High-quality, reliable tools elevate work, improve efficiency and increase safety, despite the tired adage of the craftsman and their tools. Founded in 1958, Eight Tool is a specialized manufacturer of hand tools, and President Yashiro Oka says the company's expertise is unmatched, with approximately 10% of its orders being custom orders. “We prioritize incorporating end-user opinions into our production, ensuring that our products truly meet their needs,” he says.

Eight Tool has recently launched its EX/IMPACT series after extensive R&D, leveraging a special alloy steel that improves durability and wear resistance. Oka says the company has received many inquiries for bit tools with higher torque performance and greater longevity. He explains, “Customers specifically requested solutions addressing these needs, which led our R&D department to dedicate significant time and effort to developing this product.”

For Eight Tool’s hex keys and related products, it uses SNCM+V, which is specially developed and co-created with a domestic steel manufacturer. “This material realizes the ideal balance of hardness and torsional strength that is required for hex keys and hand tools,” he says. Tools used with impact and power, or air tools, require different quality materials. Thus, after years of research, the company developed its Impact- Guard-Alloy, which achieves exceptional durability against impact and high torque. The company has extensive trial and error to find the ideal temperature for heat treatment to achieve the best performance. “Although hex keys and driver bits may seem to be similar products within the large “tool” category, we consider that the materials and engineering behind them should be entirely different, reflecting the distinct demands of each tool,” he says.

Looking ahead, Oka says the company is looking for opportunities in the international market. “Our goal is to expand further wherever there is demand—whether in Europe, Africa, or other regions,” he explains.