Ko-ken - its American Connection - Z-series Tools (Koken)

Hi, all! Today's episode covers Ko-ken's founder, its American connection, a glimpse of their philosophy towards the ratchets they continue to produce, and the concept behind their Z-series (ZEAL) tools.
I apologize that this became an extremely long video, but I hope you were able to capture a few interesting things from skimming through the video.
If you watched from beginning to end I salute to you!
#kokentools #japanesetools #zseries #backdrag #lowbackdrag

[@emiliog.4432]

Thanks. I really like my Koken tools. Excellent quality. Does the low tooth count give better strength, less prone to breakage?

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

In general, a design that allows a greater surface contact area between the gear tooth and pawl tooth should yield greater strength. But that isn't necessarily a determining factor for ultimate strength. For example, in 1/4 drive, you're likely to fail the gear tooth or the pawl, whereas on 3/8 drive, you're likely going to shear off the square anvil. In any case, the machining and casting of the ratchet head and its internal parts must be performed with great precision, especially with 1/4 drive, and with extra fine-tooth count mechanisms. The smaller parts would demand a higher quality of precison in the fit and finish of those parts. If they aren't, then it'll affect the quality of the final product....tendency to jamn in one or both directions, to skip teeth, inconsistent engagement between pawl/gear tooth, etc.

[@emiliog.4432]

ChrisCas - Tool Aficionado thanks. The swivel on flex ratchets seem to be the weak link in some of those type of ratchets. I trust the Japanese steel in Koken tools and May be stronger than Snap on’s., which are notorious for breaking. I wish Koken would make an xtra long Z series 1/4” ratchet.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Test results have shown that Snap-on's Dual-80 mechanism is very stout. It performed better than the Ko-ken Zeal mechanism. Having said that, the Zeal still performed well above industry minimum standards. Currently, the longest Z-series ratchet in 1/4 drive is their 2725Z-160 (standard) and 2726Z-160 (flex-head) at 160mm (6.3") long. In my opinion, I don't think Ko-ken will be releasing anything longer than that. I could be wrong though! When you get to 9" long 1/4 drive ratchets, you're gonna be able to generate quite a lot more stress on that gear/pawl interface. From the point of view of the manufacturer, I don't think they want to promote a situation that could cause harm to the operator as a result of an internal failure. Operator safety is very much in their minds, so I think they'd be wary of introducing such products. Another perpective to keep in mind is warranty. Japanese tool manufacturers differ from North American tool truck brands that tend to provide a robust warranty. Snap-on offers their 9" long 1/4 drive ratchet (TLL72) partly because people will buy it, just because it's made available. And people buy it because they know there's a good warranty that comes along with it. Same can't be said for Japanese manufacturers, and that would be another reason why a company like Ko-ken would be hesistant to offer a product that would be much more prone to useage under extremes of its useable range. Sorry for the long-winded reply.

[@villiamo3861]

@@chriscas-ToolAficionado Excellent & thoughtful reply, I think you mean...

[@WizzRacing]

Lower tooth count equals less movement to turn a fastener..Why they make them. You can remove a fastener in a small arc space with less effort... Why I also use a spinner. To turn the fastener once it is lose. As most ratchets can't turn it anymore. The resistance is to low....Used with a Nut Gripper socket. You won't drop the fastener as well... And trust me. On GM cars with that funky water pump driven off the timing chain. If you drop one of them nuts off the gear. You will be taking that whole timing cover assembly apart to retrieve it.. Which adds 6 more hours to the job...

[@mike191162]

Hi I'm from Wellington New Zealand. I've got one of the early series 1/2" ratchets from the mid sixties. It's still in use and work fine the chrome is worn out but it had years of service. I clean it out every couple of years and lube it. The impact sockets are tough they take a beating and don't wear like snap on sockets.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

That's awesome! A sure indicator of a quality manufacturer making durable tools. Thanks for commenting!

