Wiha announced the launch of a new 194pc premium tool kit in a rolling tool box, model 92100.
Wiha’s newsletter announcement describes the set in an unconventional way:
It’s here! It’s really here! For tool lovers who want premium quality at their finger tips, organized to perfection, and ready to roll, the new 194 Piece Premium Kit has you covered.
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You’ll find that this rugged kit could easily become your go-to, your ride or die, your partner in crime. No matter where you take it, this robust waterproof case will take care of your tools and take a beating.
What does it come with? Here’s the start of Wiha’s description for their new 194pc tool kit:
The Wiha 194 Piece Premium Tool Kit In Rolling Tool Box is designed to empower contractors and professionals with a comprehensive set of high-quality tools for all their needs. With an extensive array of 194 must-have pieces, Wiha’s Premium Tool Kit is the perfect companion for anyone in need of an outstanding set of tools. Packed inside is just about everything necessary to get the job done. This versatile toolkit is engineered to cover a wide range of tasks with precision and ease, ensuring that no project is too challenging. Incorporating the best of both functionality and organization, Wiha’s Premium Tool Kit not only equips you with an extensive array of must-have tools but also provides an exceptional storage solution.
It comes with:
- Screwdrivers
- Pliers
- Cutters
- Sockets
- Wrenches
- L-Keys
- Bits
- Level
- Tape Measure
- Hammer
- Voltage Detector
Wiha’s product images and list of replacement items provide more details about the tools included with this kit:
- (8) Pliers
- V-jaw tongue and groove
- Pliers Wrench
- Combination Pliers
- BiCut Diagonal Citters
- Combination Wire Strippers/Crimpers
- Diagonal Cutters with Spring Return
- Long Nose Pliers
- Lineman’s Pliers
- (8) Screwdrivers
- CentroFix Bit Holder
- 2pc SoftFinish heavy duty slotted and Phillips screwdriver set
- 5pc SoftFinish slotted and Phillips screwdriver set
- (35) L-Keys
- 22pc Ball end Inch/Metric Set
- 13pc Torx Set
- (4) General Purpose Tools
- Magnetic Torpedo Level
- 25′ Tape Measure
- 20oz Claw Hammer
- Adjustable Wrench
- Non-Contact Voltage Tester
- 36pc Micro Bit Set
- 32pc Impact Bit Set with Bit Ratchet
- (12) Magnetic Nut Setter Sets
- 6pc Metric
- 6pc SAE
- 11-in-1 Multi-Bit Screwdriver
- (12) Combination Wrenches
- Metric: 8, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15 mm
- SAE: 5/16″, 3/8″, 7/16″, 9/16″, 1/2″, 5/8″
- (21) 3/8″ 12pt Sockets
- SAE: 1/4″, 5/16″, 3/8″, 7/16″, 1/2″, 9/16″, 5/8″, 3/4″, 13/16″, 7/8″
- Metric: 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 22 mm
- (20) 3/8″ 12pt Deep Sockets
- SAE: 1/4″, 5/16″, 3/8″, 7/16″, 1/2″, 9/16″, 5/8″, 3/4″, 13/16″, 7/8″
- Metric: 8, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 22 mm
- 3/8″ Ratchet
- (3) 3/8″ Extensions
There’s also the rolling tool box and foam trays.
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It does not come with Wiha’s fancy rolling tool box though; the set is bundled with a Max Cases MAX520TR, a seemingly Pelican-like case that looks to retail for under $200.
According to Wiha’s website, the list price is $1,666.64, and you “save $166.66” with their web price of $1,499.98.
Some retailers have it for less – Acme’s price is $1,249.98.
Discussion
The marketing language bugs me, from the newsletter announcement I received today, to the online description.
Here are excerpts from just the first paragraph of their description:
a comprehensive set of high-quality tools
an extensive array of 194 must-have pieces
the perfect companion for anyone in need of an outstanding set of tools
about everything necessary to get the job done
an extensive array of must-have tools
I feel that there’s a disconnect between what Wiha is saying about the tool kit, and what I’m seeing and feeling.
Here’s more from their product page:
This kit is designed to meet the demands of any job with its impressive features.
Meticulously crafted with a hand-picked fleet of tools, it won’t only make your work easier, it’ll allow you to do more – and go farther.
