Wera Kraftform Kompakt 27: Pro-Grade Ratchet & Bit Set Review

By: Brian Thompson

3 Minute read

Category: diy

Wera Kraftform Kompakt 27 RA 2 SB - A Pro's Take

As someone who lives and breathes DIY and professional tool use, I'm always on the lookout for quality, efficiency, and ergonomics. The Wera Kraftform Kompakt 27 RA 2 SB 6-piece bit set immediately caught my eye, and after putting it through its paces, here's my detailed assessment.

What You Get:

This kit centers around a 1/4" drive ratchet with a compact head, accompanied by six of Wera’s highly-regarded bits: a Phillips #2, a slotted 5.5mm, a Torx T20, a Torx T25, a Hex 3mm, and a Hex 4mm. It comes neatly packaged in a robust plastic case, ideal for toolboxes or on-the-go use.

Specifications & Build Quality:

Ratchet: The ratchet itself boasts a slim profile (27mm head height) which is crucial for accessing tight spaces. The 80 teeth provide a very low swing angle of just 4.5 degrees – meaning faster work with less effort. The fine-tooth mechanism feels incredibly smooth and positive, with no noticeable backlash. The handle is Wera’s Kraftform Kompakt design, featuring hard and soft zones for comfortable grip and high torque transfer.
Bits: Wera bits are renowned for their durability, and these are no exception. They’re made from hardened chrome-molybdenum steel, and feature the Wera “Take it easy” tool finder – a color-coding system that quickly identifies the bit type. The tips are precision-machined for an excellent fit, minimizing cam-out and bit wear.
Drive: 1/4" drive is a versatile size, suitable for a wide range of applications, from electronics repair to general assembly.
Case: The case is well-constructed and keeps everything organized. It's not overly bulky, which is a plus.

Performance & Ergonomics:

This kit excels in tight spaces. The compact ratchet head is a game-changer when working on machinery, automotive repairs, or anything where access is limited. The 80 teeth make quick work of fasteners, and the smooth action feels premium.

The Kraftform Kompakt handle is exceptionally comfortable. The hard zones provide excellent torque transfer, while the soft zones offer a secure and comfortable grip, even with sweaty hands. I’ve used ratchets that fatigue your hand quickly, but this one feels balanced and ergonomic even during extended use.

The bits themselves are top-notch. I deliberately pushed them hard, and they showed minimal signs of wear. The “Take it easy” system is genuinely useful for quickly identifying the correct bit, saving time and frustration. I experienced very little cam-out, even with worn fasteners.

Pros:

Compact Ratchet Head: Excellent for tight spaces.
High Tooth Count: Fast and efficient operation.
Ergonomic Handle: Comfortable and provides excellent torque transfer.
Durable Bits: Wera quality ensures longevity.
“Take it easy” Tool Finder: Speeds up bit selection.
Well-Built Case: Keeps everything organized and protected.

Cons:

Limited Bit Selection: Six bits are a good starting point, but you’ll likely need to expand the set with additional bits for more comprehensive tasks.
Price: Wera tools are premium, and this kit reflects that. It's more expensive than many other 1/4" drive sets.

Overall:

The Wera Kraftform Kompakt 27 RA 2 SB is a fantastic 1/4" drive bit set, particularly for professionals or serious DIYers who value quality, ergonomics, and efficiency. While the price is higher than some alternatives, the build quality, performance, and comfort justify the investment. The compact ratchet head is a standout feature, and the Wera bits are simply superb. If you're looking for a reliable and high-performing set that will last for years, this is an excellent choice. I highly recommend it.