Wera Tools USA has announced new tools for Fall and Winter 2022.
There is very limited information, but enough to determine whether or not you’ll be filling any holes in your tool kit.
I’m curious to hear your thoughts on the new tools. Which – if any – will make your work easier? (The Zyklop Pocket already landed on my shopping list!)
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Wera Zyklop Pocket Screwdriver (8009)
The new Wera 8009 Zyklop Pocket looks to be a be a cross between their Kraftform Kompakt bit-holding screwdriver and swivel-head Zyklop Speed ratchets.
Interestingly, the Wera Zyklop Pocket has a “combination drive,” with a 1/4″ hex bit holder built inside what I’m guessing is a 3/8″ square drive anvil.
So, it can turn sockets or screwdriver bits without needing any extra adapters.
The ratcheting head looks to have 3 locking positions, allowing users to convert it from inline to right angle positions, as well as in between.
It has a 5° swing arc, which suggests 72-tooth gearing.
There’s built-in screwdriver bit storage – I’m guessing there’s space for up to 12 bits.
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Wera says the Zyklop Pocket will be “available in 4 sets.”
Wera Safe-Torque Wrench A1, A2
Next up, there are two new Safe-Torque A1 and A2 torque wrenches.
Wera says it will be “available in 3 sets.”
Wera 6004 Joker VDE Insulated Adjustable Wrenches
Wera added self-adjusting ratcheting adjustable wrenches to their Joker line back in 2020. Now, they’re adding 4 VDE insulated wrenches in XS, S, M, and L sizing.
Here’s the sizing as it related to the other non-insulated Joker adjustable wrenches:
- XS: 7-10mm | 9/32″-3/8″
- Small: 10-13mm | 7/16″ – 1/2″
- Medium: 13-16mm | 1/2″-5/8″
- Large: 16-19mm | 5/8″ – 3/4″
Wera Kraftform Kompakt 800 Impact Screwdriver
Wera will also be expanding their Kraftform Kompakt line with impact screwdrivers and appropriately impact-rated screwdriver bit inserts.
The manual driver can deliver 25 Nm (~221 in-lbs) of max torque.
Wera 416 RA, 411 RA T-Handle Tool Sets
There are new T-handle ratcheting tools – one with a Rapidaptor quick-locking 1/4″ hex screwdriver bit holder, and the other with a square anvil drive for sockets.
Both feature a 4.5° return arc (suggesting 80T gearing).
Wera Bicycle Set 15 Screwdriver Sets
There are new bike tools – new multi-size hex and Torx screwdriver combo tools.
It looks like there’s a new tire lever (judging by the 9504 model number). Their existing bike tire levers include 9502, with a 1/4″ hex hole for use with screwdriver bits, and 9503, which can also be used to remove Presta valve cores.
Wera hasn’t shared anything else so far, but it looks to me that the combo-tip screwdriver bits have spring-action tips to allow for multi-fastener fitting. This would mean that one tool can fit four fastener sizes.
Wera 9506 – 3, 4, 5, 6mm hex
Wera 9507 – 2.5, 5, 6mm hex, Torx T25
Wera Roller Tool Cabinet 9700
Lastly, there will also be the 9700 “Tool Rebel” 7-drawer roller storage cabinet.
Availability
At the time of this posting, I could not find any of the new Wera Tools at KC Tool or other dealers. Wera USA says they’re “available and in stock in North America already,” and so they should be available for purchase shortly.
There is just one exception – Wera says the insulated Joker adjustable wrenches are expected to launch in January 2023.
Pricing? Specs? Features? Other Questions?
Only limited details were announced at the time of this posting.
I will follow up as more information becomes available.
Leo B.
The Wera Zyklop pocket looks handy! I would definitely think about snagging one when it comes to market. If it comes with the bits, that’d be a nice tool to have, and I’m interested in seeing what sets will be available.
(Stuart, you may want to check the “Zyklop” sub-heading. Thanks!)
Stuart
Their pocket tools (e.g. Kraftform Kompakt) usually do come with a pre-determined bit selection.
Thanks! Wera did not have any listings for the new products when they made their social announcements or when I finished this post.
I see that many SKUs are up now – I’ll see what I can find to fill in some blanks in a follow-up.
Leo B.
Good to know, thanks! I should have been more clear, though; that’s my fault. The “Zyklop” sub-heading is spelled “Zylop”. Hope this helps!
Adam
I have been waiting to purchase the 3/8″ Zyklop to complete the line. I got the 1/2″ from Sears for minimal cost, and then snagged the 1/4″ in a kit. In fact I was searching this week again for current pricing. Already had picked up an adapter to use hex bits with it that was on sale. lol I’ll wait on pricing, but quite certain I’ll go the Zyklop Pocket route when I can.
