Low Profile Ratcheting Bit Drivers with fewer teeth than a child. Why are these tools still around?

[@SWANSONBOTTLEHEAD]

I got one of those Klein drivers after seeing it in another on of your videos. I was putting some furniture together for my mom and she handed me a NEIKO driver in a similar configuration, but with significantly less teeth. It must have had like 12 teeth, it was awful. The Klein is the only one I've used that is actually useful in the situations where a low profile driver is necessary.

[@Pinz314]

Bahco has a very nice set as well. Better than the Klein IMHO as it doesn't have that huge ring on it. It is the bahco 2058/s26

[@SWANSONBOTTLEHEAD]

@@Pinz314 see I actually like the ring bc it allows me to loop a finger through it, if the space allows. I was surprised at how useful that actually is; it allows to do a significant amount of work really quickly. I'll check out the Bahco too, thanks for the rec

[@evanmitchell770]

Being an aviation mechanic is another field where these have been infinitely useful

[@userANAKIN]

The Klein saved me from having to remove the dash on my f150 when my blend door actuator went out. Also saved me from having to remove my center console when I upgraded the shifter base bushings on my fiesta st.

[@randysmith9636]

Brother that alone is worth the cost of admission.

[@jordanrussell345]

To think there are entire car models out there that don't require you to need these tools for in dash work. -ex Ford guy.

[@mbk337]

I really love the Gearwrench 85035 MicroDriver set. The case ain't great, but it comes with bits and sockets. Really a great set that is great in a pinch.

[@chrisfyfe9212]

I tend to use the Wera ratchet out of a Bit Check plus kit . I carry mine in conjunction a PB Swiss stubby , an extension plus a bit assortment .

[@hardlyb]

I have the Klein and like it a lot - the finger hole saved me from dropping it a couple of times when it would have been VERY awkward to do so. For tiny driving, the bit driver I got from O'Reilly's is the champ.

[@TylerSnyder305]

The Chapman is still around because their bits are the best period, the quality and fit is great, the built in finger turn is great, they are the most versatile system. You can turn the bits precisely with your fingers, use the CM-13 or PR-13, one of their 2 types of plastic finger spinners, standard driver handle or stubby driver handle, 2 lengths of extensions that also have the machined in finger turns And the ball detents mean you don't have to worry about magnets or about the retention mechanism in the drive tool itself breaking. The CM-13 bit ratchet I don't use much, but the PR-13 palm ratchet I love. It's their bits that you are buying when you buy a Chapman kit, you're buying it as more of a specialty use set not a general purpose thing so the compatibility with standard 1/4 bits and accessories is a moot point. People fail to realize that it's an entire Chapman system that you're buying and you're getting such a good system minus the very dated design in the ratcheting mechanism. I assume the mechanism is the same in both, but my PR-13 palm ratchet seems to have a lighter drag and is jusr generally much nicer to use.

[@grahamwaldo331]

My favorite low profile but driver is the VIM HBR5 and it’s cousin the HBR8. They are about twice as slim as the Klein because they have the 1/4” and 5/16” drivers on opposite ends of the tool. They also come with a 5/16” hex to 1/5” square adapter, so you can have a socket and a bit on the same tool at the same time.

[@evanschroeder9740]

VIM is the way

[@cafecybernz]

As mentioned by others, the Vim Tools HBR5 is my favourite. In addition to the super smooth 72 T dual ratchets (1/4" HEX for bits + 1/4" square for sockets), the slight angle, and the beautiful finish, the biggest selling point for me was the knurled wheel at both ends: priceless when starting to drive a fastener, before the ratchet function can be activated. Has a longer handle than my old Wera 8001 (The Vim handle was a bit too narrow and slippery for my taste though, so I wrapped some thin paracord around it to make the perfect tool).

