Ratchet Bit Driver Showdown! Icon vs The World!

[@wingspizza6364]

I picked up the Icon a few days ago. Can honestly say it has surpassed my expectations. So versatile. Nice review Jeff!!

[@inshallah4280]

Was going to pick up the icon set but my Matco guy had a 38 piece set brand new for 35 bucks otd

[@ExplorationObsession]

I purchased the Gearwrench set in the early 2000s, used it multiple times a day for years in the motorcycle repair business. I constantly exposed it to extreme torque, never broke it. I loved the angled heads for clearance, and the handle is a great length. The case was junk, so I used a magnetic rail to store handle and bits. I mainly just used the handle, 1/4” square adapter, and built my bit collection from snap on, whia, and Matco. I broke many pro level truck handles before I acquired it. Highly recommend, it’s a survivor, and a favorite go to. Definitely best bang for buck, I paid right at $10 for it.

[@kevingest5452]

I have been using the Chapman set as a professional fixer of electromechanical machines for 20 plus years. I bought the Wiha sent about 5 years ago because I convinced myself it would be better. In practice, I keep going back to the Chapman because the Wiha likes to tip to one side or the other, so I have to put my finger on top of the head of the ratchet to steady it, which reduces the clearance and it keeps switching the direction while using it, so you think you're loosening, and suddenly the screw is tight again. It was really frustrating. I ended up giving the Wiha set away.

[@a.k.9425]

Yes, the gear ⚙️ wrench 2 piece bit driver set is excellent for the money. A hard organizer case would be even better. The other brand is okay, but the flex head grooves could be deeper.

[@lccdan1]

In the automotive repair world..... smaller is better. The only time an auto tech picks up this type of tool is when nothing else will fit in the tiny working space.

[@armedappalachian]

Been looking for at these kits for a while now to toss in the range bag. Nothing really was "good enough" to replace my small tool bag of assorted tools. Then HF releasesed the Icon set a few months ago, and it was like all the answers to what I wanted. pretty happy with mine so far.

[@MrLongboarder87]

I’m an A&P mechanic and we use bit ratchets all the time, one of my top 5 most used tools. I’ve tried a ton of different brands. The Vim HBR4 is the best I’ve used for tight places. Great action and a high tooth count, about $20. My favorite overall when I have a little more room is the Snap-on TM72. Planes have a lot of Philips style screws and they require you to put downward force on the head of the ratchet. Almost all bit ratchets have a thumb wheel or some type of pass through so when applying pressure it interferes with the ratchets action. The Snap-on is basically a regular 1/4” ratchet so it performs like a regular ratchet. All other bit ratchets feel like a compromise, not the Snap-on. You can convert an new style Snap-on 1/4” ratchet with the RKRTM72A repair kit for $11.20.

[@mysss29]

excellent detailed info, thanks

[@fiteboss]

As a field service guy, the Wera is my favorite. I have flat-out abused mine using pipe handles and it never skips a beat (the thinness of the head when used with a shortened bit is great). The Icon is nice but too long for some of the places I need to get to, so it stays in my computer bag for when I just need to make a quick adjustment to a machine and don't feel like dragging my 95 lb roller box through the plant. You really can't go wrong with either one.

[@RandallD244]

I have a larger Chapman set. To me, the standout feature with Chapman is the quality and precision of the bits. The ball detent retention saves the hassle of the bit falling out when used at certain angles. They have been especially useful in working on sewing machines and certain other “ blue steel outdoor sporting equipment” if you know what I mean - with out damaging screw heads.

[@kellymaiden8958]

One of the benefits of Chapman is that you can buy individual replacement bits fairly inexpensively. I use 3, 4 and 5 mm bits daily for nearly 20 years and have only worn out one 3mm bit.

