Wiha Launched a New Premium Tool Kit

Wiha announced the launch of a new 194pc premium tool kit in a rolling tool box, model 92100.

Wiha’s newsletter announcement describes the set in an unconventional way:

It’s here! It’s really here! For tool lovers who want premium quality at their finger tips, organized to perfection, and ready to roll, the new 194 Piece Premium Kit has you covered.

You’ll find that this rugged kit could easily become your go-to, your ride or die, your partner in crime. No matter where you take it, this robust waterproof case will take care of your tools and take a beating.

What does it come with? Here’s the start of Wiha’s description for their new 194pc tool kit:

The Wiha 194 Piece Premium Tool Kit In Rolling Tool Box is designed to empower contractors and professionals with a comprehensive set of high-quality tools for all their needs. With an extensive array of 194 must-have pieces, Wiha’s Premium Tool Kit is the perfect companion for anyone in need of an outstanding set of tools. Packed inside is just about everything necessary to get the job done. This versatile toolkit is engineered to cover a wide range of tasks with precision and ease, ensuring that no project is too challenging. Incorporating the best of both functionality and organization, Wiha’s Premium Tool Kit not only equips you with an extensive array of must-have tools but also provides an exceptional storage solution.

It comes with:

• Screwdrivers
• Pliers
• Cutters
• Sockets
• Wrenches
• L-Keys
• Bits
• Level
• Tape Measure
• Hammer
• Voltage Detector

Wiha’s product images and list of replacement items provide more details about the tools included with this kit:

• (8) Pliers
  • V-jaw tongue and groove
  • Pliers Wrench
  • Combination Pliers
  • BiCut Diagonal Citters
  • Combination Wire Strippers/Crimpers
  • Diagonal Cutters with Spring Return
  • Long Nose Pliers
  • Lineman’s Pliers
• (8) Screwdrivers
  • CentroFix Bit Holder
  • 2pc SoftFinish heavy duty slotted and Phillips screwdriver set
  • 5pc SoftFinish slotted and Phillips screwdriver set
• (35) L-Keys
  • 22pc Ball end Inch/Metric Set
  • 13pc Torx Set
• (4) General Purpose Tools
  • Magnetic Torpedo Level
  • 25′ Tape Measure
  • 20oz Claw Hammer
  • Adjustable Wrench
• Non-Contact Voltage Tester
• 36pc Micro Bit Set
• 32pc Impact Bit Set with Bit Ratchet
• (12) Magnetic Nut Setter Sets
• 11-in-1 Multi-Bit Screwdriver
• (12) Combination Wrenches
  • Metric: 8, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15 mm
  • SAE: 5/16″, 3/8″, 7/16″, 9/16″, 1/2″, 5/8″
• (21) 3/8″ 12pt Sockets
  • SAE: 1/4″, 5/16″, 3/8″, 7/16″, 1/2″, 9/16″, 5/8″, 3/4″, 13/16″, 7/8″
  • Metric: 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 22 mm
• (20) 3/8″ 12pt Deep Sockets
  • SAE: 1/4″, 5/16″, 3/8″, 7/16″, 1/2″, 9/16″, 5/8″, 3/4″, 13/16″, 7/8″
  • Metric: 8, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 22 mm
• 3/8″ Ratchet
• (3) 3/8″ Extensions

There’s also the rolling tool box and foam trays.

It does not come with Wiha’s fancy rolling tool box though; the set is bundled with a Max Cases MAX520TR, a seemingly Pelican-like case that looks to retail for under $200.

According to Wiha’s website, the list price is $1,666.64, and you “save $166.66” with their web price of $1,499.98.

Some retailers have it for less – Acme’s price is $1,249.98.

Discussion

The marketing language bugs me, from the newsletter announcement I received today, to the online description.

Here are excerpts from just the first paragraph of their description:

a comprehensive set of high-quality tools

an extensive array of 194 must-have pieces

the perfect companion for anyone in need of an outstanding set of tools

about everything necessary to get the job done

an extensive array of must-have tools

I feel that there’s a disconnect between what Wiha is saying about the tool kit, and what I’m seeing and feeling.

Here’s more from their product page:

This kit is designed to meet the demands of any job with its impressive features.

Meticulously crafted with a hand-picked fleet of tools, it won’t only make your work easier, it’ll allow you to do more – and go farther.

Isn’t every tool kit hand-picked by someone?!

Wiha’s 93pc XXL3 Pro tool set has a more traditional technician tool kit configuration, where you can set the rolling tool box on its side, open it up, and grab the tools you need from their organized pockets.

Wiha says this about their latest premium tool kit:

And for added convenience, each tray can be removed independently, granting you the flexibility to take only what you need or access all your tools at once. Boasting endless tools and solutions, this tool kit belongs in the field.

“This tool kit belongs in the field.”

Each tray can be removed independently.

Where do you put the 3 other trays that must be removed before you can access something from the bottom tray?

From product images and promo videos, the lid doesn’t hinge all the way back, so you’re going to have to place the foam trays somewhere else, such as on the ground, floor, or on top of equipment.

I’m not a fan of the marketing language and approach, the way the tools are stored in layers that must be individually removed for access, and then there’s the $1250 to $1500 price tag.

I tried to think of every type of professional user, tradesperson, or other such tool users that might need to take their tools on the go, and can’t think of anyone who would actually benefit from a kit like this.

Am I wrong?