Why don't all tool manufactuers stick to standard type hex-bits ?

[appletree_man]

Bit of a gripe here, but it's now a deciding factor for me, i'll only buy a bit tool if it takes standard sizes (ok Vic Cybertool excepted  but i'm still annoyed it doesn't take a standard size).

Is it simply so they have a captive market for spares and accessories ?

[Carthas]

As fas as I see it that's 1 of 2 reasons, the second being finding a way to fit a multibit driver into such as small space. A regular sized bit driver can and has been done, but then you've got the space that the bits themselves take up as well.

[Leatherman123]

Well as Carthas had said it has to be able to fit in the handles. Like on the Charge/SURGE/Wave if there was a hex bit adapter than there would be no room for the can/bottle opener! But you can buy an adapter (or make one) to use std. hex bits!

[WhichDawg]

my guess is for the same reason razor blade cartridges cost so much, it's how they make their money,
you have to buy their products(size) for their products.

[BIG-TARGET]

2 little words:MARKET SHARE 

[NeitherExtreme]

In LM's designs, not only would their not be a space for the can/bottle opener, a standard bit would only be one screwdriver! So it would really be like dropping two tools...

Personally I like the LM bits... (after I bought all the extras of course! )

[Spoonrobot]

I'm glad that the standard size-hex adapter has died out on major-production full-size tools. It takes up too much room in the handles, reduces the functionality of the tool overall and to be equally as useful as the Leatherman bit kit is requires the carry of items that are much heavier and bulkier.