[@TylerSnyder305]

People always fail to understand that the Chapman bits are what you're buying and that the Chapman bits are the best you can buy. If you want to use any POS cheap bits you have laying around then Chapman is not what you want. If you want high quality precision drivers that fits screws better and hold up longer, but will break before damaging a screw that may not be replaceable the Chapman is what you want. Gunsmithing, typewriter or sewing machine repair, really any kind of repair on old things with specialty screws it is what you need. You can turn them with your fingers to avoid overtorquing, easily replaced, modularity and versatility of sets, a round palm ratchet, stubby driver handles, wood driver handles, different case options, replacement latches for the cases, your favorite color of case and favorite color of ratchet,you name it. The Chapman may not be the best ratchet, but that's not why you buy Chapman and their bits are the best , they are the most versatile, and they are the best company. Btw the Chapman bits are also the only ones you can just stick right into a 1/4" ratcheting box wrench. There are no others with detents and built in stops , unless it's the cheap Chinese knockoff sold under the general tools brand. I could go on and on, and nobody could possibly come up with a reason Chapman isn't the absolute best when it's the kind of tool you need. The HI-FIVE manufactured drivers ( all marked reverse gear on the thumb wheel including icon and Wera ) are the best when it comes to using any standard bit for general purpose tasks though.

[@dtna]

Mr. Bear, you trimmed your beard. It looks good! Chapman makes the best gunsmithing screwdrivers. I've had mine for 35 years.

[@dralscustomcolures1095]

Just hit 41 yrs on my Chapman set.

[@matthewpeterson3329]

Chapman's hollow ground screwdrivers are the only screwdrivers that will touch my guns. I've had them for about 30 years and they are absolutely ideal for any application where you can't afford a tip to cam out.

[@timtimtimmay4654]

One little thing about the pass through style vs the capped ones is you can usually flip the bit and use the ratchet inverted to significantly reduce the usable depth. As far as sets, Wera hands down for daily field use (esp if you customize the bit selection for your needs like adding Bondhus ball end hex, maybe ball torx from blue point set) and heavy TSA friendly traveling. Ratchet alone, the Icon.

[@scottyee707]

Icon ratchet style with extension in the tool check plus would be perfect

[@shawnbreault6683]

I really like the Felo ratchet. Out of the ones I own, (Felo, Icon, Wiha, and Wera) the Felo has the best ratcheting feel.

[@jasonsovereign4750]

I fully agree. That icon set is one of the best tool releases of 2022. Harbor freight which I normally look at as a throwaway tool company hit a home run with that kit.

[@ollivgv]

This is just a Taiwan OEM and it already 10+ years on the market with different labels

[@deykno87]

@@ollivgv lol where....there isn't another set like it anywhere

[@thegaragehub]

Awesome comparison. Can't believe how many different styles there are. I have the Klein 65200 and the Gearwrench 81039 both which have worked out great for my use.

[@LongBinh70]

As a kid in the '60s, my Dad's machine shop was my day care. I ended up working there and bought the place from my Dad in 1975. As far back as I can remember there was a Chapman set in the shop, but it was kept in Dad's personal wooden tool box (German), that was off limits to the gorillas running the machines. I retired at 71, and if I dig hard enough I'll bet I could find the set.

[@Joethetoolguy]

Nice comparison, I love the toolcheck always goes with me on final walkthroughs.

[@halsnyder296]

I like the Chapman (because I already have it). Mostly use it for working on my “other” tools…. Those proprietary bits are great for gunsmithing.

[@walt2t]

I picked up the Icon on Thursday and it's really nice. I had a 25% off anything that expired on the 31st so this video was timed. I was at Harbor Freight today and the set is no longer 39.99, it's gone up $5.

[@JasonBlair]

File this under a set I don't strictly need, but would definitely make a ton of quick jobs easier and faster. Honestly, the Icon set with all the extra features is looking perfect.

