It’s a personal opinion I believe. I’ve had Wera tools now for years never had any problems. I work in the food and beverage industry as an engineer and they get abused on breakdowns daily.The only problem I have had was my Allen keys the blue and red coating came lose so I’ve glued them back on. They get wet and left in a Van and some of them are over 3 years old and no rust at all…. But as I said it’s a personal opinion snap on are good tools as well.
In my opinion, They are better suited to aircraft mechanics. Alot of their marketing even shows people using them on aircraft. As an a&p mechanic myself I can say, the 12 point open end joker wrenches are amazing for tough to reach 12 point bolts. The zyclop rachet is a great rachet for anybody. The laser tip screwdrivers are amazing for 1/4 turn screws. The turbo speed screwdriver is faster than using a drill to run down screws a lot of times. The impact screwdriver works great for stuck screws. Aircraft have shit tons of screws lol. Some of their tools are kinda silly, like the rachet and hammer in one but overall I love Wera tools they are high quality. As a professional mechanic I put them right up there with my Snap On and Knipex tools.
Im a luthier their drivers and handles and screw tips are the best you wont get a better ergonomic design for a screwdriver. as for their other tools like this guy reviewed go else where Facom is my fav for ratchets and sockets if you got the dosh
the wera textile organizers are amazing for my line maintenance go-bag. but I'm not sure Wera is at all interested in aviation, they don't even sell 12pt sockets. honestly, I wouldn't want them probably, all my socket stuff is Koken.
@@adjutantat all? Youre joking bro. They sell torq set screw drivers and torq set bits used to drive “nazi screws” on many aircraft types. They are everywhere on a-320s, the aircraft type that i specialize in. All body panels, engine pylon panels and most interior stuff uses torq set screws that wera makes bits for. All the guys at our station have wera stuff. Wera has pictures of aircraft mechanics on their amazon page. So what you said is not true brother.
Yeah granted, my regular tools do get cleaned and oiled almost weely, but when it's kept in a warm dry garage and never used, sitting alongside other tools, some of which are considerably less expensive it should be holding up better than that! I have collection of knipex pliers, some of which are a couple of years old now that don't get used and sit next to the wera screwdrivers, there is not a mark on them!
@JDFAutos that satin finish on the wera tools is raw, there is no coating or protection. The knipex have a rust inhibitor. Im with you, ive always thought they were gimmicky tools. I have the stainless screwdrivers and the precision screwdrivers, both gifts. I dont think id ever pull the trigger on anything else though. Ive wanted to in all honesty...just couldnt bring myself to do it.
@@dillon3355 yeah I know that mate, just didn't expect them to go bad so fast, I've got all 8 versions of the knipex 180 pliers, some are Chromed, some have a more of a satin chrome finish and some are just raw steel, similar story with some wiha pliers I have, they have all held up alot better than the wera stuff, obviously the stainless don't have a mark on them, but I just expected more longevity for the price!
I have a humid climate too. To combat rust I use Eagle One Nevr-Dull. It fights rust and leaves a protective coating. It’s cheap and easy. I just smear it on and leave it. In a couple of days I’ll wire brush it and smear more on. That’s usually enough.
I can’t believe you have found so many issues with so many different Wera tools. This almost seems like a Snap-On endorsement. It would have been a better review without the constant comparison to Snap.
@@ollivgv yes, even though I’ve never had issues with mine I wouldn’t use them on the car for instance, I use it constantly on my projects and work use. Other ratchets are stronger. I like it a lot. But I’m really questioning this guy having all these issues what on earth is he doing
I did a stress on Proxxon 1/2" rachet while unscrewing car wheel by jumping on a rachet handle, multiple times. Never had issues with Proxxon rachet nor any of their sockets ever slipped over. For the price excellent, have them for over 15 years.
Interesting to see a critical take on Wera tools from someone who's actually been using them. I have loads of the screwdrivers, hex and Torx keys and bits, and they've always worked well for me, doing mostly DIY and bike mechanics. I'm surprised you're getting so much rust - I have Wera screwdrivers stored in a toolbox in a leaky old shed and there's no sign of rusting there. I also like the small bit ratchet, very handy as a pocket tool and for getting into tight spots. I don't have any Wera sockets, larger ratchets or spanners, I tend to go for the more automotive-directed brands like Snap-On, Facom or Britool for those.
As a mechanic mate I’ve had loads of times when I’ve used plate on the spanners and they are class but when that nut is tight the open end tends to slip so it’s swings n roundabouts but I love them myself
How I use my nut grip style sockets is, they are just helping me to put the bolt into place and hand tighten them. To torque them, I switch to normal socket as the nut grip has already done the difficult part. I do this to preserve the tools because they are not cheap and they can’t be just bought off the shelf.
I would agree that the spanner’s are a gimmick but as an electrician I use the Zyklop ratchet every day and find it great Also the tool check plus for small low torque applications is a winner for me I have fitted a Beaver-fit frame in the past and would agree that you need something better to achieve the torque you would require for that Bought the Hex keys about a year ago and prefer my £8 stanly fold up set 😂 Gucci tools I would call them
When it comes to rust, it's a tricky subject. If you look at metaulrgy, often rustproof, or 'stainless' steels are not going to be as good as other steels in many aspects. Wera tools are what I think of as precision tools. If you are reassembling a show car and can't mar a single bolt, wera does the job well. It's like the AK-47 lower accuracy and lower precision in the parts, lower tolerances, but it absolutely takes a beating, that's many other tools, but the wera is much more precise in the fit but in order to get this Precision the Metallurgy has to be chosen not just for ultimate toughness and rustproofness, but a hardness that takes an edge well. Truly Stainless steel doesn't fit that. They are associated incorrectly in the states in my opinion.
I bought myself a Tool-Check Plus kit about 6 months ago (and paid a lil bit extra for that extender bit adapter), and that thing has lived in my bag since and been used nearly daily. That tiny ratchet is great, I'll agree sometimes the lever can be flicked but it's such a rare occurance that I don't find it annoying one bit. It happens to other tiny ratchets I've had in the past too. That kit stays in my slingbag and I've not seen any trace of rust as of yet. I live in Scandinavia, so we don't get super humid weather here but I have used this kit in the snow and abused it a lot and have yet to see any bad wear or any rust. The sockets and bits have been amazing, the only bit I've worn out was one of the flat driver bits which took some edge abuse after a particularly stubborn storage shelf decided to fight me. I probably went overboard with what the bit should've been expected to handle honestly. There was hammering, there was cursing, and there was more than a few drops of blood given to the shelf. I can see how those Joker-spanners could be considered gimmicky, though that feature of fixing a nut to the plated part does have some niche use cases I think. The weird ratcheting wrench thing though, I don't know about that one lmao that's a weird one. But their screwdrivers, bit drivers, and Tool Check kits are amazing in my opinion.
I've always been of the opinion that no one brand does every tool right, I love their screwdrivers and consider them some of the best out there, but I have the same 3/8 zyklop swivel ratchet, I rarely even use it. Gimmicky, too much backdrag, and the handle (and the ratchet itself tbh) is too bulky for automotive work half the time. I've got much cheaper ratchets that I'd reach for before using that one.
Im obsessed with European hand tools but when it comes to spanners i do find the american brands to be the best. I love the wera allen wrenches, wera makes my favorite nut drivers as well. I also recommend their basic bitch 6 piece screw driver set as it is great quality for a great pruce. Not quite as nice as me pb swiss screw drivers but a great set for a back up bag or house set for less than half the price as PB swiss. Thats about all od recommend from wera. .
Yeah I agree with you I think, even some of the really good euro spanners like hazet and facom, they do the job perfectly but I just don't like the finish on them as much as Mac and snap on! Absolutely cannot fault the wera drivers but like you said I wouldn't recommend much else, I've not got into any pb swiss yet but I've been eyeing up some sets for a long time, I probably won't ever use them, just have for the collection
I'm guessing you got a bad batch for alot of these rusting tools - most of my kit as a machine mechanic is Wera & the only things to have rusted (minor surface rust that could be steel wooled away) are the bits I use with my Zyklop Mini. Only reason those rusted is because I pocket carry much of my immediate use tools, so they're stewing around in hot, sweaty pocket air especially through the warmest months. And they only started to show that minor surface rusting after several months in such a state. The stuff I keep in my toolbag itself shows no sign of rusting at all with much of it being owned for over 2 years now. Only problem I've ever had with my Wera stuff is a broken ball end on my stainless 1/8" hex key but that was user error.