[@puksrasohchurrun]

Hi really well put together video. I’m a New Zealander. I have lots of koken tools, which started with a 1/2 ratchet I inherited from my grandfather. I’m not a qualified mechanic but run a fleet of logging equipment and do all my own work. The koken tools really take a hiding. I just love them. Even have a few koken spanners I inherited off my father. Never seen any others. Koken feels so nice and is a lineup to be proud of. And I hate to admit it but we really abuse tools here. I have had a 20 foot long piece of pipe on the end of 3/4 drive t bar, short extension and can’t remover size but koken impact socket. Two men literally swinging on the end of the pipe. One example of repeated tool abuse. And have had no damage or breakages whatsoever. One thing I like to do is break the retaining screws Off ratchet head and I buy the rebuild kits from koken and don’t peen the screws, so I can get inside and grease every so often Also another example of abuse is using non impact sockets on rattle guns. Even 1/2 drive in 3/4 gun with extensions and adapters. No damage. My guilt made me buy full sets of impact sockets from them but point is they really go above and beyond what they’re made for

[@SeriousSchitt]

I'm a New Zealander, and I 'NEVER' abuse my tools like that. Nice to know they can take it though!

[@Rickfyoutube]

Amazon review I found translated from Japanese. "The hand is also clutter. Screws that do not turn with cheap tools also turn lightly to satisfy the satisfaction possessed by high quality. It is a living organism" This is good...right?

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Yeah, it showcases Ko-kens quality. So poetic and eloquently written. Haha.

[@yajeetj]

I love Japanese tools. Mechanics in Japan deserve more respect and pay. There are big difference being mechanics in Japan and mechanics in US. Maybe you can do a video on that.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

I'm afraid I don't know enough to speak on that subject. Do you know any mechanics from Japan?

[@binzsta86]

@@chriscas-ToolAficionado Smokey Nagata?

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

@@binzsta86 LOL. That man is in a category of his own.

[@michaelmckay]

@@chriscas-ToolAficionado He said Japanese Mechanics and pulls out Smokey hahahaha Everyone has the highest respect for him and the V12 Supra. Dude and Top Secret are a legend, one of the top tuners in the world.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

@@michaelmckay much respect to Smokey and his works. I think he produced some of the raddest cars. I saw his gold Supra at the Tokyo Auto Salon in 2000.

[@conmanumber1]

Yeah im from New Zealand. The best idea i ever experience in Ko ken is on the tools is the little numbers stamped on handles and extensions etc. That is the max torque the tool can handle. Numbers are in Newton meters.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Yeah, I think I've seen that on drive adapters only. I don't recall seeing it on extensions though.

[@conmanumber1]

@@chriscas-ToolAficionado hi Chris. My em is [e-mail]. i will shoot some fotos for you. Cheers Carl.

[@allthegearbutnoideamanwest3174]

Hello. . I'm not from new Zealand but live and work here as a diesel mechanic.. I first came across koken tools I Australia, I'm a big fan of koken tools very high quality right up there with snapon in my eyes. The are a fair price, but I just got a Z-EAL 3/8 drive love it .. Great video

[@jonahbrady744]

Thats funny, I live in New Zealand and inherited a lot of Koken tools from my uncle, who happened to work in Australia as a diesel mechanic. Also a huge fan now.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Thanks for commenting guys. As far as brand recognition goes, how does the Ko-ken name stack up against Australian brands like Sidchrome and Kincrome?

[@allthegearbutnoideamanwest3174]

Kingchorme and sidchome don't even come close to koken tool's.. the older stuff that was mead in Australia like sidchome was very good, just like kingchrome was mead in Japan not all but some..

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Thanks Niall! When do you think production at the Australian plants closed?

