I have watched all 25 videos in your series and have enjoyed them on a variety of levels. My only regret is not being able to acquire all tools that I might like. I wonder if you agree with me that the Marry automatic wire-stripper is a cut above, in that a greater fraction of its parts are metal and (seemingly) of high precision when compared to other work-alikes. I want you and your readership to know that I have found a source for the stripper, namely, the US distributor of Nile and Merry products, www.nilemerry.com. They are located in Fairborn, OH. Could you please comment on the fairness of their $36.29 price? Nile and Merry products can be viewed via www.nilemerry.com/catalog-flipbook. Finally, thank you for introducing me to Koken; I've begun my collection thereof. I've no doubt that the nut-gripping sockets you've shown us are great. Like most Koken products, they are pricey, even as compared to imported German alternatives. I wonder what you think of the Wera Belt Zyklop 1/4" 9-piece socket set with holding function, available for ~USD 52 at Chad's Toolbox.
Hi Raphael. I've used the wire stripper on a couple automotive wiring jobs and have been happy with them. I hope they provide me with many years of service. The Pressmaster served me very well, too. I could source the replacement cutting jaws so that I can restore it's function, but a long-time curiosity led me to purchase the Merry ones. Who knows...maybe I'll get the urge to try out the latest Knipex auto-stripper as well. They appear to have a (seemingly) high precision....but that could be because of their branding and name recognition. Yes, I made a purchase with the US distributor back in January. I contemplated whether to purchase from Japan, but after comparing the prices and even considering shipping costs, I thought the US distributor offered very competitive pricing. The Merry pliers range is very impressive when it comes to specialty, precision cutting pliers. I've seen the WERA hold-function stuff, including their out-hex sockets. A have a few things to note about them. One is the outer diameter on the sockets. I haven't compared them side by side with Nut-Grips, but going by the specs provided by Wera. Take for example a 10mm socket: Ko-ken is 14.3mm / Wera 15.6mm I think this is because Wera resorted to using a spring band (since they use two balls (for sizes above 10mm)) as opposed to Ko-ken's spring wire, where they use two balls on opposing sides. To compensate for the material loss needed to install that spring band on the Wera's, they probably increased the overall thickness of socket to achieve the necessary strength requirements. The overall height on the Wera's is a standard 23mm, from 4-15mm all-inclusive. Japanese manufacturers, like Ko-ken, tend to gradually increase overall height. Or in other words, they like to keep dimensions to a minimum, while still comforming to JIS standards. Wera seems to stick to uniformity in overall height for presumably more aesthetic reasons. The color-coding is a good idea for quick identification though. The other gripe I have about Wera's out-hex tools (and my opinion hasn't changed since Wera's recent foray into offering out-hex/square drive tools) is the amount of play they have been their socketry items, when connected together. I've always found them to have a bit much play for my liking.
@@chriscas-ToolAficionado Thanks for your considered reply. As for the wire stripper, I suspect (but can't know for sure) that the Merry version would come out on top in a competition with the Knipex. However, I can't afford to buy both to know for sure. As for the Wera sockets, you've posited that they're all the same 23mm height for aesthetic reasons. If that's so, all I can say is their aesthetics and mine clash in this particular regard. I side with Koken's decision to keep size to a minimum. I'd happily pay more for Koken's versions if I were I an auto mechanic. When/if I buy Wera instead of Koken, the dominant "excuse" will be cost savings. My work on bicycles is less demanding than yours when it comes to dimensions and strength. For me, the urge to buy Koken stems from an engineer's desire to own the very best (as opposed to actually needing the very best). Last word: Sometimes what I see on your channel motivates me to purchase a workalike that may be easier to source and less expensive. Such is the case with chadstoolbox.com/gedore-2320487-adaptor-3-8-13-mm-for-7-r-7-ur-7-ra-10/.
@@rachavya Cool. First time for me to see German made ratcheting wrench adapters. Majority of these types of adapters are made in Taiwan (not that there's anything wrong with that). I looked at the photos and what caught my attention was the black colored rings. The description reads: Secure adaptor fit in the ring ratchet thanks to circlip. So I looked at the pictures a bit more closely and I thought it was odd that these stock photos that I assume were provided by Gedore are post editted. The "rings" are digitally placed, I gotta say it was done very amateurishly! It makes me wonder what the actual product looks like. The price is attractive though!
