The time has come for me to replace some of my tools, the hex ends are rounded and not biting into the screws properly. I find myself thinking I have been stripping a lot of screw heads, when in reality it is my tools causing the problems. I like to use a cordless screwdriver and it has been acting up as well, so I went shopping.
The first thing I purchased was the ProTek R/C “TruTorque” Metric Power Tool Tip Set from Amainhobbies. I like these for a few reasons, they are standard 1/4″ drive, they have a good length at 85mm and I am happy with the price. At this point I am very happy with the purchase, the hexes do a great job, they have absolutely no problem biting into the screws. This is my first time using ProTek tools and at the point my only question is how long will they last? My last hex set, the Turnigy Hex Driver Set which I purchased from HobbyKing lasted me a little over a year and I have no complaints, especially for the price, but the time was right for a change.
Next on my shopping list was a cordless screwdriver and I selected the Ryobi 4V Lithium Mini-Driver. I went with this one for variety of reasons, I like the removable/replaceable battery, it has a ¼ Inch Hex quick connect chuck, it has forward/reverse, two speed settings and 24 Torque settings. I found the price reasonable after comparing this product to similar products on other websites.
The torque settings are very important when using something like this on an RC because it is very easy to strip the plastic if you use too much torque. I have been using the Ryobi for about a week and the torque settings are amazing when using it for RC, I usually run it around 3 or 4 and when the torque lock activates, I finish tightening the screw by hand with a small 1/4 turn. I also used it to take apart an old lawnmower and with the torque turned up, I had no issues at all. Although it is nothing fancy, the pouch is handy for keeping it all together. The separate battery and charger just ad to the convenience, I will purchase an extra battery and always be ready to go. This is an impressive tool that will make my like easier.
Replacement batteries can be found on ebay under Part #AP4001.
More details can be found at Ryobitools.com