Bits & Sockets Sets: specifications, types

The total number of items in the set. In this case, both the actual bits and end heads are taken into account, as well as additional accessories such as an adapter, a bit holder, etc.

The more items in the set, the wider its possibilities. However, note that the specific composition of the kit may be different, so when buying it is worth specifying not only the number of items, but also their specific types.

The total number of bits(of all types) in the set.

The bit is a replaceable tip for a screwdriver, which is inserted into the screwdriver handle or bit holder during operation. The more such items in the set, the wider the choice of the user, the lower the likelihood that the set will not contain a suitable bit. At the same time, different sets may differ in the types of bits included in the set, as well as the number and size of bits of each type. So when choosing, it is desirable to clarify not just the total number of bits, but their types and sizes. At the same time, there are complete sets of bits with additional items in the form of a bit holder, adapter, etc.

Total number of sockets(all types) in the set

The end head has the form of a cap put on the head of a bolt or other fastener for unscrewing / tightening. The more such nozzles in the set, the more advanced the set is considered and the wider the range of fasteners with which it can be used. However, keep in mind that the specific types of sockets in different sets may be different, as well as the number of nozzles of each type. So when choosing, it is worth specifying not just the total number, but also the types / sizes of heads. Or you can even get a complete set of socket heads, in which there are additional items such as a tap wrench, a ratchet key, etc.

The size of the square of the bits / sockets supplied in the kit.

The seat square is a standard fixture used in bits and sockets. For installation on a bit holder, ratchet, etc., the size of the square must correspond to the size of the seat. However, complete fixtures (like the same bit holder) by definition have fasteners of the right size, so you have to pay attention to the size of the square mainly if you plan to use nozzles with third-party tools.

Also note that the overall dimensions of the complete bits / heads can be estimated from the landing square: the larger the square, the larger the nozzles. For example, in 1/2" sockets, the size starts from 8 – 10 mm, and in 1" sockets — from 24 mm.

The colloquial name of such tools is due to the fact that they are widely used in the repair of mobile phones and other portable equipment (watches, MP3 players, cameras, etc.). And the term "precision" means that such devices are highly accurate and are well suited for fine work with small details, where accuracy is much more important than high effort. That is why such sets of precision bits for phones have the smallest dimensions.

A special series of kits that have a reliable and proven insulation, which is most often used as a thermoplastic elastomer. Most often, dielectric sets have a bright colour combination of red, orange and yellow.

Bits with a special torsion insert — a spring section in the form of a shaft, working on twisting. The necessary rigidity of the torsion bar is provided due to the special conditions of metal hardening. This area in the design of the nozzle takes on part of the energy of impacts directed tangentially to the trajectory of rotation of the bit. Impact / torsion bits are used in impact modes of operation with a screwdriver when driving long self-tapping screws into hard materials or unscrewing old “sour” fasteners.

The total number of bits of type SL supplied in the set.

Marking SL means bits with the simplest flat tip. For such a tip, in principle, strict compliance with the size of the slot in the fastener is not necessary — it can be a little narrower or a little wider. In addition, flat-slot fasteners are used relatively rarely today, more advanced varieties have become more common. Therefore, the SL-type bit in the kit, usually, is not much.

The sizes of the SL type bits included in the set and the number of bits of each size.

For the bits themselves, see above. The size is indicated by a number indicating the width in millimetres; if the bit is more than one, after the size their number is specified. For example, the marking "SL4, SL6x2" means one bit for 4 mm and two for 6 mm.

The total number of bits of type PH supplied in the set.

The PH marking stands for a classic cross-shaped tip without additional tricks. These bits have a larger area of contact with fasteners than flat SL bits and allow you to work at higher torques. At the same time, when the load increases to a certain level, such a tip pops out of the slot. In some situations, this is an advantage, because avoids damage to the tip and fasteners due to too much force; however, other types of tips, such as PZ, are better for working at maximum forces (see the relevant paragraph).

The sizes of the PH type bits included in the set and the number of bits of each size.

For the bits themselves, see above. The size in this case is indicated by a conditional number; the larger the number, the larger the slot for which the nozzle is designed. If there is more than one bit, the number of bits is specified after the size. For example, the entry "PH1, PH2x2" means one relatively small bit and two larger ones. And there are also very small sizes PH0, PH00 and even PH000. Such bits, due to their tiny size, are appropriate for repairing phones, watches, cameras and other small electronics.

