In case you missed it, I own quite a few different types of precision screwdrivers. I own a set of Wera Kraftform Micro screwdrivers ($27 via Amazon), and while I like them I tend to use my Wiha precision drivers far more often.
I was recently searching for a precision bit holding screwdriver, which works with interchangeable bits in the same way as larger 1/4″ hex drivers, and discovered that Wera just came out with a few new Kraftform Micro sets.
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There are two new sets – an 11 piece set (05073670001) and a 20 piece set (05073671001). Both sets come with a Wera Micro ESD bit holder, an assortment of bits, and a fold-up carrying case.
The ESD-safe handle composition means that – as long as proper ESD prevention protocols are followed – the driver should be safe to use around static-sensitive components and devices.
As with the individually sized Wera Micro drivers, the Micro bit holder (05300004001) has a swivelling end cap, which makes the drivers quicker and easier to spin. It also has a quick-locking bit chuck that works with Wera’s 4mm series 9 (half moon) and series 21 (HIOS drive) bits.
What I found surprising was that these bit holders don’t work with ordinary hex bits – they work with a specialty form factor that I’m not quite familiar with. The bits included in the new Wera Micro sets all feature 4mm half moon drive ends. A bit of digging around revealed that a few manufacturers make similar bits.
On one hand, I can see how the half moon drive system can allow for quicker insertion and bit changes than working with hexagonal precision bits. But on the other hand, it means that you’re limited to the precision bits that are included in a set or are available separately through distributors.
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Half moon bits don’t seem to be very easy to find, but they should be available at larger Wera dealers.
My wish is that these bit drivers could also be used with easy-to-find hexagonal precision screwdriver bits, but that doesn’t seem to be the case. Right now these drivers are only compatible with Wera’s 4mm half moon and HIOS bits, and there do not seem to be any sort of adapters to expand their compatibility.
The 11pc set comes with 3 Phillips bits (00, 0, 1), 2 Torx bits (T5, T6), 3 slotted bits (1.5mm, 2.0mm, 3.0mm), and 2 hex bits (1.5mm, 2.0mm).
The 20pc set comes with the same bits as the 11pc set, plus 4 more Torx sizes (T1, T2, T3, T4), 4 Torx Plus sizes (IP1, IP2, IP3, IP4), and a #1 tamper-proof five-lobe bit.
Prices: The 11pc set is currently available for about $101, and the 20pc set for $217.
Buy Now(11pc set via Amazon)
Buy Now(20pc set via Amazon)
More Info(via Wera)
I know what you’re thinking, because I’m thinking it too – these sets are a little too pricey.
I couldn’t understand why these sets are so expensive, so I looked into prices of the individual components. Most individual half moon bits are available through industrial suppliers for about $5-6 each, and the bit holder itself is priced at $30-36. The Torx bits, however, are $13-$15 each, and Torx Plus bits are $21-24. I suppose it’s a lot harder and costlier to manufacture mini Torx bit tip than other tip styles.
Stan
Honestly, this would have been helpful years ago, albeit the fact Wiha has been selling German made versions of this type of tool as well for work in the past I did.
Best of all this tool is ESD safe as well. Slightly expensive, but then again Wera does make some very nice tools though.
Well worth the cost in the long run in my opinion, as there just isn’t a great deal of manufacturers that produce quality made precision screwdrivers anymore. Moody, Masterforce, Wiha and Wera are really in my opinon the last remaining manufactures left.
fred
Half-moon tang drive screwdrivers probably built lots of planes in World War 2.
The bit style is similar to what was used in Yankee Screwdrivers. Some Hios, Delvo and IR production screwdrivers use this style bit – while some Hios screwdrivers use the bit that you show as 4mm Hios Drive. There is also a 5mm variant. Hios makes an adapter to use the bits with a hex-drive tool:
http://www.mountztorque.com/products/power-assembly-tools/hiosdriveadapter?kmas=1&gclid=CKiLtMOEzb4CFYFQOgodHx8AFg
Hios brushless screwdrivers – (e.g. their BL-7000) sell for over $1000 each – so they are not aimed at the home handyman.
fred
A bit of searching on Amazon – found this converter for Hios 4mm to Hex – but it sure doesn’t look like something you would hang on the front of a precision hand driver:
http://www.amazon.com/ASG-Adapter-HIOS-Converts-Drive/dp/B001RMF3MA
JML
The half-moon bits look like the Moody bits, which are outstanding (and US-made). I use the Moody bits in holders from Commando Tools. They have a threaded collet that locks the bit in place.
Stan
Having owned several Moody tools, I agree they are of great quality. Best and in my opinion most importantly Moody Tools are American made.
Just wish I had a local distributor for these, but since the market is flooded with cheap imports (not including Wiha/Wera), that is all most brick and mortar stores carry.
Dennis
I wish I was at a point where spending $100 – $217 on micro screwdrivers didn’t matter to me. But you are right that’s a bit pricey. I have been getting by pretty well using Wiha’s 75093 Micro Bit Set with ESD Safe Handles. They say it’s 16 pieces, but I think that counts the handle as one piece and the bit holder as separate piece. It doesn’t come with the cool case that the Wera kits come with, but at 1/3 the price of Wera’s low end kit, I can live without it.
Mark
I recommend a Commando Tools Precision Pocket set, with a swivel cap. $30 or so get you a nice set of American-made precision screwdrivers in a package the size of a Sharpie marker. No more tool roll-up or cases that inevitably break. Mine holds 10 bits, a small vial with eyeglass screws and a small scribe. I also glued a small magnet to the inside of my cap. Helps retain all the bits.
They leveraged their tool holder to create all sorts of little sets–hex sets, file sets, and “oriface wire cleaner” sets. Super nice folks too. http://www.commandoproducts.com
No affiliation, just a fan.
Stan
Thank you very much for this for this information Mark. I definitely am more interested in purchasing American made precision tools rather than the imported variations.
I was hopeful that the files would also be USA made, but as expected these are imported.
JML
Commando’s driver bits are all from Moody! There are two differently sized Commando handles that fit the Moody bits, in various colors. You can get a swivel end-cap, too.
Stan
I had a feeling Moody was the OEM, but I figured maybe these were made in house as well. In a market full of rebrander’s, there are some companies that still manufacture their own line of products.
I wonder if Xuron is the OEM for those oil containers though?