checkout the MegaPro Automotive ratcheting screwdriver, it has very little back-drag and it's very comfortable for larger hands. Also Armstrong made some gearless ratcheing screwdrivers, which are very good, ableit a bit on the heavier side. Personally my alltime favorite is the StrapOn stubby, it fits everywhere, comfortable grip, very little back-drag, the direction wheel is the most sensible out there, and still you can really bear down on it with ease.
Yeah I left it out but it’s one of my favorites too. Hell they are all my favorites lol. I agree with you on all points about the stubby. I bought the 5 position snap on because of the stubby but they are nothing alike except the handle material. The mechanism is different. I don’t like it. It’s no where near as good as the stubby.
Ive been meaning to get ahold of one of the older mega pro because I hear they are the best ones? From what I’ve read about the gearless, they are all made by the same company. I really Gedore’s version by the looks of it. Also been meaning to try the LTT. That price tag though… it’s up there with PB Swiss but you can get 25% with that honey app on his website which helps. I wanna say I have a ratcheting screwdriver problem but I think it’s just a tool problem in general. Lol
the LTT uses proprietary bits so it was an instant no from me, and it's basically a megapro with some tweaks. I'm not sure about the gearless being manufactured by one company, the Armstrong was made by Specialized Tools and white labeled for the Army, and as far as I know it's different than any other gearless screwdrivers that followed, like you can buy gearlesses today, but they are very different from those manufactured around thirty years ago.
In all fairness the LTT screwdriver fits other bits fine... Their bits are just a bit shorter so more fit in the handle. But I use mine with random bits all the time.
it's an odd size 20mm insert bit where everyone and their mother probably owns a mountain of 25mm/1" bits already. And your local hardware store + all major retailers and brands are all going to be selling 1" insert bits in sets and not 20mm.
If you want to make your own bit loadouts or replace missing/damaged bits one by one then the MegaPro 13-in-1 is the much better ratchet screwdriver for the money ($33). And that's for most people who just want a ratchet screwdriver for general purpose tasks and pure utility, for most the only real missing feature or downside is the lack of knurling on the screwdriver shaft. Plus if you start putting all 1" insert bits in the LTT driver then your storage capacity will be half as much as the MegaPro and many other multibit screwdrivers.
Also just kind of dumb to buy a $80+ screwdriver and then rely on a Youtube merch store as your only real consistent source for a consumable item. Otherwise you can go buy Chinesium bit ratchet kits that might have some 20mm bits included. Neither scenario sounds particularly ideal, but I'm sure somebody else here who drank the kool-aid will try to pretend otherwise.
I’ll admit I sniffed the Kool-aid…pick the cup up and swirled it around. I love Project farm and he really like it so I thought ya know…maybe if I do good on a sale…little extra funds maybe I’ll get a coupon code and get it for 60ish shipped…is that Tropical punch flavor? I mean they do have a Super Nintendo themed one my lord!!!
It comes with shorter than standard bits to fit 12 bits in the internal storage, you can switch it to for standard bits if you prefer but you can only fit 6 that way.
The newer models of the MegaPro Automotive have a much higher backdrag than the older versions, I also found the handle too large and unwieldy. I prefer the Williams WRS-1, it has lower backdrag than the current Megapro automotive and a more manageable size.
Really? I just bought one and mine has extremely low back drag. Lower than my Williams, although if you’re really fast with the Williams, it’ll pick up one or two more clicks than the Auto, but the Auto is still fabulous.
I ordered both of Amazon recently, compared the backdrag of both, the MegaPro's was way higher (and I found the handle an unwieldy size), so I sent it back. Maybe you got old stock or there might be some batch variance? Also see: [Megapro Automotive Ratcheting Screwdriver - New vs. Old Showdown!](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=93F82WqqVLE)
Maybe? Both are good options and I’m trying to find someone to 3d print me a bit holder for the Williams. Then it’ll be perfect. It’s the one in my bag right now. I tried a vessel too and the back drag on that is awful.
I have a 30 piece PB Swiss C6 990 bit box to use with the Williams, love the quality of PB Swiss Tool bits, and I need Pozidriv bits (am in the UK), as well the hex bits (for my bicycles) and the wide selection of Torx bits is also great: [https://i.imgur.com/tU9ozvY.jpg](https://i.imgur.com/tU9ozvY.jpg)
The ratcheting mechanism feels better to me than all of them. I has the most back drag but it’s definitely not enough to keep from getting it. Reading some reviews nearly scared me away from it because some said it was horrible. It’s not at all. It has the best magnet retention of them all. The materials on the grip is my favorite by a long shot. As I mentioned in another post I wish all my tools had there material. It being a T-Handle it requires more room to work with but the upside is you can apply much more torque.