The total number of PZ type bits supplied in the set.

The PZ is a modified version of the PH cross tip (see the relevant paragraph). In PZ tips, the angles are more pronounced, there are additional edges to increase the contact area with the slot — thanks to this, unlike PH, these tips do not push out of the slot even with a very large effort. All this makes the PZ a fairly convenient option for working at high loads, including uneven — in particular, for tightening self-tapping screws.

The sizes of the PZ type bits included in the set and the number of bits of each size.

For the bits themselves, see above. The size in this case is indicated by a conditional number; the larger the number, the larger the slot for which the nozzle is designed. If there is more than one bit, the number of bits is specified after the size. For example, the entry "PZ1, PZ2x2" means one relatively small bit and two larger ones.

The total number of Torx bits supplied in the set.

The Torx tip has the shape of a six-pointed star. This provides a larger area of contact with the fastener than flat and cross bits, and allows you to work with higher forces.

Sizes of the Torx type bits included in the set and the number of bits of each size.

For the bits themselves, see above. The size in this case is indicated by a conditional number; the larger the number, the larger the slot for which the nozzle is designed. The specific size to which this or that number corresponds can be clarified according to special tables. If there is more than one bit, the number of bits is specified after the size. For example, the entry "T7, T8x2" means one bit of T7 and two of T8.

The total number of Torx Security bits supplied in the set.

Torx Security (also Torx Tamper Resistant) is a variation of the Torx tip (see the relevant paragraph), supplemented with anti-vandal protection. On fasteners, this protection has the form of a pin in the centre of the star slot; accordingly, Torx Security lugs differ from regular Torx lugs in having a hole for a pin. At the same time, bits of this type are also suitable for conventional Torx fasteners, but not vice versa.

The sizes of the Torx Security bits included in the set and the number of bits of each size.

For the bits themselves, see above. The size in this case is indicated by a conditional number; the larger the number, the larger the slot for which the nozzle is designed. The specific size to which this or that number corresponds can be clarified according to special tables. If there is more than one bit, the number of bits is specified after the size. For example, the entry "TR7, TR8x2" means one bit of TR7 and two bits of TR8.

The total number of Hex bits supplied in the set.

The Hex tip has the shape of a regular hexagon. Fasteners of this type are easy to use due to the large size of the slot — this makes it easier to get into it with a nozzle. And the nozzles themselves are somewhat inferior to the Torx “stars” in terms of the contact area with the slot, but they are noticeably superior to the cross nozzles.

The sizes of the Hex bits included in the set, and the number of bits of each size.

For the bits themselves, see above. The size is indicated by a number indicating the width in millimetres — for example, H2.5 or H4. If there are several bits of the same size, their number may be specified after the size, but in the case of Hex-bits this is extremely rare, they are usually supplied one of each size.

The total number of square bits supplied in the set.

Square type bits, as the name suggests, have a square profile tip. The name Robertson also occurs. In general, fasteners with square slots are not common in Europe, therefore, bits for it have not received much distribution.

The sizes of the Square bits included in the set, and the number of bits of each size.

For the bits themselves, see above. The size in this case is indicated by a conditional number; the larger the number, the larger the slot for which the nozzle is designed. If there are several bits of the same size, their number may be specified after the size, but Square type bits are usually supplied one of each size.

The total number of Spline bits supplied in the set.

Spline tips are star shaped with 12 points. This shape provides a very large area of contact with the spline and prevents the bit from being pushed out of the spline, making it possible to work with high forces.

The sizes of the Spline bits included in the set, and the number of bits of each size.

For the bits themselves, see above. The size is indicated by a number indicating the width in millimetres — for example, M12 or M14. If there are several bits of the same size, their number may be specified after the size, but Spline type bits are usually supplied one of each size.

The total number of Tri-Wing bits supplied in the set.

The Tri-Wing tip has three slightly off-centre "vanes" and a triangular ridge in the centre. In everyday life, such slots are extremely rare, the main area of \u200b\u200bits application is the aerospace industry.

The sizes of the Tri-Wing bits included in the set and the number of bits of each size.

For the bits themselves, see above. The size in this case is indicated by a conditional number; the larger the number, the larger the slot for which the nozzle is designed. If there is more than one bit of the same size, the number may be specified after the size, but Tri-Wing bits are usually supplied one of each size.

