Abstract: In one embodiment, an enhanced hex key comprises a hex key composed of a first material (e.g., a metal such as steel) and non-marring, protective sleeve composed of a second material fitted onto the hex key bit portion of the hex key. In one embodiment, the sleeve may be comprised of a thermoset material such as, preferably, a glass reinforced thermoset plastic. The sleeve has a hexagonally-shaped inner surface that fits onto the hex key bit, and a hexagonally-shaped outer surface that fits, e.g., into fasteners of a specified size. The sleeve may be connected to the hex key bit by an adhesive. The sleeve may additionally be connected to the hex key bit using a screw such as, e.g., a set screw. Alternatively, the sleeve may be pinned to the hex key bit using a pin such as, e.g., a dowel pin. Tools with non-marring surfaces are also disclosed.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an enhanced hex key comprises a hex key composed of a first material (e.g., a metal such as steel) and non-marring, protective sleeve composed of a second material fitted onto the hex key bit portion of the hex key. In one embodiment, the sleeve may be comprised of a thermoset material such as, preferably, a glass reinforced thermoset plastic. The sleeve has a hexagonally-shaped inner surface that fits onto the hex key bit, and a hexagonally-shaped outer surface that fits, e.g., into fasteners of a specified size. The sleeve may be connected to the hex key bit by an adhesive. The sleeve may additionally be connected to the hex key bit using a screw such as, e.g., a set screw. Alternatively, the sleeve may be pinned to the hex key bit using a pin such as, e.g., a dowel pin. Tools with non-marring surfaces are also disclosed.

Abstract: A socket adapted to engage a socket drive tool and to torque a head of a hardware fastener includes a metallic outer sleeve and a non-metallic inner lining. The outer sleeve has an outer sleeve drive portion adapted to engage the socket drive tool, and an outer sleeve hardware portion attached to the outer sleeve drive portion. The inner lining is disposed within the outer sleeve hardware portion and has an inner lining drive portion adapted to engage the socket drive tool. The inner lining further includes an inner lining hardware portion attached to the inner lining drive portion, wherein the inner lining hardware portion includes a torquing hole, located at the distal end of the socket, and is sized to fit over the head of the hardware fastener to provide torque to the hardware fastener.