Looking for set of SAE Allen bits or T-handles

[jtcarm]

Every shooter/reloader/bullet caster has a constant need for Allen-drive. It’s an awesome drive type, but I am absolutely sick of the tiny key-style wrenches. I must have hundreds and the most-used sizes are scattered because they’re too small for the size to marked (or read), and they’re easy to lose.

Can someone recommend a comprehensive SAE set of either T-handle or drive bits? Preferably the former (or both), as they would be harder to lose.

While tearing down my Dillon SDB, I discovered it includes a 9/64. On a trip to the big boxes the other day, I found this is not a common size in either bit or T-handle sets (not interested in the proprietary Dillon set). A set of bits would probably be handy for the range box.

Suggestions?

[feudist]

I just received a set of American Mutt tools for my simple needs. They were 24.00 from Amazon.

It consists of an SAE, Metric and torx set of wrenches. It comes with a handle that you can torque lightly with. I got these because they are LONG.

They were well reviewed.

HTH

[Flamingo]

I think the fix-it stick set is what you are looking for. You can get a kit without the torque limiters and it isn't too expensive.

[whomever]

Bondhus and Eklind are a couple of the old reliable brands. They are all over Amazon et al.

In truth, I suspect that most of the cheaper imports would be fine. I have a 20 year old set from 'Performance Tool', which is just one of the generic import brands. They aren't as durable as Bondhus/Eklind, but the good news for straight hex wrenches is that when the end rounds over you just grind a diameter's worth off the end and you have a brand new one. Some of mine are 3/4 inch shorter than they started out, but they still work. n.b. that trick doesn't work for torx or ball head hex ones.

Speaking of ball head, that's an interesting choice. They are handy as all get out, but are weaker, both the wrench and the bolt (because of the reduced contact area, cheesy bolts will strip out faster). If you get ball ends or torx, IMHO, stick to a good brand, since you can't just grind a new end easily.

[Crazy Dane]

https://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-t...prod25541.aspx

https://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-t...prod25550.aspx


I added these to my set which is the Magna Tip Professional and I haven't had to search for the proper bit in a long time. There is several handle lengths and I prefer the clip tip over the magna tips most of the time. The good is you can build what you want/need in pieces and get the bits individually. The bad is the tips seem a little too hard. I haven't broken one, yet.

[beenalongtime]

The biggest problem I am aware of is T wrenches are different enough, that one will end up with multiple sets, or individual ones on top of a set.
Harry Epstein's is a place local to me (closeouts and old fashioned hardware store, popular in garage circles).
My extra long (bought for work) are Bondhaus. I have some individual ones at work (specific task), Eklind. And have been tempted for as rare as I use them at home, to buy Harbor Freight and try them (know one mechanic, who was happy with theirs).

But there are lots of brands, handle styles, and a couple lengths.

[vcdgrips]

AS PER AMAZON-American Mutt- Made in China. Hard pass

Fix it Sticks- Made in Taiwan. Very transparent about that fact which is always a plus.

OTOH-

Bondhus made in the USA hex t-handle with stand at 35 ish

https://www.amazon.com/Bondhus-13390...05211019&psc=1

Perhaps something a little more versatile and portable at 53 ish. Chapman/Made in USA
https://www.amazon.com/Chapman-MFG-4...st_sto_dp&th=1

Edited to add:

Harry Epstein's can be a great place for new old stock and closeout.

KC Tool stocks a number of German brands as well.

I would not dawdle as things are fling off shelves this week if the goal is to have them by Xmas.

[JCN]

@jtcarm

I did Eklind screwdriver handle ones for the small sizes.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00...b_b_asin_title

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00...?ie=UTF8&psc=1



For larger sizes I do the Swiss army combo type ones.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07...b_b_asin_title

[NEPAKevin]

Years ago, I picked up a set of SK 1/4 hex sockets from the SK tool guy, who also tried to teach me how to shoot skeet, that has worked fine. Looking online I would guess the closest thing is this
10 Piece 1/4" Drive Fractional Hex Bit Socket Set
although the one I have has a soft rubber socket holder and I didn't pay anywhere near $137.67 for it.