[@allthegearbutnoideamanwest3174]

@@chriscas-ToolAficionado not 100% sure Chris, maybe 20 years ago or more .. I work with a guy at a small Toyota dealership in Australia he's been a mechanic for 35years.. he had all the older sidchome tools spanners sockets sets even the older kingchrome he said the tools 20 + years old

[@niallcosgrove5596]

Koken all the way.. big here in new Zealand next to snapon or stahlwille tools all the older mechnics still use it I'm a big fan of it koken tools or any mead in Japan tools for E.G one mechanic has a 1/2 inch drive koken ratchet over 30 year's old never had a kit and still works

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

That rather echoes what some others have said too. Thanks for commenting!!

[@harveysmith100]

Really informative video. A snap shot of why the whole of Japan is successful The Koken universal joints are high on my list.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

I think there's quite a lot of people who are very happy with their ball-joint style chrome universal joints. Myself included.

[@WizzRacing]

That multi purpose head is great.. You can use an Extension of any length to make a ratchet as long as you want...

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

😁 leverage 💪

[@jeffwolf8018]

I recently got a 1/4 and 3/8 in Koken Z series ratchets and I also recently got a 1/4 in bacho ratchet with sockets and an extension. I was not at all impressed with the 1/4 in Bacho however the Koken ratchets are absolutely incredible. The low backdrag is nothing like I've seen before. While the bacho sockets and extension are high quality the back drag is the same on that as it is on my recently replaced Craftsman 1/4 inch ratchet. I'm soon to get a set of not gripping sockets and 1/2 in long handle ratchet from Koken. After seeing how well-built the ratchets are I can only imagine how good their sockets are I really particularly like that they have double swivel 3/8 and 1/2 in that I've seen so far extensions.

[@scubbarookie]

Awesome tool review and history! Instant subscriber. Thank you Chris!

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Thanks!!

[@indoorxoutdoor7357]

Hi I'm from japan. love ko-ken z-eal.

[@ty250z]

Hi ,I heard you mention New Zealand as the first country that Koken export to . I’m a New Zealander and I received my Koken 1/2 inch drive set in metric and imperial in 1973 as a present for work helping a friend build engines . But this year 2019 I broke my ratchet 4752 and the importer could not supply parts so give me a 4753N as a replacement at a good discount rate.The set has served me well over the years. I also very much like the Bahco socket set . The small 1/4 inch socket set are very nice to use. Cheers Peter

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Thanks for chiming in Peter! At least I can establish the fact that Ko-ken has had their 45-tooth roundhead ratchet from at least 1973.

[@LEGOCAMARO]

By far best tool video I ever seen. Thank you

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Thank you for watching! Are you a fan of Ko-ken tools as well?

[@LEGOCAMARO]

ChrisCas - Tool Aficionado well I just really like high quality tools from around the world. But my inbox is just full of harbor Freight icon tools. Not sure if you seen them supposed to complete with snap on. But the zeal is definitely in the top 3 of hand tools.

[@DRooPY_eYeZ_tellsNoLies]

Thank you for your valuable content. Having recently discovered the amazing quality of Japanese tools, I am hooked. My collection of koken and nepros is slowly growing. I’m learning so much from your videos. Thank you

[@WorkingViews]

Thank you for the insight! This is solid gold for the true nerds. There are stories everywhere. My favorite thing about quality tools and, old ones for that fact, is that you can sense the care and attention in them. I really respect what Ko-ken is doing, especially for the price point.

[@ratchetwise440]

Enjoy toolheads. kzbin.info/www/bejne/e6C8e32ga8R_r80&ab_channel=ProtoIndustrial

[@conmanumber1]

Im not a plastic handle fan as they degrade. New Zealand was Kokens first export market and Makita too. These are nice non fancy fine tooth ratchets. They are durable in the feild when working in dirty environments compard to snapon etc. They make very serious socket sizes too.

[@mikefisc9989]

I really enjoyed watching this video and learning some of the history of Ko-ken tools. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us.