Isn’t every tool kit hand-picked by someone?!
Wiha’s 93pc XXL3 Pro tool set has a more traditional technician tool kit configuration, where you can set the rolling tool box on its side, open it up, and grab the tools you need from their organized pockets.
Wiha says this about their latest premium tool kit:
And for added convenience, each tray can be removed independently, granting you the flexibility to take only what you need or access all your tools at once. Boasting endless tools and solutions, this tool kit belongs in the field.
“This tool kit belongs in the field.”
Each tray can be removed independently.
Where do you put the 3 other trays that must be removed before you can access something from the bottom tray?
From product images and promo videos, the lid doesn’t hinge all the way back, so you’re going to have to place the foam trays somewhere else, such as on the ground, floor, or on top of equipment.
I’m not a fan of the marketing language and approach, the way the tools are stored in layers that must be individually removed for access, and then there’s the $1250 to $1500 price tag.
I tried to think of every type of professional user, tradesperson, or other such tool users that might need to take their tools on the go, and can’t think of anyone who would actually benefit from a kit like this.
Am I wrong?
DML
I’m a big fan of Wiha screwdrivers and bits, but their kits of this type are simply not well thought out.
William Adams
I would find removing and replacing trays a big annoyance — the 93 pc. kit shown seems a bit better in that regard.
I’d still like to see someone work up a nice system of drawers or something.
I have a similar case I’ve been meaning to repurpose as a toolbox, and one interesting thing is the tiny Mini Systainers seem to fit well in it (but of course, they’re just too small for all-too-many tools).
Mike McFalls
Drawer systems!!!!!
MM
Same. I like their screwdrivers a lot, but I don’t think their other tools are anything special, and the price of this set is just outrageous. I also think they layout is not very space efficient and the there appears to be no extra room in the toolbox. That’s a mistake, IMHO, as these kinds of tool kits are never a perfect match for anyone. There will always be some extra tools you need for your work which aren’t in the kit. Where do you put them in this case? The older 93pc XXL kit was also outrageously expensive, but at least it had extra room so you could customize the contents to suit your needs.
Sam
WAY OVERPRICED! I’ll stick with my craftsman set for $199.99.
Steve
I actually like the kit and it may be worth the price, but it’s too rich for my blood. Not sure how many they’ll sell at that kind of price…
Robert
Spot on, I’m a FSE and this looks inconvenient. I’d much prefer the 93 piece kit where all tools are accessible.
Billy
I’m an FSE as well and I feel as though I’m the intended target for this; but there’s not even enough room for meters. I don’t think anyone I know would buy this.
Joatman
Side note – this isn’t a bad deal for the oscillating tool…
https://www.cpooutlets.com/gwp-510476
Troy
I’m rying to figure out what tradesman they are setup for. Electrican? Plumber? Carpenter? Handyman? Mechanic? Homeowner/hobbyist? They are incomplete for each. The kits are most likely good quality but for well over a $1000 you could assemble your own and not have to deal with those trays for less.
Erick
I work industrial automation and It looks like they are marketing to me. Except for that hammer garbage . The only problem I see there is no weight noted. 50 lbs checks in at the airport with no problem. Ever been in the dilemma of donating a nice tool to the airport…..Sucks!
To.lm
Go to harbor freight and you can build this same kit for 90 bucks, 1500 for tools cut into foam thank you
Eric K.
Inevitably, there are specialty tools required for a job and this set doesn’t offer any extra space for those, nor supplies (like electrical tape, wire nuts, etc.). So right off the bat, you’ve got to have a second box/tote/bag. I’d rather have a larger box with some extra storage.
The other issue I have with sets like this – while Wiha is a great brand, we probably all have at least one tool that we value over theirs, like a specific hammer or wrench. Where does that go?
Leo B.
That’s a pretty garbage torpedo level to include in a kit this expensive. I don’t know why, but that jumped out at me. For someone on a corporate charge account that just needs a decent set for something, it’s better than the little homeowner kits. That’s where I think most of the buyers will be coming from.
ITCD
That’s the vibe I get too on who it’s meant for. Or for like a standard beginner MRO layout, a factory can just buy these kits for their techs and call it done.