[@ChopsICT]

I've been carrying the Chapman in my pocket for a year. I use regular bits with it every time. Just put your thumb behind it. It's really light weight and disappears in my pocket. It fits the bill for me 🙂

[@spevakdesigns]

I primarily reach for these for tight access fastener use. I've used them a lot working on custom van buildouts inside cabinets and for repair/disassembly work on many applications. Proprietary bits for a bit driver is ridiculous. The pass through sockets are cool, but that's a ratchet not a bit driver. I have the ares version of the sealey driver and that's my go to for tight access, the compact size can't be beat. I like the extra 1/4" on the handle and have used it as a fixed screwdriver to spin loose fasteners out and as a bit holder to switch back and forth when working with two different fasteners. I liked it so much I bought another for my mobile work set up. I have a Klein one I didn't like and gave it away. I had a cheap stamped steel one and gave that away also, it wasn't any more compact and had a silly coarse tooth count, like 18 teeth or so, swing angle was abysmal. I have that Wiha kit and like it. Coming with a good selection of quality impact rated bits is a win in my book. It lives with my mobile kit and gets used regularly. Would love to try the icon at some point but it's been out of stock every time I go to my local HF. VIM makes the same ratchet and extension available in a kit or standalone and I may just order theirs at some point.

[@bobwtech]

I've used the Chapman for decades. Still works perfectly. When you need to get in tight places, that little ratchet is a lifesaver.

[@R.Es1]

How durable would you say it is in regards to the tension one can put on it when encountering rusted bolts or screws ? I do locksmithing and come across a lot of bolts n screws that are extremely jammed or rusted in. Are these not heavy duty enough to deal with these conditions?

[@jparker785]

I'll chime in on the tiny ones. Use them a good bit in automotive. I believe the odd one with big bits, is also geared towards a specific area. Tight dash work, engine compartment, etc. something like that. Great comparisons! Wasn't looking for a new set, but I believe a trip to HF is needed now:)

[@davidcurnutt9584]

Great info and good choices. The Icon really does have the highest degree of functionality. It’s more of a master set then a beginner set in my view with all the capabilities the ratchet has over the competition. Except for the titan which to also chose. I guess what I am saying here is great minds think alike…

[@matthewpeterson3329]

Great review of several kits I have been considering. I think I agree that the ICON kit checks the most boxes when it comes to functionality. The locking flex he'd is the same as my snapon flex head ratchet... the finest ratchet I have ever used. Must have in any shop, whether or not you own any other Snap On tools.

[@baron24601]

loving that icon, might have to put that in my motorcycle tool kit

[@landonashby2029]

There's a lot more of this type of tool in the bicycle tool world. My personal favorite is the Bike Tools Mini Ratchet. But Topeak makes a good one too.

[@michaelarreola4201]

Went out and bought the Icon set... Everything on KZbin appears larger than in real life, even your hands. 😆 Great set.

[@carpe164]

Love the Wera tool check plus!

[@TheACEJester]

The Sunex set gets daily use at our shop, and working under a dash it’s a life saver. With it’s weird case it’s definitely something that stays in the tool cart, and I wouldn’t suggest it for a travel kit.

[@txrangers717]

I was thinking about buying the Icon not just for the bit ratchet, but also to use the socket adapter as a 1/4 flex head ratchet rather than having a separate dedicated one.

[@mramseyISU]

I got a Gearwrench set a few months ago at Home Depot. Pretty nice set, came with a set of bits and two locking flex head ratchets, one long and one short.

[@trevor7918]

Love my Chapman. Love the small head. Gets in the corners awesome

[@aguycalledlucas]

Thanks for including the Chapman set. That set saved me the other day bc of the low profile.

[@paulkresky1465]

I have the Wera, Icon, and two different, but similar, Sunex sets. I by far love the Icon the best. And I keep two small socket sets with it. Put them in a small camera bag, all together. I have used the sockets with the handle extension for torque. For small, low torque jobs, it works great. What's not to love. An auto mechanic friend loved mine so much, I bought him one, and he paid me back. He uses it a lot on dashes, trim, radio work, etc. in cars.

[@scottyee707]

what bag and socket set did you get? this sounds perfect

[@paulkresky1465]

@@scottyee707 The camera bag was just a good one from a thrift store. A small canvas, zip tool bag would work too. Jeff has shown evert set I own in his videos, except one of my Sunex ones. I purchased all sets either off Amazon, or in Harbor Freight for the Icon set. The Icon set is my favorite. I bought it when it first came out.

