Last week I reviewed the PB Swiss Tools hex bit socket, which I suppose should more accurately be called a hex drive socket, and a set of USA-made SK hex bit sockets.
One dilemma I’ve run into in the past was whether I should be buying bit sockets or bit holders than can be used with 1/4″ hex screwdriver bits that are 1″ long or longer. There are a couple of other standard sizes to use for larger bits as well, such as 5/16″.
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Bit sockets are typically bit holder sockets with press-fit bit tips that have size markings right on the side of the socket.
Bit holder sockets typically work with screwdriver bits using magnetic, C-clip, or locking retention.
Bit sockets with press-fit screwdriver bits are semi-permanent, in that you can remove and replace the bits, but it’s not always easy. Often this can be done by knocking out a bit with a pin punch through a hole in the socket recess. Bits aren’t replaced frequently, so you get a purposefully tight fit.
Sometimes you have to buy special tool bits made by the socket manufacturer, other times you can use standard bits. This isn’t something I have a lot of experience with.
Bit holder sockets are designed to be temporary bit-holding solutions. I prefer locking bit holders, such as the Wera one shown above, but have a couple of other plain industrial sockets as well.
Bit holder sockets are much more economical, bit sockets are much more convenient, especially when you’re working with multiple screwdriver bit sizes and styles. The sockets are individually marked, and so there’s no need to swap back and forth or hunt down a misplaced bit when you need it again.
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If you’re looking to splurge, I definitely recommend Wera’s 8784 A1 and 8784 B1 bit adapters. They don’t lock in the same way as their 1/4″ hex Rapidaptor bit holders, but they’re still quite good.
Buy Now(3/8″ via Amazon)
Buy Now(1/4″ via Amazon)
I tend to prefer bit holder sockets, but can appreciate the convenience dedicated bit sockets offer. Which do you prefer?
fred
I’ve used Wera 784 series bit holder sockets and like them quite a bit (no pun intended):
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dindustrial&field-keywords=wera%20784
Ram
Wow I was JUST about to order one of these and you make a post about this. Thank you for the perfect timing.
I was about to purchase http://www.amazon.com/Milwaukee-48-03-4410-Shockwave-2-Inch-Adapter/dp/B002KKBBR4/ref=cm_cr_pr_sims_t based on its reviews but now you’ve thrown in another competitor. How do you think these two compare?
The Milwaukee one is for sale right now for $16 at HD. Seems like a great deal but I will abide by your guidance.
John
That’s very similar to the DeWalt version that I have. It will do exactly what you want it – use 1/4 “hex bits with a ratchet but it’s a 1/2″ square drive meant to be used with an impact wrench so the adapter is big, heavy, and all around bulky. That might limit its usefulness in tight work areas or delicate operations.
I tend to use my bit holders (1/4″ SK and 3/8” Craftsman) more than actual bit sockets since they’re smaller and tend to let me use them in places the socket wouldn’t.
Stuart
The Weras are designed for NON-impact use, the Milwaukee is designed for impact wrench use and can be used with hand tools.
Tough call. If you plan to use it with an impact wrench in any capacity, then the Milwaukee is the one to go for. There’s also a much lower cost Dewalt version, but the Milwaukee is slightly better reviewed.
Jerry
Just asking, but wouldn’t just about any 1/2 drive impact wrench more or less instantly shatter a 1/4 drive bit? I have a 3/8 square to 1/4 hex adapter, and have to use it on the lower settings or shatter bits. I can only imagine what a 1/2 drive would do. What hex sockets are good for is with a small breaker bar, or sliding T handle. Put moderate pressure on the fastener, like you are trying to loosen it, and whack it with a hammer or mallet, right above the fastener, like you are trying to hammer the bit deep into the fastener head. This (and penetrating oil) works better than just about anything to bust loose rusted screws in metal.
Stuart
This depends on the tool. Some 1/2″ impact wrenches, such as the Bosch brushless hybrid, can handle 1/4″ bits without destroying them. They might be a bad example, but other compact wrenches might have comparable power. With others, you could take it easy on the trigger for lower speed and greater control.
I generally don’t use adapters on impact wrenches, but I also have an impact driver readily available. If anything, maybe I’d use them with a 1/4″ square drive impact wrench as well.
In a pinch, sure, a 3/8″ or 1/2″ impact would get the job done, provided you’re careful enough.
fred
As you say , turning while whacking the back-end of a screwdriver (preferably one with a through shaft – like a an old Bridgeport or the more modern “demolition screwdrivers” ) was an old trick to free up a screw. Hand impact drivers were sometimes more effective at this:
http://www.amazon.com/Stanley-Proto-J7099A-Impact-Driver/dp/B002C5ONG8/
T
Both, for access or clearance issues, strenght, convenience, etc… Depends totally on what the application is, which is why I own multiples of both styles in various sizes. I would never trust a holder to handle high torque apps vs a dedicated socket.
Jerry
I have both, and use the holders when I can because it is far more economical to buy tips for fasteners you might only use once or twice, but I like the sockets for the few I use often and for heavy/hard use.
george
unfortunately there is room for both. I have drifted towards bit holders.
but that’s because I’m retired. if still working then I would most likely
use separate sockets in most applications.
Wayne Ruffner
I’ve never liked those little Insert bits. I figure that anything a little bit would fit deserves a Power Bit – and the non-lose-able aspect of Power Bits really appeals to someone who doesn’t work in a shop. Since I’m always in remote work sites, having that confidence is important.
So from that perspective, I’ll go with dedicated sockets when that’s what I need in the place of Power Bits.
Gerardo C
It seems like some people think the bit sockets are stronger than bits. It might be easier to apply more torque to the bit sockets, however, there are no differences in the bits (make sure they are same material before comparing them). Both are made the exact same way, same materials, same design, all based on customer requirements (B2B). Only difference is the socket. I came to this post looking for different uses but it seems like the only difference is the user’s preferences.
In my opinion, bits are better option because they are way cheaper and the chances to damage them are just as high as for the bit sockets.
Thanks for the post, this is a very interesting website and also very helpful to better understand the american market.
Jeff
I’m surprised that this is one of the few threads on this topic on the interwebs. I travel for work so size/weight is a concern, but so is performance. I was 100% set on bits plus a bit socket adapter, but then I discovered that Wera makes hex bit sockets with a holding function, and now I can’t decide. The holding function is pretty important to me for hex bolts. It’s a bummer that they don’t offer bits with the same holding function… it would be easy to do so. Wiha is the only maker of hex bits with a holding function that I have found, but their size range is limited. Do you know anyone else who makes hex bits with a holding function?
Stuart
Bondhus Prohold.
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=bondhus+prohold+bits&tag=toolguyd-20