undersize bits

[Hardline]

1/16 is .0625". Measuring carefully I find nearly all my 1/16 bits are two or more thousandths undersize and are loose in set screws etc, which leads to early stripping of both tool and screw.

I found Associated long hex bits are close to the right size, but I'd like to find some short bits that fit tight. And then just replace them regularly since short bits are cheap enough to throw away. Anyone have a source?

[JK Krawler]

You must be rich to throw away tools and buy new ones.Buy quality and have them replaced for life

[Hardline]

You don't know what you're talking about. I have only quality tools. Highly stressed drivers like 1.5mm and 1/16" hexes never last for life. The tolerances between a new one and a worn-out one are very close. Note this is only true on the smaller sizes. Bigger drivers don't have the same problem.

And even quality short bits only cost a buck and change. I'd pay more to have drivers that aren't slightly undersized, but nearly all are...regardless of price. As I said, I found Associated bits that are full size. Purpose of the post was to see if anyone has found others.

[JK Krawler]

Well i use Snap-on,been using Snap-on for over 30years.When my hexes wear out they replace them for free for life.Just my 2 cents

[Charlie-III]

Originally Posted by JK Krawler

Well i use Snap-on,been using Snap-on for over 30years.When my hexes wear out they replace them for free for life.Just my 2 cents

The question isn't, "Can they be replaced for free?", it's, "Are they the correct size or undersize?"

[Hardline]

Originally Posted by Charlie-III

The question isn't, "Can they be replaced for free?", it's, "Are they the correct size or undersize?"

^^

[The Violator]

I would say once it gets that small a couple .000 on the tool, and couple on the screw and things strip pretty quick. I started filing the ends, on some of my cheaper tool there was a slight taper to the hex and knocking off the last 1/8th tightened things up.

[Hardline]

Got a solution. McMaster 7160A14 is a 1/16 hex driver with a replaceable bit. The bit is a 3" straight length of 1/16 hex stock and full size. You can use both ends and then start shortening to restore the edges. This really will last a lifetime. Note the drivers are all single size. Wanna different size you gotta buy a different driver. Oh and its Allen brand. No higher quality level than that.