The total number of Spanner bits supplied in the set. Spanner (SP marking) — U-shaped slot, which is also called "two-pin". The spline of the SP bit looks like a fork. The Spanner connection is used in specialized types of hardware, fasteners are used mainly to restrict unauthorized access. Hardware with a two-pin slot, for SP bits, is often used in elevators, cars and all kinds of utility / technical rooms. Bolts and screws for Spanner bits can be found in covers and other body elements of "responsible" electrical engineering.

The number of bits is determined primarily by the size range. If the set includes 4 types of bits (SP4, SP6, SP10, SP12), then it is assumed that the Spanner set consists of 4 bits. But in some sets, certain sizes can be represented not by one bit, but by two or three or even more pieces. All this is taken into account in the "number of SP-bits" parameter.

The sizes of the Spanner bits included in the set, and the number of bits of each size.

For the bits themselves, see above. The size in this case is indicated by a conditional number; the larger the number, the larger the slot for which the nozzle is designed. Spanner bits are available in a wide range of sizes. Most often, the set includes bits of the following sizes: SP3-SP12.

The total number of bits of type Triangle supplied in the set. The Triangle slot (TR marking) looks like an equilateral triangle. Hardware with a head for TR-slot has found wide application in the assembly of housing elements of household appliances and other equipment. The Triangle spline connection is designed to protect devices from unauthorized penetration under their cover.

The number of Triangle bits directly depends on their size range. In most cases, each of the sizes is represented by one TR-bit. But there are sets in which some of the typical sizes include not one, but more TR-bits. When counting the number of bits in a Triangle, every unit counts, including duplicates of the same size.

The sizes of the Triangle bits included in the set, and the number of bits of each size. For the bits themselves, see above. Triangle bits are represented by a small size range. The most common triangular bits are: TR000, TR00, TR1, TR2 and TR2.3.

The total number of Torq type bits supplied in the set. The Torq-Set slot (TQ marking) has a cruciform appearance, but with refracted (shifted) rays in the centre. Torq-Set socket head hardware is commonly used in aircraft assembly.

The number of Torq-Set bits is directly dependent on the size range. That is, how many sizes are represented by TS-bits, so many of them will be in the set. But in some cases, some of the sizes are represented by several or more copies. When counting the bits of Torq-Set, every one is taken into account, even from among identical copies.

The total number of Pentalobe bits supplied in the set. The Pentalobe slot is a unique anti-vandal connection that looks like a 5-petal chamomile. Pentalobe is used in the assembly of Apple branded electronics, service and/or repair of iPhone, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, etc.

Pentalobe bits are available in a small size range. Typically, the bit data set includes splines in three sizes: P2, P5, P6.

The total number of bits of type Clutch supplied in the set. The Clutch has a bow tie or figure eight look with pointed corners. A hardware with a Clutch head is widely used in the automotive industry, often found in passenger cars of the General Motors concern. In addition, Clutch is used by many manufacturers of buses, mobile homes and campers. There are two types of Clutch splines: Type A and Type G. Type A splines have a recess in the centre of the fastener head. Clutch Type G slotted hardware does not have a central recess

Usually, Clutch bits are represented by a small size range. Typically, the set includes three Clutch bits: C1, C2 and C3. Interestingly, fasteners with a Clutch Type G head (without a recess in the centre) can be unscrewed / tightened with an ordinary flat-head screwdriver.

The size of the bits in length characterizes the range of work. The standard value for most bits is a length of 25 mm - these are small bits. There are, of course, other approximate values, for example 30 mm. However, the part is not always easily accessible, so the bits can be medium in length (about 50 mm) and even long(70 mm or more). Such a variety of sizes allows you to choose a set for the specific needs of the master.

Bat for hooks — the so-called "hookover". Hook-shaped hardware is a standard bracket that is screwed into the wall. Hooks can be used to hang furniture, water heaters, etc. Hook bits usually have one common standard size that fits hardware with a hook of various sections and lengths.

Bits with actuators on both shanks. Designed to perform work with various connections. On both sides they are equipped with slots in various combinations. Most often double-sided bits. have a cross-shaped working profile of different calibers, or they combine cross-shaped and straight slots.

The designation of each type of splines with its own colour makes it much easier to find the necessary nozzle from the set when performing work. Marking is carried out by applying a coloured ring on the surface of the bit.

