Wheeler Engineering FAT (Firearm Accurizing Torque) Torque Wrench Screwdriver

Don't know how I lived without this tool for so long. Have had it for a while and a forum posting finally made me put this review up. Works as described and constructed better than I thought it would be for the price. This is one of those items where I can say "ya can't put a price on it", it's that valuable if you want precise torquing of your rifle stock and scopes to make sure everything is consistent every time you shoot/hunt! Don't hesitate to buy this.

I had hesitated to order this based on some of the earlier reviews, but the great price finally persuaded me to try it. This is a SUPER value. Perhaps not what a machinist would desire, but this DOES THE JOB for firearms type uses. Mine has no issues with adapter being loose, there's now a detent ball to hold it on. Tips are magnetized on mine. Works exactly as advertised, if you READ the instructions. Ignore the earlier reviews, any problems that did exist have been fixed. If you want consistent accuracy and want to avoid damaging your scope rings and scope, you NEED this tool. Or you can spend 125.00 or more for a fancy torque screwdriver from a machinist's supply house. GET this while you can.

This tool is indispensable for the gun tinkerer and gunsmith. It takes all the guess work out of tightening various screws whether they are trigger guard, scope mounts, rings. Any gun screw has a torque measurement, which is very important for accuracy. This tool provides the necessary tork for such tasks. Don't guess about torque, measure it acurrately wth this tool. It works great.

Bought the FAT wrench about 1 month ago and have used it for a variety of gun related tasks. It is easy to adjust and I have not had the problems with the hex head falling off, so maybe this has been addressed. I am pleased with this product.

I don't know how I ever got by without it! I don't see how it could work any better - PERFECT! No more stripped screws for me.

I had enough of "guestimating" the torque on my guns' screws and after seeing the video on this sight I ordered the FAT. I don't know what others have complained about since the torque is adjustable between 10 and 60 inch pounds and the torque is proportional to the turns on the handle. Just because the gage says 30 in. lbs. doesn't mean that the setting between 20 and 30 doesn't mean 25 inch lbs. This is a good product and I would buy it again.

Even if you just mount your scope yourself, you should have this wrench. Using the wrench that comes with your rings and base is nothing but guesswork. Use this tool and know that the torque on the screws is correct. I wish I had gotten one of these years ago. I highly recommend this product.

Works as advertised and the price is right. So many things have to be torqued just right nowadays (at least that is what we are told so I drink the Kool-Aid) and this wrench is the perfect answer.

This is the best tool; I always had issues after pulling a gun apart for cleaning then it not shooting good again until it re-settled in the stock. Now I can put the gun together and consistently tighten the stock screws which have allowed my POI not to change much after disassembly/assembly of my rifles.

I was hesitant to purchase this due to the negative reviews, but I am glad I decided to go ahead and buy it. I wasn't interested in knowing the torque setting to exact half a pound, so the indicator didn't bother me in the least. For my level of gunsmithing and scope mounting, this has been a great tool! The adaptor is a bit loose fitting, but it is not that big of an issue, and when I called Wheeler they assured me that this is being fixed and that they will send me the revised part free of charge. Pretty good service in my mind!

It is diffifult to find a torque driver that works in inch/pounds for under $150. The solid little unit works like a charm, and seems to be built well enough to get years of use out of it.

This is a great tool. It does have a loose fitting adaptor, but the Wheeler folks told me that they would send me a new adaptor free of charge. Other than that it has performed perfectly for me.

Do not hesitate to buy this product. It works exactly like it says it does and it is built well. You can not find an easier way to consistently torque the screws on your firearms without spending at least $150 to $200. Thank you Wheeler.

I Have been using torque wrenches for many years but this product gives new meaning to the word "simple." It is also accurate and repeatable, which are the most important attributes. Would highly recommend to anyone.

Although the bits and the adapter often come off while trying to use the FAT Screwdriver, I think this is an absolutely WONDERFUL product! I've always had a tendency to overtighten screws because of my fear of having scopes (or other things) coming off at the absolutely worst time. (I once had a scope mount fail when trying to shoot a moose. It took me four shots to hit it at 50 yards. I didn't know why, but when I got home and tested the rifle at the range the shots went everywhere and the scope slipped forward and was hanging only by the front ring on the third shot!) The scale is a bit coarse, but torque screwdrivers are hard to find, and when you do they normally cost four or five times what the FAT Wrench costs! To fine-tune my FAT wrench settings I attach my FAT wrench to the long handled torque wrench from my socket set. It can be set quite finely, so if I need a specific setting with my FAT wrench, I adjust it to click over at the weight my long handled torque wrench clicks. The FAT wrench works a whole bunch better at tightening screws than my standard long arm torque wrench.