[@ScottHenion]

The #1 feature is the short length. Picked up a Pittsburg cheapie ($10) to get to a screw between a car dash and the door. Was not about to remove the door to get to it. I just measured it and just a tiny bit over 1" with standard Phillips. Yes, it is cheap, ratchet has clunky feel but it works and for the price, paid for itself. Don't remember any case but I just stick the small handle in with the rest of my tools as I'll use a power driver to get most stuff and the Pittsburg for tight places. I appreciate the honest opinion, especially where you basically say "it's just my quirks" ;) I also wanted some JIS cross bits (Japanese Phillips.) Picked up a set of 3 bits that came with a large T-handle. The bits were good but the large T-handle was fantastic. Will probably pick up the Icon someday, looks real good and the T-handle feature is underrated. Too bad the Pittsburg has taken some serious abuse and probably won't break soon as an excuse to get the Icon. :)

[@jefferynordgulen4436]

I have the VIM model and the Icon, today is used them together as hand crank I really think that it is the best tool in my ready tools kit

[@towboatjeff]

I've got a Kobalt set that's almost identical to the gearwrench set and I love it. Comes in super handy.

[@codustv1465]

I love that the wera is all impact rated, but the icon looks great too!

[@boosted2.4_sky]

I don't know what Wiha set you have...but I have a Wiha set similar to that except the bit adapter and ratchet fit in a Kaizen cut out.. the idea behind these little kits is so that they can fit in the places that other tools can't fit so you want a small driver The Husky set Is the Gearwrench pass through setup I have about a dozen of the cases that are like the Sunex case that I use to hold bits and other small work tools and accessories and I've never had one break...I've had them over 5 years... appearing as though it's flimsy and actually being flimsy or two different things... they're actually tougher than you think

[@peteganze6416]

OK, so 2 years later, when was the last time you used this? I got one back when they were a hot and used it once. Went to look for it yesterday and cant find it.

[@robmack4010]

I did pic up an Icon yesterday and it's nice but I use the Wadsworth super deluxe mini ratchet. You won't like it for the proprietary bits but the degree of swing is excellent.

[@martyvanord984]

The posibility for hex bit kits to do it all--power drill drive--screw driver handle--ratchet handle--sockets and fit all possible screw heads-- and this possible all with with individual driver bit replacements. I do find most of the ratchets too small to use easily. These all have the posibilty of being compact and easy to use. LOL I find that like you, I need a seperate large container to carry them. The pile just seems to keep expanding!! They really can do anything but assembling what is needed can be an effort.

[@jbboozer6726]

I figure you'd need the socket adapter for any tight situation where you'd use any of these bits. Sure you can grab your socket, but what will you turn it with, in an awkward angle or space too tight for a regular ratchet or driver? Should be good for interior, dash, and tiny bolts tucked away under hood. 🤷‍♂️ idk?

[@srtc317]

I'm going to grab the Icon set this weekend. Thanks for all the awesome info my friend!!

[@ReddawG1990]

When the mine closed 30 years ago around here my uncles friend cleared the tools out and snagged a bunch of tiny chapman packs. Soo useful but I may snag that icon looks like a great little pack. Throw it in the harley bag....

[@patrickcallahan2210]

The Titan is a favorite of mine :) Combined with a good bit set that has a nice assortment of long and short bits has been quite a useful combo.

[@thomasluteran3113]

Was there a link to titan?

[@patrickcallahan2210]

@@thomasluteran3113 Doesn't look like it. The model number is 11318 and they have other colors available, those handles may be made from aluminum but I'm not completely sure.

[@SideshowPatriarch]

I've got the Sealey ratchet branded by Ares. Mine came with a bit adapter that I've used to stick in the end of the handle. Effectively giving me a 2 inch or so extension. I got it when I decided to try to put together a day to day (not survival) altoids tin. The little Sealey ratchet fits in perfectly. As does the bit adapter and a selection of the most common bits. I find myself getting a lot of use out of it.

