Harley wrote in with a tough question. He’s looking for an ultra-compact tool kit that’s portable, yet easy and comfortable to carry. The tools must also be comfortable and ergonomic to use. He works as an engineer for the Navy, which changes everything.
Naval vessels have narrow passageways and tight spaces, which means you cannot really stroll around with a bulky tool belt or pouches hanging off your side. They also have steep stairways, and low doorways, which when coupled with Harley’s 12-hour shifts pretty much rules out large carry-everything tool backpacks.
Here’s his criteria:
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I’m an engineer for the Navy and I frequently have to travel to ships for troubleshooting, etc. This requires opening up a lot of cabinets and enclosures which it seems like every vendor has their own style. Screws, allens, bolts, 2 fasteners, 20 fasteners, every combo under the sun.
It’s 12 hour days and you can’t leave your stuff unattended or it will walk off in a hurry, so a backpack with tools is essential to open cabinets and troubleshoot equipment, but it can’t be too big/bulky/heavy because it’s on your back all day long climbing all through the ship. Big tool belts don’t work either with having to get through tight spaces on board.
Light/ergonomic/yet still practical is key.
Plenty of gimmick 400-in-1 products out there that just aren’t ergonomic to use at all when you’re using them all day long. I’ve been searching a lot the past couple days to find a few key tools to carry with me that fill this odd need.
I didn’t know if you had a past article, or had a list of items you could suggest that fit this bill of compact/multi tools, that also aren’t so compact/combined that they aren’t ergonomic to still use.
I thought it could make for a good article for guys who need to build a compact/portable yet ergonomic/useful tool kit. So far a 6 in 1 screwdriver, and a set of quad gear wrenches, and a multi-tool covers a good amount.
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The last item I’m really hunting for is a ratchet with internal socket storage for a few small sizes. I saw your article on the Kobalt one but it’s still pretty bulky so I’ve been hunting for others. Here’s a thread I posted on garage journal with some of my findings so far. I’d love to see what your recommendations are, and maybe see an article on the site. I love all your reviews and articles!
Over at the GJ forum, Harley mentions equipping his tool kit with the following:
- 6-in-1 screwdriver
- 6-in-1 precision screwdriver
- 5-in-1 nutdriver/socket spinner with handle storage
- Two 4-in-1 quad ratcheting wrenches
- Gerber multitool
- LED flashlight
What he’s really looking for now is a 1/4″ socket set with built-in storage, such as this Kobalt ratchet, but that design is a little too bulky.
Built-in storage isn’t really advisable for a 1/4″ ratchet, as it would make the handle too bulky.
Aside from the Kobalt set, the Pakratchet ($23 via Amazon) is the only other self-contained ratchet and socket set that I’ve come across, although I’m not sure I would trust this tool in a high-demand professional environment.
What I would do in this case is pick up a mini Pelican case or Cocoon Grid-It organizer, and put together a small kit with a couple of sockets, an extension if needed, and one or two ratchet options. Maybe a bit ratchet or swivel-head ratchet to be used as a backup or high torque screwdriver bit driver, and another regular right angle ratchet.
Alternatively, Felo ($62 via Carbide Processors) and other European brands make some very compact self-contained socket sets.
There are plenty of socket organizers and holders out there, but I don’t think I’ve seen one that’s only designed to hold a couple of sockets in as small a space as possible.
Recommendations for an Ultra-Portable Tool Kit
If every ounce counts, the following is what I would recommend as part of a minimalist tool kit.
Multi-Bit Screwdriver
There are a couple of different compact multi-bit screwdrivers, but I have taken a strong liking to my Wera Kraftform Kompakt driver. It comes with internal storage for 6 bits, and a 2-position extending lockable bit holder.
It’s not too small, and not too big, making it fairly suitable for regular use. It comes bundled with a decent canvas holster.
I bought one of these over three years ago, and while I don’t use it very often, it’s one of my favorite screwdrivers to take on the go.
Buy Now(via Amazon)
Multi-Bit Precision Screwdriver
Husky and Kobalt used to offer some nice compact precision screwdrivers with internal storage, but right now, the only listing I could find is for a Husky Torx driver.