I daily use my Wera Screwdrivers and the Toolcheck Ratchet thingy. The other brand for screwdrivers used by me is Wiha. Pliers only Knipex, Wrenches and Sockets Hazet, Ratchets Koken. In my opinion just about the best way of always having the best tool for the purpose
WERA tools are great quality. That said, not all are great. I agree with the take on the ratchet I have swapped mine to Matco Silver eagle which also swapped couple days ago on some 25 year old (75 anniversary) SK 1/4 and 3/8 master sets. That said, screwdrivers are definitely 👌🏻 great, same with hex wrenches. As for the Joker combo wrenches, I love mine. The "plate" came in handy when mounting an electric motor on a low steel base where the bolt wouldn't go in, but the nut did. As soon as I started the nut, I flipped to the other side to just hold it in place while I screwed the nut down to secure the motor and repeated on all 4.
7:12 I have needed this function a couple of times with nuts in tight places on a motorcycle. However, I usually just take a ring spanner, slap some electrical tape on the back to hold it in. For the rare few times I need this 'functionality' it works fine. But thanks for putting out the video. There's too many people online raving on about the fancy new shiny tools they bought, without having used them. And then even worse there's the 'influencer' types who praise anything they receive for free into the heavens. I can vouch and add to your evaluation that their precision screwdrivers (both torx, hex and philips) are pretty good. I have heard stories of people snapping them, but honestly you are applying way too much torque to any such small fastener in that case. I especially like the ball end on their hex precision drivers. That is quite rare to find.
Ive got nothing but good things to say about the screwdrivers, I have to confess I did snap the end of one of the yellow handle pound through flat heads a few days ago but I was using it very incorrectly and its stood up to an unbelievable amount of abuse!
And yeah as for the ring spanner’s I would do the same thing! I feel like they solved a problem that didn’t really need solving, and I think a ring spanner with tape is still the better option! you have some offset for hard to reach spaces and usually a narrower handle than the massive wera one
Good you have mentioned the rust part. We typically select those shiny chrome vanadium tools since I've personally never seen them rust. I work in aviation maintaining runway lights and Aerodrome ground lightings here in the middle east. Our newly issued tools are usually Wera now for electronic tools. We have stanley before and it still works. We used to have gedore and USAG for those bolts and nuts. Those gedore ratcheting wrenches are our favorites. The most important tool we have is a torque wrench and we used Norbar from UK. Works well and very accurate. Those bolts in the runway must be tight accurately as the impact from landing airplanes move those inset lights bolts gradually. For power tools our main is hilti. Hilti never fails us. Backup are dewalt and makita. For electronic and electricals we use FLUKE and probably only Fluke. We don't oil or maintain our tools. We use and abuse it until it breaks. Only our mechanics oil their tools as they are working usually on oiled soaked engines. For us that's works in dry equipment we certainly don't care that much for our tools. We just grab and go. Rust will eventually come to any tool but wera (the crv mikro kit one and not their regular steel tool) has never rusted yet considering the very humid environment we worked in. We prefer chrome vanadium tools specially the very shiny ones. Easy to wipe and doesn't get dirty that much compared to impact rated tools. And lastly, we have some cheap no brand tools that works. We call them the disposables. We smash and toss them until they break eventually. 😂
I got a cheap Kraftform Kompakt W 1 Maintenance set that included Zyklop 1/4" with the same malfunction. Since I wasn't right in the head I decided to repair it myself without new swivel head. Small pin from the green selector gear brakes of since it is just low level cast rather than machined steel part. My repair 1) Punch out the center pin. You would see the selector is attached to drive gear with riveting method. 2) After drilling out the riveting the head will come fully apart. You would see the claw under selector gear and the selector pin that broke off 3) Repairing selector gear by drilling small hole and inserting proper sized nail cut to size and using metal glue. 4) Thinking I can make micro threading and wasting hours 5) Using metal glue and some extra metal piece to hold the selector in place 6) Reinsert center pin . Some tools are useful but overall Wera looks better than it functions.
Those Wera Spanners are genius if you know what they are able to do. The thicker Grip doesn't matter because they only have half the Return Angle of a normal Spanner. And with that Backplate you find better Grip on rusty Bolts.
Totally agree on the ratchets and none should be rusting except under high moisture conditions. The set I got is the 1/4" Zyklop. Overpriced for what is. The screwing function is nice with the flex head, but the small extender in the set will not seat with any of the Wera set provided sockets. The male end on the extensions are physically different (grind). The long extension and directly connected to the ratchet work ok, but the small extension is a full fail. Now I see I have rust to look forward to. Edit: always helps to read the instructions. The short extension is by design, a wobbler extension allows you a little bit added angle in rough spots. Now this understood and I would rate this very high for the sets overall use cases.
It’s worth noting that relative humidity levels and dew points shift with temperature, so what may be a dry atmosphere at one temperature could have condensation at another.
Yeah I can see that use Atcually, I've also used them to help pull threaded bar out of awkward places, get behind the nut with the spanner and use it to help pry it out, just think it gets in the way most of the time for me tho
Buy a Land Rover Non of your tools will rust ever again. To be fair, pretty shocking how quick these tools start to rust. I appreciate the honest review and it is clear you really use your tools (saw too many reviews of brand new looking tools…) I use Gedore, Facom, Stahwille, Sonic, Mannesman, Knipex and a huge pile of Lidl quality stuff (use the cheap stuff for cutting up and modifying)
I own a land rover haha, its always broken! Yeah I agree, to all those people saying 'you should protect your tools with rust preventer' I treat all my tools in the same way, and its honestly only the wera stuff that ends up like it has! the finish just isn't fit for purpose, I have 17 year old stuff from Halfords that looks better than 1 year old wera stuff
Funny to always see only that colourful Wera hex keys, when the best ones are the black ones in the red case. Pure utility, whole leght hex, that hex plus shape, minimum wear of, no rust and dont bite into the screw. We use them in workshop for many years and usualy i dont even think about them. They are so reliable, I just dont have to think about them and thats it. What more could I ask for.
That's why the internet is great! I've used lots of tools for over 5 decades now. Wera makes tools that last after long periods of use...they just work!
Im not discrediting your experience with them but that is kinda odd. Im automation electrician using these wera tools for past almost a decade, Iw never seen any rust in them and non of them have ever given me problems, using in rain, heavy snow or hot summer. They are great when you need a light weight portable multiuse kit for doing repairs on site and hard to get remote places without carrying loads of heavy tools, they get the job done in that kinda environment all day. Now if I was running more stationary setup like a car mechanic then I would get more heavy duty setup.
I live in a very humid house, I own many wera sets and only some of the 89 mm. bits have got a little rust. The rest of the tools have no rust. But I own also around 8 knipex tools and two or three of them purchased in Germany arrived with some rust in the center hinge. The rest were purchased in Spain and arrived OK.
You are absolutely right. I'm working with Wera tools every day. The screwdrivers are good and I love the set of the long bits with the handle. But they have too many tools that are in practice useless. I also have some Wera Jokers and I dont like it. They are too bulky and the fact that they are straight is a big disadvantage. They also sit too tight and sometimes they doesn't fit. I would never buy the zyklop ratchets because of the big head
I wish I had seen this video earlier. I just ordered all the Wera ratcheting spanners for about $277 US. I watched many very positive reviews of the Jokers. I'll find out the truth soon.
Wera impact screwdriwers or chisel scredriwers are made from Cr-Mo steel ( chrome- molybdenum) instead Cr-Va ( chrome- vanadium) steel. CrMo steel is toughter than CrVa steel.
Regarding your rust issues, I’d say the surface finish (blasted/rough) is always going to be far more susceptible to rust than even a polished finish of the same material, and far far more likely than a chromed surface. As has already been mentioned, rust (despite being unsightly) is not really an indication of quality or suitability of the material for the job, however…. Your Knipex pump pliers also had rust on some surfaces. Have you checked the relative humidity levels where you’re storing them? You might have a humidity issue. Some of your other issues are valid, possibly for your uses and not others (I work in the engineering department of a medium sized factory, and know people who really like Wera). Personally, I think some of their stuff is pretty good (electrical screwdriver set with changeable tips etc) but prefer other brands for different bits.