[@ReddawG1990]

Could you just cut an Allen key and throw in the sealy pack? For an extension

[@negolfman]

Thanks for posting this! The icon tool kit seems like a win for me too. I like their socket bit adapter, as I work with a lot of electrical small precision sockets and bits.

[@mikehalfmoonmullins404]

Dear Mr. Bear I would recommend you looking / trying the Tekton tech rescue kit , great little kit for the glove box . Thank you

[@denoftools]

You mean this one? kzbin.info/www/bejne/nKPZpqythrymraM

[@aaronthrowa]

I'm leaning toward the icon. I have an antique tool like this which holds hex bits in a small cup, made of stamped/pressed stainless steel with a discrete peg style directional switch. I don't recall the brand but it's probably smaller than all of those tiny ratchets and work polished. I love the tool but the ratchet is wearing out. Put the icon on my wish list next time I visit HF. The locking hinge and end bit holder + superior carrying case sold me. Those other brands that are thicker with bit attached are solid NO's because a tool like this has limited usefulness, and generally I'd only use it for tight fitting spaces. The Wera is nice but too expensive and bulky. The Sealy would be my 2nd choice if I didn't want a case, bits, or extra features.

[@phillipmoody710]

That husky is made by gearwrench, it's compatible with their pass through and the one they made for craftsman. I have the husky version of the double ended gearwrench and love it but I'll be looking far a sale on the icon now to add to the small tools collection.

[@byronewhite]

I just ordered the Husky from Home Depot. Lifetime warranty! I like the pass-through sockets. will use the Allen wrench to install Billstein shocks on the front of my jeep jk. Will also get the Harbor one when becomes available at my Harbor.

[@btrswt35]

I have to say, I really like the icon. The adjustment for the head looks nice. I have a Stanley that looks kinda like the gear wrench and it's ok. Really short handles aren't that great. They are hard to hold and trying to get in a tight spot where fingers don't fit well, it becomes very apparent.

[@osomxl]

How have I never seen this?! I have the Wera $90 mini ratchet bit and socket set. This is amazing!

[@leecherlarry]

Hello, what are the exact dimensions of the ICON box? I cannot find such data on the HF product page. Thank you!

[@troublemaker42011]

The socket adapter are nice for working on tight spots on motorcycles. The sunex got a new upgraded swivel ratchet now in 2023.

[@marko11kram]

Fantastic Side by side Compare here!

[@hytekrednekbama4400]

The Wadsworth Falls bit ratchet/driver sets are my favorite. USA made, extremely good bits and fitment, very very versatile with several configuration possible, extremely strong... all in a very compact kit box. They are not cheap, but they are worth every cent if you use these type tools much. I have probably 8 or 10 other bit ratchets. Some are super tiny, some super thin, others super cheap. I like the Wadsworth Falls the best.

[@georgeferlazzo7936]

Hello again Jeff and Mrs. Bear Thank you for another Great Video. Currently I don't have a true bit driver set. What I do have is the original adapters from my 1997-1998 Gearwrench Ratchet Wrench set, and a Craftsman Ratchet Screwdriver. Having said that, I forgot to add my adapters for my cordless tools. I have been looking add another tool to the box. You make a compelling argument for the Icon. And I was just at Harbor Freight today. Lol.

[@NickNardone]

Awesome review. Thank you for purchasing all these and comparing them.

[@looking_33]

28:14 caught me off guard. LOL 😂

[@jimmace6148]

I'm in my 50s. I've owned a couple of nice name brand bit driver sets my entire adult life. I HAVE NEVER USED THEM ONCE!🤣🤣🤣 When would you ever need these? I just use my normal ratchet driver sockets.

[@stevenwilgus8982]

I've bought three Icon sets one of which went to my son. I've used many and one set was $200 and proprietary bits: I'll not go that route again. That set remains in a fixed position in my workshop so it doesn't get lost as replacement bits are essentially UNAVAILABLE. Another pass factor. Fantastic quality of material, but those two are a no go. Icon set by Harbor Freight is by far the most versatile based on a lot of clever engineering as evidenced by all the detail and even the case is IMHO, exceptional. Your mileage will vary and viva la difference as the French say.

