ball hex vs. hex driver

[DRW-FJ40]

So I ordered a Venom Creeper & it listed Hex drivers as tools needed but I accidentally ordered "ball" hex drivers. I can tell from looking at them what the difference is but what do you use a ball hex drivers for?

[Scale_Crawler]

The only thing that the ball hexes do is so you can get on a head of a screw at an angle and still run it in or out

[DRW-FJ40]

Thanks, makes sense. I was debating sending them back for regulars but maybe I'll hang on to them. may come in handy.

[silentcircus]

They do come in handy but it's easier to strip out a hex screw with them.

[Narly1]

Originally Posted by Scale_Crawler

The only thing that the ball hexes do is so you can get on a head of a screw at an angle and still run it in or out

At the expense of maximum grip we might add.

If you have a small set screw that's tightened down hard, you only get one chance to loosen it. Thus you want to go on it straight on with a straight hex tool.

BTW this is where a set of quality drivers earn their place in your toolbox.

Narly1

[Lonewolf]

2nd that one !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Originally Posted by Narly1

At the expense of maximum grip we might add.

If you have a small set screw that's tightened down hard, you only get one chance to loosen it. Thus you want to go on it straight on with a straight hex tool.

BTW this is where a set of quality drivers earn their place in your toolbox.

Narly1

[Scale_Crawler]

Originally Posted by silentcircus

They do come in handy but it's easier to strip out a hex screw with them.

yes, youre right i forgot to add that. Because the end is a ball, the less contact area you have. Making it easier to strip the screw.

[TXJeeper1]

So which are the best drivers to use. I am about to buy some so I wouldn't mind the advice. I have just been using plain allen wrenches, both ball and straight, up to now.

[CreepyCrawl]

Originally Posted by TXJeeper1

So which are the best drivers to use. I am about to buy some so I wouldn't mind the advice. I have just been using plain allen wrenches, both ball and straight, up to now.

They both have a place in your pit box. Ball drivers will generally get less use, however when you need one it's pricelss. It can save you from tearing other things down to get to that one tight spot.

They generally retain solid engagement up to 25 degrees.

I use Associated wrenches; Hex, Ball Hex and Nut. The handles are comfy and have a nice grip, and they're light as well. Fair price for what you get I think.

http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...&I=LXJTR0&P=ML

http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...?&I=LXLGK4&P=7

http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...?&I=LXHWA5&P=7

I keep mine in this case (perfect fit) which sits right in the top of my pit box.

http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...?&I=LXKKU5&P=7

There are many quality tool sets out there of varying price points and a good set of drivers is a worthy investment and a must have in my opinion.

Any quality set will run you around $100 to $150 and up but you'll be glad that you have them once you own a set

Check this thread as well:
Hex drivers......

[firefighten_cowboy]

it is a good idea to have both in your box that way if you have a small angle you can still get it but hands down the hex driver can give you the full contact and strength and torque but yet i have both and use them both frequently

[tt454]

buy hudy and never look back

[dickwart]

Originally Posted by silentcircus

They do come in handy but it's easier to strip out a hex screw with them.

Yup... I have a set of ball and regular just because of the stripping issue...

[lowandslow2]

They are used to get into a hex at a angle. I think that they are a weaker tool. I would just be careful with them and you should be alright