The cases are what I like the best, semi rigid so can be dropped and all your sockets wont go flying but stay put. That's why I choose them. I'm a Sub-Sea tech so they get salt water and hydraulic oil on them but I do WD40 them regularly and have no rust. Why buy the Joker when Knipex Plier wrench exists?
Interesting video, I actually have some wera tools, insulated screwdrivers, ratchets and the hex plus allen keys,and bicycle sets,and ratcheting t handle set. I agree with you on the spanners and the wera joker adjustable wrench,the knipex pliers wrench is better. The screwdrivers are ok, I like the lasertip ones and the diamond coated bits. Rust is a problem for this wera tools, but overall they are good tools. I have the little 1/4 zyklop ratchet for years, and no problem with that one. They are not for the automotive industry for sure. Snap-on is a better choice. But for general maintenance work they are fine. Pb swiss tools are better but more expensive, WGB also have good quality spanners for the price. Irega makes very good adjustable wrenches în Spain. So we have a lot to choose from.
I'm soon to be getting into some pb swiss tools, there aren't many stockists in the UK but I'm desperate to get my hands on the hex keys! I like some parts of the wera tools, I like the packaging but I think it's overpriced for average tools
@@JDFAutos Wera tools are not that average, maybe a little overpriced, actually the wera hex plus keys are very good quality and durable, one of my favorites.
I think like most makes, their core stuff is good. But that’s really just screwdrivers and 1/4” bits. Maybe the rust is a modern issue, as I have one of their screwdrivers I bought in 1982 that is still fine. (It was part of a set, the rest have sadly been lost or stolen) I use bits more than actual screwdrivers, (from my days as a fork truck tech on the road, when weight and bulk was a consideration) and these are great. I like the ones with the size band on them, easy to find the right one in a dingy warehouse. I’ve never liked the finish on German sockets, ratchets and spanners, I much prefer Snap-on for those. That Zyclops ratchet compared to the Snap-on swivel head…chalk & cheese!
Thanks, I considered to buy wera cyclops and bit ratchet. Thanks for the real opinion, I have rust problem in tropical humid climate as well. May be I'll go for koken and vessel
Not a gimmick w the joker wrench it’s great for crazy tradie play I sometimes spin it on a piece of all thread’s nut ! And the flex ones I like it bc it’ll reach and hugs it . Mines haven’t rusted bc they’ve been in their respective pouches for all these tools being mentioned! My truck leaks water when raining
I've had a set of wera hex keys for 10 years now (simple design with full hex and no sheath). They have taken a lot of abuse! In the meantime I've bent or twisted 2-3 cheap sets, just using them on motorbikes or buying another set because I needed something in a pinch
I think you got a lemon ratchet. I have the the 3/8 inch one. Use it at work with a 3/8 to 1/2 step up. Doing mold changes. Normally hanging all 200 pounds of myself on the rachet. Hasn't broken yet.
Thanks! I do have the holding function sockets and allen sockets. For the allen sockets, just looking at them I assume they are not as strong as a normal one. So, I use a normal one to break it free and use the Wera to remove it once loose or to start it. It is not when you need to hang on to the nut or allen headed bolt, but I don't use them as the primary tool. Good to know about that roto head ratchet. Looks cool, but after seeing your report, I will not consider it further.
How far are you from the ocean? That and humidity can make a big effect on the surface of exposed metal stored in your home. You can spray a rust preventative on tools you're storing if you have this issue.
Im about 2.30 hours drive to the nearest ocean, it's pretty damp in the UK alot of the year but I can only compare them to other tools that have been in the same environment, and these have held up a lot better, knipex for example
Thanks man, I've been feeling a bit suspicions about all of these reviews on youtube. All like a one "What an amazing design" and no one ever said a single bad word about wera, like wtf?!
Great video, definitely saves me some trouble. Would love to see more tool reviews from you, specifically European or Japanese stuff. Not many places to check that stuff out in person in America, so it's really nice to have an honest opinion of them before I spend a ton of money on tools I wouldn't use.
I have recently been looking at some Japanese socket sets and I love the nepros stuff, just haven't pulled the trigger yet, alot of the euro stuff is good but I don't like the satin finish on some of it so I have never bought any, I do really like the look of facom tools, I'll probably get some in the near future and do some comparison videos between that and snap on
Silly Peasants with their WERA tools I only buy tools made in Germeripan made from steel mined on mars and refined to the highest level of mercurial methods before being smuggled through interstellar customs to this planet via the rectum of an aged cool rebel
I had a few rachets before, but the wera zyklop rachet is the only one i use since i bought it, i really love it. I dropped it, left it outside, used it roughly: no rust, mo wear and tear. This does not feel like an honest review. My opinion: i will only buy wera and knipex handtools from now on.
I guess you havent thought about the fact that when the sockets with hex inserts snap on you, they do it cleanly. Voila, there you have your ball bearing free hex bit sockets. And you do not even have to sand the edges, it literally is just perfectly snapped off
You have a good point! suppose you could always cut them down cleanly yourself too! maybe ill get some afterall, just because I like the straps they come on haha
I have a set of the wera Allen keys and those are good for loosening tight bolts without stripping the heads, they just grip better than normal style. I've used the 10mm on pedals and cranks on my bikes and they bend so easy but feel nice in my hand due to the thickness. Got screwdriver bits and holder I've had since 2008 when I bought an 18v makita drill which still work fine after driving in many thousands of screws. Mostly pozi 2. A while back I replaced the floorboards in my bedroom and used over 700 screws... P. S I ruined the rapdadapter bit holder by spraying it with graphite fluid to clean it but the bearings fell out 😂 so had to buy a new one recently. I have a set of interchangeable VDE drivers, 1 handle but with many shafts. Works well and grips screws nicely but is a nuisance if need more than 1 driver eg switch faceplate require 2 different sized flat heads 1 to take off the face plate and a smaller one for the terminals. It's faster to have 2 drivers for this. Got me wondering it must be possible to buy another handle....
great recommendation, ive got the SAE snap on stubby set which is made by and is identical to the bondhus set, only difference is the price tag and the packaging but i am looking to get the metric set too soon
Also I find Wera more electrical and panel type tools although is it a bit of a designer tool nowadays people rate you on what your using rather than what you do ultimately of job is complete correctly it doesn’t matter what you use as long as your safe I’m in a very similar situation I use snap on for automotive and Wera n knipex for mobile bailer work I use Milwaukee power tools for both sides and have experienced quite a few issues with the cordless My honest option be open minded and listen to people options that are in the trade Appreciate your videos and honesty you’ve put me off wasting a lot of money thank you
Honestly they have stayed in a dry warm garage, hardly seen any use, no grease or moisture and they have been sat next to other tools in the same situation, wiha screwdrivers, cheaper spanner sets, various pliers and other random bits and none of that is even close to the levels of rust on the wera, if they were in constant use and saw the elements I would understand it
When it comes to tools, you buy them cheap, you buy them often. This ensures that you always have the latest tools, old ones die of usage and not just by sitting ont he shelf. Replacing them would be cheap too. 4 year tools aren't rusty but these 1 year old newer wera tools getting rusty?! discouraging.
So, only their screwdrivers are perfect. Their wrenches have just common quality but with extra price and most of their features can rarely be used in real life.
I’m 25 years old and a millwright at a feed processing plant. These tools bridge the gaps from a full set and allow me to travel different locations a lot lighter. I have broken the 3/8 drive zyklop. I was abusing a fine tooth (finest I’ve used) ratchet. That’s my own fault. They make a different version of ratchet that’s much more robust. Zyklops are for tough areas. You cannot beat the joker wrenches even the self adjustable ones.
I personally think the zyklops are just too big for tough areas? always found myself reaching for something else! but I would say they have there uses in some places but I just dont think the quality is up there for the price they cost
@@JDFAutos using it in the driver setting is very handy. And mainly just being able to change the angle and having super fine teeth helps you even in tight spots. Down pipe bolts for exhaust on a vehicle comes to mind.
@@9k827 I think it works better as a driver to be honest, obviously much less tourqe needed but I still think there are alot of other brands that make ratchets with the same design in a smaller form! They just don't get the same hype as wera, obviously because the marketing and packaging isn't on the same level! My snap on version is about 8mm narrower across the two widest points, has more teeth and a slimmer handle to help getting your hand in there if it's a tight spot
Thank you very much for your honesty in this video. Unfortunately I have spent an inordinate amount on Wera tools but really only use the Alan keys which I have found to be ok. I think there are better screw drivers so I use them.