Ted
The dollar store hammer did it for me. I agree though, the level looks trash too. This is a poorly thought out kit for sure, especially for the price.
_NAPA_Squad
You can the Armstrong Army/Marines GMTK for cheaper, more tools and in a Pelican 450 rolling case with room to spare.
Stuart
No you can’t.
Armstrong doesn’t exist anymore, so you can’t buy a new GMTK anymore.
The Pelican 0450 was updated in recent years and now costs more than $1000 by itself.
Scott K
I had never heard of this before, so I just googled it. Very cool set.
Kyle
The marketing speak was probably outsourced to an AI.
Wayne R.
The idea that a kit is so perfect that no one will ever need to add anything more is what kills it.
It’s an absurd premise.
bg100
I like these kits for their all in one portability, but they are not essential, nor are they complete. I have the DeWalt Tough System case with mechanic’s tools, and the first thing I did was add a top tray with all the extras it needed. I keep it racked in my tool trailer for occasional use. It’s nice to have these tools on hand, but it it quite unhandy accessing a tool on the bottom insert, because there’s nowhere to put the upper trays. Good for emergencies, not essential.
Grokew
If they included a utility knife, tweezers, spudgers, and a hacksaw, their marketing claims would be alright.
rvdbos
$1,666.64???
What are they smoking?
I could buy half of Harbor freight store with that budget and their tools are quite decent – use them every day!
And such a bad choice of 666 digits – their marketing department should be fired.
Eddie the Hook
😺
Nathan
Looks a lot like an aog go kit for an aircraft line mechanic. Aircraft on ground. If in a place without your own mx crew typically will send 1 or 2 people out to the plane with tools and maybe parts depending on what’s wrong. Like say a defunct starter or pneumatic valve etc. Nothing big like an engine change
Snap on, stahlewhile, Mac and make kits like this and since about 2001 you see a lot of 2 color foam. I don’t know if that’s the target for this but it sure seems like it. Might need more wrenches.
Billy
So is Wiha’s partnership with Veto over?
Also, I feel like there is a decline in Wiha’s quality ever since they ramped up their production in Vietnam. They can’t expect people to keep paying german made tool prices for products coming from SE Asia.
Yadda
Cool tool set. Unfortunately, I can’t justify it for any current or future needs.
dll932
I was given a Wiha 3/8′ socket set. Very nice except the ratchet handle direction switch won’t stay in position. I replaced it with a cheap Asian one that works just fine.
Stuart T
Seems to me that the demographic they’re targeting with this very expensive kit -presumably experienced professionals – would likely already have a lot of pro-quality tools and only need to augment them as needed.
And yes, what the devil (so to speak) is with all the 666’s?
JR Ramos
I’m not sure I can think of something/someone where this ready-made kit would be acceptable, either. My interest in Wiha’s offerings has always been pretty limited but I think everything I’ve ever gotten from them has been excellent or more than acceptable – in the last few years my interest in them has waned a bit and they are certainly not the same Wiha that they were for decades.
I saw in their email today that they are moving locations in the next few weeks…wonder if that’s upsizing or downsizing or Other.
Ron
I use Milwaukee M18 tools with a fully customizable rolling cart or “pack out”, $1666 would buy me my dream setup and more and I can get it at my local home depot as I go. Neat concept, way overpriced!
CMF
If you save 5%-10% buying this kit, it is not worth it. You get stuff you might not ever need and missing other items you really like. Plus as much as I like Wiha, I like many other brands; each has their “best” for me tool. I can’t see myself ever buying a kit with all these tools being one brand.
Unless the price were to be at least 25% or more, less than what all the items in this kit cost separately, then why bother?
Choose your own case and tools.
MM
Agreed. If I was tasked with putting together a high-end portable general service tool kit I would absolutely put Wiha screwdrivers in there…but the other tools like a hammer, torpedo level, pliers, ratchets & sockets? I am not going to choose Wiha for those items.
Ben
This is the most overpriced tool set I have ever seen…….. WOW!!
Jim
Any tool box set that doesn’t have extra room for your battery impact with the battery charger or has regular combination wrenches instead of ratcheting Gear wrench type won’t work for most tradesmen.
Where does your Fluke clamp-on or multimeter fit in the set? These are the most commonly used tools.