Affordable (and better) ToolCheck Plus alternatives for EDC + toolkits
The best affordable alternatives to the Wera ToolCheck Plus from brands like Wiha, PB Swiss, Klein, Makita, Hazet, and Harbor Freight that are super high quality and the best value for your money.
P.S. I bought all these tools myself for these kits except 711L provided me with some sachets to test. Links are affiliate so they support the channel.
Wera Toolcheck Plus ---------------
Toolcheck Plus, Metric
amzn.to/41HEEfu
Toolcheck Plus, Imperial/SAE
amzn.to/41BGzSF
Bit Sets ---------------
Klein Tools 32 Piece Bit Set
amzn.to/3RDDAVc
Wiha 32 Piece GoBox Bit Set
amzn.to/3NJzyJJ
Harbor Freight Icon Flex Head Ratchet and Bit Set
www.harborfreight.com/locking...
Sockets ---------------
Makita 8 Pc. 1/4" Impact Socket Set, Metric
amzn.to/3H1vaBY
Makita 8 Pc. 1/4" Impact Socket Set, Imperial/SAE
amzn.to/3GXPjcj
Harbor Freight Quinn 1/4 Socket Set
www.harborfreight.com/14-in-d...
Rachets ---------------
Harbor Freight Pittsburg 1/4 Swivel Head Ratchet
www.harborfreight.com/14-in-d...
Screwdrivers ---------------
Wera 813 Bitholder - same as the one in the ToolCheck
amzn.to/3tD9Srl
PB Swiss Tools Stubby Bitholder - super comfy
amzn.to/3TFbAmA
Wera Kraftform 810/1 Bitholder - full size + cheap
amzn.to/4aArC7n
Wera Kraftform ESD 816 R Bitholder - too small to be comfortable
amzn.to/3TIqg4C
Wera Kraftform 816 RA Ratcheting Bitholder - too small to be comfortable
amzn.to/47eSVRW
Hazet 810 BH Bitholder - affordable + rock solid
amzn.to/3RYlHBP
Wiha CentroFix Bitholder - amazing, best bit holder you can buy
amzn.to/4aEdlGU
Klein Tools Adjustable Length Bitholder - big, heavy + capable
amzn.to/41CNBGM
Klein 7-in-1 Impact Flip Socket Set
amzn.to/48hKIxA
711L Hex Bit and Socket 2 in 1 Extension - awesome
amzn.to/48wNlLC
711L Rachet 1/4 adapter
amzn.to/48OYOWy
Vessel Crystalline TD 6800 Ratchet Bitholder
amzn.to/47igtp0
Harbor Freight Pittsburg Ratcheting Screwdriver Set - junk
www.harborfreight.com/34-piec...
Precision Screwdriver Set
amzn.to/3RF5QXp
Kits ---------------
HB 45 Piece Rachet + Bit Set - premium option
amzn.to/3RD2DYA
Mulwark 77 Piece Socket + Bit Set - budget option
amzn.to/3H1Okrm
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Thanks to @BrandonLund for the idea of re-using the Harbor Freight packaging as a socket rail - watch the video here:
• Harbor Freight Tools S...