Yeah I too have spent alot of money on them, now the only purpose they have it just looking pretty haha, I do still use some of the tools in certain situations tho they have there uses
many valid points i agree with but all the rust specs you have shown are clearly rusting particles from metal/grinding dust and not the tools them selves rusting.
I can safely say they are definitely not bits of grinding dust and are the tools themselves, many of these tools have been kept in a tool bag/box and have never been used in an environment around a grinder or shortly after it, some have never been used at all and have always been in a clean dry area, i have a large collection of knipex pliers that are kept in the same place for the same time, if not longer and their is not a spec of rust on any of them, i think it just shows the finish quality of the tool
Thanks for this honest roast on Wera. I really appreciate this kind of reviews, from the use not for the show or sell. I've got wera but nothing compared to other german brands like stahlwille or some hazet tools i own. Please, if you got experience with them, make more videos on european or japanese tools.
if rust it means it have carbon in it and is hard stif metal (that you want in you tools ) to prevent it put grease on it , oil , or something like that ...
I like how you say "spanner" and "quid" and "pounds". Great video. I like the screw drivers. But the rest of the Wera tools sort of smack of gimmicky... I'm interested to learn what your thoughts are on Gear Wrench as a brand for ratchets and spanners. I have a mix of old USA made Craftsman ratchets (1/4 and 3/8 drive) and Gear Wrench (1/2 drive). I've had good luck with those.
I only use my were gear for my push bike . I wasn’t happy with the play in the torque wrench which wasn’t cheap . Is it a case of looks before quality .
I agree with cyclops review. I have 1/4” & it’s terrible. I also have the same “L” Allen keys- too big & round shaft means you can’t cut it to reveal new mating surfaces. Some cheaper brands do it better!
My 8-21 ratchet spanner set was about about £400 but think they usual retail for more than that 😬 not cheap but lifetime investment and they are definitely ahead of the game
Not a pro mechanic here, so interesting to hear an informed opinion. A friend of mine describes Wera as "Insta tools" ie looks more important than function... A couple of questions..You mentioned a Snap-On equivalent set of Allen keys for about £12..Could you provide a link or further details. Secondly, for DIY and perhaps "other trade use" say plumbers/electricians ect, how do you feel about Halfords Advanced ratchets and sockets? Better than Wera? Would they be a reasonable budget/medium priced choice or are there other brands you recommend? I currently use Bahco and Teng, but thought Wera might be a step up, but I now suspect not...
agree with your friend fully! they look fancy, that's the number one selling point, no better and usually worse than most other tools! The company that manufactures the snap on hex keys are called bondhus www.amazon.co.uk/BONDHUS-HLX22-HLX9L-HLX13L-22199/dp/B000E7VG5C/ref=sr_1_6?crid=PI77OPXWQN89&keywords=bondhus+allen+keys&qid=1706133894&sprefix=bondhus%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-6 this is a twin set but if you search on amazon for 'bondhus allen keys' they have a massive variety, long, stubby, ball, no ball etc, and they are the exact same as the snap on, just without the label! personally having started with Halfords 20 years ago I have no bad things to say and they have held up well! still have loads of halfords bits, the newer advanced ratchets are not as good as the older type but you can still buy the old type, its now just in their standard line of tools! i think wera makes a few good tools that are good for certain jobs so don't rule them completely! the best ratchet I have bought recently is a bahco 7750, 50 quid on amazon and its the exact same mechanism as a snap on but for 100 quid less, the size is great, handle is great, love it! ive ordered the 1/4 and 1/2 and im planning on doing a comparison vid soon
I have the adjustable wrenches, and they are so handy. I am a semi tech. They are way better than a regular adjustable when taking off plastic air lines.
I'm not that familiar with that, I'm guessing you have alot of space to work in? Being plastic are they pretty low tourqe? I guess they must have a use somewhere, I'm just yet to find it!
The self adjusting joker wrenches are great for heavy duty ( trucks and equipment ) and industrial settings. Have them AND use them daily. No rust. They do handle quite a bit of torque. The right tool for the right application. The ratchets are decent. Never had an issue. The handles fit and feel good. For tools that are a fraction of the price of snap-on they are one of the better choices. I'm guessing your good at what you do BUT sounds like you just use whatever you have in your hand for whatever you need ( this screw drivers good as a chisel , this ratchets as good as a hammer , this hex key is as good as pry bar. Remember , the correct tool for the correct job makes things much easier.
@JDF Autos Most of them are brass compression fittings, supposed to be snug. But here in the American Midwest, it's not uncommon to get some stuck (or even cross-threaded) fittings. Space is hit or miss, but I would say they definitely do better than an old school adjustable.
@@bh10k17 If they work for you then I'm happy for you, I have just found better tools out there for the jobs I would use them for, alot of screwdrivers are designed to be used as a simple chisel, but I've never used a ratchet as a hammer or a hex key for a prybar, I do use the correct tools for the right jobs 👌🏼
I’m a fan of Wera but I have agree with you on the tools you’ve reviewed. Also rust is an issue on their tools in general. I think you may have lifted the bias I have for wera and will explore other manufacturers. Thanks for the honestly 👍🏼
I think I would still buy certain wera tools, they do have some interesting things and they do work in certain situations, but it's not all it's cracked up to be, I've met a couple of wera reps at some tool fairs in the UK and spoken to them about some of the issues I've seen, they do seem keen to hear the feedback and take it on board
It’s a personal opinion I believe. I’ve had Wera tools now for years never had any problems. I work in the food and beverage industry as an engineer and they get abused on breakdowns daily.The only problem I have had was my Allen keys the blue and red coating came lose so I’ve glued them back on.
They get wet and left in a Van and some of them are over 3 years old and no rust at all…. But as I said it’s a personal opinion snap on are good tools as well.
In my opinion,
They are better suited to aircraft mechanics. Alot of their marketing even shows people using them on aircraft. As an a&p mechanic myself I can say, the 12 point open end joker wrenches are amazing for tough to reach 12 point bolts. The zyclop rachet is a great rachet for anybody. The laser tip screwdrivers are amazing for 1/4 turn screws. The turbo speed screwdriver is faster than using a drill to run down screws a lot of times. The impact screwdriver works great for stuck screws. Aircraft have shit tons of screws lol. Some of their tools are kinda silly, like the rachet and hammer in one but overall I love Wera tools they are high quality. As a professional mechanic I put them right up there with my Snap On and Knipex tools.
Im a luthier their drivers and handles and screw tips are the best you wont get a better ergonomic design for a screwdriver. as for their other tools like this guy reviewed go else where Facom is my fav for ratchets and sockets if you got the dosh
the wera textile organizers are amazing for my line maintenance go-bag. but I'm not sure Wera is at all interested in aviation, they don't even sell 12pt sockets. honestly, I wouldn't want them probably, all my socket stuff is Koken.
@@adjutantat all? Youre joking bro. They sell torq set screw drivers and torq set bits used to drive “nazi screws” on many aircraft types. They are everywhere on a-320s, the aircraft type that i specialize in. All body panels, engine pylon panels and most interior stuff uses torq set screws that wera makes bits for. All the guys at our station have wera stuff. Wera has pictures of aircraft mechanics on their amazon page. So what you said is not true brother.
+1 for commercial aviation Mx, joker wrenches are quite handy as an open end ratcheting wrench.
I work on X-ray and CT systems and primarily use Wera. Have not had any issues and it’s the favorite amongst our engineers.
Rust is on you bro. You gotta maintain your gear.
Yeah granted, my regular tools do get cleaned and oiled almost weely, but when it's kept in a warm dry garage and never used, sitting alongside other tools, some of which are considerably less expensive it should be holding up better than that! I have collection of knipex pliers, some of which are a couple of years old now that don't get used and sit next to the wera screwdrivers, there is not a mark on them!
@JDFAutos that satin finish on the wera tools is raw, there is no coating or protection. The knipex have a rust inhibitor. Im with you, ive always thought they were gimmicky tools. I have the stainless screwdrivers and the precision screwdrivers, both gifts. I dont think id ever pull the trigger on anything else though. Ive wanted to in all honesty...just couldnt bring myself to do it.