If you need something quick and easy, the Stanley 4-in-1 precision screwdriver is quite good. For removable micro bits, Wiha offers a nice option with on-tool bit storage ($26 via Amazon), and there are many options with pouch or case bit storage. There are also multi-shaft drivers, but small standardized bits are going to be easier to replace.
5-in-1 Nutdriver and Socket Spinner with Handle Storage
There are a bunch of interchangeable shaft nutdrivers, but I agree that a bit spinner with built-in storage for a couple of 1/4″ hex nutdriver bits might be the way to go. Or a socket spinner that can be used with 1/4″ sockets to minimize how many loose pieces would have to be carried.
Klein’s new Switch Drive system is appealing, but might be too bulky for a minimalist and super-compact kit. What I would do is add maybe a T-handle driver that could also be used with standard 1/4″ hex screwdriver bits, and keep nutdriver bits in an organizer or compartment of some kind.
4-in-1 Quad Ratcheting Wrenches
I think I would skip multi-size ratcheting wrenches and instead pack a 7-inch Knipex Pliers Wrench. It’s not as narrow as a wrench, but can serve in place of an adjustable wrench for many types of applications.
It might be worth carrying combination wrenches in the most-used size or two.
Buy Now(via Amazon)
Multi-Tool
The Leatherman OHT multi-tool has become my favorite quick-action tool for when I know I’ll need to use the pliers a lot. While I favor other multi-tools for different tasks, these have climbed the ranks of my most-loved Leatherman tools list.
Some of the OHT’s outside-accessible tools are smaller than those found on other multi-tools, but the tradeoff is well worth it.
LED Flashlight
There are three styles of LED flashlights I would consider for an ultra-compact tool kit. There are other models, but these are the three styles I would choose from depending on my exact needs.
Maglite’s Mag-Tac is bright and robustly built.
Streamlight’s Stylus Pro Reach is great for illuminating hard-to-reach spaces.
Zebralight’s H502W delivers a wide, bright, and uniform beam, and it can serve as a headlamp or handheld flashlight.
Ratchet and Socket Set
As mentioned, I would either go for a configure-it-yourself kit, or a European-style super-compact set from Felo. Many European brands only bundle their most compact sets with metric sockets, which is why I feel strongly inclined to follow the piece-it-together route.
Facom makes some nice albeit pricey socket sets. For an all-in-one solution, I would look at their fractional sets. This route takes the place of a multi-bit screwdriver and possibly the nutdriver as well.
Sadly, the Facom set shown here is only available with metric sockets.
Buy Now(Facom set via Ultimate Garage)
Where to Look for More Info, and Reader Recommendations
Here’s a tip: do a Google image search for EDC tool kit to see some truly ultra-compact options. Many of these setups aren’t going to be practical for tools that are used on a daily basis, but you’re bound to see some good ideas or clever storage arrangements,
As ToolGuyd readers are always incredible with recommendations, what would you guys recommend for each or at least some of these categories?
Dave L.
Not knowing everything this fellow does, I would suggest a small digital VOM (cigarette pack size), an 8 inch half round file and a Craftsman 952171 tap driver set (stores 5 or 6 common taps in handle). A pair of right angle screw drivers (slotted and Phillips and a Visegrip might be handy as well.
fred
Many years ago I was pointed to Jensen Tools (now part of Stanley Supply) when we were looking for packaged tool kits. We decided not to buy any of their offerings – mainly because they bundled items we thought we did not need – and that we could assemble a better kit on our own. Nonetheless – it would seem that they still sell lots of these packaged kits:
http://www.stanleysupplyservices.com/search.aspx?f=2%3aJensen+Tools%2c1%3a348
Stuart
I’ve seen Jensen sets before at my old research lab, and while well put together, they looked like very purposeful sets.
I think that even their smallest sets aren’t going to be perfectly suitable for Harley’s needs, or others looking for a minimalist portable tool kit.
skfarmer
i can back up your suggestions on the first two. i have the wera and the 4 in 1 micro driver. although mine is branded lutz it appears to be nearly identical.
the wera is a fine tool. the shaft can be used either all of the way in or all of the way out as well as removed and in a drill/driver. the handle will accept any power bit and bits can be switched in and out of the handle for differing applications. the bits are also well made. add a 1/4 hex to 1/4 square bit and it makes fine spinner handle as the bits are mechanically locked on rather than magnetically. the wera is one of those drivers with extra features that are worth paying a little more for.