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Chapters
0:00 Introduction
1:32 EDC bit sets
4:25 EDC socket set
5:11 Bit driver comparison
12:08 EDC recommendation
12:30 Toolkit recommendation
12:56 Kb rachet kit (premium)
17:54 Mulwark kit (budget)
19:18 Harbor Freight kit (budget)
20:55 Wrap up
Hi all! Links to all the products shown in the video in case you want to buy any of these. Affiliate links help the channel: Toolcheck Plus, Metric amzn.to/41HEEfu Toolcheck Plus, Imperial/SAE amzn.to/41BGzSF Bit Sets --------------- Klein Tools 32 Piece Bit Set amzn.to/3RDDAVc Wiha 32 Piece GoBox Bit Set amzn.to/3NJzyJJ Harbor Freight Icon Flex Head Ratchet and Bit Set www.harborfreight.com/locking... Sockets --------------- Makita 8 Pc. 1/4" Impact Socket Set, Metric amzn.to/3H1vaBY Makita 8 Pc. 1/4" Impact Socket Set, Imperial/SAE amzn.to/3GXPjcj Harbor Freight Quinn 1/4 Socket Set www.harborfreight.com/14-in-d... Rachets --------------- Harbor Freight Pittsburg 1/4 Swivel Head Ratchet www.harborfreight.com/14-in-d... Screwdrivers --------------- Wera 813 Bitholder - same as the one in the ToolCheck amzn.to/3tD9Srl PB Swiss Tools Stubby Bitholder - super comfy amzn.to/3TFbAmA Wera Kraftform 810/1 Bitholder - full size + cheap amzn.to/4aArC7n Wera Kraftform ESD 816 R Bitholder - too small to be comfortable amzn.to/3TIqg4C Wera Kraftform 816 RA Ratcheting Bitholder - too small to be comfortable amzn.to/47eSVRW Hazet 810 BH Bitholder - affordable + rock solid amzn.to/3RYlHBP Wiha CentroFix Bitholder - amazing, best bit holder you can buy amzn.to/4aEdlGU Klein Tools Adjustable Length Bitholder - big, heavy + capable amzn.to/41CNBGM Klein 7-in-1 Impact Flip Socket Set amzn.to/48hKIxA 711L Hex Bit and Socket 2 in 1 Extension - awesome amzn.to/48wNlLC Vessel Crystalline TD 6800 Ratchet Bitholder amzn.to/47igtp0 Harbor Freight Pittsburg Ratcheting Screwdriver Set - junk www.harborfreight.com/34-piec... Precision Screwdriver Set amzn.to/3RF5QXp Kits --------------- HB 45 Piece Rachet + Bit Set - premium option amzn.to/3RD2DYA Mulwark 77 Piece Socket + Bit Set - budget option amzn.to/3H1Okrm
I've never seen the Tool Check Plus at $72. Where did you get it so cheap? I'd probably stop the nonsense and buy it if I saw it that low.
@@markkempton4579 Just checked and it seems expensive right now at around $90 which is crazy. When I was editing the video, it was $72 on Amazon and I picked one up this summer for $60 on Amazon. Set price alerts and be patient. KC Tool is a good place to watch too.
@@todd.parker thanks. It was over $100 for me. I've added to my lists, though, so I'll see it change. I'll set an alert as well.
Icon coming out with a set that includes the sockets soon.
Amazon must hate me because I clicked your link and it's $107 lol... here I was thinking you'd show some affordable tools. Very nice kit though! Not your fault they jacked up the price.
The form factor, functionality and quality of the Wera kit make it worth the asking price ... as you found out yourself, no one else makes a directly comparable kit with the same form factor.
there are a hazet tool kit with the same form factor called hazet smartholder
@@bryanmena6291 I just looked at the hazet smartholder, pretty much unavailable here in canada, or it's like 135$CAD or it's ebay. they do seem to have bigger and beefier kits but you are going up in prices, 200-600$ ( maybe resellers )
They advertised this as a cycling toolset. I got mine in a little bag that holds some tire "irons" in a front pocket. But I'll be honest: I didn't get it because I needed it. It was just too pretty not to buy :)
@Volkbrecht it’s a great little kit. I did the video to see if it was a good value or not and I think it’s the best all in one you can buy
The Wera kit is another example of throwing in a bunch of useless items to think you got a good deal. You're still going to want to buy more things to go with it. Using a kids pencil pouch with a grommet is going to end up being more enjoyable than the anal retentive Wiha holder. Way too many bits for a portable tool kit
I'm a crash reconstructionist and this is the kit I use to extract airbag modules from wrecked cars to download the crash data ("black box") from them. Wera is awesome!
The biggest plus of the Tool Check is the ability to fly with it without any problems as put together it falls under TSA length requirements. I usually toss a longer extension in a different carry on bag to avoid issues.
I fly most weeks with the Icon set.
I just picked up the ICON set for $30 and love it. You can't bet the lifetime warranty.
HF Icon showed another kit at SEMA last month. It is an upgrade to this one with sockets. I have the kit shown. I love it. I have the Makita socket set as well. They sell them at HD usually every Xmas. Great video! Thank you!
I have had the tool check plus for years. Bought another for a friend around Christmas (about $75 from wal mart). So compact and useful. Can’t imagine going without it now.
I started my own similar project of edc tool carry last year. I went with the icon and makita Imperial socket set. For the screwdriver, I actually splurged on an LTT screwdriver. I use all three along with some other picks in a army sling bag I picked up on amazon for about 15 bucks. The wiha bit kit also looks good as well.