I own all the full size pound thru drivers, but haven’t taken full advantage of them, especially the torx set. I’ve just used as the (nice) dirty shop drivers. I like them all in one roll, but essentially duplicates.
The bike bits looks cool
I’ve been pleased with all my Wera purchases. I do feel many of the tools are slightly over priced, and have to pick up on sale… or Advent calendars
fred
The 8009 Zyklop Pocket does look like it might be handy.
On the other hand, I wonder if the partly insulated Joker wrenches will have much appeal. The design leaves quite a bit of exposed metal that might be a short-out issue if used to reach into an energized electrical panel/enclosure. I wonder if they have thought through a use case.
Franck B.
I agree with you on the insulated tools. Although I am sure that someone will have some fasteners in a cabinet in a position for which they would be useful (even though I don’t), the way it is insulated is not useful for preventing arcing against a nearby contact. That protection should exist either for in-use or dropped-tool scenarios.
fred
Maybe some lineman-type application for bug nuts or something.
ca
Also, doesn’t that style of wrench require you to manually manipulate the head to fit it onto the fastener? It seems like you’d have to touch the uninsulated part of the wrench to actually use it.
MM
I have the ordinary version of those wrenches without the insulated handle. It is possible to use them without manipulating the head, but only if you happen to have access to insert them at the ideal angle. In tight quarters it can be difficult to get those wrenches started. I’m no electrician but like Bruce wrote below I’ve never seen an electrical cabinet where there would be room to use one of those.
steve
Re Wera Zyklop Pocket
In German but…https://youtu.be/_V_hlKkOKfs
Aaron SD
The video was really helpful! Looks like it comes with one socket and a bunch of bits. I like the push to open of the screw driver one better but this has more bits. The wrench looks a little small but I think manageable. I hope this is under $75 for kits. So glad I’ve waited for a small ratchet set. I’m tired of lugging my Sears 155pc set unless it is for a big job and I don’t know what I need.
Bruce
I can’t imagine every wanting an insulated wrench light that. I’ve never seen an electrical cabinet with enough swing and that kind of lug in it to use them.
Stacey
The pocket screwdriver looks cool. If it’s not too pricey, I may add it to my outrageous screwdriver collection.😂😂😂
Stuart
Pricy in general, or for Wera? =)
The handle looks a bit chunky, but that seems like a fair compromise.
Stacey Jones
In truth it depends more on my mood and whether or not my wife has just bought a bunch of U2 stuff off eBay. Oh and I must have a discount.😂😂😂
Stacey Jones
Just saw on KC Tool and at $130+, with a 32% discount, I’ll pass and leave this one to the pros.
Aaron SD
Wow! It is cheaper when you add 3 socket bits ($130 vs $137). And this is on sale….
I was planning on getting it but now I can’t justify it. Maybe $50 on the high end, but this is too much for a nice-to-have tool for me
MM
As others said the Zyklop Pocket looks interesting. I don’t have much use for it currently but I would have LOVED to have had that tool when I worked in a lab. I could have done the majority of my service and maintenance tasks with that and a small pliers wrench.
The torque wrenches are interesting though I’m more interested in a straight screwdriver type.
The impact driver seemed a bit strange to me. This is a tool I’m very familiar with but I’ve never seen one that small and with that low of a torque rating. I’m curious what that’s meant to be for. I’ve never needed one for precision applications and I don’t think that one has enough oomph for even modest industrial/automotive/powersports/etc uses.
Nathan
the zylop pocket has my attention it’s an interesting thing. I’d honestly like to see that with a removeable anvil. Ie drop in a 1/4 hex or a 1/4 square in the same handle.
but I see the appeal and will look at one. I assume here that lock button unlocks the swivel head – I like that.
as I’ve said before I don’t know there is much reason to go beyond 72 tooth and no reason to go beyond 90.
Funda
I was going to place an order for a Megapro Automotive but will now wait to see the pricing on this one first. I expect it will be more expensive but hopefully not at a level that I don’t pull the trigger!
KokoTheTalkingApe
There are hex shank to square drive adapters, complete with ball detents. No need for that complicated anvil with a hex hole. Or am I wrong?
Stuart
Adapters raise the minimum height and are one more thing to carry.
For a “pocket” tool? This could work.
KokoTheTalkingApe
They can add height but they don’t have to. Instead of an anvil with a hex hole in it like has now, the wrench could just have a hex hole in the head, which has no height. There are some bitholders like that now. And the adapter could just fit into it, making it just as high as a regular wrench. In effect the wrench would be the same is it is now, but with a removable anvil.