@@rachavya Spending time at home, I was going through my photos and came across this photo of the Wera Hold-Function sockets. It illustrates the overall diameter of the sockets: flic.kr/p/24XyvKn
I have yet to get into the Japanese side of the tool industry, but I sure will soon! I’ve watched a ton of your videos and I’d really like some koken and tone tools I’d say I’ll start there lol. Right now I’m in deep with German tools I’m in love with Stahlwille sockets, ratchets, and wrenches. I love wera bits and screw drivers and knipex pliers. Great video as always!
Yeah, SEK pretty much flies under the radar for most. If you look through their Pro-Auto catalogue you'll find some neat stuff in there that I can guarantee you've never seen before. I have a feeling they may have some stuff made exclusively for them.
Those polished chrome pin punches look the business. My more conventional german and us punches pit up pretty quick. I have a few punches from PB Swiss that have a somewhat polished chrome finish and they still look brand new. I’ll have to grab some tone.
I have just a few punches from PB Swiss as well and one of the smaller drift punches had the plating chip pretty easily...to my surprise. I'll have to test the durability of the smaller TONE pieces to see how they compare. Using the larger ones, they've held up so far, but only further use will tell its durability.
Another great tool haul there Chris. I assume the typhoon didnt effect your tool shopping ! As for SEK - very difficult to find them in stores here these days. Kinda forgot about that brand. I didnt know about Truecraft and Pressmaster either. Great info.
Talking about SEK...I assume you're from Australia or New Zealand? Truecraft is a brand that died off in the US, I think in the early 2000's. Truecraft tools were originally US made, but they had tools from Spain (Palmera) and Japan (SEK, Ko-ken, etc) as well.
@@DDB168 You guys down there seem to love your Japanese cars and tools! ....and that must be because you guys have been exposed to them for many decades.
@@chriscas-ToolAficionado SK Calipers, few Shinwa measuring tools and Trusco toolboxes. Hard to find most of the stuff you review but I've managed to grab a few.
@@immolationful yeah, I acknowledge that it's not a simple "click below to purchase these items through my affiliate links". It can be a bit of a hunt to find some of these obscure items/brands. I find that there can be joy in the search for the hunt. I hope it ends up being worth your time and effort.
As for the countries listed on the Merry wire stripper, I think they were trying to keep it simple by using EP for Europe, instead of listing the four countries separately like they did on the package. Of course since Brexit, Great Britain is no longer considered part of Europe.
The Pro Auto ratchet looks like a gem at that width. The switch is the right way around for my mind too. (Not if you are used to Koken) The width, switch, turn wheel and quick release makes it about my perfect ratchet.
@@chriscas-ToolAficionado I agree, that would be nice. I wonder if the components are so small the make the handle short on purpose to protect the internals.
@@harveysmith100 Hard to say for certain, but it might simply be the way tool companies roll out new products--start out with the standard length and if there's enough sales/demand, introduce other lengths. But making it short is the easiest approach by tool companies/sellers to reduce tool failures.
@@chriscas-ToolAficionado Watch this space then. I agree that it could be the first to test the water. I would love to see a longer flex head. I am sure you will keep us informed of any future developments. I was in Malaysia over Christmas and was planning to go to Japan for a couple of days but fell ill so had to cancel. I will get there one day and visit the shops you have shown us. Thank you for the channel, I just love the way Japan make things their way.
Thanks for another great vid. I'm trying to make tool review vids and am struggling with audio. If you don't mind helping please... are you using a mic plugged into the camera or something separate? Also are you processing background noise out in some software? Thanks.
Hi Mr.Lemons. Yes, I do use an external mic that simply plugs into the cellphone's headphone/mic jack. Mine is a really compact one from iRig, called Mic Cast. That is the only experience I have with an external mic. And no, I dont use any software to cut out background noise since the mic does a pretty decent job of it.
