this driver, but I'm not sure about square availability.






Another option is the Anex 397. That ratcheting driver has turned out to be the one I use almost every day. It's direction ring has a center detent that allows you to use it like a standard screwdriver, which is a nice feature. Amazon has them right now for $20.80 which is about as low as they have ever been.

And you can use North American driver bits with your Annex?

 

[Reed Prince]

There is a detent of some sort in my handle. However there isn't really enough friction to even use a North American bit without a ton of frustration.

My Vessel handles hold long PB Swiss bits and Wiha hex extensions securely. Those are the only long non-Japanese ones I have.

 

[rick carpenter]

And you can use North American driver bits with your Annex?

Yes, you can use western 9mm anvil bits in Anex bit holder handles. I prefer Japanese 13mm anvil bits though myself. There is a [ball detent?] mechanism in the Anex handles that will engage the grooves, but it is for the friction fit and does not hold the bit in that location securely. The bits slide past the mechanism and bottom out with the mechanism and the tight fit of the hex receiver being what holds the bits so nicely.

I'm pretty much sold on the quality of Japanese bits and am slowly making the transition to all Japanese 13mm anvil and 9mm anvil ISO/DIN bits.

 

[Reed Prince]

Recent Amazon Anex reviews.

 

[Etchase]

American bits work in the stubby ratcheting part of the ball grips, and I use this:

VESSEL - BALL GRIP Ratchet Interchangeable Screwdriver with 10 PC. Bit Set 2200MBH120K01 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BZ2SJ67W/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[rick carpenter]

A write-up on my Anex and Vessel bit holder handles and bits...

The Vessel dedicated screwdrivers are +1x75 and +2x150. I wouldn't do without either one of these. My +3x150 in the second pic doesn't see much use. The bit holder handles from left to right are the Anex 3780, ratcheting Anex 306, Vessel 270W, and Anex 3775, and underneath is the ratcheting Anex 397 with a Wiha Centrofix bit holder. The friction fit of Anex and Vessel bits in the Anex handles is in my opinion superior. The (ball?) detent mechanisms do not lock the bits in place, but the ~40mm insertion depths of the close-fitting hex receivers on the Anex 3780, 3775, and 397 are very confidence-inducing. The bits feel a tad looser in the Vessel 270 but it's still very useful for a small stubby. I'm super-pleased with the Centrofix in the Anex 397. It will securely lock in Japanese 13mm anvil bits, western 9mm anvil bits, and C6 style bits. The irony, of course, is that the Centrofix itself is only held via Anex's friction fit mechanism. But I have a 4mm diameter spacer under the Centrofix shank to allow it to bottom out when the ball detent engages the 9mm anvil groove. Works well.

The mix of Anex and Vessel bits are mostly +3, +2, and +1 left to right. Top row is mostly 110mm, with two 135mm and one 100mm. Middle row are 65mm with +0 and +00 on the extreme right. Bottom row are 50mm Vessel bits (including a few reduced-shanks) bought specifically for the Anex 306 handle (second pic, second from right, but they can also fit in the Vessel 270). The Vessel bits bottom out exactly when the 306's ball detent engages the groove in the 9mm anvils. I love how the 306 set-up is working out.

ADD: In the Altoids tin are some hex bits and the +2x-6 insert bit that came with the 270.



Looks like I've got all lengths covered!



BTW, toes included for dramatic effect.

 

[The_Inspector]

What is your experience with the quality between the Vessel and Anex bits? The Vessel look a bit better quality to me, seems like the Anex paint will let go quickly

 

[Pinemarten]

I have Vessel and Sunflag fixed screwdrivers and the Anex 397 ratcheting screwdriver. All are excellent quality.
After listening to my tales of carburetor screw removal/reinstallation with them, my GF decided she need an Anex 397 of her own.

 

[The_Inspector]

I have Vessel and Sunflag fixed screwdrivers and the Anex 397 ratcheting screwdriver. All are excellent quality.
After listening to my tales of carburetor screw removal/reinstallation with them, my GF decided she need an Anex 397 of her own.

I just placed my first order on amazon Japan, ordered a mix of Anex and Vessel bit holders and bits in various lengths. The system at first wouldn't allow me because I needed to order more of one item, I just ignored it and it let me finish the order anyway (Total of 16 items) Curious about the shipping time and quality of the Anex, I already own some Vessel tools and those are great.