And yes, an adapter is one more thing to carry, but it could just take up one of the bit slots in the handle. You’d lose a driver bit, of course.
That would be pretty nifty.
Stuart
Ah, I thought you meant to use the standard Zyklop with a bit adapter.
There’s still going to be some protrusion, such as with their A6 torque wrench with 1/4″ hex chuck.
Mini bit ratchets are designed to be low-profile, while the Pocket looks to be designed with a modified Zyklop Speed head.
It could be possible – maybe we’ll see a future version that does work as you describe, a 1/4″ hex socket with short 1/4″ and 3/8″ socket adapters.
MM
I’d find a hex to 1/4″ square drive adapter very useful. That would easily fit inside the handle of the tool in place of one of the bits and would allow you to use a full range of 1/4 drive sockets & associated accessories.
That said I like their combination 3/8″ square x 1/4″ female hex on the tool. The disadvantage compared to the hex-only option is very minor, just a slightly increased length. And sure, you could use a hex-to-3/8″ square adapter to gain that functionality, but there’s no good place to store an adapter like that with the tool. It wouldn’t fit inside the handle like a 1/4″ adapter could. I suppose it could be stored in the ratchet head, but that creates the risk of losing it whenever you have to take it out to use one of the 1/4″ bits. The combination square/hex drive takes up little room and it cannot be lost the way an adapter can. I think it’s a good idea. Just make sure one of the bits is a 1/4 square adapter too!
Jared
The pocket screwdriver looks pretty awesome. It seems like a combo tool that might actually save having to carry a couple others. I’m glad it locks into position too.
Those joker wrenches – I remember reading about that style here awhile ago before they were Wera branded. Princess Auto sold some under Powerfist branding. They didn’t seem all that handy to me – I figured a Knipex pliers wrench did all the same things and more. However, they were discontinued by Princess Auto and went on clearance for next to nothing – so I picked up a couple.
In the right circumstance, they’re actually kind of nice. Like a pliers wrench you don’t have to squeeze and ratchets more naturally. I admit I don’t use them all that often and I wouldn’t pay Wera prices for them – but I do wish I’d bought a complete set of the Powerfist versions before they were gone.
MM
I don’t know who invented that style of wrench which the Joker Self-adjusting style has copied but it is old. I remember when I was a teenager my father had one hanging in the garage, I’m fairly sure he got it from a TV infomercial in the 80’s though I don’t recall the brand name. I’ve seen even older ones at flea markets. The Joker version is not as nice as the solid Joker wrenches but it is the nicest version of that self-adjusting design that I have seen. I bought the full set on sale last year. I’d say your assessment is correct: generally speaking the pliers wrench can do similar jobs and more–but they are handy in their own way. I’d say the jury is still out for me if they were worth Wera prices (even really-good-deal-on-sale-Wera-prices) but if Princess Auto had the same thing for a fraction of the price those would have been a great buy.
Gordon
I’m stoked about the torque wrenches for two reasons. 2-12nm is hard to find, and one that is calibrated for both directions too. It’s perfect for working on bikes and looks like Wera is really going to take aim at Park Tool’s dominance.
fred
They’d have to add hundreds of other items to compete with Park (USA) or other bike tool folks like VAR (France), Hozan (Japan) or even Unior (Slovenia). But that said, these do seem like welcome additions to their line.
ct451
effetto mariposa makes really expensive ones in low ranges.
Davethetool
Looks like most of the lineup is for hobbyists, speciality type of work and most definite bike enthusiasts! I don’t see much in the way of mechanics hand tools. Oh sure most of these can be used on car mechanics but so can a pipe. Possibly this is why I don’t own but a few Wera products? They are well thought out for various types of projects and tasks but when I am thinking of tools for the garage Wera rarely comes to mind.
alex
I think they are designed more for people working in manufacturing than car mechanics.
fred
I agree. I see their offerings more like those from EU companies like Wiha and Felo – and less like German mechanic’s tool suppliers like Stahliwille, Gedore, Hazet, and Elora. I was never sure how their (and others too) plastic grips and other parts would fare in the realm of grease, gasoline and solvents typical of auto mechanic trades.
Jim Felt
I always wonder what happens when you invariably lose one or two oddball bits? The replacement cost plus effort is far more then a standalone tool.
My Veto bags can be heavy but when I want to take a few (full size) tools somewhere they’re always sorted and ready to go…
Franck B.
Also damage or wear out bits.