Love my Wiha bit box. I ordered the flat and Phillips supplemental bits from Wiha and keep them below the rubber holder tray. Picked up mine on Amazon when it was on sale for $23
This is a phenomenally detailed and informative video. Thank you for taking the time to put this together!
I've had the tool check plus for years now. Got it before they colour coded the sockets. It's still my most used tool set at work and that little ratchet is incredibly handy. I also carry a 6" piece of pipe with it for when i need that extra torque but have also stuck a 12" pipe on there once or twice and it held up perfectly. Used every day for years and the great storage system means i haven't lost any part of it. Totally worth the money in my book.
I built my own kit using some of these kits. Icon bit set, Wera small driver, Husky 1/4" SAE and Metric sets, a few small sets of Knipex pliers (cobra, needle nose, and diagonal cutters), Engineer screw removal pliers, 4" Crescent wrench, I fix it pry bar, Milwaukee fastback, Felo T handle, Coast inspection flashlight, and another SATA bit set all crammed into a very small 8" x 4" bag. I can toss that bag in a larger tool bag or pack out box if needed.
Tbh Inwent for the toolcheck+ after borrowing a friends kit on holiday and was impressed with the quality packaging. The set fits under the seat of my Motorbike so is massively convenient. Other solutions have felt bulky and cumbersome by comparison
Thank you for sharing. I'm always looking for how to improve my track box for my race bike. I've had great luck with Olsa and Tekton over the last 5 years. Tekton's warranty process is great and Olsa's ratchets are rebuildable. The swival ratchets are my absolute go-to now whenever I'm doing maintenance or fixing crash damage.
i really appreciate the editing quality on this video. very thoughtfully made
I do think this needs a follow up video. I mean there is other tools and mini tool boxes like beta mini, USAG nano, some stanley mini boxes, wiha, hazet mini boxes, and many other brands.
Super interesting combos. I believe Klein now sells the 6 piece flip sockets with the handle that has built in bits as a set. Definitely great for bigger tasks. But for me, I added the Wera Zyklop pocket to the Tool Check for when I want more power and it gives the flexibility to just use it alone, or as an addition to the Tool Check. That little Wiha case looks great tool, the Icon is quite heavy for it's size...
Thank you so much for this video. I ended up buying the Mulwark kit because I wanted a precision set along with the standard ratchet to just carry around one kit. I work on computers and stuff often that the precision part of the set will come in very useful.
If you deal with a lot of smaller hex screws (M2-M8) the wera hex bits are 100% worth it due to how damn good they are at not stripping bolts, even the ball heads. I don’t know what kind of magic they put into them.
I think it's down to their concave shape instead of the regular flat sides hex bits normally have. It feels like they have more bite plus they don't tend to get stuck in bolts either
Yep the Wera bits are very nice! I'd recommend the Wera Bit-check line, too. Just the bits and sometimes quick swap head, in multiple assortments.
Yeah I think it is called hex plus. Works by exerting force to sharp corners instead of straight sides. I threw all other hex bits away as soon as I tested those for a while with smaller bolts. Shame that other manufacturers have not copied that.
Yes! Hex plus, good materials, and QC make them worth every penny@@timop6340
@@timop6340 I'm not sure but I think Weras hex plus design is patented
Great video! I fully appreciate the amount of time you put into this. I have a red Craftsman ratchet screwdriver with a rubber sleeve of 1/4 bits that I have grown to love. The screwdriver is reminiscent of the Snap On version but much more affordable. I bought it years ago and now I wonder who the manufacturer actually was, since most good craftsman tools are rebranded.
From my experience the Wera sockets are as tough or tougher than Snap-on, and you will appreciate the deeply grooved end of the sockets which won’t sip even in oily hands. So for me it’d be the toolcheck. Great video.
Overall very happy with the wera bitholder and flexible bitholder. Good quality and so good that I'm replacing my set of Felo screwdrivers with Wera equivalents
@@Compasscard wera sockets are really good. I have some snap on sockets sets and prefer wera. I use them for over 10 years now.
I like a lot of Were tools but dislike their sockets. They have more slack then a comparable Gearwrench sockets.
I got the Wera Zyklop Rachet 28pc set instead. I love that thing.