Harley
Hey this is “Harley” the one who emailed in the article request. First I’d like to say thanks for the suggestions! I think I may definitely go for the Wera screwdriver. I did stumble across this one from another thread I started, this looks like a very cool ratcheting open end but I can’t find it for sale anywhere: http://www.google.as/patents/US20110061499 The dual pivot heads for any angle approach, and 9 internal stored heads, its extremely compact, and seems like still a rather ergonomic approach for still being compact and easy to fit into tight quarters unlike cumbersome dogbone wrenches, and not as finicky or slow as adjustable pliers.
Keep the recommendations coming!
Dave L.
That looks very nice! Here is something sort of along the same lines:
http://hfreviews.com/item.php?id=3127
I bought one and found it to be well made and quite handy for areas with little clearance. It seems HF doesn’t show it anymore but maybe a phone call would locate a set. Didn’t cost a lot, either.
Norm
This isn’t ratcheting, but I’ve always been curious about the bionic wrench. This particular one is also a multi-tool.
http://loggerheadtools.com/?main_page=index&cPath=4
Norm
Even more info:
http://loggerheadtools.com/?main_page=products&id=4
SteveR
I’m thinking that too ergonomic/small a set may work for awhile, but may come back to bite him. What do his counterparts use? I’d check with them for ideas, although he’s probably done that by now. The “old guys” in that job series probably know what works/what doesn’t, and could steer him toward a good set.
Check with the truck suppliers (Snap-on, Matco, MAC, etc.) to see what they offer. Snap-on has several 1/4″-drive General Service Sets that may be of interest to him. He can look them up on the Snap-on website: 120DTMPB, 114ATMP and 134ATMP sets are available (6-point fractional sets), plus there are add-on sets to enhance the selection of tools. They may have one that fits his needs, or be able to cobble together one that works for his special requirements. Is he looking for a set primarily for electronic work? They may have one in the GSA catalogue, so I’d look there, too. The truck firms do offer generous government discounts on tools. The Government would supply it for his use on-the-job, so his personal investment may be minimal; his purchasing agent should be able to help him out with that. That would be Government property, though, and he’d have to return the tools if/when he leaves the service. Perhaps his local distributor would cut him a deal on the tools and he could buy them outright at a good price as a “thank-you” for his military service.
I have some concerns about using just a 1/4″-drive set. Ships have lots of large, bulky equipment. I’m guessing that a 3/8″-drive set would also be in order, but that’s a decision he’ll make based on his perceived needs.
I hope this helps, or at least gives him some ideas about where to look.
Harley
In this day of furloughs, sequestration, continuing resolution, budget cuts, etc. there’s not much in the way of the gov suppling us tools. It’d certainly be a bare bones basic set that I’d have no choice on. I’m just buying these myself to make my job easier and I never mind accruing more tools.
As for what the “old guys” use, they usually either carry a backpack loaded with tools that weighs 40 lbs and is a mess to dig through and heavy to carry around, or they have 1 multitool that’s slow to fumble with. But it’s no different than most people’s garages. Most people either have a giant mess of tools that are unorganized, or they’ll have an ikea tool kit in the closet and that’s about it lol. My garage is several chests of tools all meticulously organized to an OCD level, so no surprise my shipboard tool kit wouldn’t be like the norm either where guys either deal with the weight or deal with the inconvenience. I’ll bridge the gap somehow!
DanG
I strongly agree with SteveR about the size of the ratchet sets to be used on the Naval vessel. Ships do use large nuts and bolts that perhaps a 1/4 ratchet can’t withstand. I would definitely use a compact set utilizing a 3/8 inch drive. Harley can also carry around a light 2′ piece of pipe for more torque. There is also one thing else to consider and that is what pattern are the hardware on the ship. Are they metric or standard. That could greatly reduce the amount of tools he has to “lug” around.