The German Tool Truck: thegermantooltruck.com/ They can definitely get them for you, if they don't already have them in stock. i-Tool on Global Rakuten: global.rakuten.com/en/store/i-tools/item/4991644219087/ Amazon Japan: www.amazon.co.jp/Ko-ken-6-35mm-SQ-%E3%83%8A%E3%83%83%E3%83%88%E3%82%B0%E3%83%AA%E3%83%83%E3%83%97%E3%82%BD%E3%82%B1%E3%83%83%E3%83%88%E3%83%AC%E3%83%BC%E3%83%AB%E3%82%BB%E3%83%83%E3%83%88-6%E3%83%B6%E7%B5%84-RS2450MS/dp/B004IKTXF6
With no patent numbers and no further information coming up in my searches, I can't tell. I don't recall ever coming across a wire stripper shaped like this, along with its V-shaped blades and rear cutting blades that are replaceable.
Simply because Anex offers a much more comprehensive lineup. The are unique in that they offer stubby and even 90° bent tip versions. Oh, not to mention, they were the first to offer protective sleeves to minimize potential damage to painted surfaces. Don'tget me wrong though...Ko-ken's clip removers are great as a general starter set.
ChrisCas - Tool Aficionado i am looking into different clip removers and saw vessels offering of megadora cr120 No. 937 it pulls both size clips , just wanted to know whats your take on it ?
@@salmanslim I don't have that particular one myself, but I do have this one from Vessel which uses the same tip style: flic.kr/p/MeDezt This is super handy, but last time I checked it was no longer offered by them, which is so strange! The tip style does work though.
I have watched all 25 videos in your series and have enjoyed them on a variety of levels. My only regret is not being able to acquire all tools that I might like.
I wonder if you agree with me that the Marry automatic wire-stripper is a cut above, in that a greater fraction of its parts are metal and (seemingly) of high precision when compared to other work-alikes. I want you and your readership to know that I have found a source for the stripper, namely, the US distributor of Nile and Merry products, www.nilemerry.com. They are located in Fairborn, OH. Could you please comment on the fairness of their $36.29 price? Nile and Merry products can be viewed via www.nilemerry.com/catalog-flipbook.
Finally, thank you for introducing me to Koken; I've begun my collection thereof. I've no doubt that the nut-gripping sockets you've shown us are great. Like most Koken products, they are pricey, even as compared to imported German alternatives. I wonder what you think of the Wera Belt Zyklop 1/4" 9-piece socket set with holding function, available for ~USD 52 at Chad's Toolbox.
Hi Raphael. I've used the wire stripper on a couple automotive wiring jobs and have been happy with them. I hope they provide me with many years of service. The Pressmaster served me very well, too. I could source the replacement cutting jaws so that I can restore it's function, but a long-time curiosity led me to purchase the Merry ones. Who knows...maybe I'll get the urge to try out the latest Knipex auto-stripper as well. They appear to have a (seemingly) high precision....but that could be because of their branding and name recognition.
Yes, I made a purchase with the US distributor back in January. I contemplated whether to purchase from Japan, but after comparing the prices and even considering shipping costs, I thought the US distributor offered very competitive pricing. The Merry pliers range is very impressive when it comes to specialty, precision cutting pliers.
I've seen the WERA hold-function stuff, including their out-hex sockets. A have a few things to note about them. One is the outer diameter on the sockets. I haven't compared them side by side with Nut-Grips, but going by the specs provided by Wera.
Take for example a 10mm socket:
Ko-ken is 14.3mm / Wera 15.6mm
I think this is because Wera resorted to using a spring band (since they use two balls (for sizes above 10mm)) as opposed to Ko-ken's spring wire, where they use two balls on opposing sides. To compensate for the material loss needed to install that spring band on the Wera's, they probably increased the overall thickness of socket to achieve the necessary strength requirements.
The overall height on the Wera's is a standard 23mm, from 4-15mm all-inclusive. Japanese manufacturers, like Ko-ken, tend to gradually increase overall height. Or in other words, they like to keep dimensions to a minimum, while still comforming to JIS standards. Wera seems to stick to uniformity in overall height for presumably more aesthetic reasons. The color-coding is a good idea for quick identification though.
The other gripe I have about Wera's out-hex tools (and my opinion hasn't changed since Wera's recent foray into offering out-hex/square drive tools) is the amount of play they have been their socketry items, when connected together. I've always found them to have a bit much play for my liking.
@@chriscas-ToolAficionado Thanks for your considered reply.