I didn't know i needed these until now! Thanks for a great review and suggestions.
Perfect timing for this video. Held off on the Toolcheck+ imperial set. Will certainly put together a kit based on this info. Thanks for all the work!
Glad I could help
In love with the content! I accidentally stumbled upon your channel, and this is gold. I love people talking about tools, especially EDC options. I bought numerous small screwdriver kits, and the cheapest one is the best. Overall, find what you like and experiment. The possibilities are endless!
Love videos like this. I have the toolcheck and use it all the time for working on bikes, so i dont really need to build a cheaper kit, but showcasing everything in this "genre" is really cool to see whats out there
Right on! For a bike, the ToolCheck is hard to beat
Ive been using the wera everyday for the last 4 years. Its brilliant. Cant imagine not having it.
its my favorite tool set in my toolbox at work. It has saved me so many times trying to get to bolts in tight spots!!
@@trousertrout3447 same here.
Yep, love mine for sure. This was a fun exploration to see if there were better value options and this thing is pretty special.
I have both metric and imperial Wera kits that stay in a canvas pouch in my backpack, a coworker let me borrow his once and i was immediately sold, for high quality compact, airplane safe tools it's the best, helps that work paid for them too, but they've been indespensible, even got used to fix a random motorcycle after hours😁
Guess it depends on what you're doing. I'm a Euro auto technician and have the tool check set and find it to be a good value for the price. So easy to to grab one kit and head out to the parking lot for simple stuff. That being said the Wiha set is also a great option and I appreciate the fact I was able to buy it off of the shelf same day at Lowe's.
For $22 on Amazon, the Inwell 58 Piece Screwdriver Bit Set is my go to. I carry this in my go bag and use it for quick jobs at work. I threw in a few add ons in the lower compartment also.
The overall footprint of the Toolcheck can't be beat
Love all your videos. This is no exception. Thank you for all your hard work. Happy New Year.
Thanks Robert, that’s really nice to hear. Seems there’s a lot of interest in tool kit videos so I’ll be doing more…
Fantastic video! amazing comparisons and details, one of the BEST breakdown and review videos ever. The ONE thing I lack in my "Kit" is the ratcheting screwdriver. I am leaning Klein but your Wera break down has me wondering if I shouldn't it as I can just toss it in my tool bag easily.
LOVE IT!! At SEMA this year Harbor Freight showed that they're coming out with their improved Icon bit driver set. It'll come with sockets!! Can't wait to check that out AND just like you're saying with the Quinn sockets, they're going to be high quality and with a coupon, cheaper than their list prices.
Yeah, looking forward to that release
Nice video. I’ve suggested it to a number of coworkers. TBH I got both of my tool checks for $63. But also I keep another longer pattern multi bit Wera driver in my bag. Although this video give me a good reason to make my own custom kit with Vessel and PB Swiss. Cheers.
This is really the video I needed... I'm still on the fence concerning the ToolCheck, so you pointing out so many alternatives is really great.
I couldn’t find anything on alternatives so I had to research it and make a video.
I discovered the same thing as well. I bought all the bits, bit drivers, sockets from different sectors but found that pound-for-pound it was more expensive than the combined features of the Toolcheck plus. I do find that I use the Topeak ratchet more than the 813 on the Toolcheck. Another alternative is the realization that the 'gold' bits on the Toolcheck Plus don't serve much of a purpose so you can just remove those out.
Nice vid! The tool check looks awesome and super convenient. I’d love to have one, but the price has scared me away. I’ve got the Wiha kit (my bit selection is slightly different than yours) which I LOVE. And my go-to bit driver the PB Swiss insider. Has internal but storage and a really strong magnet. It’s also a perfect slightly compact size-big enough to use regularly for any task, but small enough to tuck away or fit in somewhat tight spaces. Haven’t found a socket solution yet. I may go with the makita!
Good job on the video. This is the first time seeing your channel. I liked the way you put this together and the research. Definitely worth a subscription.
Welcome aboard! If you like obsessively researched kits, I have a few videos you should check out. Thanks for the sub.
The Icon extension goes through the head if you line the white dot with the teeth then can be used as a T handle. Best ratchet screwdriver in my opinion is the Kobalt double drive which has bit storage as well.