[@iowawrench]

Just curious, what do people like to use on Philips screws that are kind of shadowed under typical door knobs?

[@MrCheezeus]

why no love for klein? the klein 65200 is an awesome driver ... i use it more than the icon even though it only comes with 5 bits and one is a 1/4 socket adapter great as a edc pocket tool. And I'm not sure I'd classify the husky as a bit driver but more of a pass through ratchet?

[@JamespropstJr]

To me it just depends on the project and whats on hand and your personal preference to get the job done effeicently and quickly

[@geometrycutz9167]

One thing I would have mentioned in the size comparison, is the fact that the icon ratchet/driver has a "handle extension". So it's super compact. But can also extend.

[@rcspud4648]

I only have experience with the Chapman and gear wrench sets. The Chapman ratchet gets stiff and notchy. Gear wrench set is nice for automotive work since you don't need to drag out a 1/4 drive set, but it has its draw backs. the case is brittle and breaks easily, the ratchet doesn't take much torque before breaking...next to impossible to get warranty around me.

[@CPLBSS88]

Klein makes a nice one, i like the finger hole on the end, makes fast ratcheting. Doesn't come with a whole lot of extras but its worth the $15-$20.

[@drumtuna270]

How can I get the Icon set? It’s been sold out in my area for months and it’s not available for online purchase through HF

[@PhillipDavis830]

I have a Wiha set that came in a plastic holder. I've found that the ratchet pawl sometimes reverses on it's own with the way I hold it.

[@chucks4328]

I bought the Wiha set a couple years ago. I put it up and forgot where I put it up for a year. I found later and the first time I tried to use it the ratchet broke. When I tried to tighten the screw it jumps gears and started reversing. I called them up and they did replace the ratchet. It's has a nice heft to it and felt like good quality. I haven't even tried the new ratchet yet. I very seldom use bit sets like these.

[@vicpetrishak7705]

Learned a long time ago to place wide rubber bands on ALL small bit holders and socket set boxes . Vessel manufactures a nicely packaged a 31 piece impact ball set . Quality Made in Japan product .

[@sdrivegarage]

A use for the Gearwrench belt clip: Bench Belts

[@davefoc]

Nice thoughtful ideas about which is best. I have the Gearwrench type. I don't have much to say about it. I don't use it often. I bought it when I need an offset screwdriver and it works for that. I didn't agree with some of the intermediate choices but I agreed on the ICON. One annoying thing about all these kits isn't about the kits themselves. Metric vs. standard allen key sizes. They are almost completely interchangeable except when they're not. Bike people and camera people are going to want metric. For general purpose US stuff you probably want standard except when you want metric.

[@xXCigarXx]

What are you doing without an HBR5 from VIM tools? It's easily the best one I've ever used. HBR3 if you don't want the double end HBR4 for the comfort grip model.....they are TOP TIER.

[@1hons1]

Omg when you brought that husky kit out! Lmfao 🤣

[@michaelmadigan9856]

I've been looking at the klein. What's the word on that one compared to the rest of one's in this video. Leaning towards the icon.

[@drengskap]

The Icon set is a close copy of the flex-head bit ratchet set sold by Mac Tools in the US and Facom in Europe - mine is Facom, part number R1PICO. Looks like you get some more bits with the Icon set, though. I use my Facom set a lot, and I have nothing bad to say about it. If the Icon set is very similar and maybe a bit cheaper, I can see why people are loving it. I also have the Wera bit driver - it's very elegant-looking, if that matters, but I can see it being a bit too small if you have big hands, though that does of course mean that it fits into tight spots. Lang also make the bit drivers for Craftsman and Blue Point - I don't really like those stamped steel housings, they're too bulky. I was surprised to see Sealey Premier here - I didn't know they sold into the US - and I have that driver too. It's OK, but not my favourite.

[@HeathInHeath]

I purchased the Icon set last week and really like it a lot. I'm going to augment it with a set of selected 1/4 sockets as part of my everyday carry bag.