@@dillon3355 yeah I know that mate, just didn't expect them to go bad so fast, I've got all 8 versions of the knipex 180 pliers, some are Chromed, some have a more of a satin chrome finish and some are just raw steel, similar story with some wiha pliers I have, they have all held up alot better than the wera stuff, obviously the stainless don't have a mark on them, but I just expected more longevity for the price!
I have a humid climate too. To combat rust I use Eagle One Nevr-Dull.
It fights rust and leaves a protective coating.
It’s cheap and easy.
I just smear it on and leave it. In a couple of days I’ll wire brush it and smear more on.
That’s usually enough.
Cool thing about rust is that you can remove it! Who would've thought.
I can’t believe you have found so many issues with so many different Wera tools. This almost seems like a Snap-On endorsement. It would have been a better review without the constant comparison to Snap.
Did a stress test on the zyclops and a snapon ratchet and the snapon “snapped” as to where the zyclops bent but never snapped. 🤷🏻♂️
even heavyest zyclop is 2 times weaker then average Taiwan made ratchet
@@ollivgv yes, even though I’ve never had issues with mine I wouldn’t use them on the car for instance, I use it constantly on my projects and work use. Other ratchets are stronger. I like it a lot. But I’m really questioning this guy having all these issues what on earth is he doing
I did a stress on Proxxon 1/2" rachet while unscrewing car wheel by jumping on a rachet handle, multiple times. Never had issues with Proxxon rachet nor any of their sockets ever slipped over. For the price excellent, have them for over 15 years.
Interesting to see a critical take on Wera tools from someone who's actually been using them. I have loads of the screwdrivers, hex and Torx keys and bits, and they've always worked well for me, doing mostly DIY and bike mechanics. I'm surprised you're getting so much rust - I have Wera screwdrivers stored in a toolbox in a leaky old shed and there's no sign of rusting there. I also like the small bit ratchet, very handy as a pocket tool and for getting into tight spots. I don't have any Wera sockets, larger ratchets or spanners, I tend to go for the more automotive-directed brands like Snap-On, Facom or Britool for those.
it's always good to hear a different opinion. made me rethink of my amazon wish list. thanks for the video.
If you don't like the allen keys with the sleeve, why did you buy them? Wera has alternatives, too. I agree on the spanners and ratchets.
I like their stuff for working on motorcycles and bikes.
As a mechanic mate I’ve had loads of times when I’ve used plate on the spanners and they are class but when that nut is tight the open end tends to slip so it’s swings n roundabouts but I love them myself
How I use my nut grip style sockets is, they are just helping me to put the bolt into place and hand tighten them. To torque them, I switch to normal socket as the nut grip has already done the difficult part. I do this to preserve the tools because they are not cheap and they can’t be just bought off the shelf.
I am a telephone repairman been using them for about 5 years works today as good as they did day 1
Tewephones still exist?
I would agree that the spanner’s are a gimmick but as an electrician I use the Zyklop ratchet every day and find it great
Also the tool check plus for small low torque applications is a winner for me
I have fitted a Beaver-fit frame in the past and would agree that you need something better to achieve the torque you would require for that
Bought the Hex keys about a year ago and prefer my £8 stanly fold up set 😂
Gucci tools I would call them
Im abit of a sucker for some Gucci haha but yeah, some stuff works, I just find them more miss than hit!
I have recently bought a rail of those Wera sockets 3/8
Would like to know your thoughts on them 🤔
When it comes to rust, it's a tricky subject. If you look at metaulrgy, often rustproof, or 'stainless' steels are not going to be as good as other steels in many aspects.
Wera tools are what I think of as precision tools. If you are reassembling a show car and can't mar a single bolt, wera does the job well.
It's like the AK-47 lower accuracy and lower precision in the parts, lower tolerances, but it absolutely takes a beating, that's many other tools, but the wera is much more precise in the fit but in order to get this Precision the Metallurgy has to be chosen not just for ultimate toughness and rustproofness, but a hardness that takes an edge well.
Truly Stainless steel doesn't fit that.
They are associated incorrectly in the states in my opinion.
I bought myself a Tool-Check Plus kit about 6 months ago (and paid a lil bit extra for that extender bit adapter), and that thing has lived in my bag since and been used nearly daily.
That tiny ratchet is great, I'll agree sometimes the lever can be flicked but it's such a rare occurance that I don't find it annoying one bit. It happens to other tiny ratchets I've had in the past too.
That kit stays in my slingbag and I've not seen any trace of rust as of yet. I live in Scandinavia, so we don't get super humid weather here but I have used this kit in the snow and abused it a lot and have yet to see any bad wear or any rust. The sockets and bits have been amazing, the only bit I've worn out was one of the flat driver bits which took some edge abuse after a particularly stubborn storage shelf decided to fight me. I probably went overboard with what the bit should've been expected to handle honestly. There was hammering, there was cursing, and there was more than a few drops of blood given to the shelf.
I can see how those Joker-spanners could be considered gimmicky, though that feature of fixing a nut to the plated part does have some niche use cases I think. The weird ratcheting wrench thing though, I don't know about that one lmao that's a weird one.
But their screwdrivers, bit drivers, and Tool Check kits are amazing in my opinion.
I've always been of the opinion that no one brand does every tool right, I love their screwdrivers and consider them some of the best out there, but I have the same 3/8 zyklop swivel ratchet, I rarely even use it. Gimmicky, too much backdrag, and the handle (and the ratchet itself tbh) is too bulky for automotive work half the time. I've got much cheaper ratchets that I'd reach for before using that one.
I’ve used these tool for about 18 months, as a go kart mechanic, never had these issues
Im obsessed with European hand tools but when it comes to spanners i do find the american brands to be the best. I love the wera allen wrenches, wera makes my favorite nut drivers as well. I also recommend their basic bitch 6 piece screw driver set as it is great quality for a great pruce. Not quite as nice as me pb swiss screw drivers but a great set for a back up bag or house set for less than half the price as PB swiss. Thats about all od recommend from wera. .
Yeah I agree with you I think, even some of the really good euro spanners like hazet and facom, they do the job perfectly but I just don't like the finish on them as much as Mac and snap on! Absolutely cannot fault the wera drivers but like you said I wouldn't recommend much else, I've not got into any pb swiss yet but I've been eyeing up some sets for a long time, I probably won't ever use them, just have for the collection
I'm guessing you got a bad batch for alot of these rusting tools - most of my kit as a machine mechanic is Wera & the only things to have rusted (minor surface rust that could be steel wooled away) are the bits I use with my Zyklop Mini. Only reason those rusted is because I pocket carry much of my immediate use tools, so they're stewing around in hot, sweaty pocket air especially through the warmest months. And they only started to show that minor surface rusting after several months in such a state. The stuff I keep in my toolbag itself shows no sign of rusting at all with much of it being owned for over 2 years now. Only problem I've ever had with my Wera stuff is a broken ball end on my stainless 1/8" hex key but that was user error.
Don't know if the newer spanners are made from a different material but my 11 year old ones don't have any rust.
I daily use my Wera Screwdrivers and the Toolcheck Ratchet thingy. The other brand for screwdrivers used by me is Wiha.
Pliers only Knipex, Wrenches and Sockets Hazet, Ratchets Koken.
In my opinion just about the best way of always having the best tool for the purpose
WERA tools are great quality. That said, not all are great. I agree with the take on the ratchet I have swapped mine to Matco Silver eagle which also swapped couple days ago on some 25 year old (75 anniversary) SK 1/4 and 3/8 master sets. That said, screwdrivers are definitely 👌🏻 great, same with hex wrenches. As for the Joker combo wrenches, I love mine. The "plate" came in handy when mounting an electric motor on a low steel base where the bolt wouldn't go in, but the nut did. As soon as I started the nut, I flipped to the other side to just hold it in place while I screwed the nut down to secure the motor and repeated on all 4.
Finally someone honest about Wera tools! The screwdrivers are HORRENDOUS. They’re a nice shape in the hand, but have the world grip.
7:12 I have needed this function a couple of times with nuts in tight places on a motorcycle. However, I usually just take a ring spanner, slap some electrical tape on the back to hold it in. For the rare few times I need this 'functionality' it works fine.
But thanks for putting out the video. There's too many people online raving on about the fancy new shiny tools they bought, without having used them. And then even worse there's the 'influencer' types who praise anything they receive for free into the heavens.
