cbracer
Well-known member
I was browsing through the latest Wiha catalog and noticed they no longer show their older system 4 (4mm hex shaft) bits. Seems they might be discontinued and replaced with the new lock system. The older system had smooth shafts and the longer ones fit into a handle with a clamp type twist lock. The downside being it's possible when pushing on the handle the bit will slide further in. These new ball lock ones won't move when in, and the ring on the front pushes in to release. That part works very well. I found the cheapest price was to build the set with individual pieces.
I like the idea, but after reading reviews online I have to agree that the bits can be really tough to slide into the handle. Seems the stampings or paint is built up along the dots of the blade and you have to turn the blade to find a clean side to line up and slide down. Then when locked they aren't perfectly locked like a clamp, but have a little tiny movement and looseness.
They are still cool, but I'm likely going to send them back. Unless someone here wants to buy them and save me the shipping to return them.
I like the idea, but after reading reviews online I have to agree that the bits can be really tough to slide into the handle. Seems the stampings or paint is built up along the dots of the blade and you have to turn the blade to find a clean side to line up and slide down. Then when locked they aren't perfectly locked like a clamp, but have a little tiny movement and looseness.
They are still cool, but I'm likely going to send them back. Unless someone here wants to buy them and save me the shipping to return them.