Normally I hate, hate, HATE cheap crappy bits, but you never know when one might come in handy. Afterall, a poor quality bit is still better than no bit at all when you really need one.
There are a few sets that caught my attention over at amazon:
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Generic 33pc set with security Torx, hex, and a few other styles. These other styles seem to change a bit depending on who the vendor is.
Neiko 100pc set with case, that includes just about any bit you may ever need in a pinch.
There’s also a 61pc Titan set that we discussed a year ago. For what it’s worth, if these bits perform as well as their case looks, it’s probably not appropriate to group them with the other two sets mentioned here.
Mark D says
FWIW, I just got my Harbor Freight sales flier yesterday and it had what looks like that exact 100 pc set for 9.99.
Stuart says
Mark, that’s not a bad price if there’s an HF near you, thanks for mentioning it!
uthscsaedu says
Whenever I see the HF ones, the central holes always seem to be off-center.
I don’t know how much that would affect performance but it makes me leery.
Stuart says
hmm, in that case, maybe a poor quality bit isn’t better than no bit at all…
IndyEngineer says
I just don’t trust those cheaper bit sets. I have a Wiha 39 pc. Security Bit Set # 71990. I have had it for 6 or 7 years now and it has never failed me. The case is compact, sturdy, and holds the bits secure. It also includes a bit holding handle, a 1/4″ magnetic bit holder, and a 1/4″ socket holder.
I would be scared to death that one of those cheaper bits would break off in the fastener.
Wiha Security Bit Set
Stuart says
That Wiha bit set has been in my sights for a while now, but I don’t use security bits enough to justify its $58 price. I did need two tamper-proof Torx bits recently, but not urgently, so I just bought the appropriate handled Wiha drivers.
Those that don’t need a security bit set might benefit from a cheap low quality set in a pinch. Anyone anticipating needing a security bit set should definitely consider a quality set instead, like the Wiha one you mentioned.
IndyEngineer says
I agree Stuart. I use my Wiha set several times a month and I paid the higher price because of that. If I didn’t have a set and couldn’t remember the last time I needed a security bit, I definitely would buy one of the cheaper sets, just to have on hand.
Of the cheaper sets, I likely would choose the 61 pc. Titan set. If I knew of any good reviews, I probably would buy a set just to have.
JD says
I have the 100 piece set from HF. For the money it was a deal. I’ve only used it like 4-5 times and those special bits have been a lifesaver.
uthscsaedu says
I guess I should say that if you get the HF set, make sure you examine it closely and get one of the best sets.
I do this with most purchases anyway. If I bought a new screwdriver I would automatically check the handle and tip.
uthscsaedu says
I also would not be able to justify a $60 set. I think I’ve only ever used one security bit, to open a microwave.
Anthony says
i hate the cheap sets!!!!! i bought one of those from amazon and it lasted me 4 days before they were stripped.. maybe the larger sizes would last a “little” longer,but i wouldnt count on it
Stuart says
Anthony, which particular set did you buy, and would it still be okay in a “better than nothing” type of situation such as when one doesn’t anticipate ever needing security bits?
lametec says
100-bit set from Harbor Freight is now $7.99 online. Bring printout and price match in store.
Anthony says
stu, i bought the generic set thats pictured above…its better than nothing,but i use them everyday when repairing dishwashers and theyre not for that kind of use….i bought a couple wiha sets from their website and they were $10 a piece(for a 10 pc set with case)…they are so nice i anticipate having them for years
Anthony says
i have to add the wiha sets are security torx only,not the other bits
Mac says
I have the HF set too… $4. Reg. $8 with a half-off deal way back when. Even if I only used each bit once and they broke, still worth it.
I don’t use these bits regularly, otherwise, I’d have a more reliable set. Only need them maybe a couple times a year.
Norske Div says
These are useful for getting into safe deposit boxes and P.O. Boxes. Well worth the money for higher quality and speed