[@Savagedownsouth]

I've been a prototype and repair shop machinist my whole career, and I prefer the chapman over anything else I've tried. It's pass-through for a reason. You can use a 1/4 hex screwdriver handle on the back of their extensions. That lets you hold the driver straight with one hand while you ratchet with the other. Their small bits are designed to shear off near the neck if you overtorque too much. So, if someone brings me a precious item with a stuck screw, like an antique rifle or a prototype part that HAS to have a stripped screw removed ASAP, I reach for the chapman. I'll have full control removing the screw, my bit will snap before the screw, and the bit will snap in a way that's easily removable. You don't get that from a manual impact driver. The chapman driver prints money because it saves me time drilling broken screws.

[@mookiiieeee]

The vessel one gets the bit closest to a wall which is why I use it a lot at work

[@hogwashsentinel]

Been using the VIM Tools RFB400K flex head since you reviewed it, surprised to not see it here for comparison

[@AdrianPapineau]

I also have the RFB400, and it is such a versatile ratchet. Especially being able to use it like a T-handle.

[@csimet]

The Klein is my favorite, but I also love the RFB400K for its ability to convert to several handle styles.

[@j.christ8786]

How does the clearance compare with a regular 1/4 bit ratchet? I have the VHC77 VIM bit set with the really short 5/8" long bits and the ratchet that comes with it is pretty thin so the low clearance on it is pretty good Edit: nvm watched the rest of the video haha

[@zoelarg9464]

VIM has a great bit ratchet with a swivel head and if needed can be turned into a t handle RFB400 is the number.

[@tahuyaguy]

GearWrench 1/4" 5/16" Mircodriver is my fav low profile offset bit driver ratchet. Admittedly you can get smaller ratchet bit drivers, but I love it. I take it with me on every job, even if I only need two wrenches, always bring my Microdriver set. I don't always use, it but it is always there when I need it. Also, I keep my JIS Vessel 5/16 (8mm) impact bits with my Microdriver set and use the extra torque to get some of those stubborn screws on Japanese vehicles.

[@scrambler350]

I like that the Chapman is Made here in the USA, I have one - it IS really nice for a tiny, pocket-carried ratchet due to is small and smooth form factor - but limited by it's ability to only use bits with the ball detent (like you stated).

[@VastCNC]

I like the power torque/Topeak and Icon bit ratchets, Klein is up there for me as well

[@Frontseat_Driving]

Best video title of all time LOL!

[@Pinz314]

bahco 2058/s26 is hands down my absolute favorite. It is a good bit smaller than the Klein and has enough teeth.

[@RGB872]

One benefit of the Vessel is, I believe it comes with JIS bits, helping to avoid camming out on older Japanese motorcycles.

[@blade9292]

I personally do use the vessel in mini kits. And I love its super low profile. I have Facom micro ratchet which is much better, but as far as tight spaces go the vessel is the best despite its flaws.

[@chrisfyfe9212]

The little Wera Mini Ratchet , is tuff as a Pig’s nose ! A couple of times I’ve needed more torque , I’ve put a piece of EMT on it to add torque , and it survived !

[@mattkamoda7160]

The gearwrench bit driver set is amazing and only cost about $20 on Amazon.

[@mountaindweller4514]

I have the Wiha 36931 ratchet. It's 72 teeth. The wera mini 8001 in comparison has 60 teeth. When I got the Wiha ratchet I thought maybe I'd just use it once and then never again, but to my surprise i've used it multiple times already. So many tight spots where you can barely move and larger ratchets and screwdrivers, even stubby screwdrivers, cant get in. A low profile mini ratchet saves the day. Btw it's absolutely essential to get one which has a knurled wheel at the back to spin the bit by finger.

[@clinthartzler8216]

Vim tools VHC77. 5/8's bits. Half-cut for small spaces. Made a fan today at work. comes with all bits you could think of for $110. Their normal length ball set is super nice too. Can work the angle of the ratchet to achieve more than a normal ratchet arch, probably 30% more by angling the ball. Makes for a super fast, speed-handle like movement.

[@scotts4125]

I want to thank you for posting this. I never knew this kit existed and have always struggled with tight access fasteners. My very own VHC77 was just delivered and this will be a game changer.