[@ianloyd6384]

Very interesting! Thank you for sharing that story behind Ko-Ken & your knowledge of the company. 🙏🏻

[@infotechsailor]

I feel like I've justtaken a college level history course on koken. Awesome video man!

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Hahaha. Thanks! I've given you a A+ for your term grade.

[@infotechsailor]

Best part is, now when someone gives you crap for putting Japanese tools in your toolbox, you school them on Mr. Kokens history with Ford

[@BrenticusMaximus1]

Great video as always 🙂👍 I cannot seem to get enough of these Japanese tools videos in the style and format you have created, "Thank You" for sharing!

[@nathalialavelle1603]

I'm from Philippines.. I love my new 1/2 and 3/8 drive koken ratchet

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Nice to hear from you, all the way from the Philippines! 🇵🇭 👍

[@alexrains1893]

That was absolutely fascinating and not too long at all, if anything not long enough!

[@AutobahnDan]

I remember koken like 15-20 years ago was the only swivel socket with the magic ring holder on the tool trucks. I still have a 10mm and I think a 13mm today! I didn’t know they had that many ratchets! I keep getting them confused with the Kukko brand that make special pullers.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Ahh, Kukko, the German puller specialist with the green boxes. They are really nice looking, and quite expensive! Did you happen to purchase your Ko-ken nut-grip swivels from The Tool Network?

[@AutobahnDan]

ChrisCas - Tool Aficionado don’t remember, I think it was off the Snap-on truck. The trucks still carry them to this day!

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

@@AutobahnDan That's awesome! I wish my SO/MAC driver carried some Ko-ken specialty stuff

[@AdamAus85]

Lost a socket from my 1/4 Koken Z-series socket set. I hope to find it one day! ;( Beautiful tools. I also have a 3/8 socket set and 1/2 impact socket set.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Let me guess....a 10mm? 😄 I've misplaced a 16mm Zeal socket as well 😢 I love my 1/2 drive impacts, too👍

[@WizzRacing]

Magnet trays will prevent that.....

[@neilhamill318]

I have a vintage Koken ratchet socket set that was given to me from a mechanic friend many year's ago here in Australia. Just incase you were interested the ratchet number is 3749.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Your ratchet socket set sounds like a vintage indeed, and still in good working order. 👍 The good thing about Ko-ken is that unlike some tool manufacturers, they actually make the vast majority of what they offer, and in the case of that ratchet, you can still get a ratchet rebuild kit to refresh the internals. Need a new ratchet? No problem. They still make that model after all these years!

[@neilhamill318]

@@chriscas-ToolAficionado Thanks for your reply. I didn't know that model was still produced today. Must be one of the very few companies that have produced a superior item and still make earlier model's for those who want quality at a lower price. 👍I have an other vintage Japanese full set of tools not the same quality as koken. But still good quality that has a somewhat odd name for a Japanese manufacturer I thought. Daniel Forge.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

@@neilhamill318 Daniel Forge. That is an odd name 🤣. Another name I'm familiar with is Minimax Tools. They were made by a Japanese company called SEK (Suekage) Tools.

[@Toyotas_n__Tools]

Great presentation Chris! So Cornwell ratchets are another maker that still makes a number of their ratchets in a 36 tooth count with a extreme smooth back drag. Thanks for the video, Mr Koken really was a pioneer, I thunk it would be interesting to know what he did during the war more indepth.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Hi Doug, thanks for that info. Cornwell is a brand I haven't come across in my neck of the woods. I'll have to contact Ko-ken Japan to dig up that information! He probably couldn't wait for the war to end so that he could set up his company in time for Japan's rebuilding efforts.

[@Toyotas_n__Tools]

@@chriscas-ToolAficionado Even here to this day cornwell just isn't a very big manufacture and I wish they did more to promote themselves. If you watch their videos on youtube it is very neat to know they make their tools the old ways still.