The number of adapters (adapters) supplied in the kit.

Adapters can have different purposes. So, in some sets, bits have hex shank, and the adapter is used to secure such tips in a square seat. Others use adapters from one seat square size to another. The specific purpose of the adapters in each case should be clarified separately, but here it is worth saying that most often only one adapter is included in the kit — it is believed that this is quite enough for most cases. However, occasionally there are sets with both 2 and 3 adapters — they, accordingly, have more opportunities for choosing the method of connecting the nozzle to the tool.

The number of bit holders supplied in the set.

In most cases, a bit holder is a kind of "extension" for bits of standard length, designed to be installed in a screwdriver (extended bits can be installed without a bit holder). On one side of this "extension" there is a seat for complete bits, on the other — a standard hex shank. In some cases, such a device can even be used as an improvised screwdriver if there is no full-fledged screwdriver handle at hand.

In addition, some manufacturers call bit holders adapters from a hexagonal bit shank to a landing square of one size or another.

There is rarely more than one bit holder, however, there are exceptions to this rule when holders have different shank sizes.

The total number of sockets for 6 faces supplied in the set.

The hex profile is extremely popular in today's fasteners, sometimes even referred to as "standard". This is due to ease of manufacture, a large contact area with nozzles (which allows you to work with high forces), as well as suitability for use in hard-to-reach places (without a “ratchet wrench”, such fasteners can be rotated every 60 °, which in most cases is quite enough). As a result, if there are socket heads in the set at all, there will most likely be hexagonal nozzles among them.

The total number of 12 socket sockets supplied in the set.

One of the features of dodecagon sockets is that they can be used with both dodecagonal and hexagonal fastener profiles. In the latter case, however, the contact area is small, which creates an increased risk of failure; however, there is a possibility. In addition, when rotating in the usual way (without a ratchet), the nozzle can be rearranged every 30 °, which is indispensable when working in hard-to-reach places.

The total number of Surface sockets supplied in the set.

Heads of this type (also known as Super Lock) have a profile that resembles a cross between a regular hex and a Torx “asterisk”. The shape of the profile is selected in such a way that when turning, the end head rests against the edges of the fastener closer to the middle, and not near the corners. This reduces the risk of stripping, and also allows you to work with fasteners on which the edges have already been stripped. However this requires an exact match between the size of the nozzle and the size of the fastener, otherwise the risk of failure, on the contrary, increases.

The total number of Spline sockets supplied in the set.

Spline heads have a working profile in the form of a twelve-pointed star. In many ways, they are similar to twelve-sided nozzles (see the relevant paragraph) — in particular, they allow you to rotate the tool, moving the head every 30 degrees, which is convenient for working in hard-to-reach places. At the same time, Spline heads are even more versatile: in addition to the “native” fasteners, they are suitable for dodecagonal, hexagonal and even tetrahedral parts (although in the last two cases, you should be careful, because the risk of breaking the edges increases).

The total number of E-profile sockets supplied in the set.

E-profile, also called "external Torx" (E — "external"), has the shape of a characteristic six-beam asterisk. These sockets are used only with fasteners that also have an E-profile, they are not suitable for ordinary hexagons. Fasteners of this form are found mainly in cars.

Sockets are classified into two subcategories according to the depth of the working part.

— Standard. The depth of the working part of the standard sockets is sharpened exactly under one nut in height. They have a limitation due to their length for performing operations for assembly and disassembly of nuts on long studs or deep-seated bolts.

— Deep. The main purpose of deep sockets is to work with fasteners on high studs and in hard—to-reach places where it is impossible to reach with a standard socket. Such sockets will serve as a useful addition to the short standard ones.

The ratchet wrench is made in the form of a lever with a seat for the socket head. The seat is equipped with a ratchet mechanism, thanks to which you can work without rearranging the key: when moving to the “working” side, the lever pulls the nozzle along with it, and when moving back, the nozzle remains motionless. Thus, to rotate the nozzle, it is enough just to swing the handle back and forth, which is much more convenient than constantly rearranging the tool. To select the direction there is a special switch. Turning to the “non-working” side is accompanied by a characteristic crack, hence the name.

The screwdriver handle is the part of the screwdriver that, when fitted with a bit, makes the tool complete and ready to work. At the same time, the possibility of replacing the nozzle allows you to save space, in comparison with a full set of screwdrivers. In addition, screwdriver handles can be equipped with ratchet mechanisms that facilitate work.