I think the draw of the Wera Tool Check is that it's all one self- contained piece. It's probably not the best at anything- with a small ratchet and a tiny bit holder, but it's great to throw it into a backpack or glove box and have all the basic tools you need to work on things. If you are going to carry a full tool bag, then of course its cheaper and probably superior to put together a kit that exactly matches your needs.
Great video. In the end I use the Toolcheck Plus mostly because it is all in one and so compact, that i even can put it in my pockets. And i like to be able to easily use it in the hands without having to leigh it down. Many other cases don‘t offer this, at least so good. So yes, you can put together a nice set that is even better, but not with the same strengths. As a bonus, I am from germany. Here I you pay around 50 Euros/55 dollars for the Toolcheck Plus. It is even harder to find a better alternative for this price. Hauet has a very similar and maybe (in quality) even better set, but it is more expensive then the Wera. I also like the very compact Victorinox ratchet and clip-on bitholder. But it is expensive too and I don‘t know if it is sold separatly in the US.
I got the wiha 11 in 1 screwdriver for $20 at lowes and love it. The best multi bit screwdriver i ever used. Pretty cool they have a smaller bit holder one too. I also have the makitsa socket set but the 3/8 set. The 1/4 set would be nice to have as well
Great kit!! I’ve done a mini kit on my channel and will be doing a larger one soon. That Pittsburg ratchet is what I’ve been needing!! Thanks for the suggestion. 🫡✌🏼
Great video. Just what i waa looking for. Saved me a bunch if time. Got the stubby and others. Will buy more. Thx for the links.
I use the bicycle set rather than the toolcheck plus, as I rarely see security torx bits but the ball-ended hex bits are much appreciated. The bike set also comes with a carrying case, tire irons and an additional aux tool holder for actual cycling outings too. I use my set literally every day.
Nice video! There is one very similar option out there. Hazet, another German tool company, offers a comparable “tool check” type set, but it’s even more expensive than the Wera set.
Yeah, it looks sweet but I didn't include anything more expensive than the ToolCheck in this video. I don't think I could afford a premium kit video since they are all so pricy
Shalom Todd. Thank you once again!
Thanks for sharing, love the content!
I just put together a similar kit, but for the sockets, I needed a 14mm. I went with the Craftsman V series 1/4 metric socket set currently on Amazon for $25. The Quinn set is great (i wanted the included socket rail with the craftsman though) but both the Makita and Wera sets only go up to 13mm. I also went with the Tone BRFS27 over the Icon because I only need metric and i liked the metal box.
The Wera EDC kit is GENIUS 👍
Nice kit! If you want the best ratcheting screwdriver the Hazet 810R-3 has the same locking collet as your hazet. It also holds 12 bits and has the absolute smoothest gearless ratchet. It doesn't click and has basically no backdrag. Its pricey but definitely worth it.
Yeah, that thing looks amazing but wouldn't fit into a "budget" video :)
Vessel really sines in the fixed blade screwdrivers. Glad to hear you like their ratchet, but I'm sticking with LTTxMegaPro, the megapro costs about the same as the vessel, the LTT is more than double, but worth it if you can splash the cash.
So much excellent info. Gonna have to watch this vid a couple times.
i wish the wera bits came with the same etched tips like they have on the stand alone screwdrivers. and thanks for pronouncing it right. im born english but live out here now.
Quantas alternativas, fico imaginando o trabalho e custo pra fazer um vídeo desse. Excelente vídeo!!! Abraços.
Like everything the quality of bits is a lottery. Take the Posidrive number 2 I have had wonderful bits from cheap kits and bad bits from expensive kits,and if you buy the same kit again, the same qualities as the last kit may not obtain ! My favourite bit driver is a no-name square handled non ratcheting one with effective spanner flats, it holds any quarter inch bit ,and it likes me and won’t leave me !
Great video with more information than I was expecting I am a fan of Harbor Freight and a big fan of small kits I started out with a Gearwrench micro set which I still use and love but the downside is the case is trash if you drop it it will break I'm on my 3rd set. I got the Icon set because it has a very robust case and I seen one of the HF videos from the Sema show that they will have that same Icon set available with sockets. I'm looking forward to that when it becomes available
Really great analysis & recommendations
Hazet is a well known german tool brand which has a strong focus on automotive tools. They are among the best and technicians in germany hold their tools in high regard. 75% of their tools is still made in Germany. Overall I am very happy with their tools, I buy them second hand because their quality is outstanding.