Harley
There’s definitely some honking size hardware on a ship. But that’s not the equipment I’m working with on a daily basis. Well if something big needs to get unbolted or changed, that’s when the shipyard or ships force and their tools come out. The nuts, bolts, and screws I’m working with on a daily basis are typically just electronic and fiber optic cabinet enclosures, so flat/Phillips, hex, and 1/4″ through 9/16″ bolts cover about 95% of it, and if I can tackle 95% of it with a small handful of tools, mission accomplished!
mike
The Wera is awesome,I use mine alot. The wera mini ratchet comes with bit check with an adaptor for 1\4″ sockets.
Jim
This kit cries out for the old Paladin multi-tool (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000JGO7JK/) made by Leatherman. Wish I could find one someplace.
Jim
That Paladin tool might have been made by SOG.
Dave L.
I’m quite sure it is.
skfarmer
yup, that is a sog. based off the sog powerplier.
Yadda
I would add a Swiss Army Knife to the mix and I would go with a Leatherman Rebar or a Leatherman Supertool 300 instead of the Gerber.
rhyino
I have the Wera multi bit screwdriver that Stuey posted. It is a well built ergonomic tool, it has one shortcoming that I would like to point out. The retention collar that releases the 1/4″ bit, prevents the screwdriver from being used in a deep blind hole. While I really like the Wera, I keep it in a tool bag that is dedicated for a specific client because I know there are no fasteners that are hidden in a blind hole. Learned this one the hard way when the Wera was in my daily carry tool bag.
I also have the Pacratchet. While it is an innovative design, I don’t think it would stand up to daily use in the field. I keep it in a small tool kit that is kept around for last minute adjustments. I wish someone made a more robust version of this tool.
Something like the Felo, Facom, or Wera kit might work. The Jensen tool bags/cases with an empty tool pallet is something to look into. You could purchase the specific tools you need and arrange them on the tool pallet to streamline your workflow rather than digging around in a backpack. Another benefit of the tool pallet is that you can perform a quick tool inventory before leaving the cabinet to avoid tool loss or FOD.
Like SteveR suggested, talk to old timers and see what works for them. I like to chat with the old school tradesman, get to pick up work tricks along the way.
Keep us posted, this is an interesting read. Good luck in your search
Tyler
How about a klein 11 in 1 screwdriver/ nutdriver
Mike
I was just thinking about emailing you about mini screwdrivers. I LOVED the old red and grey capped Husky drivers. Only down side was the damn cap would pop off to easy and you’d lose all your bits. I lived with it knowing I easily got my $8 worth before I lost it. I’m now needing a good mini replacement. I really thought Wiha would have something better. I hope someone finds something good for this!
For multi-bit screwdrivers if I don’t use my 11-1 Klein, I grab my snap on. Its ratcheting, on board storage, comes in a couple lengths. I bet it holds close to 10 bits. Not cheap but one of my favorites.
http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item.asp?P65=&tool=all&item_ID=634146&group_ID=675083&store=snapon-store&dir=catalog
Pete
I would suggest for a screw driver the mega-pro stainless. A fantastic screwdriver that you won’t have to worry about rusting. You can also buy the specific bits you would like or you can even buy the “security” mega-pro.
My dad has a 3/8″ ratchet with the sockets stored in the handle all in SAE. I’ve found it on amazon once but it wasn’t for sale at the time. a SUPER awesome ratchet/socket combo that I’ve never seen before. I’ll have to dig in his tools tomorrow and find the name of it and let you know.
Harley
That’d be awesome if you could find the name of it!
Justin Mitchell
I love, love, love Picquic’s screwdrivers. They have a clever bit storage design which makes it impossible to ever lose a bit: http://www.picquic.com/
Ken
We had the same thoughts about the bits Justin. I guess I was writing my post while you had posted yours.
What model PucQuic do you have?
Ken
Here are some multi-bit screwdrivers that might work out nicely for a compact tool kit.
The Picquic brand of screwdrivers looks interesting. Does anybody have any experience with them?