The shape of the handle affects the grip of the bit holder and sockets. The most common handles of the following form factors:

— Standard. Classic oblong handle, like a regular straight screwdriver.

- Pistol. A handle that is perpendicular or nearly perpendicular to the body of the instrument. Allows you to comfortably hold the tool during operation and dynamically change the unscrewing / twisting force for a specific task.

- Transformer. Holders of this type have a folding design: they can be used as a regular straight handle without bends, or as a T-shaped or pistol grip.

- Ratchet. The ratchet handle, when turned in one direction, turns the square with the head installed, and when rotated in the other direction, it moves idly. This eliminates the need to remove the handle from the bolt / screw or constantly rearrange it. The direction of the idle and working stroke can be changed, which allows you to work equally well on unscrewing and twisting.

- T-shaped. Holder in the characteristic shape of the letter "T" with protruding edges on the sides at the tip of the handle. Tools of this form factor are well suited for complex jobs that require a lot of effort to screw in or out.

Tap wrench is a T-shaped or L-shaped device for turning sockets; L-shaped wrench can have seats at both ends.

A device, if necessary, installed as an adapter between the tool and the nozzle (usually a socket head, cardans are not used for bits). The cardan allows you to transfer force to the nozzle even when the axes of rotation of the nozzle and tool are at an angle to each other. This allows you to work with fasteners located in hard-to-reach places where it is impossible to reach with a traditional straight tool.

A device in the form of a long rod, one end of which is inserted into the tool, and a working nozzle (usually a socket head) is attached to the other. The extension allows you to reach fasteners in hard-to-reach places where you can't reach with a regular-length tool.

Additional items included in the set — in addition to bits / sockets, bit holders and adapters.

Way of storing tools, standardly provided by the kit.

— Plastic case. Hard case made of plastic with nests for items included in the set; nests can be provided both in the lower half and on the lid. The case can be useful not only as a storage / transportation device, but also as an element of space organization directly at the workplace. Solid walls reliably protect the contents from both contamination and contact with foreign objects. Plastic cases are less durable than metal cases, but in most cases this difference is not critical.

— Metal case. Metal cases are in many ways similar to the plastic cases described above. This material is considered more durable than plastic, but in fact this difference is insignificant — especially considering that rather thin metal is used for tool cases. Another feature of such storage is tool nests: in metal boxes, they can be very conditional, or even absent altogether.

— Rail. The rail in this case is a clip plate, usually metal, on which nozzles are placed in a row. They are inserted into the longitudinal groove and fixed by the landing square. It is best to remove the nozzles from the rail in turn, shifting to the edge of the groove. Therefore, this method is mainly suitable for long-term storage, and not for everyday placement in the workplace.

— Cassette. This term can refer to several types of packaging. So, some cassettes look like small boxes with nests for objects and a transparent lid; ot...hers have the appearance of an oblong trough, in which nozzles are placed side by side; still others look like a cylinder with holes in the end, playing the role of nests. The common features of all cassettes are: firstly, small size (this is how cassette boxes differ from cases); secondly, the presence of clearly allocated places for each item.

— Blister packaging. Packing made of dense transparent polymer, complemented by a backing of paper or transparent material. Note that many blisters are disposable and are designed only for the delivery of the kit to the end customer; after extracting the contents, such disposable packaging becomes unusable.

— Plastic holder. Plastic bar with protrusions on which complete nozzles are put on. Holders are not as convenient for long-term storage as cases, because they do not cover the contents of the kit from contamination. On the other hand, this is a rather convenient option for the daily organization of the workplace — each item is removed from the holder independently of the others, and the holder itself is relatively small.

— Lodgement. Open tray with recesses for individual items. Note that not all lodgements are suitable for carrying without additional packaging: items in the nests may not lie very tightly and fall out when the tray is turned over. Trays are slightly better for long-term storage than plastic holders, and are also handy for organizing your workspace.

— Case. A soft case, usually, made of dense fabric and with nests for individual items. However, “soft” is a relative term: some cases have hard walls and resemble boxes. A rather specific type of packaging that is rare.

— Cardboard box. Cardboard is inexpensive, but fragile and wears out quickly. Therefore, cardboard boxes are designed rather for the role of “sales packaging”: sets are delivered and sold in them, but after unpacking, such containers are poorly suitable for further storage.