 

[rick carpenter]

What is your experience with the quality between the Vessel and Anex bits? The Vessel look a bit better quality to me, seems like the Anex paint will let go quickly

I haven't used them a whole whole lot yet, and none in impact drivers, but the ones I have used have been great. I expect them all to be superb. I'll probably try to paint the Vessel bits in the Anex colors to make finding the right one easier. Not too worried about the paint since they'll be for hand drivers.

Let us know how you like your mixed Anex/Vessel order whenever you can please.

 

[jgeoffr]

Mitutoyo small hole gauge set 3mm-13mm. 154-902.

Picked up for a project a while ago and for the life of me can't quite remember why

 

[Reed Prince]

What is your experience with the quality between the Vessel and Anex bits? The Vessel look a bit better quality to me, seems like the Anex paint will let go quickly

The Anex paint does wear off after a while, but the Vessel paint seems to scratch just as easily. Some Vessel bits have a finish similar to the anodized surfaces of aluminum tools, but it's just paint. The Vessel bits on the right of this picture were a recent cheap eBay purchase, as I was looking for inexpensive replacement bits for my Anex ADM-2100. I bought a couple of them two years ago, but Amazon Japan hasn't had them in stock for months.




Ring magnets that actually touch the fastener seem to hold better than bar ones that magnetize the shaft, and Anex makes the only really slender one that I can find.


If I'm doing general construction and chewing up bits, the red Felo is my favorite. For precision work, I rely on the ADM-2100.

 

[The_Inspector]

Some of my Olfa knives/cissors, really love the quality of these tools

 

[rick carpenter]

Some of my Olfa knives/cissors, really love the quality of these tools

I've got the SVR-2 knife for work. I can wear it in my pocket or the button thingy and it looks enough like a pen that no one asks about it. I use it for office stuff up front in the library and its sturdy enough for out back in the warehouse. It works great. I'm curious about the solid blade that I can buy though because in the warehouse I sometimes use it with 4-5 segments exposed. My 7" SCS-2 scissors work great as well. They stay in my desk drawer and only I and my boss use them.

 

[CGarage]

I like the toes, Hangin’ Ten!

As far as the Anex vs Vessel for ratcheting screwdrivers, the Anex is nothing special and seems to have a low tooth count.

I am not impressed with the Anex ratcheting mechanism on my Anex ratcheting screwdriver purchased about 5 years ago.

The Vessel ratcheting screwdriver is superior in quality and the mechanism is finer.

 

[Reed Prince]

I like Olfas for many applications but after trying out a number of 9mm models I ended up preferring metal bodied NT Cutters.

 

[Qualitytools]

^ I have not tried the Olfa products but I do have the NT Cutters and love them.

 

[tincanoe]

My favorite Olfa knife is the 25mm XH-AL. It has a real comfortable grip. For convenience I prefer it over the similar version with the knurled blade lock. For years I carried the 16mm with the paint can lid opener on the back end that was very useful prying small nails and such from truck tire tread. These knives work great for cleanly slicing thru 2" thick foam board, just extend the blade out as far as you need.

 

[fireplug]

American bits work in the stubby ratcheting part of the ball grips, and I use this:

VESSEL - BALL GRIP Ratchet Interchangeable Screwdriver with 10 PC. Bit Set 2200MBH120K01 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BZ2SJ67W/?tag=atomicindus08-20

But not in the full length part?

 

[Pinemarten]

I prefer the Anex ratchet selector to the Vessel. My Anex 397 is smoother, with a finer ratcheting mechanism, than my Snap-on (Bahco) ratcheting screwdriver. I would take either the Anex or Vessel over the Snap-on.

Now I think I need the Olfa multi purpose scissors..............( GJ wish list, LOL ).

 

[The_Inspector]

I like the toes, Hangin’ Ten!

As far as the Anex vs Vessel for ratcheting screwdrivers, the Anex is nothing special and seems to have a low tooth count.

I am not impressed with the Anex ratcheting mechanism on my Anex ratcheting screwdriver purchased about 5 years ago.

The Vessel ratcheting screwdriver is superior in quality and the mechanism is finer.