[@robertcraciun9587]

Yota Doug's Tool Collecting Channel proto as well. It’s funny that I just found out cornwell has a factory 30 min from my house. I never knew that they were so close before. Channel lock is an hr from where I live. I live in Erie pa Cornwell is in Albion and channelock is in meadvillle pa. Here’s the funny thing I used to go to Albion all the time my mom lived there never noticed the factory.

[@nominalvelocity]

Regarding the lower tooth count, you don't see high tooth ratchets with big ol' long handles. A long handle is great for torque, but you'll be busting the teeth off the pawl if you're really wrenching on it. Meaning, these tools are meant to take a beating, but may not be the best at getting to the tightest spots.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

I agree with your point about how these may not necessarily be the best choice for working in tight spots where there isn't enough swing room to engage the next tooth. However, I do want to share my view on high-tooth count ratchets. Present day high tooth-count ratchets (72+ tooth) can have VERY long handles per given drive size. Take for example Snap-on (80-tooth) and MAC (90-tooth). They have extremely long handles for each of the standard drive sizes (11" for a 1/4 drive / 18" for a 3/8 drive / 26" for a 1/2 drive). Historically, those lengths were almost non-existent, but modern high-tooth count ratchets have proven that they can take the same amount of load, if not, greater loads than their predecessors. Each individual teeth may be small, but there are a multiple number of pawl teeth that intermesh with the gear, and this is what makes a high-tooth count ratchet withstand the torque loads. There can be anywhere between 4 to 8 teeth on the pawl that intermesh with the gear, which adds to the total surface contact area. Under extreme loads they are a lot more likely to sheer off the square anvil than strip the teeth off from the pawl/gear teeth interface.

[@sergei971]

I can confirm Ko-Ken tools are available in New Zealand. I have their impact sockets.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Awesome! Thanks for chiming in!

[@noobzhero]

Thanks for the extremely informative video Chris! Love the history behind Koken

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

You're welcome. Thanks for stopping by!

[@BrenticusMaximus1]

Btw, I would love to see a comparison and your thoughts on the differences and benefits of the top end from Koken(Zeal) vs KTC(Nepros), Backdrag, finish, unique design(usefulness), range(of products), etc. Do you think that would be a worthwhile endeavor? Thanks Chris 🙂👍

[@BrenticusMaximus1]

Also, have you compared the ball joint style universals from KTC(BJF20/30) vs Koken(4771Z, 3771Z or 2771Z)? They look similar except the spline vs hex pivot point & perhaps drive angle?

[@836dmar]

Good stuff! Must have worked on the model T (-1927). Thanks for quality info.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Excellent! Thanks for the info!

[@kevinoshea2970]

Hi ChrisCas, I have the Koken 4725Z 1/2 ratchet. There seems to be excessive play in the anvil - is that normal for the Koken Zeal ratchets?

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

I dont have a 1/2 drive Zeal, but given that the 1/4 and 3/8 drives both exhibit a little bit of play, I'd say what you're experiencing with yours is normal.

[@Deebo1812]

Love my Ko-Ken!

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Love mine just as much!

[@christophercastor6666]

Thanks!

[@dummkompf]

how is the backdrag on the koken roto head ratchets? I'm going to have to look into those...

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Good question. I've held one many years ago, but I can't recall how the backdrag felt. I never got accustomed to using roto heads so I never considered it. A Ko-ken roto-head with a knurled handle seems like a great setup though!

[@arcadianforge8104]

Interesting video. I'm in Australia and have access to an assortment of Ko-ken tools here.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Thanks! Yes, it seems like Australia and New Zealand have a decent network for getting Ko-ken tools. I think many in North America are envious of that.

[@wearsjorge55]

Hey arcadian forge, I'm from Australia too. Just wondering what website or shop you used to purchase ko-ken tools?

[@miguelmendez4718]

Great video very informative

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Thanks Miguel!

[@IroncloudMetalworks]

Very informative video. Thanks!!

