Tools for Thought 1 - Universal Joints and Swivel Sockets

Looking for a universal joint design that's maintenance-free, flop-free, user-friendly, durable, and compact? Take a look at what these two Japanese tool manufacturers, KTC/Nepros and Ko-ken/Zeal, have to offer with their patented designs. Once you use these types, your standard universal joint may never see the light of day.

For the Nepros universal joints, you can order straight from the company, via their Nepros online store: (link is to their 3/8 drive universal joint): http://www.nepros.net/?cat=2&grp=9&su...

[Update: 2020]

If you're located in the US and looking for Ko-ken stuff, I would recommend browsing Ko-ken USA's authorized distributors: http://www.kokenusa.com/retailers


I have no direct experience, but Palmac appears to be popular: https://palmac.net/shop-by-brand/koke...

Part # for 1/4 drive: 2771z (Z-series) or 2771 for Ko-ken standard line
Part # for 3/8 drive: 3771z (Z-series) or 3771 for Ko-ken standard line
Part # for 1/2 drive: 4771z (Z-series) or 4771 for Ko-ken standard line

You can also inquire with Frank from Frankstools. He's probably the first US webstore selling a variety of Japanese hand tools. Link to Ko-ken Zeal's 3/8 drive universal: http://www.frankstools.com/koze3unjo3...


#swivelsockets #nepros #koken