Excellent video! I was lucky with my Tool Check Plus on a clearance sale for around $50. Then I just paired it with the ESD yellow version of the Wiha Centrofix. Also speaking of Makita, they have a great miny ratchet kit for around 15 bucks P79142. Don't know about Draper and Bahco in the US, but they have decent kits at around 20 bucks.
$50? You got really lucky!!
I like all the tools in the video.... I think will buy them all just to have nice tools ... Amazing video ... thanks
Such a good idea for a video comparison.
I have the wera tool check named as bicycle set 3 in a nice pouch and some levers. I added a non ratcheting wera rapidaptor T handle. Great set on the road. I included the little xs cobra and pliers wrench in this set. But if you have a bigger toolbag at work you can have multiple options. I also have a little ratcheting stubby from wera with bit storage. I think pb swiss also make one. They are expensive, but more durable.
Great little kit!
There is the LaBear LB-02906, but it doesn't include a separate screwdriver handle, and doesn't have as many bits. The ratchet included has bit-holder with a spin sleeve at the bottom of the handle, so you might not need a separate one. It includes an adapter similar to the 711L, and has a nice case. It is about 36 USD.
If you’re interested in speed and accessibility, the tool-check is really great. You pay a lot for that extra sophistication, but for some it’s absolutely worth it. The kit is the tool, and you can quickly get used to using it without looking at it, and as easy to put bits away as not, so it tends to make for tidier work.
I think the Klein 20-in-1 (32303HD) + their electrician mini ratchet (65200) + their 32 piece bit set you already mentioned is great honestly. I'd pick up the tamperproof bit set too and mix and match whatever bits you'll actually need/run into. Plus you can throw their metric flip socket set (32933M) when its available too for better versatility. The 20-in-1 has so much functionality alone in such a small package its hard to beat, and with the loops on the ratchet and bit set you can hang them off the side of your bag, or even belt if you're so inclined. Plus I like keeping my things matching and I'm a big fan of Klein, so that helps. 20-in-1 ($40USD), ratchet ($16), bit set ($22). Still not the cheapest overall but I'd argue those three alone provide more versatility in a smaller package since theres no need to carry the socket set separately unless you go for both SAE and metric (and even then, i prefer the way the flip sockets store compared to the rail style, since they fit into toolbag pockets nicer). You could even totally omit the bit set, honestly - the driver comes with 12 bits on its own (#0, #1, #2, #3 Phillips, 1/4, 3/16-Inch Slotted, #1, #2 Square, T10, T15, T20, T25, #2 Combo) and the ratchet includes #1, #2 Phillips, 3/16, 1/4 Slotted, and a 1/4 drive adapter. That's a total of 17 bits for your kit (with some dupes, yes) and the sum is still only 56 USD. And unless you're just starting out, chances are you have some commonly used bits anyway that you can use to customize your kit without spending the extra on the bit set.
I have the titan swivel head 1/4 for sockets and also the bit driver. I think there are like $15 each. They sell at auto parts stores. Which can be good stores to look for for stuff like what is in this video. EDC and such. I also have the ideal 21 and 1 ratcheting screwdriver I used every day. I’ve modified it by putting a Klein 11 and 1 cap end on the one side to make it a little more versatile It’s kind of like that clear screwdriver . I think it’s like $27
Tool Check Plus - Metric - has saved my arse numerous times. Great on a motorcycle or simply thrown (and kept) int the glovebox.
Great video, love this channel. So relatable and personal
Thanks, really appreciate that!
Always enjoy your kits!
Glad you like them, thanks for watching!
I use the Bosch professional 32 + bit holder for my drill and put together a little kit for cheap with: -5 to 17 sockets (half 1/4, half 3/8) -standard 3/8 ratchet + mini 1/4 -adapters to make any combination of 1/4, 3/8, bits and drill. -extensions and swivel joint for both sizes -small ratchet driver for the bits It is not the best quality but I only want it for small and very few scenarios. I mostly use the bits in the drill, this way I can try others bit sets without sockets or ratchet.
For my needs, the tool check plus is the single thing I take when I need tools around the house. If I need something else I’ll go back to the garage and look for specific tools.
That's fair and sort of where I landed. It's awesome as a lightweight and all-in-one kit for EDC, car, or junk drawer but if you're near a larger toolkit, you're probably better off getting a set of bits, sockets, driver, and rachet.