[@Jeff-rk8hq]

Dude fantastic Job 👏🏻I love when creators do their fuckin research out there and then dump knowledge on a subject that ththoroughly covering all the pertinent information. Some of this I knew about but the information about the man himself and the American connection was super dope! You should do this with wright tool one of the last 🇺🇸 dinosaurs supporting a town with all domestic everything from the raw materials to the denim roll and even the lil ball chain that holds the id card attaching it to the denim roll of the wrenches all USA sourced and manufactured. They just need to release some ratcheting combination wrenches and if I had my choice a 6pt ratcheting wrench set as well…we can dream and I must be, their cougar pro set is good but I wish they’d do a domestic run

[@thaitran3779]

Hey Chris, I just saw the interview between Factory Gears and Koken regarding the new 72t ratchets for 2021. Just based on the model they are holding, it seems like they are keeping the body, and most internal parts. The only things seem to change are the 2 pieces paw and the new 72t gear. I am hoping that this is true. Fingers crossed.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Hi there. Just saw it too. Pretty exciting news. Externally they are practically the same, but according to Mr. Morita (the person from Ko-ken), theres some differences in internal dimensions. They sure have a unique floating pawl mechanism! In all matters, its the same, and has cleared Ko-ken's own durability standard for the ratcheting mechanism.

[@thaitran3779]

Thank you for the information. I had no idea what they were saying. I got real excited when they show the internal of the new ratchet. Very unique design. Looking forward to your review on it.

[@hjc0706]

I'd rather have slip on grips than injection molded grips, You can at least replace the grips yourself , its a really tight fit and I've never had one move or slip off. At least the snapon ones are great.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

You have a point. If the handles get damaged, get disfigured from heat, etc, you can get them replaced, and with companies like Snap-on, you may be able to get an assortment of different colors to choose from, too. Same can't be said for the cheaper/budget brands. As with Ko-ken, you'd have to replace the whole thing to remedy a damaged handle.

[@eliezerramosjr1017]

I’m curious if the 1/2 drive ratchet has or comes in a comfort grip handle.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Yes, they have polished/smooth chrome handle like mine, knurled, and 2-component comfort grip.

[@alexandrumardare828]

How does the 4774-450 work with only 24 tooth and such a long handle?

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Since you're asking, I'd imagine you can guess 😄 Not ideal if you're working in cramped spaces. You could potentially run into a situation where there's not enough swing room to engage the next tooth.

[@conmanumber1]

They have a Titanium set too, i would love to lay hands on a set.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Yeah, I was lucky enough to see a set in person: flic.kr/p/TqSqQC

[@conmanumber1]

@@chriscas-ToolAficionado Chris was it a weired feeling picking that up?. We had to fit a vise to bench and in the whole workshop we only had this one bolt. Boss reluctantly gave me a titanium motorcycle bolt, it took me 1/2 hr to muster up courage to use it as it was so lite and im born to believe weight equalls strength..lol I would love to know how strong are these sockets compared to steel?. May i suggest you go buy MSR titanuim cooking pots and spoon and fork set and a "light my Fire" brand titanium spork. Ive dumped all my aluminium cooking gear as its known to cause alzheimers and i rather carry food than weight. When hiking.. titanium and polarfleece clothing saves a lot of weight. lightmyfire.com/products/eatn-drink-collection/spork/spork-titanium/spork-titanium

[@Holtyify]

Hi what’s the part number for the long 1/2 please

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Hi there. It's 4774-450. It's 450mm long.