I can vouch and add to your evaluation that their precision screwdrivers (both torx, hex and philips) are pretty good. I have heard stories of people snapping them, but honestly you are applying way too much torque to any such small fastener in that case. I especially like the ball end on their hex precision drivers. That is quite rare to find.
Ive got nothing but good things to say about the screwdrivers, I have to confess I did snap the end of one of the yellow handle pound through flat heads a few days ago but I was using it very incorrectly and its stood up to an unbelievable amount of abuse!
And yeah as for the ring spanner’s I would do the same thing! I feel like they solved a problem that didn’t really need solving, and I think a ring spanner with tape is still the better option! you have some offset for hard to reach spaces and usually a narrower handle than the massive wera one
Got recommended this vid and i like the honesty both ways. You say whats good and what isnt and why, would love to see some more honest reviews.
The complaint about the thick shaft of the allen key is a bit far fetched. That extra mm of clearance helps nothing in terms of range.
Especially when you have twice the angles to grab a nut at with the 12 points.
Good you have mentioned the rust part. We typically select those shiny chrome vanadium tools since I've personally never seen them rust. I work in aviation maintaining runway lights and Aerodrome ground lightings here in the middle east. Our newly issued tools are usually Wera now for electronic tools. We have stanley before and it still works. We used to have gedore and USAG for those bolts and nuts. Those gedore ratcheting wrenches are our favorites. The most important tool we have is a torque wrench and we used Norbar from UK. Works well and very accurate. Those bolts in the runway must be tight accurately as the impact from landing airplanes move those inset lights bolts gradually. For power tools our main is hilti. Hilti never fails us. Backup are dewalt and makita. For electronic and electricals we use FLUKE and probably only Fluke. We don't oil or maintain our tools. We use and abuse it until it breaks. Only our mechanics oil their tools as they are working usually on oiled soaked engines. For us that's works in dry equipment we certainly don't care that much for our tools. We just grab and go. Rust will eventually come to any tool but wera (the crv mikro kit one and not their regular steel tool) has never rusted yet considering the very humid environment we worked in. We prefer chrome vanadium tools specially the very shiny ones. Easy to wipe and doesn't get dirty that much compared to impact rated tools. And lastly, we have some cheap no brand tools that works. We call them the disposables. We smash and toss them until they break eventually. 😂
I got a cheap Kraftform Kompakt W 1 Maintenance set that included Zyklop 1/4" with the same malfunction. Since I wasn't right in the head I decided to repair it myself without new swivel head. Small pin from the green selector gear brakes of since it is just low level cast rather than machined steel part. My repair 1) Punch out the center pin. You would see the selector is attached to drive gear with riveting method. 2) After drilling out the riveting the head will come fully apart. You would see the claw under selector gear and the selector pin that broke off 3) Repairing selector gear by drilling small hole and inserting proper sized nail cut to size and using metal glue. 4) Thinking I can make micro threading and wasting hours 5) Using metal glue and some extra metal piece to hold the selector in place 6) Reinsert center pin . Some tools are useful but overall Wera looks better than it functions.
Those Wera Spanners are genius if you know what they are able to do. The thicker Grip doesn't matter because they only have half the Return Angle of a normal Spanner. And with that Backplate you find better Grip on rusty Bolts.
Totally agree on the ratchets and none should be rusting except under high moisture conditions. The set I got is the 1/4" Zyklop. Overpriced for what is. The screwing function is nice with the flex head, but the small extender in the set will not seat with any of the Wera set provided sockets. The male end on the extensions are physically different (grind). The long extension and directly connected to the ratchet work ok, but the small extension is a full fail. Now I see I have rust to look forward to.
Edit: always helps to read the instructions. The short extension is by design, a wobbler extension allows you a little bit added angle in rough spots. Now this understood and I would rate this very high for the sets overall use cases.
It’s worth noting that relative humidity levels and dew points shift with temperature, so what may be a dry atmosphere at one temperature could have condensation at another.
The spanners are great when using threaded rod, they sit ontop of the nut and stay in place.
Yeah I can see that use Atcually, I've also used them to help pull threaded bar out of awkward places, get behind the nut with the spanner and use it to help pry it out, just think it gets in the way most of the time for me tho
Buy a Land Rover
Non of your tools will rust ever again.
To be fair, pretty shocking how quick these tools start to rust.
I appreciate the honest review and it is clear you really use your tools (saw too many reviews of brand new looking tools…)
I use Gedore, Facom, Stahwille, Sonic, Mannesman, Knipex and a huge pile of Lidl quality stuff (use the cheap stuff for cutting up and modifying)
I own a land rover haha, its always broken!
Yeah I agree, to all those people saying 'you should protect your tools with rust preventer' I treat all my tools in the same way, and its honestly only the wera stuff that ends up like it has! the finish just isn't fit for purpose, I have 17 year old stuff from Halfords that looks better than 1 year old wera stuff
@@JDFAutosI thought the point of defenders was they never break haha
Funny to always see only that colourful Wera hex keys, when the best ones are the black ones in the red case. Pure utility, whole leght hex, that hex plus shape, minimum wear of, no rust and dont bite into the screw. We use them in workshop for many years and usualy i dont even think about them. They are so reliable, I just dont have to think about them and thats it. What more could I ask for.
The ones with the rust are the ones with hardened steel… is it because of a high carbon steel? For hammering on.
That's why the internet is great! I've used lots of tools for over 5 decades now. Wera makes tools that last after long periods of use...they just work!
Im not discrediting your experience with them but that is kinda odd. Im automation electrician using these wera tools for past almost a decade, Iw never seen any rust in them and non of them have ever given me problems, using in rain, heavy snow or hot summer. They are great when you need a light weight portable multiuse kit for doing repairs on site and hard to get remote places without carrying loads of heavy tools, they get the job done in that kinda environment all day.
Now if I was running more stationary setup like a car mechanic then I would get more heavy duty setup.
I live in a very humid house, I own many wera sets and only some of the 89 mm. bits have got a little rust. The rest of the tools have no rust. But I own also around 8 knipex tools and two or three of them purchased in Germany arrived with some rust in the center hinge. The rest were purchased in Spain and arrived OK.
You are absolutely right. I'm working with Wera tools every day. The screwdrivers are good and I love the set of the long bits with the handle.
But they have too many tools that are in practice useless.
I also have some Wera Jokers and I dont like it.
They are too bulky and the fact that they are straight is a big disadvantage. They also sit too tight and sometimes they doesn't fit.
I would never buy the zyklop ratchets because of the big head
I wish I had seen this video earlier. I just ordered all the Wera ratcheting spanners for about $277 US. I watched many very positive reviews of the Jokers. I'll find out the truth soon.
Wera impact screwdriwers or chisel scredriwers are made from Cr-Mo steel ( chrome- molybdenum) instead Cr-Va ( chrome- vanadium) steel. CrMo steel is toughter than CrVa steel.
lots of non chrome plated tools rust super easily from the air moisture, even in a garage. also depends on the alloy.
Regarding your rust issues, I’d say the surface finish (blasted/rough) is always going to be far more susceptible to rust than even a polished finish of the same material, and far far more likely than a chromed surface. As has already been mentioned, rust (despite being unsightly) is not really an indication of quality or suitability of the material for the job, however….
Your Knipex pump pliers also had rust on some surfaces. Have you checked the relative humidity levels where you’re storing them? You might have a humidity issue.
Some of your other issues are valid, possibly for your uses and not others (I work in the engineering department of a medium sized factory, and know people who really like Wera). Personally, I think some of their stuff is pretty good (electrical screwdriver set with changeable tips etc) but prefer other brands for different bits.
The cases are what I like the best, semi rigid so can be dropped and all your sockets wont go flying but stay put. That's why I choose them. I'm a Sub-Sea tech so they get salt water and hydraulic oil on them but I do WD40 them regularly and have no rust.
Why buy the Joker when Knipex Plier wrench exists?
Interesting video, I actually have some wera tools, insulated screwdrivers, ratchets and the hex plus allen keys,and bicycle sets,and ratcheting t handle set. I agree with you on the spanners and the wera joker adjustable wrench,the knipex pliers wrench is better. The screwdrivers are ok, I like the lasertip ones and the diamond coated bits. Rust is a problem for this wera tools, but overall they are good tools. I have the little 1/4 zyklop ratchet for years, and no problem with that one. They are not for the automotive industry for sure. Snap-on is a better choice. But for general maintenance work they are fine. Pb swiss tools are better but more expensive, WGB also have good quality spanners for the price. Irega makes very good adjustable wrenches în Spain. So we have a lot to choose from.