As for the wire stripper, I suspect (but can't know for sure) that the Merry version would come out on top in a competition with the Knipex. However, I can't afford to buy both to know for sure.
As for the Wera sockets, you've posited that they're all the same 23mm height for aesthetic reasons. If that's so, all I can say is their aesthetics and mine clash in this particular regard. I side with Koken's decision to keep size to a minimum. I'd happily pay more for Koken's versions if I were I an auto mechanic. When/if I buy Wera instead of Koken, the dominant "excuse" will be cost savings. My work on bicycles is less demanding than yours when it comes to dimensions and strength. For me, the urge to buy Koken stems from an engineer's desire to own the very best (as opposed to actually needing the very best).
Last word: Sometimes what I see on your channel motivates me to purchase a workalike that may be easier to source and less expensive. Such is the case with chadstoolbox.com/gedore-2320487-adaptor-3-8-13-mm-for-7-r-7-ur-7-ra-10/.
@@rachavya Cool. First time for me to see German made ratcheting wrench adapters. Majority of these types of adapters are made in Taiwan (not that there's anything wrong with that).
I looked at the photos and what caught my attention was the black colored rings. The description reads: Secure adaptor fit in the ring ratchet thanks to circlip.
So I looked at the pictures a bit more closely and I thought it was odd that these stock photos that I assume were provided by Gedore are post editted. The "rings" are digitally placed, I gotta say it was done very amateurishly! It makes me wonder what the actual product looks like.
The price is attractive though!
@@rachavya Spending time at home, I was going through my photos and came across this photo of the Wera Hold-Function sockets. It illustrates the overall diameter of the sockets: flic.kr/p/24XyvKn
I have yet to get into the Japanese side of the tool industry, but I sure will soon! I’ve watched a ton of your videos and I’d really like some koken and tone tools I’d say I’ll start there lol. Right now I’m in deep with German tools I’m in love with Stahlwille sockets, ratchets, and wrenches. I love wera bits and screw drivers and knipex pliers. Great video as always!
I started out adoring German tools too! Stahlwille exudes an exotic like quality that not many others have. Thanks for watching!
I really appreciate that you’re highlighting all of these wonderful, well made , quality Japanese tools. Thanks so much.
Cheers, thank you!
Wow! Never heard of Pro-Auto! I’ll have to check them out! Nice haul!
Yeah, SEK pretty much flies under the radar for most. If you look through their Pro-Auto catalogue you'll find some neat stuff in there that I can guarantee you've never seen before. I have a feeling they may have some stuff made exclusively for them.
just saw this def a sweet haul!
Those polished chrome pin punches look the business. My more conventional german and us punches pit up pretty quick. I have a few punches from PB Swiss that have a somewhat polished chrome finish and they still look brand new. I’ll have to grab some tone.
I have just a few punches from PB Swiss as well and one of the smaller drift punches had the plating chip pretty easily...to my surprise.
I'll have to test the durability of the smaller TONE pieces to see how they compare. Using the larger ones, they've held up so far, but only further use will tell its durability.
Another great tool review Chris! Been eyeing those Koken nut grip in a 3/8 set for awhile now, might have to pull the trigger soon.
Thanks Matt. I say it's time to take the plunge!
Another great tool haul there Chris. I assume the typhoon didnt effect your tool shopping ! As for SEK - very difficult to find them in stores here these days. Kinda forgot about that brand. I didnt know about Truecraft and Pressmaster either. Great info.
Talking about SEK...I assume you're from Australia or New Zealand? Truecraft is a brand that died off in the US, I think in the early 2000's. Truecraft tools were originally US made, but they had tools from Spain (Palmera) and Japan (SEK, Ko-ken, etc) as well.
@@chriscas-ToolAficionado Yes from Aus.
@@DDB168 You guys down there seem to love your Japanese cars and tools! ....and that must be because you guys have been exposed to them for many decades.
@@chriscas-ToolAficionado Yes ! All my cars have been Japanese :)
Fantastic video as always and time to look up amazon japan.... again!
Cool! What's next in line for your purchase!?
@@chriscas-ToolAficionado SK Calipers, few Shinwa measuring tools and Trusco toolboxes. Hard to find most of the stuff you review but I've managed to grab a few.
