Started using "Allen" wrenches at age 13 as an apprentice bicycle mechanic. Something most people miss is that standard "L" keys, in standard sizes, are designed to be used as a system with the fastener, not just as a handy long/short handle, all-in-one wrench. Originally, the system design intended that the torque applied to the hex fastener was limited by the length and thickness of the key. This is why a good standard "L" key set has the wrenches getting progressively longer and thicker (not just to match the fastener's wrench socket). Typically, you can obtain a proper torque range value by inserting the long leg into the fastener and using the short leg to get finger-tight. Follow this by flipping the wrench around and using the long leg to tighten an additional 1/4 to 1/2 turn. For most fasteners and applications, this gets you there and prevents cam-out of the wrench or deforming the wrench or fastener. The caveat being the assumption that the fastener and wrench are properly-designed, including hardnesses and dimensional tolerances. So often we look down on the standard L-Keys, but alternative hex wrenches (while handy and appearing to be a better solution) can actually create problems and lead to damage. Of course, all this is dependent on the application and limited to a size range, where super small fasteners and larger fasteners are an exception, as your fingers can easily overtighten and damage the former with a standard key, while also not being strong enough to tighten larger fasteners. Note that some fasteners are designed more for aesthetics or with a view on a feature of the fastener's head (no snag, flush, countersunk, decorative) that will result in an undersized wrench socket for the fastener, therefore the above torquing method will not be reliable Anyway, don't confuse convenience with proper system design. That said, the Wera hex keys are terrific.
@BLASTIC03 жыл бұрын
I love that PB Swiss ratcheting driver with the short shaft…. One day.. maybe. They are ouch expensive.
@davidsantiago59372 жыл бұрын
Grate videos, enjoy your content and yes I love tools also. Because of you I have found at least 7 good tools that I can’t live without! Love you Sub, lost mine 6 months ago at one of my work site’s. Waiting on insurance to replace it.
@lastbesttool2 жыл бұрын
Mine is a DSSD. Really interested in the DSSDE now.
@davidsantiago59372 жыл бұрын
Liken make good stuff, I use Wera. I do small work with them and I find them to have the best fit also the materials they use are the best for longevity. Unless I really enjoy using them I would purchase several. I enjoy RC Helicopters and Airplanes.
@larrycroft4703 жыл бұрын
Doc if i did not know better i would think you are one of the tool addicts here on the net!! Good job great video!!
@benny3533 жыл бұрын
You should have a look at the Wera Hex-Plus, really good for slightly rounded hex screws.
@rickkode2 жыл бұрын
Would you suggest them for all round use? So also not rounded hex screws
@andygilbert18773 жыл бұрын
I thought I had quite a collection, it seems not! :) As a fork truck tech for many years most of my hex keys were socket based, simply for the extra grunt needed to undo fasteners when corroded. Fork trucks use hex fasteners a lot and sizes routinely found go from 3mm to 19mm, so 1/4”, 3/8” and 1/2” drive sockets are needed. I also carried a standard set of Allen Keys up to 8mm, and 1/4” bits up to 6mm, but these saw little use. One tool I did use a lot though, was the Park Tool 4/5/6mm Y-Key, which I found through working on bikes and so bought another for work, so handy! These days I’m working mostly on bikes and my main Allen sets are the Park Tool P handle set, which is good for the ball ends, and a Beta sliding T-Handle set, which has standard ends. This avoids the risk of snapping off ball ends, and also fits into tighter spaces than the P handles. I still have most of my sockets & bits from the fork truck days too, so I’m pretty well covered. I don’t generally like the multi-tool styles, and only carry those when out riding.
@Mrsmith10822 жыл бұрын
I have a metal box full of random keys eventually got fed up and bought a wera set in chrome with the rainbow colors. Vera nice.
@gentleimpact35803 жыл бұрын
You should check out the sliding t-handle style and the Bondhus hex pro, which are an l-key with a swivel in the bend. Great for access!
@lastbesttool3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the tip. Which packaging is the best. I see three options on line, and the reviews seem somewhat polarized of loving them or disappointed. And there seems to be a couple flavors of them, some better than others. Thanks.
@gentleimpact35803 жыл бұрын
@@lastbesttool for the Bondhus Hex Pro? I got the metric set in the blue cloth pouch. The pouch is unimpressive to say the least, but I really like the utility the swivel gives. For the sliding T-handle, Facom or PB Swiss? 😎
@gentleimpact35803 жыл бұрын
@@lastbesttool btw. I would not recommend them as an “only” set. But I know that is not an issue you are having. ;) in my “go-pouch” I carry a small set normal PB Swiss L-Keys plus the Bondhus hex pro plus a 4mm fixes T-Style (since that is used here for Windows/Doors adjustments).
@tylerboyle34133 жыл бұрын
I love videos about appreciating tools. I'm a low voltage guy. I keep each SAE and metric DeWalt set of L keys in my technician's purse. That way if I need to hang or work on a camera, maglock, or need to open a pull station I can bring both sets in my pocket and find the key that fits. L keys are slimmer and smaller than the collapsible handle type. My only complaint is sometimes your hands burn from turning an L key for two hours straight. If Megapro made a multi-bit screwdriver with Allen key bits, then I'd buy use those instead
@pointbreak82933 жыл бұрын
Those mac rbrt bits are good for rounded hex and/or torx fasteners. You may need to get you a set of those doc to add to your collection…nice video about hex keys…👍👍👍
@batmanacw Жыл бұрын
Wait until you KZbin guys finds out about the Eight tools taper end hex keys. The ball end gets tighter as you angle the key rather than levering itself out. I cannot believe that they haven't taken off. The only ball end that can take a fastener to full torque. The sets come with a pipe to put on the short end for higher torque.
@jeremymcguire70693 жыл бұрын
The folding ones are convenient but I hate them for many bruises and scrapes from fighting them. If there's room, nothing beats the t-handle drivers. I just carry a set of L type. They fit my work.
@UnhumanNewman3 жыл бұрын
Of course you love the Snap-On one. You paid enough for it!
@tomcardale55963 жыл бұрын
There's a sort of fourth that you've missed, which is the sliding T handle. I rather like them.
@PermanentApprentice3 жыл бұрын
Wiha has some good ones too
@TechMay3 жыл бұрын
Just bought snapon Allen keys !!
@lastbesttool3 жыл бұрын
I watched your video and you me mentioned it was your first set of good hex keys. That was what sparked the idea for this video!
@TechMay3 жыл бұрын
@@lastbesttool glad I could be of some inspiration!