RoadTest: RoadTest Open Call
Author: kk99
Creation date:
Evaluation Type: Workshop Tools
Did you receive all parts the manufacturer stated would be included in the package?: True
What other parts do you consider comparable to this product?: Xiaomi JIMI 41 w 1
What were the biggest problems encountered?: No significant problems were encountered.
Detailed Review:
The package with the screwdriver set arrived without any issues and was ready for review. I would like to thank the Element14 team for the additional swag. I really appreciate it !
I have applied for the RoadTest, eager to test the Wera Kraftform Kompakt 62 screwdriver set. Here’s a close-up of what the box containing this screwdriver set looks like:
The box contained the following items:
- a pouch with a tool set
- a datasheet
- velcro for the pouch, with adhesive backing on one side
- a sticker
The pouch itself contained the following items:
- one Kraftform holder with a Rapidaptor quick-release chuck
- 32 bits, each 89 mm long
Here are some additional close-up photos of them.
| {gallery}Wera Kraftform Kompakt 62 |
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The set made a very good first impression. All the components appeared to be well-made and of high quality. The only thing I would personally change is the selection of bits. I would replace some of the 857/4 Z Spanner bits with additional flat-head bits. The entire set was manufactured in the Czech Republic.
I already own several Wera products. Below is a photo of them.
Based on my experience with these products and my comparison with the new set, I believe Wera places great emphasis on quality and maintains a consistently good standard. For example, I use this 416 R handle frequently, yet it shows no significant signs of wear. It features the same Rapidaptor quick-release chuck as the Kraftform holder included in the reviewed set. Below is a photo showing the internals of the 416 R's Rapidaptor quick-release chuck:
and here are the internals of the Rapidaptor quick-release chuck in the brand-new 816 R handle:
This Rapidaptor technology allows bits to be changed quickly and locks them in place after insertion, preventing them from falling out. The bits are 89 mm long, which I think is a good compromise for all-around use. They also appear to be well-made and nicely finished. I have taken close-up photos of one bit of each type included in the set.
| {gallery}800/4 1.2 |
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| {gallery}871/4 19 |
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| {gallery}875/4 2 |
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| {gallery}857/4 6 |
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| {gallery}840/4BO 4.0 |
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| {gallery}851/4PH PH3 |
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| {gallery}855/4 PZ2 |
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| {gallery}867/4 TX15 |
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Based on these observations, I think the bits are very well made. I haven't noticed any imperfections or visible defects.
I have a Carson MicroBrite Plus pocket microscope, so I used it to take a photo of the structure of one bit. It wasn't easy, as I don't have a dedicated adapter for attaching my phone camera to the microscope, but I hope the attached pictures give you an idea of what it looks like.
| {gallery}Microscope photo |
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The first photo shows the tip of the Phillips bit. Of course, the microscope has a very shallow depth of field, so only the top surface is in sharp focus. The second photo shows the middle section of the bit. Based on this image, the material appears to have a smooth finish.
For reference, I have also attached close-up photos of some bits from the Xiaomi JIMI 41-in-1 screwdriver set, which I've owned for some time.
| {gallery}Xiaomi |
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In this case, we can see some signs of wear on a few bits. Additionally, it appears that not all the bits are made from the same material or have the same surface finish.
The screwdriver set is easy to use. The required bits are easy to find in the pouch, although it is important to store them with the markings facing upwards for easy identification.
The Kraftform handle is well-sized and fits comfortably in the hand. It is easy and comfortable to work with. The bits are also a good length, especially when working with screws located in deep holes. For example, I find the handles included in the Wera Kraftform Kompakt Micro 1 set and the Xiaomi JIMI 41-in-1 a bit too small. The one included in the Xiaomi set is particularly uncomfortable and not very ergonomic.
Additionally, bits are available in different lengths, making it possible to customize the set to suit your needs in the future. Another advantage over conventional fixed screwdrivers is that if a bit tip becomes damaged, you only need to replace the individual bit rather than the entire screwdriver.
Below are some photos showing examples of the set in use:
Initially, I planned to add photos of the bits and the entire set after two weeks of use. However, I have decided to extend the testing period to make the review more reliable. So far, I believe the set is performing well, but I will update this section after a longer period of use to provide a more thorough assessment of its durability and performance.
I think this is a valuable screwdriver set that should last for a long time. In the following sections, I will outline what I like and what I don't like about it.
Pros:
- The overall build quality is excellent.
- The handle is comfortable and fits very well in the hand.
- The 89 mm bits make it easy to reach screws located in deep holes.
- Bits can be easily replaced, and different lengths (shorter or longer) are available, allowing you to customise the set.
- Made in the European Union (Czech Republic).
Cons:
- The selection of bits included in the standard set could be improved. For example, the 857/4 Z spanner bit could be replaced with more flat-head screwdriver bits.
- A bit pricey.