[@viajodefusca1046]

Um kit muito bom mas não se encontra no Brasil!😢😢😢

[@mattmorford7489]

Like the measurements. Keep it simple (3 and 1,2,3 lines)

[@rangerdalexp6221]

Regarding the ICON ratchet as well as one made by VIM tools. I only have one issue with the ratchet, Most mechanics would want this set or type of ratchet to use in tight spaces. Mostly for low torque applications like dash work. 60 tooth would be the minimum but would rather see 72 or even 90 tooth count instead. Take note on this VIM tools since my guess is I think they might manufacture this tool for ICON or out source it from the same manufacture. Otherwise I like the set…..

[@PDillz]

Yo bear!!! I hope all is well. Heading to Montana to visit family and thought of you. I'm loving that icon set, I plan to get a set. I had a question about the icon torque wrench, when is the best time to buy? Really wanting to buy the newish flex head split beam, father in law has the snap on version and I loved it. When can I find the best deal for the icon? Believe it's $129 regularly and was hoping for a possible discount.

[@marcc482]

I happened to have the Gearwrench, the Icon and two of the Titans (one bit / one socket in different colors to differentiate) and I find that those four make for a fantastic and flexible combination .... the Icon is the one I have at home with 8 different models of the Picquic screwdrivers (hex, torx, etc) ... and some smaller pliers in a very small tool bag.

[@leebornaman5508]

Great video. Just subscribed. Love and have no shortage of tools. I have the Titan ratchet and like it but I am sold on the Icon...agree with your observations and a good objective video!

[@mumbles1justin]

I have the wiha, wera, icon, gearwrench, and titan bit drivers. They all have pros and cons. wiha & wera I feel both are both bulky for bit drivers. The icon I like the case and the extension. But the ratchet itself is junk. Ive been through 8 so far. The pals in the head strip easy even without using the extinction for leverage. The pal for handle angle didn’t work out of the box on 3 of the 8. The bit stop in the head that prevents bits from passing through was non functional on 2 out of 8 out of the box. Another 2 out of 8 the bit became non functional after using the extension past through the head then switching back to using just a bit in the head, at this point standard bit passes straight through the head. So 5 out of 8 ratchets were usable before I even walked out of the store. 2 were broke in the parking lot of the second harbor freight I had to go to replace because the first harbor freight ran out of them. The gearwrench is good for electrical and control system work. The titan head comes in handy for certain situations. But my favorite bit driver that I carry daily in my pocket, you don’t have in your list but out performs all my other bit drivers is the power torque GM4315. I just cary the ratchet with a ph2 and 1/8 bit installed in it. even though the GM4315 if micro size compared to all other drivers but the ratchet is capable of higher torque than most bit drivers without breaking.

[@mysss29]

Well, you convinced me. I like that the Wiha comes with impact rated bits, and (I think?) it's made in Germany, but the Icon has way too many features to pass up for the same price. Bigger case, but it doesn't look like there's anything wrong with the build of the case; it's not thicker than the Wiha's, which I do like because it's so slim; and there's more in there to wholly make up for it just being a little longer. I don't know if you saw the Amazon review video someone did comparing several of the ones you did and a couple others; but I think they actually reviewed one Engineer makes too, which looks kinda sketchy build wise but very shallow, and another less sketchy one, that apparently comes with shorter bits to maximize access. That's another thing, I'm glad the Icon is pretty much on par with all the 1" deep ones. I initially got the $4 Harbor Freight one because I was being kind of stupid sticking my hand inside a wire basket to screw it into a cupboard door, instead of just forcing a screwdriver through the mesh and living with that...so the driver needed to be shallow. (Of course I tried to use it on a #3 Philips on furniture later, and the pawl sheared off, so I guess I have to take that back for a new one at some point and see how that goes.)

[@denoftools]

Also, something I missed. That extension for the ratchet is basically a magnetic bit holder for a drill. So now I keep this with my drill and no matter what I need done I have an option for it.

[@shaun3423]

The Lang is an orange version of the Blue Point. Blue Point makes a couple others at different angles.

[@denoftools]

Pretty sure it's the other way around. it's also been sold under Matco and Craftsman.