I was kind of hesitant to order one due to all these negative comments, but there were no other tools having the same 10-65 in/lb range for any price. I figured I would give it a try and could always return it if it turned out to be a junk. It actually turned out to be a good (enough) tool. Mine came with a magnetic bit adapter. It holds the bit tight enough, fixing the bug previous buyers complained about. It may not qualify as a "precision instrument" but that is all I need to work on firearms. It beats guessing or by feel. Anything more precise would cost 4 or 5 time more with half the range. Of course you can spend $500 to get two high-end torque screwdrivers, but I don't see why you need something like that to work on firearms.

Great product for the money. Works as advertised. I wish they would include a case for holding bits. Otherwise, exactly what I wanted.

I think Wheeler has fixed the problems written here. The one I got has worked great. It covers all the torque specs on my Remington M700 5-R with HS Precision stock, not to mention everything else in the safe. I recommend it highly, it stays in my ammo can tool box, and goes to the range whenever I do. It will save money and time, and stripped out screws. Give it a try, I don't think you will be disappointed.

After breaking a scope mount screw (which cost $50 to have removed) I purchased the FAT torque Wrench Screwdriver. This is a great, relatively cheap, tool that takes the guesswork out of do-it-yourself gunsmithing.

This is a must have for mounting scope rings and bases. Used this along with the Level Level Level and it made quick work of mounting my Nikon scope to a Marlin bolt action. No guess work on how many ft. lbs. of torque to apply. Most sizes to fit screws come with it. Great tool.

There are plenty of negative reviews on this product. Yes, the first link is slightly wobbly; however, mine has never fallen apart. One disturbing consistency in these reviews is complaints about the 10 in-lb increments. It is clearly adjustable in 5 in-lb increments, as advertised. I can't help but say READ THE INSTRUCTION MANUAL and maybe you will find out that it is fairly intuitive. It DOES go to 65 in-lb as well. If you bought this product for finer adjustments (required for Anschutz) you failed to read even the advertised specs, and shouldn't bash the product because of your own ignorance.There is also a complaint about the adjustment knob at the base of the handle. Personally, I have never seen an adjustable torque wrench configured differently. This is NOT an issue because it locks in place if it's not pulled outward, and it cannot be turned accidentally. All I am saying is: some are quite nit-picky about such an inexpensive product that delivers what it promises. Don't expect a Snap-On tool for this price. Props to Wheeler for finally pioneering a universal, adjustable, and affordable torque wrench. Though, I don't have a way to test the accuracy, it is probably better than guess-work.

I am a Retired Mechanical Engineer and I remove the actions from my rifles for cleaning. I like to replace the actions and use the same torque each time! Different torque will affect the bullet's point of impact. I also hand load my ammunition and work on sub minute of angle groups. There, consistency is important to me! I just wish I had known about it earlier!

This torque screwdriver works perfectly and as advertised. I have no problems with bits or the holder falling off. Maybe the magnetic bit holder is new as everything seems to work perfectly. In my opinion, this is an excellent product.

I always thought I could tighten th screws without overtightening, but after using this tool, I found out I was putting more torque than needed.This tool is great and I use it for all the screws now on my firearms to be sure I don't overtighten anymore. The price is great for this tool!!!!

Recently purchased and used this tool. Really nice for getting those scope mount screws tightened just right. I am one of those people who has a tendency to over tighten screws. So this tool eliminates that problem. No issues with this tool at all. Definately worth buying !

Excellent tool. Should be in everyone's toolbox. No more under or over tightening of screws.

One of the best tools I have used!! I work a lot with guns and optical mounts and this is a real gem! Easy to use , precise and good quality look. This is a must if you do these kind of work often.

This tool deserves more than 5 stars and don't listen to the old reviews since those problems no doubt have been taken care of. this is a prime tool for your toolbox and to be without it is a shame. No more guess work no more over tightening rings and no more stripped or twisted screws. It's easy to use and well worth the price.

Works very well. I went through and re-torqued all my scope and action screws. I was probably over-torquing some screws and under-torquing others before I purchased this tool. Appears to be well designed and constructed and is simple to use. Excellent value.

After seeing the more recent reviews lean toward the apparent resolution of the issues with the earlier versions of this product, I decided to take a chance. Based on limited use, including re-adjusting three optic mounts, I can say that I am happy with the apparent quality, ease of use, and feel of this tool. I would absolutely buy this again.

This is a quality made tool. It takes the guess work out of tightening the various screws associated with simple accurizing/tuning techniques, thorough cleaning, and scope mounting. Good for the average guy, trying to learn how to do things for himself (like me).