I'm soon to be getting into some pb swiss tools, there aren't many stockists in the UK but I'm desperate to get my hands on the hex keys! I like some parts of the wera tools, I like the packaging but I think it's overpriced for average tools
@@JDFAutos Wera tools are not that average, maybe a little overpriced, actually the wera hex plus keys are very good quality and durable, one of my favorites.
I think like most makes, their core stuff is good. But that’s really just screwdrivers and 1/4” bits. Maybe the rust is a modern issue, as I have one of their screwdrivers I bought in 1982 that is still fine. (It was part of a set, the rest have sadly been lost or stolen) I use bits more than actual screwdrivers, (from my days as a fork truck tech on the road, when weight and bulk was a consideration) and these are great. I like the ones with the size band on them, easy to find the right one in a dingy warehouse.
I’ve never liked the finish on German sockets, ratchets and spanners, I much prefer Snap-on for those. That Zyclops ratchet compared to the Snap-on swivel head…chalk & cheese!
Thanks, I considered to buy wera cyclops and bit ratchet. Thanks for the real opinion, I have rust problem in tropical humid climate as well. May be I'll go for koken and vessel
Not a gimmick w the joker wrench it’s great for crazy tradie play I sometimes spin it on a piece of all thread’s nut ! And the flex ones I like it bc it’ll reach and hugs it . Mines haven’t rusted bc they’ve been in their respective pouches for all these tools being mentioned! My truck leaks water when raining
I've had a set of wera hex keys for 10 years now (simple design with full hex and no sheath). They have taken a lot of abuse! In the meantime I've bent or twisted 2-3 cheap sets, just using them on motorbikes or buying another set because I needed something in a pinch
I think you got a lemon ratchet. I have the the 3/8 inch one. Use it at work with a 3/8 to 1/2 step up. Doing mold changes. Normally hanging all 200 pounds of myself on the rachet. Hasn't broken yet.
Thanks!
I do have the holding function sockets and allen sockets. For the allen sockets, just looking at them I assume they are not as strong as a normal one. So, I use a normal one to break it free and use the Wera to remove it once loose or to start it. It is not when you need to hang on to the nut or allen headed bolt, but I don't use them as the primary tool.
Good to know about that roto head ratchet. Looks cool, but after seeing your report, I will not consider it further.
The wrench head comparison was gold
I wonder if the surface rust is due to the lack of chrome in EU made products due to new EU regulations.
How far are you from the ocean? That and humidity can make a big effect on the surface of exposed metal stored in your home. You can spray a rust preventative on tools you're storing if you have this issue.
Im about 2.30 hours drive to the nearest ocean, it's pretty damp in the UK alot of the year but I can only compare them to other tools that have been in the same environment, and these have held up a lot better, knipex for example
I'm with you on this. Wera for screwdrivers. Hard to best them. For wrenches though? I'm going with Knipex more often than not.
Silicone spray and/or cosmoline wax type sprays (Amsoil HD metal protect), takes care of tool protection.
Also good to use some air dry salt pellets somewhere in your tools, and keep them closed up.
Thanks man, I've been feeling a bit suspicions about all of these reviews on youtube. All like a one "What an amazing design" and no one ever said a single bad word about wera, like wtf?!
This is the sad state of the modern internet, filled with commercials masquerading as 'informative, real reviews'
Great video, definitely saves me some trouble. Would love to see more tool reviews from you, specifically European or Japanese stuff. Not many places to check that stuff out in person in America, so it's really nice to have an honest opinion of them before I spend a ton of money on tools I wouldn't use.
I have recently been looking at some Japanese socket sets and I love the nepros stuff, just haven't pulled the trigger yet, alot of the euro stuff is good but I don't like the satin finish on some of it so I have never bought any, I do really like the look of facom tools, I'll probably get some in the near future and do some comparison videos between that and snap on
Silly Peasants with their WERA tools I only buy tools made in Germeripan made from steel mined on mars and refined to the highest level of mercurial methods before being smuggled through interstellar customs to this planet via the rectum of an aged cool rebel
I had a few rachets before, but the wera zyklop rachet is the only one i use since i bought it, i really love it. I dropped it, left it outside, used it roughly: no rust, mo wear and tear.
This does not feel like an honest review. My opinion: i will only buy wera and knipex handtools from now on.
I guess you havent thought about the fact that when the sockets with hex inserts snap on you, they do it cleanly. Voila, there you have your ball bearing free hex bit sockets. And you do not even have to sand the edges, it literally is just perfectly snapped off
You have a good point! suppose you could always cut them down cleanly yourself too! maybe ill get some afterall, just because I like the straps they come on haha
Thank you for being honest. I have the screwdrivers and hex keys. And are happy so far.
Just playing devils advocate, are they kept in a damp (ish) environment? Is the shed insulated?
I have a set of the wera Allen keys and those are good for loosening tight bolts without stripping the heads, they just grip better than normal style. I've used the 10mm on pedals and cranks on my bikes and they bend so easy but feel nice in my hand due to the thickness.
Got screwdriver bits and holder I've had since 2008 when I bought an 18v makita drill which still work fine after driving in many thousands of screws. Mostly pozi 2. A while back I replaced the floorboards in my bedroom and used over 700 screws...
P. S
I ruined the rapdadapter bit holder by spraying it with graphite fluid to clean it but the bearings fell out 😂 so had to buy a new one recently.
I have a set of interchangeable VDE drivers, 1 handle but with many shafts. Works well and grips screws nicely but is a nuisance if need more than 1 driver eg switch faceplate require 2 different sized flat heads 1 to take off the face plate and a smaller one for the terminals. It's faster to have 2 drivers for this. Got me wondering it must be possible to buy another handle....
I broke a 4mm slotted screwdriver, sent it away on Thursday and I had a new free of charge replacement by the Sunday afternoon.
1st class service.
The spanners im still on the fence on
You need to try the bondhus 20599 stubby L hex key set they do a great job and don’t take up a lot of space in your tool bag.
great recommendation, ive got the SAE snap on stubby set which is made by and is identical to the bondhus set, only difference is the price tag and the packaging but i am looking to get the metric set too soon
Also I find Wera more electrical and panel type tools although is it a bit of a designer tool nowadays people rate you on what your using rather than what you do ultimately of job is complete correctly it doesn’t matter what you use as long as your safe
I’m in a very similar situation I use snap on for automotive and Wera n knipex for mobile bailer work
I use Milwaukee power tools for both sides and have experienced quite a few issues with the cordless
My honest option be open minded and listen to people options that are in the trade
Appreciate your videos and honesty you’ve put me off wasting a lot of money thank you
A dry garage you say? hmm, then why the rust? a smear of Inox or Ballistol or renaissance wax (or similar) is all thats needed. Wera - Wonderful
If it did not rain in the UK more than it does in the tropics------ maybe rust would be less of a problem?
Honestly they have stayed in a dry warm garage, hardly seen any use, no grease or moisture and they have been sat next to other tools in the same situation, wiha screwdrivers, cheaper spanner sets, various pliers and other random bits and none of that is even close to the levels of rust on the wera, if they were in constant use and saw the elements I would understand it
Are you buying these from Amazon or a reputable distributor??? If Amazon, that’s your problem with the failures. Look into it yourself.
Those wrenches are fantastic on riding mowers and modern cars where you're working over terrible places to drop hardware
Wera sells stainless screwdrivers if you leave them in the elements, costs very little more than a non stainless.
I only use my wera for bicycles and interior work, haven't experienced any rust issues but I live in the desert.
I think they are probably suitable for bikes, anything heavier than that and there are better alternatives!
Nothing rusts when the humidy is below 40%. If you live in a desert, it's well below 40%!!
@@harveysmith100 yeah...that's why I specified that I lived in the desert
When it comes to tools, you buy them cheap, you buy them often. This ensures that you always have the latest tools, old ones die of usage and not just by sitting ont he shelf. Replacing them would be cheap too.
4 year tools aren't rusty but these 1 year old newer wera tools getting rusty?! discouraging.
So, only their screwdrivers are perfect. Their wrenches have just common quality but with extra price and most of their features can rarely be used in real life.
