Re: Which torque wrench is better? Borka or FAT
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: pmclaine</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Broker</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> I've used the 65lb side on my base and it's not as hard on the fingers as you would think given one uses it properly. If you find it hard to use then you might consider hitting the gym once a year
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At the high settings using a Torx or Allen drivers it would be easy because you get great purchase.
The action screws on a 1903 are 1940's technology standard slotted screws with very little meat to bite the screwdriver blade in. The one handed, palm down, thumb pressure technique almost ensures a Borka flying across the bench and a nice scratch in antique walnut when trying to hit 60 inch pounds. Doesnt matter how strong you are. Same thing happens when trying to use a Snap-On wratchet click type driver. For something like my purposes the preset Seekonk, allowing straight down pressure, would be ideal. </div></div>
I agree that using my torque driver with <span style="text-decoration: underline">slotted bit </span>at ranges above 50-55 inch-lbs. is not easy, due to "asymmetrical" tool ergonomics. Hex or torx sockets in head screws do keep torque driver in place allright, but relatively wide and shallow slot in old style screw heads is a challenge. Seekonk T-handle is certainly more comfortable to use in such situations, including application of torque close to 65 inch-lbs. But Seekonk is relatively expensive and requires (or at least, advises) calibration after 5,000 cycles. On the opposite side, much cheaper alternatives to Seekonk T-handle, which can be bought for $20-25 from various places, but all made at the same factory in China and branded by California Torque Products to everybody interested, are nowhere as good in comparison with Seekonk.
Anyway, after checking around and giving some deep thought to this situation, I've found a real high quality, industrial grade design of the torque "limiter", compact and light weight, and, which is very important, exceptionally accurate (+/- 2% or better) and also, highly durable, up to 30,000 cycles before calibration may be considered. This device was tested by Mountz, Inc, one of the leading torque tools makers in the U.S.A., and received very positive evaluation.
So, I've had a certain quantity of 65 inch-lbs. torque limiters made for firearms applications. Every torque limiter has stamped serial number and individual certificate of calibration matching this serial number, confirming that calibration was done according to the industry procedures and standards.
I believe this torque limiter will be a useful addition to Borka Tools product line and is intended for precision shooters and gunsmiths who prefer Seekonk T-handle style tools or already have something like FAT, but need to reliably do 65 inch-lbs. w/o guessing...
I plan to offer GB arrangement for SH members, to introduce this torque limiter, model # PTL-065-IP, (<span style="font-weight: bold">P</span>recision <span style="font-weight: bold">T</span>orque <span style="font-weight: bold">L</span>imiter, 65 inch-lbs.) to the market. It will come as a small complete kit, with the ratchet driver and three bits: 3/16", 5/32" and T-30, typically needed for action screws, and 1/2" hex socket. It was proven, by extensive testing, to be very comfortable to use and due to its very high accuracy/repeatability, can be even used as a reference for checking out 65 inch-lbs. torque settings of other torque tools, although it is not techically a torque measuring device. PTL-065-IP will be priced competatively and will carry 5 year warranty. GB will likely be initiated in October.
Sorry for slightly deviating from the subject of this thread, but I do agree with observations made by Pmclaine in regard to slotted action screws at high torque settings and wanted to inform about new development from Borka Tools, which should make it much easier to apply higher torque values in some special situations, including use of slotted bits.
Boris