I have the Icon ratchet set. If you fold the head 90 degrees, it makes for a not-terribly-uncomfortable screwdriver. I love the thing!
Yeah, I felt the offset head was pretty awkward for me as it swings around but it works in a pinch
I've had a Sidchrome Nano set for a couple of years now, (which is just a rebadge Facom RL.NANO-U2) it only cost me 60 aud. Amazing quality and design.
Nice kit! I can't seem to find it in the US without expensive shipping but awesome
I really like the Tone bit ratchet set for my line of work. I like that is has a size 8 hex and has all JIS + bits because I need them. Paired with the wera micro ratchet sometimes I use both ratchets at the same time on the extension/tbar for stabilization and downward force. Also has a nice metal case and cost $40-45
This one that looks like the Wiha? amzn.to/4aWjL4r
I have the Bahco sl25, a solid set that lives in my car door. Nice enough quality from a brand owned by Snap-on just under 30€.
I bought a clear handled screwdriver from ace and popped the shank out and the put in a Milwaukee locking bit holder cost about 13-17 dollars depending on the screwdriver you get for its handle
As an engineer that has to bring tools to the jobsite, I'm always on the lookout for very compact tool sets that do the job. For 1/4 drive sockets, I have a cheap set that I got at Lowes (Kobalt). It came with a tiny 1/4" drive ratchet and metric sockets that stow into a rubbery holder like your EDC socket kit. It also came with came with a 1/4" hex bit holder that makes holding a stubby feel excessive. It's gotten me out of a few jams when things were tight. For SAE sockets (which I use less and less of) I just have a cheap dollar store set of sockets that come in the same rubbery holder as the Kobalt kit. For 1/4" hex bits, I have an old Wiha 38007 insulated 1/4" hex bit screw driver that has bits that store in the handle. I have 2 cheap sets I got off Amazon for my 1/4" bits. One is your usual assortment of slotted, phillips, hex, torx, etc. The other is an identical style holder that has security bits in it. They both look similar to your Klein set only they include an extension in each kit. Between the 1/4" drive sockets and bits including the Wiha handle I have everything (and more with the SAE sockets and security bits) than what the Wera Tool Check Plus has, and it basically takes up the same amount of space in my bag. However, since I use those Klein canvas zipper bags for keeping my tools from rolling around loose in the bag, I find that these can be re-arranged to fit better in my bag. They are not as high quality as the Wera set, but if I loose the bits it's not the end of the world. That Wera set is nice though. My boss has that set and it is very high quality. Like you mentioned, I wish it came with the Zyklop swivel ratchet. If it came with that, you wouldn't even need the bit holder handle. Just did some poking around on Wera's website and they do make a set that has that ratchet. Look for the Wera 8100 SA 6. Not cheap though.
Thanks, great ideas
The Wera tool check plus is my most used bit kit. I bought some cheap bits when I was just starting out. I will never buy “budget” bits again. I have purchased an impact rated kit from DeWALT and one from Bosch. Both were much better than the cheap bits I started with, but not near the quality of the Wera. While Wera bits aren’t made in Germany anymore, they are still better than others I have owned. I just received a Wiha 2 inch bit kit and need to get some more use with.
Great video. As others have mentioned Hazet has a similar “Smartholder” but is more expensive. I have one question, can the hazet bit holder hold double-sided bits? Thanks in advance.
I like the klein stubby with bit storage in the handle
Nice workup! Thanks.
Merry Christmas to me - your videos just cost me 250 bucks :) TY for the content
Happy to spend your money 💰
As a service tech and a user of this amazing tool set, I can assure you will not regret your spent money. One of the best sets to slip in your side leg pocket with a small Cobra pliers and a medium size flat screwdriver to do quick jobs. I now carry it as my EDC 🥰
Great video! Thank you for all the time and research! I'm glad you said something about the nine thousand slotted bits in that set. One slotted screw in this world is too many, so I don't want any of those archaic things taking up valuable space in my bag. 🙂 Also, those round bit holders on the Pittsburgh ratcheting screwdriver should fit on the shaft. That was a common design in the 90s, which is when that ratcheting mechanism was apparently designed. LOL
Ah! Good call on the mysterious bit donut. I hope nobody else buys that piece of junk. Glad you liked the video, I had a lot of fun researching and messing around with options.