That about sums it up yeah
I’m 25 years old and a millwright at a feed processing plant. These tools bridge the gaps from a full set and allow me to travel different locations a lot lighter. I have broken the 3/8 drive zyklop. I was abusing a fine tooth (finest I’ve used) ratchet. That’s my own fault. They make a different version of ratchet that’s much more robust. Zyklops are for tough areas. You cannot beat the joker wrenches even the self adjustable ones.
I personally think the zyklops are just too big for tough areas? always found myself reaching for something else! but I would say they have there uses in some places but I just dont think the quality is up there for the price they cost
@@JDFAutos using it in the driver setting is very handy. And mainly just being able to change the angle and having super fine teeth helps you even in tight spots. Down pipe bolts for exhaust on a vehicle comes to mind.
@@9k827 I think it works better as a driver to be honest, obviously much less tourqe needed but I still think there are alot of other brands that make ratchets with the same design in a smaller form! They just don't get the same hype as wera, obviously because the marketing and packaging isn't on the same level! My snap on version is about 8mm narrower across the two widest points, has more teeth and a slimmer handle to help getting your hand in there if it's a tight spot
Thanks for that honest appraisal.
Thank you very much for your honesty in this video. Unfortunately I have spent an inordinate amount on Wera tools but really only use the Alan keys which I have found to be ok. I think there are better screw drivers so I use them.
Yeah I too have spent alot of money on them, now the only purpose they have it just looking pretty haha, I do still use some of the tools in certain situations tho they have there uses
Surface Rust ist normal on Tools, put a thin layer of oil on it (WD 40 should also do it) and it will not happen again.
many valid points i agree with but all the rust specs you have shown are clearly rusting particles from metal/grinding dust and not the tools them selves rusting.
I can safely say they are definitely not bits of grinding dust and are the tools themselves, many of these tools have been kept in a tool bag/box and have never been used in an environment around a grinder or shortly after it, some have never been used at all and have always been in a clean dry area, i have a large collection of knipex pliers that are kept in the same place for the same time, if not longer and their is not a spec of rust on any of them, i think it just shows the finish quality of the tool
Thanks for this honest roast on Wera. I really appreciate this kind of reviews, from the use not for the show or sell. I've got wera but nothing compared to other german brands like stahlwille or some hazet tools i own. Please, if you got experience with them, make more videos on european or japanese tools.
if rust it means it have carbon in it and is hard stif metal (that you want in you tools ) to prevent it put grease on it , oil , or something like that ...
Don't like much Wera screwdrivers handle..😕They are made just to use with the back of your hand not the front...like more Wiha..Better..🌟
Yeah I get what you mean, I think the atcuall tips are good but yeah handles are hit and miss, do like the soft gripped wihas, got a few of those
Are we talking about the red and black handle Wiha? I am addicted!
I like how you say "spanner" and "quid" and "pounds". Great video. I like the screw drivers. But the rest of the Wera tools sort of smack of gimmicky... I'm interested to learn what your thoughts are on Gear Wrench as a brand for ratchets and spanners. I have a mix of old USA made Craftsman ratchets (1/4 and 3/8 drive) and Gear Wrench (1/2 drive). I've had good luck with those.
Thanks for the tip mate, I've been caught by the hype till I watched this.
Totally agree with your options. Someone honest for once. I have a lot of wera tools. Some are good but not all of them!!!
They’re fantastic! I refuse to believe anything otherwise seeing as how I’ve invested a ridiculous amount of money on them!
I love Wera, but the Shockwave bits of Milwaukee are better than the Impactor bits of Wera.
Super! I've not seen any video on Weras that tells the every day use. Thanks a ton!
I only use my were gear for my push bike . I wasn’t happy with the play in the torque wrench which wasn’t cheap . Is it a case of looks before quality .
I love frank reviews, you just saved me some money, thank you
I agree with cyclops review. I have 1/4” & it’s terrible. I also have the same “L” Allen keys- too big & round shaft means you can’t cut it to reveal new mating surfaces. Some cheaper brands do it better!
How much does a 22 piece snap on spanner set, set you back?
My 8-21 ratchet spanner set was about about £400 but think they usual retail for more than that 😬 not cheap but lifetime investment and they are definitely ahead of the game
Love your courage to be critical about Wera 🙌
Not a pro mechanic here, so interesting to hear an informed opinion. A friend of mine describes Wera as "Insta tools" ie looks more important than function...
A couple of questions..You mentioned a Snap-On equivalent set of Allen keys for about £12..Could you provide a link or further details. Secondly, for DIY and perhaps "other trade use" say plumbers/electricians ect, how do you feel about Halfords Advanced ratchets and sockets? Better than Wera? Would they be a reasonable budget/medium priced choice or are there other brands you recommend? I currently use Bahco and Teng, but thought Wera might be a step up, but I now suspect not...
agree with your friend fully! they look fancy, that's the number one selling point, no better and usually worse than most other tools!
The company that manufactures the snap on hex keys are called bondhus www.amazon.co.uk/BONDHUS-HLX22-HLX9L-HLX13L-22199/dp/B000E7VG5C/ref=sr_1_6?crid=PI77OPXWQN89&keywords=bondhus+allen+keys&qid=1706133894&sprefix=bondhus%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-6 this is a twin set but if you search on amazon for 'bondhus allen keys' they have a massive variety, long, stubby, ball, no ball etc, and they are the exact same as the snap on, just without the label! personally having started with Halfords 20 years ago I have no bad things to say and they have held up well! still have loads of halfords bits, the newer advanced ratchets are not as good as the older type but you can still buy the old type, its now just in their standard line of tools! i think wera makes a few good tools that are good for certain jobs so don't rule them completely! the best ratchet I have bought recently is a bahco 7750, 50 quid on amazon and its the exact same mechanism as a snap on but for 100 quid less, the size is great, handle is great, love it! ive ordered the 1/4 and 1/2 and im planning on doing a comparison vid soon
You talked me out of a very expensive purchase. I live near the ocean and everything rusts very easily. Thank you. I hate rusty tools.
They do stainless screwdrivers. Which I think are better.
I have the adjustable wrenches, and they are so handy. I am a semi tech. They are way better than a regular adjustable when taking off plastic air lines.
I'm not that familiar with that, I'm guessing you have alot of space to work in? Being plastic are they pretty low tourqe? I guess they must have a use somewhere, I'm just yet to find it!
The self adjusting joker wrenches are great for heavy duty ( trucks and equipment ) and industrial settings. Have them AND use them daily. No rust. They do handle quite a bit of torque. The right tool for the right application. The ratchets are decent. Never had an issue. The handles fit and feel good. For tools that are a fraction of the price of snap-on they are one of the better choices. I'm guessing your good at what you do BUT sounds like you just use whatever you have in your hand for whatever you need ( this screw drivers good as a chisel , this ratchets as good as a hammer , this hex key is as good as pry bar. Remember , the correct tool for the correct job makes things much easier.
The hex bits are not designed to be used on an impact. Use the tools correctly.
@JDF Autos Most of them are brass compression fittings, supposed to be snug. But here in the American Midwest, it's not uncommon to get some stuck (or even cross-threaded) fittings. Space is hit or miss, but I would say they definitely do better than an old school adjustable.
@@bh10k17 If they work for you then I'm happy for you, I have just found better tools out there for the jobs I would use them for, alot of screwdrivers are designed to be used as a simple chisel, but I've never used a ratchet as a hammer or a hex key for a prybar, I do use the correct tools for the right jobs 👌🏼
I had an issue with their plain screwdriver as well - it was too hard, and it broke under a mild torque.
Can’t agree more. You could get Pittsburgh 1/4 swivel head Ratchet and a set of SAE sockets for 25$. Meanwhile the Zyklop set will cost you near 100$.
I think the best bit about them is the packaging and pre made sets, I don't mind paying abit extra for that but the tools themselves are below par
Why would you want a set of Stamped Addressed Envelopes?
Btw they have life time warranty that’s probably why
When you're dealing with professional opinion-havers, honesty is a luxury rarely afforded.
I’m a fan of Wera but I have agree with you on the tools you’ve reviewed. Also rust is an issue on their tools in general.
I think you may have lifted the bias I have for wera and will explore other manufacturers.
Thanks for the honestly 👍🏼
I think I would still buy certain wera tools, they do have some interesting things and they do work in certain situations, but it's not all it's cracked up to be, I've met a couple of wera reps at some tool fairs in the UK and spoken to them about some of the issues I've seen, they do seem keen to hear the feedback and take it on board