Seems like you would be less likely to lose bits since they are longer than what is typically seen with multi-bit screwdrivers. The bits look like they store nicely in handle and can be accessed quickly.
http://www.picquic.com/
Ken
Looks like Justin posted about Picquic screwdrivers while I was composing my post about them.
Any other feedback on the Picquic screwdrivers?
Dean
I Love the Picquic screwdrivers. There are a few different models, but all of them are well built and pretty tough. They feel nice in the hand and the bits stay in their slots extremely well ensuring you always have the bit you need even if the driver gets tossed around in the tool bag.
I myself mostly use the Picquic Sixpack Plus for the smaller size.
Toolfreak
I’d say grab up your most used tools, and use something like the Veto Tool Bag mentioned just a few posts back:
https://toolguyd.com/veto-model-mc-mini-tool-bag/
For any sockets or wrenches you need, make your own kit from the sizes you commonly need, or at least skipping any you know you won’t, and make your own socket set with some kind of small plastic storage box with foam inside. Sometimes even the plastic boxes for drill/driver bit sets will work for this, at least for smaller socket sizes or smaller numbers of medium sized sockets.
You might also consider a tool belt, or just having a small holster or clip-on that holds the tools you use more often than any others, such as the 4-in-1 screwdriver or an adjustable wrench or the mini knipex pliers wrench suggested above.
Also, when it comes to weight, you want the higher end brand-name tools. They use stronger materials and better manufacturing processes so you can get a stronger tool with less material and less weight. They cost a lot more, but they weigh less. You can shave quite a bit of weight off a tool kit that is all hand picked brand name stuff, compared to just throwing in cheaper tools.
phil m.
http://www.amazon.com/Wera-Zyklop-Ratchet-Socket-Metric/dp/B004VMWZLU/
http://www.amazon.com/Knipex-8603250-10-Inch-Pliers-Wrench/dp/B000X4OG94/
http://www.amazon.com/Leatherman-830160-Pocket-Multitool-Leather/dp/B000E28164/
http://www.amazon.com/Gator-Grip-ETC-120A-Universal-Adapter/dp/B0002FSS4S/
this is what i keep in my bike
Dan
Were do a pouched screwdriver set with long bits which is great and also do the lovely zyklop push slim ratchet with sockets and bits in a structured fabric case that’s really compact.
Fabric tool tool with wrenches, pliers, whatever else you want in it.
Those small fabric tool bags with shoulder strap that are normally meant for electricians to carry test equipment and a couple screwdrivers in are good as well.
John Blake
No small toolbox should be without a stud finder.
John Blake
This is the website I was trying to reference in my stud finder suggestion:
https://toolguyd.com/studpop-inexpensive-magnetic-stud-finder/
Nathan
Working on aircraft occasionally – I have a similar issue but I started off with writing down all the sizes of stuff I actually need. IE – 2 triwing bits, 3 off set crucifrom bits, 3 torx bits (15, 25, 40), 2 slotted – 3/16 and 3/8, and 4 hex bits. 1/4 ratchet, bit holder, extension, hand full of sockets – all SAE from 1/4 though 9/16, and 4 double ended wrenches.
my point – see if you can narrow down precisely what you use for these panels, and other bits you can save yourself a lot of weight, and time. in my case I can walk out and open every panel on any Boeing, MD, or Airbus aircraft on my ramp. I don’t have to sort though by tool bag because there isn’t alot in there.
Jerry
Why if this set is so well made, both tools and case, there aren’t more sets like this in the USA market?
Dean
There are some really great tools listed on here!
I’m not sure if anyone has mentioned this one, but for a small compact set, the Wera Tool-Check Plus is an awesome little all-in-one set. It comes in either SAE or Metric and it has a built in belt clip. It is a bit pricey but it is affordable and really great to have in a pinch.
https://products.wera.de/en/tools_for_bicycles_and_e-bikes_tool-check_plus.html
Cameron
I just discovered this site and it’s amazing. This post is awesome. I’d like to see a similar one for motorcyclists. The too lots that come with motorcycles from the factory are a joke, and I’m planning a mobile tool kit for myself.
Stuart
I am unfortunately not very well-versed with what goes into a motorcycle tool kit, but if you had some criteria I could try to put some recommendations together.