Klein is pretty good about making replacement bits available, also variations so you can customize your load out and not be stuck with what you were given. But, the cost and hassle still don’t cover it.
Wiha used to be pretty good about availability of parts but now that the US has a more “streamlined” operation, this appears difficult unless you’re a frequent European traveler.
Eric
The pocket looked attractive at first glance. But the more I look at it and think about it the more I realize it might be an ok emergency tool. But it’s not something I would want to use all the time. Reversing directions would be a slow process in normal screwdriver use. The back drag is probably way to high for the ratchet to even be that useful in a lot of applications where you would want to use it. And looking at the video posted above it doesn’t look like it has a locked position for normal screwdriver use. So maybe useful for keeping with a bike for roadside repairs, but not something I would keep in my tool box.
Stuart
Reversing the direction is absolutely a minor hassle when in inline mode.
The Zyklop speed ratchets lock in at 0°, and I don’t see why they would do differently here.
Eric
Yeah, I have a 3/8” Zyklop and it does lock at 0*. I was meaning that the ratchet mechanism doesn’t lock to let you use it as a fixed blade screwdriver. So you would have to ratchet one way or the other. Combined with the hassle of changing directions it could be a frustrating experience in some situations.
MT
I’ll definitely be taking a closer look at the Zyklop offerings—I can think of some situations something like that would be handy. The rest of them are kind of meh for me. That “Tool Rebels” branding on the tool chest though…oof. Trying way too hard there, Wera.
JoeM
Dangit! Now I don’t know if I want the Joker Adjustable Originals, or this new VSD set, or Both!
The rest are outside my interests right now… But those Jokers have me wondering!
Stuart
Buy one in the size you might use most, and see if you like it. They’re interesting tools, and potentially useful, but they don’t serve general purpose needs as well as other tools such as the Knipex Pliers Wrench.
JoeM
I am already sold on the Wera Jokers, I know I want them all. Adjustable wrenches are a “Better to Have it in case you Need it, rather than Need it and not Have it” tool.
I have a 5-size set from Mastercraft right now, and they’re absolutely beautiful. I’ve only used 2 of the 5, but they convinced me the Joker upgrade is 100% worth it. And Wera is the quality level tool to replace my Mastercraft set.
And, yeah… That’s all I gotta say on the subject! This is a frighteningly simple topic! No long-winded discussions or anything! It feels as weird to me as it does to everyone else who knows me from these posts! The VSD ones just throw a bonus option into the mix! I’ll likely get them in their kit too! They’re well priced at Atlas Tools!
Stuart
Here’s the thing though. A standard adjustable wrench fits a wide range of sizes. A Joker self-adjusting wrench fits a narrow range of sizes.
JoeM
That’s more of a selling point. The most annoying thing I find about adjustable wrenches is the slow process of going from max to min width. With smaller distances, and a rapid method of adjustment, the Joker set, in any combo, increases the efficiency of the wrenches. I really like the design… now there’s the more comfortable handles on the VSD editions as a bonus!
mattd
I like the ratcheting t-handle more than basic ratcheting screwdrivers. That is appealing fore sure. I have the non ratcheting version of that from an old advent calendar and like it.
928'er
Bicycle tools look interesting, but I don’t think I can cram anything else into my Topeak (under) saddle bags…
Nathan
Something I noticed about that zyklop pocket – the sockets are going to be held magnetically only.
which makes sense as there won’t be space for hold the spring ball detent holder that is common, nor will there be enough wall strength to accommodate it.
sort of like how the bosch freak is a 1/2 socket and a 1/4 hex. needs to have some metal around there if you’re going to do both.
so the sockets are held magnetically only. I still like the idea but I wouldn’t want that to be my only 3/8 driver. but I see it handy for dash and interior work especially with the bits in the handle.
Mike
KC just emailed out the prices. I lol’d.
Eric
Same, I would much rather have my tool check plus at half the price of the pocket Zyklop.
Adam
Yep, ouch. I’ll keep the hunt for the original 3/8″ Zyklop.
For the brave:
https://www.kctool.com/Wera/?sort=newest
10% off w/ TOOLGUYD4LIFE
Joe
I was hoping to have work pay for a couple of these new tools and maybe only feel *slightly* guilty but oh hell no. Not even. Fiscally irresponsible even with a “spend that money” instruction from the manager.
This is coming from someone that bought (own money) a full set of metric Jokers for a special project at work. Great sale price of course but the overtime covered it and then some.
Was told to take them home before someone walked off with them.
duropendo
You can find prices here:
https://www.amazon.de/stores/page/4FF9A7DC-A865-4425-B1C4-0FC18D927067