Park Tool Socket & Bit Set

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As a self-titled home mechanic who works on my own as well as all of my friend’s bikes, I felt it was time to start building a medium size tool kit. I picked the Park Tool SBS-1 Socket and Bit set up when I decided it was time to invest in torque wrenches and felt it would go nicely with the TW-5 and TW-6. After a solid year and a half of use, here are my impressions:

Out of the box:

Park Tool did an amazing job on the appearance and finish of the SBS-1. They opted to make each piece out of chrome vanadium steel which offers a high quality finish and an insane amount of strength. Even the plastic holder it same with is very well made. Even after being mounted vertically to my work bench and after plenty of banging and tugging on the bench itself, the holder hugs and keeps each piece tightly secure. Suppose there is a specific socket or bit you are used to that doesn’t come with this kit, the plastic holder comes with 2 additional spots where you can keep them nearby for quick accessibility.

Features:

• 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 and 10mm hex bits
• T25, T30 and T40 Torx® style bits
• 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15mm and 1" sockets
• Convenient bit and socket holder
• All sockets and bits are 3/8" drive

As you read through the list of features, its apparent that Park Tool did their homework on what mechanics use most often and were sure to include all the pieces used in a typical repair. Each piece has an easy to read stamped size for each socket which is very nice when everything gets plastered with thick, dirty muck which always tends to happen to me.

As for durability, I have been very pleased. None of the sockets have shown any major signs of wear that would indicate anything malfunctioning. In addition to this, I haven’t even come remotely close to stripping out a nut or bolt while using these which testifies of the tolerance Park Tool uses while manufacturing the SBS-1. And, heaven forbid, a piece was to break, the SBS-1 is covered under their lifetime warranty policy. Just shoot them a warranty request and they’ll take care of you.

Bottom Line:

Park Tool has a history of making some of the best cycling tools on the planet. The SBS-1 is no exception. It has a very high quality finish and amazing durability. After a year and a half of regular use, the bits have shown little to no wear. Priced at around $35, it isn’t the cheapest option but you’ll be happy you went with them in the long run. 5 stars for performance, 5 stars for design. Average rating: 5 Stars.