Made in the U.S.A. - Screwdriver Bits

C

cm_bushman

Joined
Oct 22, 2012
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314
I've been searching for a good set of (manual) driver bits to cover most head types and sizes, and to replace the hodge-podge of strip-prone cheapo bits I currently have. I started off by looking at Whia, but by the time I would get anywhere near a good range set, I would be spending major money. Also, I would like USA made bits if possible, and Whia doesn't fit the bill (no knock to Whia there, I'm just particular here). The best I have used are old Craftsman and Husky (these aren't as good as the old Craftsman bits, but they're not bad) bits that I have accumulated.

I hear Apex makes the highest grade bits around, but I can't find a set, and they charge quite a bit for even 5ct. packs of a single size.

I found the "Chapman Master Kit" online for just under $100, USA made, which is nice. What do you guys think? Any experience with Chapman tools?
 
Just got a Wiha 45598 Screwdriver Set, Torx, Cushion Grip, Precision Black Tip, T6 to T10, T15, 6 Piece, about $22. @Amazon.com

Immediately removed a Torx screw that stripped/twisted two cheapo bits (Lowes Cobalt and Home Depot Husky). Now I'm hoping that the two destroyed bits hadn't just loosened it up for the new driver.

Note: Wiha drivers are NOT Made in USA. Made in Germany. :)

:: After about 18 months, the Wiha torx drivers show no signs of wear. Though not in everyday use, they have easily handled some hard use that would have destroyed other drivers/bits.
 
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I've had a Chapman set for about 25 years. Personally, I found the bits a little soft.

Wiha is the best I've used. You might try Xcelite, Bondhaus, or Moody.
 
I have had good luck with some of the Dewalt bits, Irwin should fit your requirements also.

Bruceter
 
The apex bits aren't that expensive if you find a good online reseller for them. Zephyr is another US made brand. The uncommon sizes can be pricey but at around 60 cents per bit the 1 inch Phillips, square, and torx insert bits aren't much more than the junk you can find at the hardware store. Checking the cost of a dewalt 2 pack they're actually sort of cheaper. Most of the places that sell them at a good price do have a minimum order and minimum quantities, so it might only be really worth it if you NEED a high quality bit or for your most commonly used and broken size.

The Dewalt and Irwin bits as far as I know right now are made in china or taiwan or mexico, etc, not seen any US made ones for a while now. Quality seems to be okay on those. Hilti used to sell german made bits at home depot, and these were some of the best I've used, I think they changed manufacturing location a while back and I haven't tried any of their newer ones. Bosch bits used to be made in the US or germany, but are now made in china, they're probably better off now as their older bits were garbage. It was like they forgot to harden the bit.
 
Couple of days ago I picked up some Ideal bits while at an electrical supply store. They are "Made in USA", and the 2 I have been using seem to be stout, well-made bits.

Plus, I second the above post; Snap-On truck is worth finding for the quality of all their tools. But be ready for some sticker shock.
 
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