Great product! How does it work? No instructions. Should have an operation manual. HELP!!!

I have been waiting for this to come in. Today it did. After reading the simple operating instructions, I put it together and pulled out a gun I have been waiting to torque the scope on. I see no problems with this unit. The magnetic head holds the bit firmly without any movement. The spring ball held the adapter on perfectly. If there were problems in the past, it seems Wheeler has been listening and fixed them. One small gripe. It would be nice to have a molded holder for the wrench and bits.

Nice and unique tool. Works well, the only problem is the square drive adapter does not lock onto the tool. The square drive on tool has spring loaded ball like a typical ratchet wrench but the adapter which holds the bits does not have a matching recess or detent so the adapter has a tendency to come off the handle.

Just received this item and I like it. Operation is simple and effective; nice compact design. No problem with adapter falling off the drive. Good product at the right price.

Good product, works great. The scale is a little unclear on how to read. I feel that the suggested torque settings might be a little high. I do need to use some more to give a more accurate evaluation, however I do feel it is worth having for the home gunsmith.

Seems to work great, especially when you have the large Wheeler screwdriver bit set to share with it. I have not broken a screw with it and all fasteners have stayed tight through use. The only complaint is that the torque scale is not fine tuned, but it is good enough to get you very close. I love this tool.

I read the reviews on this product and almost didn't order it. You can't get a torque screwdriver 10-60 inch pounds for this amount. Professional torque screwdrivers are about $150. The 10 - 60 range covers rings up to stock screws. Yes the adapter falls off but not because the screwdriver is bad. The adapter needs a depression cut into it like most sockets do for the ball on the ratchet. Midway should do this. I did it myself with my dremel and now it doesn't fall off. End of story!!

A great tool for getting all the same torque on a rifle or handgun screws. You do have to guess at settings between the displayed numbers. And the thick gauge that shows the set torque is not explained in the instructions as to use the top or the bottom of the marker for the proper setting. This why I gave it one less star. Despite the drawbacks, it is definitely a great tool to have if accuracy is what you strive for. It also is easily used with the Wheeler 89 piece driver set.

Happy with the product. Works great. Read the instructions.

Very nice to have around, saves time and money going to the gunsmith to have my firearms checked. Works great!

I didn't experience the problems that others have had. The adaptor stays where it belongs, no coatings coming off in my hands and no stripped threads! Different lot? For the first time I haven't had the aggravation of loose scope mounts on my 458 Win. Magnum after 50 rounds. It may or may not be as precise on the torque setting as some claim, but my experience is that if you follow the directions you should have good results with this tool. I do wish they expanded the selection of bits in the kit. For this reason I gave this a 4 star rating instead of 5.

Like previous review the adapter is a little loose, but I put a couple of strips of masking tape on it and it tightened it right up (I know not very technical, but it worked!). I was amazed at the difference in accuracy on both my Sako 308 3rds in 1 inch circle at 200yrds, and 300Win Mag (not quite as good, but its a BIG gun) and it was the same loads as previous range tested, I attributed it to the fact that I could get the mounts and bedding screws reasonably close to the same tolerance to each other. Recommend it.

The unit itself works great as advertised. Great not only when installing scope, but other task as well for example installing trigger unit to action and action to wood stock. There are two things I'd like to see the product improved. First, to utilize magnetize adapter, as bits sometimes fall on to the barrel/action surface if you're not careful. Second, better storage case instead of clear plastic packaging. This will allow unit to be stored more compactly. These two details prevent me from giving 5 stars. Hope Wheeler will take notice for future customer.

This is a great product but should come with some sort of case to keep all the tips together. Also the socket needs a indent for the detent ball to lock into. Otherwise just what you need.

I agree with all the previous comments regarding the adapter falling off the shaft and the need for readings other than every 10 in-lbs. When I called Midway I was told that they were aware of the problems and we working on them. How hard can it be for an engineering company to try and figure out how to fix this problem? Another ball bearing (mine is missing this) or make the shaft a little larger.

Socket adapter and Bits fall out during use. Nothing in Instructions about returning to zero setting when not in use?

Nice tool to have for the price but not an everyday smithing tool by any means. I like it but a better instruction would have been another star from me and an unbroken attachment for the tip adapter (missing detent ball bearing) another star. Not a good customer relation/help at Wheeler Engineering.

