Spanner bit size for Hinderer XM-18?

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Dec 16, 2009
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Does anyone know what size of a spanner bit I would need to adjust a Gen 2or 3 Hinderer XM-18? Wiha sells them in sizes 4, 6, 8, & 10. I know that Hinderer makes an adjustment tool, but these bits (if they will work) are far cheaper. Thank you.
 
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I'll look when I get home in the A.M. (currently at work). If I forget and nobody answers you just post a vistor message on my profile.
 
So this thread's a bit (haha no pun intended) old hehe but I was trying to find a spanner bit for the XM's too. I have 3.5" XM-18's (4th gen), and I think the above posts were talking about the 3", because the #10 size is a bit too small.

For Wiha, they have bits here http://www.wihatools.com/700seri/719span.htm but they stop at size #10. For the 3.5" like mine, you'll need a size #12 or #14 from somewhere else, I got the Irwin brand which seems to be at most places. #12 barely fits width-wise and fits fine thickness-wise. #14 is wider but is too thick so you'll need to file it down a tad with some sandpaper or a file, then it fits fine and is the preferred size. Up to you if you want to file it down or just go with the #12.

Wiha also has these http://www.wihatools.com/300seri/305serie.htm but they're long and aren't as easy to work with when you're trying to turn both sides of the XM at once. If you go this route, get size M4, it's basically in between the #12 and #14 and fits without needing to be filed. I haven't tried the M5 but the measurements make it sound like it'll be too big to fit both in thickness and width.

Hope that helps anyone else who gets to this page. There's always the Hinderer Armorer's tool http://www.rickhindererknives.com/rick-hinderer-store/gear/knife-tools.html ($75+) or the PSD tool [Nonsupporting dealer link removed] ($) if you're willing to part with the cash. I assume there must be some other type of spanner tool I'm not aware of? But the bits work for me so I'll stick with that. Some people said they just bend a fork to fit it? Heh, whatever works. Oh and sorry if I'm violating a forum rule with all the links, I'm not trying to recommend sales from a specific store, just giving advice.
 
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Versions 1, 2 and 3 of my wrench fit Strider and Hinderer. I no longer make them so you would have to find one used. My newest monkey wrench only has the Strider end, the end that used to be a Hinderer spanner is now a ¼" hex hole with a magnet in the bottom for holding screwdriver bits.
 
Hello Guys,

I have located a source for Spanner Bits ¼" shank in size 14. I believe it will fit the spanner nut on the Hinderer since a #10 is too small, I'm not 100% sure though. I found them through Fastenal. They list them in packs of five, but they seem to be able to break a pack and sell them individually.
Here is a link to their catalog page for the bits.

https://www.fastenal.com/products?term=Steel+Rock+River®+Hex+Spanner+Insert+Bit&searchMode=

I hope this helps you guys out.
 
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So #14 fits?? I refuse to buy the tool...just bought one for $3 on the Bay. Will lyk if it works and if I had to modify it.
 
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I got the #14 spanner, but the thickness of the spanner end is a tad too thick. It would need to be precisely ground to fit into the nuts slots. I will let yo all know once I grind the thickness down to spec.
 
I got the #14 spanner, but the thickness of the spanner end is a tad too thick. It would need to be precisely ground to fit into the nuts slots. I will let yo all know once I grind the thickness down to spec.

Please do! Mine will arrive in a few days, would love that info...thanks!


Harry
 
I will let you all know how it goes. With that said I'm leaving for vacation tomorrow so it will be some time before I work on the grind.
 
Here is the result of my modification of my #14 spanner bit. I just used a small flat mill file and very lightly filed one side of the bit across the two points to remove a very small bit of thickness.. You can see in the pictures how it looks. I hope this helps you out.

IMG_3243.jpg
IMG_3240.jpg
IMG_3242.jpg
 
My bit should arrive tomorrow....this is great as I now know exactly what the modification should look like. Thanks!!
 
#14 is a winner!!! A few quick strokes with a file to make the tips a bit thinner....covered in a piece of masking tape, works like a charm. 1/8" turn and the blade play in my ZT 0392 WC is COMPLETELY gone!! I'm one heck of a happy camper! Thanks again, barefoot!!!


Harry
 
Yeah.....wasn't going to drop $150 for a titanium tool. I paid $3 for the bit. I got it off eBay 2 weeks ago.....I sent a message to the seller to find out where it was....he said it got lost in the mail and refunded my $3. However....it showed up this morning. So technically, didn't cost me a dime! 👍


Harry
 
Nah, no spare. I was about to order another one but it just arrived in the mail this morning. It really is silly for Hinderer to charge so much for a tool to correct the mistake of not tightening the pivot enough from the factory. It's now perfect...ZERO play in the blade...


Harry
 
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