@@immolationful yeah, I acknowledge that it's not a simple "click below to purchase these items through my affiliate links". It can be a bit of a hunt to find some of these obscure items/brands. I find that there can be joy in the search for the hunt. I hope it ends up being worth your time and effort.
As for the countries listed on the Merry wire stripper, I think they were trying to keep it simple by using EP for Europe, instead of listing the four countries separately like they did on the package. Of course since Brexit, Great Britain is no longer considered part of Europe.
The Pro Auto ratchet looks like a gem at that width.
The switch is the right way around for my mind too. (Not if you are used to Koken)
The width, switch, turn wheel and quick release makes it about my perfect ratchet.
I just wish they came in a slightly longer length for a standard 3/8 drive ratchet.
@@chriscas-ToolAficionado I agree, that would be nice.
I wonder if the components are so small the make the handle short on purpose to protect the internals.
@@harveysmith100 Hard to say for certain, but it might simply be the way tool companies roll out new products--start out with the standard length and if there's enough sales/demand, introduce other lengths.
But making it short is the easiest approach by tool companies/sellers to reduce tool failures.
@@chriscas-ToolAficionado Watch this space then. I agree that it could be the first to test the water.
I would love to see a longer flex head. I am sure you will keep us informed of any future developments.
I was in Malaysia over Christmas and was planning to go to Japan for a couple of days but fell ill so had to cancel.
I will get there one day and visit the shops you have shown us.
Thank you for the channel, I just love the way Japan make things their way.
Thanks for another great vid. I'm trying to make tool review vids and am struggling with audio. If you don't mind helping please... are you using a mic plugged into the camera or something separate? Also are you processing background noise out in some software? Thanks.
Hi Mr.Lemons. Yes, I do use an external mic that simply plugs into the cellphone's headphone/mic jack. Mine is a really compact one from iRig, called Mic Cast. That is the only experience I have with an external mic. And no, I dont use any software to cut out background noise since the mic does a pretty decent job of it.
Thanks. My camera's built in mics are great at recording the sound of the lens focusing but not much else.
@@mmmmmlemons and the birds chirping too, which is nice ... way better than an obnoxious roar of an engine or exhaust which I get living in the city.
Where can I order those koken nutgrip sockets and magnet? I live in Hawaii, it's hard to find those tools and I can't find them online.
The German Tool Truck: thegermantooltruck.com/
They can definitely get them for you, if they don't already have them in stock.
i-Tool on Global Rakuten: global.rakuten.com/en/store/i-tools/item/4991644219087/
Amazon Japan: www.amazon.co.jp/Ko-ken-6-35mm-SQ-%E3%83%8A%E3%83%83%E3%83%88%E3%82%B0%E3%83%AA%E3%83%83%E3%83%97%E3%82%BD%E3%82%B1%E3%83%83%E3%83%88%E3%83%AC%E3%83%BC%E3%83%AB%E3%82%BB%E3%83%83%E3%83%88-6%E3%83%B6%E7%B5%84-RS2450MS/dp/B004IKTXF6
Thank you Chris.
The Merry strippers look great. I wonder what the pending patent is for? Do you know if Merry were the first with this type of stripper?
With no patent numbers and no further information coming up in my searches, I can't tell. I don't recall ever coming across a wire stripper shaped like this, along with its V-shaped blades and rear cutting blades that are replaceable.
Why didnt you buy koken clip remover but anex clip removers ?
Simply because Anex offers a much more comprehensive lineup. The are unique in that they offer stubby and even 90° bent tip versions. Oh, not to mention, they were the first to offer protective sleeves to minimize potential damage to painted surfaces. Don'tget me wrong though...Ko-ken's clip removers are great as a general starter set.
ChrisCas - Tool Aficionado i am looking into different clip removers and saw vessels offering of megadora cr120 No. 937 it pulls both size clips , just wanted to know whats your take on it ?
@@salmanslim I don't have that particular one myself, but I do have this one from Vessel which uses the same tip style: flic.kr/p/MeDezt
This is super handy, but last time I checked it was no longer offered by them, which is so strange! The tip style does work though.
ChrisCas - Tool Aficionado between anex and vessel , which one do you prefer?
@@salmanslim I like them both, but I give Anex the edge for their unique variety.