@@todd.parker "bit doughnut" 😂😂😂
Love your kit. Any suggestions to carry in..let's say a soft case of some sort? Basically an EDC ?
I use the icon set every day and rarely need anything else. I have the tool check as well and found the bit driver to me so small that I couldn’t really get enough torque on it for it to even be useful. The 1/4 inch sockets also felt a bit like a waste because there’s not really enough leverage there for any substantial work either. I am going to have to check out some of those driver handles. That Klein bit holder empties itself in my bag every time I use it.
If you can swing it, the Wiha driver is amazing. No fancy features but it's very comfortable and I can't believe how well it holds onto every kind of bit and extension I've tried. Zero wobble, feels great.
Such a great video. I seem to have all the tools but still addicted to buying more tools.
You and me both!
For a mini socket set, I have the Bahco SL25, and nothing in the UK compares at the price point. I have added a 6" extension and 1/4" universal joint which will fit in the case. I can't help feeling a proper 1/4" ratchet driver is going to stronger than a comparable bit driver, but that's just a hunch. I also have a second slightly larger version of the set that comes with deep sockets... The Wera set looks excellent, and I have a Wera 1/4 ratchet in another tool kit, and the quality is excellent...
very nice video! i was deeply paying attention the whole time!
The Bahco 2058/S26 Ratchet Socket Bit Set, 26 Pieces is a great compact set with most of the parts the Wera kit has but smaller
Been looking at the facom nano set too, little bit more expensive but seems to have extensions and a wobble adapter too
I get it sometimes the price tag can be off putting to get some tools. However, those cost savings can translate to a failure of a tool when you need it the most at the worst possible time. Maybe it could even end up being a use one kit just because the tool doesn’t hold up the same after being used. Great videos anyways!!! I took some inspiration for my stuff out of your veto bag one!
I've never had a problem buying the ToolCheck - it's a good value for the price and has a great design. I just wanted to see if I could find cheaper options for folks who wanted them and in a few place (like the bit driver), you can do miles better.
@@todd.parkerGood point I live by the motto buy once cry once 😂. I @@todd.parker Please keep videos with tool kit ideas coming they’re great.
My absolute go-to for the driver handle is a Wiha 38701 ESD driver with a centrofix holder, I have bought several over the years and they're great. It's the perfect size for me (maybe a bit on the small size if you have very large hands but will still be comfortable), the shape is super nice, the coating is grippy and it's ESD safe which is essential as I work on industrial 3D printers with super sensitive main boards. The centrofix holder is BAR-NON the absolute best you can possibly find on a driver, it holds standard C6 bits as well as the notched E6 bits absolutely solid, zero play, at all. I have literally put a 150mm E6 bit in that thing and stuck it in a vice to see how much play I got in the handle, and there was literally nothing. It somehow makes the already great Hatzet and wera holders look like a wet noodle in comparison. I simply cannot recommend Wiha products enough, they are fantastic, also not crazy overpriced like a lot of other nice brands (cough... PB swiss... cough). I'm baffled that their products aren't more popular! (edit) nevermind you covered it!
Totally agree on how underrated Wiha is and love the centrofix driver. I heard the extension versions weren’t centered properly but I’d pick one up if they were good.
Amazing video. Thank you
I have Wera tool check (not plus, because I use proper size screwdriver with it) - I wouldn't change it for all that other tools combined. If price is not an issue, Wera kicks ass. If it is, then sure, others will do the job as well.
Great video. I have the tool check plus but now I want to buy all of these!
I still think the Toolcheck is pretty great, especially for an EDC style kit but it's fun to check out other options
I'm getting all them tools. They all look real good!!
I liked the video. I also like "Stahlwille" ratcheting screwdrivers they are suprisingly affordable. "Felo" also make good quality screwdrivers and bit sets. Both brands made in Germany 🇩🇪
I believe the Hazet bit handle is made in Slovenia by Oplast. Oplast make most comfort handled Hazet and Gedore branded screwdrivers.
Those HF bit rings go over the shaft of the screwdriver. Its using a design that nearly 25+ years old and I have several different version all will the same mech.
This tool check plus is a beast I have it for years and this plus an cobra S knipex pliers can help you in any unexpected situation
Perfect for an EDC kit like that, yep