Properly Made TP3 ( Tri-Lobe\Lobular ) Screwdriver Bits

[KJ-90]

I was wondering if anyone knows of an American, European, or Taiwanese made source for TP3 ( tri-lobe\tri-lobular ) screwdriver bits. These bits come in four sizes ( 2, 2.3, 2.7, and 3.2 mm ). However, they seem to be very difficult to locate from a reputable manufacturer. Almost all of the companies that make these bits are located in China or Hong Kong, and I'd rather not purchase those tools because of safety issues. I have read that people who purchase the related triangular TA14, 18, 20, 22, and 27 bits from those sources have had problems with bit breakage, and screw damage. There is also a similar issue with the TA series bits- there seem to be almost no American, European, or Taiwanese manufacturers. Only one American company sells US made quality TA series bits. Does anyone know of an American, European, or Taiwanese manufacturer for TP3 and TA series bits\screwdrivers?

[helius]

Moody Tools (a division of Central Tools) makes a couple sizes of tri-point drivers. It appears that these are "Y1" type, and not TP3 or TA type like you asked.
https://www.zoro.com/moody-tool-precision-screwdriver-tri-point-0x1316-51-2340
https://www.zoro.com/moody-tool-precision-screwdriver-tri-point-1x1316-51-2339

[janekm]

I can't find any specifically marked as TP3 but LA Bear from Taiwan and SEALS from Japan seem to be two non-mainland sources. Not easy to find reputable distributors though.

There is variability in quality from mainland tool vendors too though, it should be possible to find some decent ones. Bits made from German or Japanese S2 steel tend to be decent (but will rust quickly if not oiled). You've got to avoid anything made for export though, there's a big difference between tools made for Chinese factories and those intended to be placed in a 120-bit pack sold for $1.

[ve7xen]

I can't vouch for them but the Alpha brand from Sheffield Blades in Australia (hopefully as good as America ) distributes a TP3 bit - 4mm size only. From photos on other sites it seems to be in-house production (they are stamped with the Alpha brand), though not sure of actual country of origin. They don't seem to be widely available outside AU/NZ.

[tautech]

The only good Tri wing bit I have came from an aircraft engineer and it's an Air Tuf brand:
AIR TUF PRODUCTS INC
(602) 269-9741
101 N 45th Ave
Phoenix, Arizona, USA     85043

Historically Apex made top quality stuff too:
http://apexbits.com/apex-tri-wing-screwdriver-bits.aspx