Notice that lots of projects are starting to use more metric hardware? Even in the USA (one of the staunch metric hold-outs), projects like Makerbot are using metric hardware in their designs. Look, we’re not here to debate which is the better engineering unit (cough thousandth cough), but to show off a new tool!

We’re carrying the open-source kickstarted “OpenBeam” construction rails, and this is one of their tool accessories. This 5.5mm hex nut driver features a KraftForm handle for improved ergonomics.  Ever use a nut driver? WOW, it really speeds up construction over the use of a open-end wrench! It’s like a compact, tiny socket head permanently mounted on a screwdriver hand, but since the nutdriver shaft nutdriver is hollow, it can drive nuts down onto a stud up to 120mm long!

The 5.5mm size hex nut is a German DIN standard; however, most metric sized wrench sets do not contain a 5.5mm socket.  If you are going to be doing a lot of work on the shaft clamps or motor mount brackets, it’d be a good idea to pick this up. OR, you can use a 7/32″ wrench, which will fit on a bit sloppy, but do the job. But it’s still best to use the proper tool for the proper part!