I ordered my FAT wrench in August 2010, expecting to find the 'loose bits' problem to be fully resolved. Not so - I will be contacting Wheeler to see if they can send me bits that don't constantly fall out. Also, the purpose of a torque wrench is to be able to repeatedly apply the desired level of torque to a screw of some type. The dial used to display the torque level is not very precise, and it doesn't display 65 in lbs (or 55, or 45...) so I assume to hit 65 you have to just "crank it all the way up". Some sort of 'click' on the 1 or 5 ft-lb interval would make this much more useful. In summary, this will get you in the ballpark, but if you need a more accurate and repeatable torquing tool, you'll have to spend more money.

I have used this product on several scope mounting projects and was overall impressed with the repeatability of my torque settings. Then I had two screw holes stripped out on the barrel of my new rifle! I had followed Wheeler's instructions to the letter, and now am dealing with the nightmare of what just happened to my new rifle! My advice to other users of this product is to use this product on rings, windage screws, and other attachments to your firearm with confidence, torque to half torque specs first, then full. Any screw used to attach your accessory to the firearm itself, proceed with caution! Rings and other parts are very cheap and easy to replace compared to a high quality receiver and/ or barrel! I agree with others comments that the instructions on the back are a little vague and half torque should be emphasized more, along with the note about reducing torque if less than six full screw threads are to be engaged. My revised opinion is that this is a good tool that could be a lot better with better instructions, better tip and socket retention, better scale, and a nice plastic case to house all of the tips and Fat Wrench. This may cost a little more, but people like me are prepared to pay the price for quality tools that make our lives simpler!

As many before have stated, the adapter falls off. I used a 22 cleaning patch to secure it. The instructions leave a lot to be desired. I don't have a lot of confidence in its calibration. I expected better.

As most have said, this is a nice tool. However, I am a little disappointed in the manner that the bits have to be stored in the big blister pack with the tool. This is a very large piece of plastic and it will take up a lot of room in the tool box and will be difficult to carry in a range bag. Otherwise, I feel it is a good investment. As far as someone writing here that they do not have instructions or do not know how to use it, mine has printed instructions on the cardboard backing in the plastic blister pack.

The tool would be excellent if Wheeler would fix shank on the torque driver. It will not hold the provided adapter in place. I was told by Midway that people don't know how to insert the adapter - simply not true. It is poorly made. The adapter works with my other 1/4 inch shanks. To fix the problem, one has to take the ball bearing and spring out and put in a heavier duty pair.

As other people have stated, it requires use of an adapter between the FAT and the screwdriver bit. This adapter won't stay on the tool, but just falls off. I like the tool, but this sloppiness is a royal PIA

Basically an exceptional concept with poor craftsmanship. If Wheeler would only listen to their customers!

Agree with most reviews regarding adapter fit and torque gradations of 10 lbs. with no intermediate markings and no clicks to count. I suspect Republic of China manufacture. Pretty sloppy. As usual, you get what you pay for.

Good idea, but adapter falls off! Taped mine on, but it still wobbles. Epoxy next? Looked closer at the #4 picture, page 59, of the Feb'07 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN. The adapter is definitely crooked, compared to the wrench shaft and body. Re-design it, Wheeler!

One star because 'no stars' is not an option. Don't put bad tools on good guns, or good tools on bad guns. This is a bad tool. Real junk (details below). If you work on good guns you need a good torque wrench -- so buy a Tohnichi. I did and I am delighted with it. The Wheeler Engineering Fat Wrench is in its original packaging, begging for the garbage where it will inevitably end up. The Wheeler torque-wrench was a real disappointment. It was the first torque wrench I ever bought that could be set to different torques, so my hopes were high. (Wheeler's hex-head screwdriver kits are a similar disappointment by the way; see my reviews.) The Wheeler torque-wrench is poorly constructed and made from cheap materials. The cheap materials begin with the handle itself. I have not tested the accuracy of its torque feature. It is poorly constructed; the wrench requires a square drive adapter before the hex-head bit can be added. This square drive adapter is practically impossible to attach to the wrench. When eventually it is persuaded to attach -- it wiggles. This is warning sign number one: poor fit -- or no fit most of the time. The hex head bit then attaches easily enough to the intermediary square driver, but it is also wobbly. So now you have a wobbly piece attached to a wobbly piece. Warning sign number two. Things are not looking good for the Wheeler. Warning sign number three is the stiff nature of the torque setting mechanism. Warning sign number four is the fact that the torque setting mechanism is on the back of the handle where your hand goes, and so it difficult to press the screwdriver snuggly into the screw without risking a change to the torque setting. If you get this far, you find that the 'fat' nature of its handle makes it hard to see around. The 'fat' handle and huge weight (about 1lb) also make it difficult to handle in the delicate manner required for a screw being torqued to as little as a few ounce-foot. I have e