[@Holtyify]

ChrisCas - Tool Aficionado awesome thanks bud , where did you order your ratchets from I can’t seem to find any online

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

@@Holtyify I got mine in 2013 from a store that sadly closed down in the US. I assume you're from the the US? Palmac might be able to hook you up: palmac.net/koken-4774p-450-1-2-sq-drive-flexible-ratchet-reversible/

[@robertcraciun9587]

Great video I’ve been eyeing the zeal spark plug sockets. I’m def going to buy them just haven’t done it yet. They seem to be really sweet plug sockets.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Thanks Robert. Really happy with mine: flic.kr/p/2dCRdnc

[@Pauleh123]

The low tooth count is very interesting. Would you say that it has been any hindrance to you at any point? Highly considering the 3/8 stubby with the 2 drive points on it. Even the cheapest Harbor Freight affairs are 72 tooth count these days. I still have some 20 and 30 count snap-ons, so maybe I can pull one out and see if I could live with that again after being spoiled by my Matco 88.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

The low tooth count can be hinderance for sure, especially if you're concerned about efficiency. You might be in a situation where you have limited swing room, and can only engage the next tooth. Meanwhile the high toothcount ratchet would be able to turn the fastener more per swing. In general though, stubby to standard length low toothcount ratchet are fine with general work. When it gets to long/extra-long lengths, the limitation of a low toothcount ratchet becomes really apparent. If swing room isn't an issue though, low/high tooth, it don't matter really. IMO. Ko-ken pear-head ratchets are certainly low-tooth count, but the mechanism boasts an extremely low backdrag, which is one of their hallmarks.

[@Pauleh123]

@@chriscas-ToolAficionado thanks for the input! I used my old snap-on today to refresh my memory, we've certainly come a long way since then! I definitely want a Koken, just maybe not a stubby then. I kinda fell in love with the brand, and they really aren't that expensive. I think I'll grab either a long or standard with the knurled grip just to have for the novelty and as another tool in my arsenal. My workhorse is a Marco 88 locking flex head, which absolutely love, but I don't really have a high quality standard, and I could see how the low back drag and strong action could be useful in some places. Thinking about the extensions too.

[@ratchetwise440]

@@Pauleh123 When you get into 1/2 the Matco 88 is super low as is the EZ Red, both seem lower than my SL80. The feel of the pearhead 24 Ko-ken is about like the 5450 Proto old skewl. Just a lot better tolerances. My 5450 LA is machined to spes ol man Koken would approve of. It's tight and slick...for a Massey Ferguson !

[@Pauleh123]

@@ratchetwise440 love my long 88 locking flex half inch. Been on the hunt for old proto pear heads at estate sales and such just to have. I hate the EZ red ratchets though, I've broken so many of them.

[@richardprado6608]

Im so envious from you man! You own a tools made from Japanese, German tool makers. Tools that i dream to have unfortunately its expensive to buy here in our country. I wish Japanese stay to colonize our country maybe i can experience using that tools

[@n.g.9705]

Have these held up over time?

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Good, I'd say. Some get more use than others, but none of them have given me any issues with the ratcheting mechanism--they are still smooth as butter. It's never skipped its teeth, jammed, or auto-reversed on me. I've only ever opened one ratchet up, not because I had to, but out of curiosity. So, they've been maintenace free so far. The flex head isn't floppy, the screws have never backed out, and the chrome plated finish is still all intact. The elastomer handles are no longer in pristine shape, but they haven't spun or reacted in any negative way when exposed to the typical automotive shop chemicals (no swelling or softening...but they've never been subjected to over-exposure to chemicals).

[@Mr.Thermistor7228]

My 36tooth z series ratchet is way smoother than my 72tooth z series ratchet! I don't understand this obsession with high tooth count. It literally means nothing to the smoothness of the ratchet

[@mmarciniak]

“Today’s video is going to be only McCauley Culkin…”

[@graffdad2827]

How do we order these?

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Hi, Marco. I assume you're in North America? I would recommend checking into Amazon.jp or Amazon.com (compare prices). Rakuten is also another good option.

[@cliffhlee]

What's up, Chris. Nice Video!

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Thanks Cliff!

[@jacksonbrown9537]

Great job Chris! Any new videos in the near future?

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Thank you for the comment! I can't make any promises at this time. The summer months bring my attention to hobbies and such that I probably won't get to any new content until fall.