[@miriamscheiber6076]

I would like to see you do a review on the Wiha 32 piece mini ratchet kit 72 teeth $29 at Lowe’s

[@GraniteValleyDave]

I've been looking for ball detent bits to upgrade the klein stubby driver I have. Do the chapman bits work with the klein or OEMTools stubby drivers that use ball detents?

[@scrambler350]

My 'Go To' pocket ratchet for Every Day HVAC use is the Proto JSBV0810 Double Box 1/4" X 5/16" Spline Wrench. As "low-pro" as you can go for hard to get-to screws on Air Handlers, smooth design rides well in a pocket, and the 1/4" side works with the Malco flip-bits, my 3/8" DeWALT bit, and even the Klein 7-in-1 Impact Flip Socket Set if you want everything from 1/4" to 1/2" that will also accept other 1/4" bits. MUCH lighter and easier to carry in a tight attic than dragging a whole tool pouch or a battery powered impact.

[@scrambler350]

I like carrying it in my left pocket; not on my tool pouch - so that I have IT and a few bits in my pocket if I've left my Veto TP4 at the air handler - but need to check something on the condenser really quickly (or vice-versa).

[@alan.m4050]

You should check out the Anex No.525,also made in Japan, solid little unit!

[@Bcf445]

I'm kind of surprised I haven't seen you review the Vim ToolsHBR5 Ratchet with the adapter. Maybe it happened before I started watching your content, but that thing saved my bacon fairly often while I was using tools of the sort on a regular basis.

[@radicalmarxist9909]

The secret mini bit ratchet that no one knows about and is amazing is the Lezyne ratchet kit. It has lots of teeth.

[@austinbridge]

I do industrial electrical and automation maintenance for a large US manufacturer. My team carries the Neiko 03044A 1/4" mini ratchet in our belt pouches. Some spots you simply can't get anything else into, and it has helped me out on many occasions. It is only a 16-tooth, but I have not run into a problem with that. The handle and bit head are the smallest and thinnest that I could find. Though I have been looking at the ANEX Ultra Low Profile to compare. I wish the Chapman didn't have proprietary bits and that the Klein was smaller without the finger loop or dual head. The Klein handle just gets in the way with where I use them. If you know of a thinner and smaller ratchet, let me know.

[@steveaukes4770]

Klein works great. I keep it on a small carbineer with a set of Railer hex bits as a more compact set of Allen wrenches in a tool pouch for general maintenance work. Works maybe 80% of my day to day needs without carrying both metric and standard sets of hex keys every where I go.

[@djfunkychicken]

Sidchrome 1/4" Metric Drive Nano Socket Set - 38 Piece Hardy any play on the connections.. 72 teeth.. stronger than what I expected.. 2 years later.. works like new!

[@mhsvz6735]

Try the VIM Tools HBR3 Bit Ratchet, very small and compact, but an excellent tool.

[@CrowManyClouds]

There are other ways to do this but, The Chapman with their 1/4" square drive and a 1/4" square to 1/4" hex bit socket adapter and you've got the start of a nice, compact, EDC driver system.

[@andrewscott8892]

Check out the Anex ratcheting screwdriver no.52m (it's a bit ratchet like these examples)

[@Raeilgunne]

I carry the zyclop mini around as a better alternative to these. These have too high of backdrag for me. Id love to see a company make a gearless version, like titan did with their 1/4" stubby.

[@FearsomeWarrior]

I have to check Klein and BluePoint wrench sets. Was just going to buy the Klein larger 5 or 8 piece set. I like BluePoint quite a bit. I have the three piece BluePoint mini ratcheting 1/4 driver set. Really love it but barely use it. It sits out on display though.

[@conveniencedetail]

The vim tools hex bit ratchet 1/4 hex drive on both ends is hands down the best on the market.

