Slim Hex Bit Holder (1/4 inch, 4 mm, REV2)

Securely hold bits with a slim, customizable design. Revision 2 with a few improvements.
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updated November 23, 2024

Description

PDF

My design uses a short, flexible hinge to clamp hex bits into place.  Springy filaments give the best results, so regular PLA may be challenging to work with.  Modified PLA filaments (like PLA Pro from Polymaker) with more flex may work better, but I have had the best success with PETG and ABS.  You can find ready-to-print stl files for two sizes of bits.

  • ΒΌ inch (6.35 mm) - the most common, everyday size
  • 4 mm - used with precision screwdrivers like iFixit

Revision 2

I improved the parametric model for Fusion360.  You should not have to rerun any operations in the timeline!  I also added models for 4 mm hex bits.  

Adjusting the Fit

You can fine tune the fit by scaling X and Y in your slicer.  Make a test print and lookup the scale factor in the tables below.  You can make a tall bit holder by scaling Z.

1/4 inch Standard Hex Bits
Which test size ? XY scale (%)
-0.1597.66
-0.1098.44
-0.0599.22
+0.05100.78
+0.10101.56
+0.15102.34
4 mm Precision Bits
Which test size ?XY scale (%)
-0.1596.41
-0.1097.59
-0.0598.80
+0.05101.20
+0.10102.41
+0.15103.59

3D Model

You can also design a completely custom bit holder with the parametric f360 file.

 Parameter
Wall thicknesswall
Hex diameter measured from parallel sides  d
Height of hex clampbit_height 
Length of flexible hingehinge
Number of bit holdersnum

Thanks for visiting, and enjoy!

Major update: Published revision 2 with improved CAD.  Added 4 mm bit holders.  

Minor update: Updated the precision test print with better labels.  

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Model origin

The author marked this model as their own original creation.

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