Initial Review: Chapman MFG - Master Kit 5575

Manufacturer: Chapman MFG

Model: Master Kit 5575

Background and Description: This is the initial review and impression for the Chapman Manufacturing Master Kit model 5575.

From the manufacturer: Versatile and durable compact screwdriver set with 4 tools, 51 interchangeable screwdriver bits which offers 300 plus tool combos.

Quality USA made and assembled from USA sourced materials, precision milled from USA steel, ¼ inch hex drive, non magnetic, ball detent holds bit in place, heat treated with black oxide rust inhibitor finish
5575 has 12 slotted bits of different thicknesses and widths, designed to break before damaging screw, cam-out and screw damage reduced, contact to the full sides and depth of slotted screw, slotted bits are hollow ground not tapered
Unsurpassed versatility - all tools and bits are totally interchangeable ¼ inch drive, 2 extensions that are 2 inches and 3 5/8 inches, can use extensions independently, spinner is great for tight spaces and delicate screws
Famous midget ratchet, 4.75 inch long stainless steel, 200 inch. Lbs of torque rated, 20 tooth gear and 18 degree working arc

Regular handle with two extensions and a Philips bit.

Initial Impressions: The master kit seems exceptionally well made and the fit and finish on all parts down to the case are very well done. I do not see anywhere that would leave me to believe that Chapman cut corners or opted to save money by lowering quality.

I have not been able to use the kit extensively yet, but the few times I have used the kit it is very versatile and had the exact bit I needed. One of the main features that drew me to this kit was the fact you can arrange the driver in multiple different orientations.

It comes with a normal drive handle with two different extension lengths. It also has a small hand turn bit driver as well as their unique ratcheting bit driver. All the pieces can be put together to make multiple different configurations which can be very handy at times to help get additional torque on a stubborn screw or to fit into weird places.

The bits themselves come in individual carriers which can be easily taken out in rows for easier use when you don’t need the entire kit. The bits fit nicely into their rows and the rows themselves are precision fit. Something you don’t see very often when dealing with plastic parts.

The manufacturer states the bits are heat treated tool steel and oxidized black to prevent corrosion. When the kit arrived I did not see any rust anywhere and the tools aren’t coated with the normal oil you get on cheaper toolkits. The manufacturer also discusses how each bit is precision milled to fill the entire slot with minimal play. This is something popular with gunsmiths to prevent damage to screws and something I appreciate. You don’t really notice how good this is until you put in a bit into a screw which fits perfect.

The kit costs between $100-110 depending on where you buy it. It’s available for $109.00 with prime shipping from Amazon (https://amzn.to/2TH3P1Q). This seems like a high price when compared to imported, mass produced gear from China or elsewhere, but when compared to some of the nicer German brands such as Wiha or Wera it is very reasonably priced. Plus it is made in the USA which, to me, adds to the value.

When Doing my research the only negative feedback I could find is that some of the bits are prone to breaking. I haven’t experienced this, but I will comment that the kit comes with a card which clearly states the torque ratings for its bits. This leads me to believe that those who have had broken bits were probably using the bits above their stated capacity. This extra feature is also very handy since gun smithing normally requires screws to be torqued to a specific capacity. It also shows the manufacturer cares about the product it is producing.

Pros:

Exceptionally well made down to the kit’s storage box
Great flexibility for use in multiple driving situations
Bits are precision made to fit snugly into fastener
Bits come with calibration card for recommended torque usage and bit break limits
USA made (this is subjective, but I think it is a pro)

Cons:

Expensive when compared to cheap kits

Video review and discussion: https://youtu.be/032joZzGdhY