I'm disappointed with this product that had a defect known by Midway USA as well as Wheeler Engineering. As other reviewers noted, the bits wobble loosely in the adapter, which makes it too risky to use. I noticed the problem immediately after I unpacked the wrench and bits and attempted to fit a bit into the adapter. I called the parent company, Battenfeld Technologies, today and learned both companies know all about the problem and intend to correct it. The company told me it notified its retailers. A Battenfeld representative took my name and address and promised I would have a new adapter within three weeks. The new adapter will have a magnetic seat which should hold the bit in place, similar to a good nut driver. This manufacturer released this product on the market last year and just now came up with a solution. It should have caught this obvious defect before it got into the hands of the consumer. I reported the problem to Midway USA today and learned it has had lots of calls about the defective adapter. So why continue to sell merchandise with a known defect? No answer! I'll wait until the end of the month for an adjustment. If I don't receive it by then, I'll simply return the product for a full refund. Meanwhile, it stays parked in its package unused. I wouldn't dare use this product on any of my firearms. If this product eventually proves worthy of a higher rating, I'll review it again. But Midway USA needs to re-think its consumer protection and product reliability.

I liked this tool, but it did not last long. It broke after just a few uses at a high torque setting for the action screws. You need a higher quality product.

I bought one and sent it back immediately. Problems: 1.Absence of distinct clicks, 2.Graduations in multiples of 10 inch-lbs with nothing in-between, 3.Marker too thick, uncertain exactly where the torque strength corresponds with the marker. 4.Torque strengths in between marked values no more than guess work, eg practically impossible to get something like 42 in-lb (Anschutz) or 24 in-lb (CZ).

I have had the same problem that everyone else has mentioned i.e. adapter and bits fall right off, wobble between wrench shaft and adapter! I also stripped the head off an Allen head ring screw! I'm sure it will be a beast to remove this ring screw! Good idea for a torque device but very bad product produced. Mine went right back to the sporting goods store that I purchased it at! Maybe I will buy another if the many defects are addressed and corrected.

Impossible to determine the setting from the poorly marked scale and absence of clicks. Once set the inconsistent torque control has resulted in loose fasteners and stripped fasteners. I checked it on a torque calibration device in our inspection lab and found it to vary up to 10 inch pounds from the setting and +/-5 within 10 tries. Like everyone else has said the bits fall off every time. Cheap price and equal performance. Very disappointed, I'd return it if I had the packaging.

I found the looseness in the square driver to adapter fit to be unacceptably difficult to deal with - the driver slipped out of the screw heads several times due to wobble. In addition, I'm not convinced the torque regulation is consistent. I stripped 2 screws on a locking plate on a DSA FAL scope mount with the wrench set at 40 lbs (the instructions are for 36 to 46 lbs). The FAT wrench is now on its way back, and I'm waiting for replacement parts from DSA.

Basically an exceptional concept with poor craftsmanship. If Wheeler would only listen to their customers! The square to hex adapter falls off the square shaft EVERY time it is turned pointing down. I bought mine about 2 months ago- used it for first time today. They have had a year to fix this problem. Excellent idea. Construction and craftsmanship could be better.

Forget the "black oxide" finish on the shaft that stained my hands. Focus instead on the detent ball on the end that is too weak to retain anything. On the lack of a matching dimple and the sloppy clearances in the square to hex adapter. On the complete lack of any bit retaining mechanism in same. Now imagine the bit and adapter falling off the end as I tip it down toward Ol' Betsy. Trajectory ending on walnut or blue. Got the picture? This "quality tool" is boxed for return in the morning.

Wish I had read all reviews BEFORE buying. All the negative comments are true. FAT WRENCH is going back.

I received the wrench today and found what others are saying is true, the end falls right off. I miked the drive end and it is cut about .003 too small and will not hold adapter. I called Wheeler and the girl says, 'we know and the engineers know that their is a problem but sorry about your luck. Send it back and buy something else'. Well, that kind of customer service is totally unsatisfactory, since I have never bought anything from Midway, that was this bad to have to return. It is really too bad since the American Rifleman reviewed this tool in the last issue. Midway has good products and its really too bad that Wheeler will not stand behind their product! I just sent it back, well I kind of feel bad for Midway but what choice does a person have?

The square adapter that holds the bit did not secure to the end of the wrench. The square adapter and bit would fall off the wrench when in use. I contacted Wheeler Engineering who sent me a new square adapter that also fell off the wrench when in use. I followed up with Wheeler Engineering explaining the problem was with the FAT Wrench Drive Tip, I received no response from Wheeler Engineering. Junk and no customer service. Spend an extra $50 and buy a quality tool.