[@peterburritt4449]

Those laminated steel ratchet wrenches are all the same USA made wrench with different brands slapped on (snap on, craftsman, powr Kraft, etc.). All with the old Langline patent that Lang Tools still makes today. Indestro made another laminated ratchet wrench very similar to Lang's design.

[@ptstouring49]

I kind of like the vessel and the Chapman because they have the thinnest and most narrow heads. Let’s be honest, unless you are a professional car stereo installer or maybe an HVAC guy, the number of times you need a low profile but driver is limited. Best to have something that gives the best chance to use it. I have the klein and like it, but there is one application it was too thick to use. I got the screw off with small needle nose locking pliers, but the vessel would have probably fit.

[@arvincore4452]

The VIM rachet bit driver is the best

[@elizabeththompson4424]

the Engineer looks very much like a Sears (not Craftsman) I had years ago had tow of those and both the plastic direction switch broke I made a new aluminum switch for one but not the other yeah, lots of tools... got many duplicates since many live with the job like trailer hitch or whatever then I retired and the shop tools came home, now there's triple tools!

[@rjskum688]

I have the craftsman usa service wrench. They are really nice and tough as nails.

[@ToolinAround2025]

Using a VIM HBR8 here.

[@MrChow]

I'm trying to find more Torx low-profile bits. Vessel has the T20 I need, but I can't find a T10 low-profile bit.

[@JoeMalovich]

VIM vhc77 has one

[@MrChow]

Also do you have any opinions on best backdrag bit ratchet?

[@lastbesttool]

Koken or a zero-gear ratchet would/should have the lowest backdrop.

[@MrChow]

@@lastbesttool koken has been on my list. Just haven't pulled the trigger. Zero gear doesn't make a 1/4 bit ratchet. I haven't been able to fine a good ratchet for my team's exact needs. We work in robots and they've been using and swearing by chpaman sets. It's better now with more height clearances but the backdrag makes this process so long. I have the Klein it's better but the backdrag is still a problem. The wheel helps.

[@marko11kram]

I was surprised at how many of these drivers I have. I did not have the Klein, though I have considered it a few times. The KStar -- (who made SnapOn ) is actually in my Maxpedition EDC Mini tool kit. The Titan 1/4" lives in that compartment in my Tekton 1/4" set. The chapman? meh-- The Klien though--- I have no excuse to buy it, but------ maybe you twisted my arm U N C L E ! ! !!!

[@georgecypher4568]

There are like 5 million different kind of drivers so it is all up to ones preference and price ....... Like you said Doc , Its the Wild West

[@bkcooler]

Request review of Icon RTFX-35

[@donaldstepp4850]

I use them to replace Allen keys . Use them s bunch for gas valves, and pumping down s unit .

[@NolanPRuiz]

Icon kills it in this category. Check it out if you haven't.

[@rwbishop]

All manner of bit drivers see _heavy_ aerospace use... new, old, modified, special, home brew etc etc etc.

[@Doc1985]

Doc, I noticed that you are familiar with NASA. Did you work as an engineer there?

[@lastbesttool]

I’ve worked with NASA in the past but not as an engineer. Now I volunteer my time on one of their Advisory Boards.

[@Doc1985]

@@lastbesttool Interesting--Thank you!

[@williamcarnero9595]

Any VIM or even the super cheap normal ratchet shaped hex bit ratchets on eBay would beat any of these in tooth count and backdrag. I noticed these seem to have super high drag just by you turning them. Probably horrible to work with

[@narseh123]

A bit ratchet is an inherently flawed idea because you'd need downward force as well as rotation to turn a screw without damaging it. Socket ratchets, on the other hand, are happy with just the rotation as the inner walls of the socket engage with the bolt head or nut, no downward force is necessary to maintain contact.

[@iloveknives75]

Just picked up a neiko one of these… and sent it right back. Theirs would not hold the bits at all

[@rickv5004]

wild west 🤣

[@DownHillgamer]

I was lookikg at the vessel just to add to the collection of screw drivers i really dont need lol

[@UnOrigionalOne]

Craftsman CMHT68008