[@zephyrhuang50]

It's a very good sharing. Otherwise, I might miss these excellent tools. BTW, is it the model number for compact ratchet 3753SM?

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Yes, that's correct. Check here for more photos of mine: www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/28859687412/in/photostream/

[@zephyrhuang50]

thank you so much, it really helpful.

[@tnak004]

I love Koken sockets, especially the unique ones like nut grip. But I hate Koken ratchets. Not many teeth so it’s so slow. They say backlash is soft and they are soft but it’s just so slow to turn the bolts and nuts. I own 1/4 and 3/8 zeal but I use only sockets because they are super shallow and sold the ratchets.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Their pear head ratchets definitely aren't for everyone and I'm sure there are a lot of people just like you. Only time will tell if Ko-ken decides to jump onto the bandwagon and come out with a more "modern" ratchet!

[@platoscavealum902]

👍 🇯🇵 🔧

[@adamaj74]

You sound somewhat like Kip from Napoleon Dynamite. Cheers.

[@Toyotas_n__Tools]

Not even LOL!

[@Toyotas_n__Tools]

Oh yeah! The main character went to the same schools as I and lived about a mile from me.

[@cargar62]

Great video!!!! Was wondering if the unique detent system was the same throughout the entire Koken line of sockets?

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Thanks!! I should've specified that the patented profile for the ball detent is part of Zeal's feature only.

[@cargar62]

ChrisCas - Tool Aficionado awesome thanks!!

[@pennsylvaniacitizen138]

Ummmmmm ,,,,

[@Tap-a-roo]

Junk.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

Come on, it's better than junk!

[@1slkss]

Compared to what?

[@mr.cocksure2579]

Why? Because it's not fap off? Buddy don't put other people down just to justify your own overpriced tool brand. The japanese are known for quality and beauty in all metal working whether it be tools or blades. In fact, snap on or mac can't even hold a candle to the quality and beauty of a nepros tool. So maybe do some research before you ignorantly attack someone who's just sharing a beloved brand of japanese tools.

[@mr.cocksure2579]

@@chriscas-ToolAficionado thanks I love japanese craftsmanship

[@billarruda2777]

Set of these tools in my opinion would only be used for working on a high-end classic European cars worth millions of dollars not every day cars

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

I work with their tools on every day cars. The Z-series sockets may not play nice with cruddy suspension and under body work, and high-mileage / rust belt vehicles. Their standard series stuff would be my choice for working on said areas / cars.

[@DownHillgamer]

My snap on man is such a punk ass long story short, so now I'm going to just order the new 72 tooth 3/8 ratchet from koken usa and I also need a 1/2 ratchet but I see they only have their 24 tooth stuff, should I wait for the 72 tooth half inch stuff to come out or is the 24 tooth good enough for a long handle 1/2 ratchet

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

In general, the longer the ratchet, the greater the need for a higher tooth count. As it stands, the Z series only has a regular length 72t ratchet in 1/2sq. If they'll release a longer length remains to be seen.

[@LabiaLicker]

21:45 I love that trick with the breaker bar. Would you recommend a breaker bar that doesn't have ball detents in the head?

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

In that particular kind of use, where I attached it to Ko-ken's multi-purpose ratchet, I think having a breaker bar with ball detents might be beneficial. I say that because that multi-purpose ratchet adds a bit of weight and if you put a large deep-well socket ... I think you get my point.

[@LabiaLicker]

@@chriscas-ToolAficionado Yeah I thought as much. Do you happen to know if either the koken or nepros have ball detents? I seem to remember one of them does....The catalog and website for both of them doesn't mention it.

[@chriscas-ToolAficionado]

@LabiaLicker as far as I can remember only Ko-ken uses a ball detent, and only engages at the straight position. Nepros uses a sprung composite pad that's constantly pushing against the pivotting square, providing a consistent drag. Both are great quality breaker bars.