But the Anex ratchet screwdrivers has 72 tooth or are you talking about an older model? My shipment will be in tomorrow so will be able the feel the quality (or the lack of it)

 

[CGarage]

But the Anex ratchet screwdrivers has 72 tooth or are you talking about an older model? My shipment will be in tomorrow so will be able the feel the quality (or the lack of it)

Perhaps they changed the mechanism but the Anex ratcheting screwdriver I have ***** compared to my Vessels.

 

[Reed Prince]

My Anex is as smooth as my Vessel, and both have far less backdrag than my PB. For me, the worst thing about the Vessel is that it only works optimally with its own proprietary bits. And it's too easy to twist the direction ring accidentally.

 

[CGarage]

You need to try this Vessel:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0155W1PU6/?tag=atomicindus08-20

It is hells bells.

 

[The_Inspector]

You need to try this Vessel:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0155W1PU6/?tag=atomicindus08-20

It is hells bells.

I will hopefully get these two in tomorrow (Together with 3 Anex) so will let you know

 

[Etchase]

But not in the full length part?

I get confused by the abundance of vessel offerings. What I was trying to say is in my experience the vessel products that take double ended bits, will have a detent that sort of grabs 1” American bits, but not strongly enough to prevent the bit from disappearing into the driver. 2” long american bits work fine for me in these drivers. The stubby ratchets, which are part of their ball grip ratcheting screwdrivers, work with 1” American bits, but my sample size is two.

This works fine also if you don’t want a ball grip.

VESSEL CRYSTALINE Ratchet Screwdriver with Insert Bit SET (+, (4PC.SET)) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KVJWQ89/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[rick carpenter]

My Anex is as smooth as my Vessel, and both have far less backdrag than my PB. For me, the worst thing about the Vessel is that it only works optimally with its own proprietary bits. And it's too easy to twist the direction ring accidentally.

I also have a Vessel 2200, with a +2 and a -6 bits. I was somewhat disappointed that there isn't a fuller choice of bits for it though. They've lately introduced a long-ish bit driver for 25mm bits, so hopefully they are thinking about shorter bits, +1 bits, etc also.

How do you like the Sunflag t-handle? How deep do the bits insert?

 

[The_Inspector]

Got my Vessel Tool haul in from Amazon Japan. Ordered it on Monday evening and got it in today. Faster shipping than when I receive a package within my own country sometimes. First impression is that the quality is pretty good, even the plastic switches on the ratchets are sturdy and don't feel cheap. I do feel the ratchet on the Anex ones is a little more refined than the ones on the Vessel bit holders, but ofcourse didn't use them yet, time will tell. The bits are good quality, but not on the same level as my PB Swiss. I pay the same for PB Swiss bits so I will only get the ones from Vessel/Anex that are odd size (PB doesn't have a 200mm for instance)

 

[CGarage]

Nice purchase.
The Vessel Phillips bit “fit” is hells bells compared to PB Swiss in most cases.

Please compare the Vessel crystalline ratcheting handle to the Anex.

For me, the Vessel is far and away superior.

 

[The_Inspector]

Nice purchase.
The Vessel Phillips bit “fit” is hells bells compared to PB Swiss in most cases.

Please compare the Vessel crystalline ratcheting handle to the Anex.

For me, the Vessel is far and away superior.

I just played around with the different bits and bit holders and I do agree with you that the quality of the Vessel crystalline is really really good. The rachet has a bit more back lag as the Anex but it feels like a better quality. The downside for me is that even the Vessel bits don't fit without a wobble. Maybe that is because the retaining is done with a clip and the depth it pretty shallow. The Anex 397 and 3970 are really good and there is very little play on the bits.

The Vessel 830 Metal is the most disappointing for me, even the short bits wobble. When I put the bits in my Wiha centre point there is 0 wobble, so I will probably use them in there if no ratchet is required. In terms of bit quality it looks like both are really nice, but I need to actually use them first to say anything sensible about it.

 

[Odd-job]

Nice purchase.
The Vessel Phillips bit “fit” is hells bells compared to PB Swiss in most cases.

Please compare the Vessel crystalline ratcheting handle to the Anex.

For me, the Vessel is far and away superior.

Vessel is #1 for Phillips

For allen bits am finding Pb swiss, Wera (hex plus) and Mac/RBRT to be superior.