[@chipb1193]

The Bear is right, Lang has made that exact ratchet for Snap-on, Bluepoint, Matco and Craftsman USA at some point.

[@shaun3423]

@@denoftools makes sense. All I know is I have the three version set. Good design if expensive off that truck.

[@newmexicomountainliving6113]

Thanks to your review, I'll be buying the Icon when they come back into the store. My two nearest stores are out of stock! Appreciate the video.

[@firesurfer]

You left out Victorinox. They have one of the nicer ratchets. You didn't mention conventional 1/4" drive ratchets. The Pittsburg one from HF (62175) my favorite because it's standard and not special in any way, which makes it really reliable. I know...odd. For hex bits, just use an adapter.

[@lingle98]

I very much want a small set with bits AND sockets for the moped under the seat for emergency rattles and whatnot. All the bit sets are great but I need a few sockets too to be ready for something rattling or falling off or needing fixed.

[@speedstrn]

If you get a chance, I'd love to see you try out some Ares stuff. I've gotten some 1/2 ratchets and sockets, and they seem to be great quality for the value. They've got a few 1/4 socket/bit driver ratchet combinations I've been eyeing.

[@chrissatterwhite711]

I’ve got the gear wrench set that comes with the two flat handle ratchets (one short one long) that are both flex heads and the icon set. By far the best two on the market. Only issue with the gear wrench set is it all sits in a blow mold it’s not a case so to travel with it you have to throw it all in a zip up canvas bag but the tools themselves are great. And I disagree about the sockets I like having a few of the normal smaller sizes because then if I have to mess with the battery or other minor mechanical stuff on the car I can use these sets

[@ctrip34]

Has anyone had any experience with a 1/4in universal socket bit?.. if so what's a good brand. I was thinking about adding it to my icon setup. I've seen some where the pins get all jacked up from too much torque but for a lil kit like this I wouldn't be getting on something that hard. Just figured itd be a good addition to tighten up loose nuts or bolts of various sizes.

[@a.k.9425]

I honestly like my long and short handle gear wrench bit set with more extras for a little more money. If you really, really don't need the smaller ic** tool's size and functions. Save your money. Purchase an inexpensive 1/4" to hex bit adapter and a quality strong 1/4" flex head ratchet. It's really over-priced, in my opinion. Sure, the hard case is neat with the brand name on it cool. Maybe I'm blind. I personally don't see the brand stamped or lasered on the actual metal tool itself and that makes it look generic. I have different brand tiny 1/4" sockets clearly marked and they look great. My other ic** ratchets are marked and look great like the real deal. I exchanged one with too much wiggle. The second one is a little better but not great. If the flex head were a maybe 1/32" little thicker, and flex head grooves cut deeper, it would be much better.

[@sloanNYC]

I feel like the Wera has a lot more utility with all the sockets, but the Icon has the great adjustable head and extension. Wera should definitely copy those features.

[@jamesfair9751]

Hahaha love how the wiha teleported back onto the table.

[@bigd2203snuffy]

I picked up a little yellow box at a yard sale. Seemed to be brand new. $5 said the elderly lady running the sale. I never heard of them before, but it said USA CHAPMAN on the outside. Love them except the ratchet. The bit passthrough split and is hard to turn. Still ratchets but gets tight partway round. The bits don't work in a normal bit driver because of the splines on the end. Definitely would buy another brand of ratchet to keep with them.

[@TheCobraClone58]

My husky bit ratchet is the same as the gearwrench . For some reason home depot stop selling it . Another good video keep up the good work gearwrench also has a bit driver set parts number 81039. I would say the icon is your best bang for your buck very versatile.

[@noidea1962]

I have the ICON, just recently got it, seems to be tough to get....almost wish I had bought 2....but I also have a TopTul set. The main difference between the ICON and TopTul, besides price, (TopTul was almost twice the cost, $83.00), is the TopTul has metric sockets. I throw this in my backpack when riding trail with my Japanese dirt bike. I like the case for the ICON better, but it has no sockets.