Wera has come out with two new Zyklop Metal ratchet that features slim head and handle designs that make the ratchets well suited for tight quarters.
Unlike the original Wera Zyklop ratchets, which all feature swivel-head mechanisms, the Zyklop Metal ratchets do not. Instead, the Zyklop Metal ratchets have a teardrop-shaped head.
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Note: Wera’s swivel-head Zyklop ratchets will soon be rebranded as Zyklop Speed ratchets.
The two Zyklop ratchets will differ slightly from each other – one is a traditional reversible ratchet, the other has a push-through anvil that is of a similar style as the heavy duty Wera Koloss ratchet.
Wera Zyklop Metal with Reversible Switch: The traditionally-styled ratchet has a 72-tooth gearing mechanism, which offers a 5° minimal return angle, and a push-button socket quick release lock.
Wera Zyklop Metal with Reversible Anvil: The reversible anvil Zyklop Metal ratchet has a push-through square drive anvil, and is also equipped with a quick release socket ball lock. “Dual-ratchet-teeth” 38-tooth gearing results in 76-division gearing and a 4.7° minimal swing.
Both ratchets’ compact heads, fine-tooth ratcheting mechanisms, and slender handles should make them well suited for use in tight quarters.
Both styles will be available in 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ drive sizes.
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The new socket assortments will be packaged in what Wera describes as lightweight and compact textile boxes.
Right now there’s no pricing or availability information.
If you ask me, the reversible-switch Zyklop Metal ratchet looks mighty appealing. Hopefully it will be reasonably priced.
I have had great experiences with my Wera Zyklop ratchets, but there are times when they’re too small for higher-leverage applications. The Zyklop Metal ratchets will definitely fill a hole in Wera’s ratchet lineup.
fred
Made in Germany ? The Czech Republic? or elsewhere?
I don’t use ratchets much and my 40 year old stock of mostly Williams stuff will get it done for me – but I do like Wera screwdrivers and screwdriver bits quite a lot – and see no quality issues with their Czech manufactured items. BTW – Eastern Europe seems to be the source for several good tools – like the FLIR E4 that getting a lot of buzz and is being manufactured in Estonia
Stuart
Yes, it’s made in Germany, the Czech Republic, or elsewhere.
Probably Czech Republic, as that’s where I believe my Zyklop Speed ratchets were made.
citizen in situ
Czech, Estonia, Poland, Hungary etc is CENTRAL EUROPE not Eastern.
It was communist eastern block of countries which is misused with geographic location. Sorry for my English but you got my point for sure 🙂
Matt
I kinda like the case. Seems to be good for the field engineers on the go. I wonder if the case can accommodate deep sockets? I am on the look for a good socket/ ratchet/ extension case for traveling. So far, all I am just using is Klein zipper bag.
matt
I had a very similar case and I thought it would be awesome for field work.. It sucked, stuff fell out and then the stitching just let go..
Maybe theirs is better who knows..
Stuart
I don’t think I’ve ever seen a deep Wera socket. Some of their current socket sets are actually pretty compact and well put together.
Actually, I think a Klein bag might be the most space-efficient way to carry a ratchet, extension, and couple of sockets.
harry
The sets don’t appear to be as compact as Facom nano versions but, I like the nylon (textile) cases. The ratchets seem to have some length to them. I’m interested but, I’m worried about pricing. Time will tell.
jesse
I wonder if the “dual-ratchet-teeth” design resembles the GearWrench 120XP stacked dual-pawl mechanism.
What about torque? I would imagine that the simpler push-through mechanism would offer greater torque.
Stuart
It’s possible, but the only way to know for sure is to take it apart.
I haven’t heard anything about torque, but I would agree that the one with the push-through anvil will likely be stronger. With those types of ratchets, the gear teeth can shaped and sized for added strength if reversibility isn’t a design factor.
Allen
I have the previously reviewed 1/4 inch set and that case is great. Coat pocket, back pocket or wherever, no rattling and it keeps everything tight.
Stuart
The one mentioned in our Makers Tool Guide?
That’s the one I have, although I believe I spent closer to $80 or $85 on it and not $106. It’s a very good portable tool kit, although I wish Wera made separate inch socket options so I wouldn’t have had to buy them individually to swap in.
Nils
Hi,
Can I use Wera ratchet with sockets from other brands (facom,…).
Stuart
Yes, of course, as long as you match up the drive size correctly, e.g. 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″.
Nils
Thanks for your reply.
Conor
I know this is an old post, but just in case anyone pokes through the comments for opinions: I’ve been disappointed with the push-through type ratchets from Wera. Bought the 1/4″, 3/8″, and 1/2″ sets for work and found that there is a significant amount of back and forth slop in the anvil. Not a deal breaker on the 1/2″, but the slop is frustrating on the 3/8″, and unacceptable on the 1/4″ as it makes it extremely difficult to line up small sockets and bits. That said, aside from the anvil slop, these kits have wonderful tooling and the ratchet handles have a great non-slip, hefty grip.
James
I bougth one . Unfortunately is the most UNCOMFORTABLE tool i ever use in 25 years as a mechanic/auto electrician/electronic tech. Is a solid tool. But UNCOMFORABLE. Im going to return it.
Jack
If I’m looking for a 1/4″ drive ratchet, what are people’s opinions on trying to save a little cash by purchasing the bit ratchet and using the socket adapter in place of an actual zyklop 1/4″ metal ratchet?
Stuart
The bit ratchet is a little too small to be used as a 1/4″ ratchet. It can be used as a 1/4″ ratchet in a pinch, or for light applications, or where you need the smallest ratchet possible. But for most uses, you’d have an easier time with a standard 1/4″ ratchet.
If you need to save some money, you can go with a cheaper ratchet, by Gearwrench, Stanley, Husky, Dewalt. One such ratchet might complement the Wera bit ratchet if you’re still intent on buying it.
Look at the photo in this post for a size reference: https://toolguyd.com/wera-bit-ratchet-size-comparison/