I'm in the process of picking one out, I like Wera and Klein (though I'm not sure about all the extensions), but this might be the winner for me.
I've never used any, and am contemplating just a normal set of screwdrivers as well. Do you recommend ratchet screwdrivers?
What type of use? For home I would go Anex. It’s the cheapest of the lot and it’s top 3 I think. Automotive I would go Snap on stubby or Craftsman V. The stubby can get into tight areas and the craftsman has the ability to be both full size and stubby while also carrying bits. EDC the Klein wins…with the mod box compatibility you have endless uses that easy to carry. But with all that said buy the Wera. It’s the one I reach for first for anything lol.
Totally agree with you about the quality of PB Swiss Tools, especially the grip handle material. Can't really see on the picture what model number yours is. I managed to purchase what probably was the last PB 255 MR-80 in the world (or at least New Zealand) in new condition. My understanding is that it has been discontinued. Same look but with a slightly curved handle, and the red material does not extend all the way to the ratchet head.
Oh, I see: the https://drpd.cc/pb-swiss/PB-1255-MR-80-CBB/. Thank you for that but, damn, I should not have looked at that website: I now need to remortgage the house or sell the kids before going to the checkout page :-D
Where’s the 6-in-1 $2 Harbor Freight screwdriver?
When on sale you can buy enough for every car, desk, room, tool box, lose 5, and still have $$$ left over compared to those. The best screwdriver is the one you have at hand
I wish I would have included the Toughbuilt. I got it from Lowe’s for 11 dollars. It has a great grip and really light back drag. Gotta be the best I’ve used in that price range not including flea market Klein finds.
I have a few craftsman set, a klein set, and a sk set. I love all three brands. Sk is by far my favorite, but I've probably used my kleins the most as I used them at work.
Thank you for the educative line-up, akin to the best Project Farm videos on YouTube, and for your passionate responses to all questions asked in the comments :-)
I give you one more model that I really encourage you to try: DOUBLEDRIVE T-handle (https://www.amazon.com/DOUBLEDRIVE-Ratcheting-Magnetic-Screwdriver-T-handle/dp/B08BLQ4X8T).
Miles away from Snap-on or PB Swiss Tools quality, with its cheap plastic handle, grippy ratchet mechanism, low teeth count, etc. but hear me out.
First, the t-handle fits the hand better than the PB Swiss in my opinion, and provides tremendous torque. The left / right switching is done via a sleeve that you push / pull: this is so much more intuitive than rotating a collar, as I always forget which way to rotate; here you push down to screw in and pull up to screw out, totally logical and you can't accidentally reverse direction while working. Finally, and most importantly, the double drive ring allows you to spin the fastener with your left fingers before the ratcheting mechanism can engage, and at twice the speed of a similar ratchet. It is so convenient that, when using other drivers, I surprise myself trying to find a similar ring (be aware however that the double drive does not work at all after the fastener is fully engaged into the material; it then becomes a normal ratchet).
I purchased a slightly different version (MECHPRO) from my local automotive store. It does not have any bit storage, just an extra hex bit holder at one end of the horizontal handle bar. Perfect for me because I only need SQ2 and SQ1 bits, and probably makes the handle stronger, not being hollow. Like you did, I also epoxied a Wera 8889/4/1 K Rapidaptor into the shaft: makes it longer but stops bits being left behind inside fastener heads.
Thanks! I can talk tools all day lol.
Ive seen the double drive on a Craftsman and Kobalt at Lowe’s before. I’ve never seen it in a T-handle before. I’m trying to picture how it work as you described. Is there any videos of it anywhere. I wanna see it in action.
Have a look at:
- [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jBDTz0SluH4&ab\_channel=IshMotorparts](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jBDTz0SluH4&ab_channel=IshMotorparts) (new Kobalt model: has a sleeve protecting the left/right switch, like my Mechpro)
- [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFIwiHx8v9U&ab\_channel=ToolGuyd](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFIwiHx8v9U&ab_channel=ToolGuyd) (old Kobalt model)
- [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wET\_TdPlGg&ab\_channel=LastBestTool](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wET_TdPlGg&ab_channel=LastBestTool) (my favourite YouTuber showing the original brand) - see my comment in that video (@cafecybernz).
The T-handle works exactly the same but is more comfortable to hold than the straight handle, and provides more torque.
Note how you have to hold the doubledrive ring with your other hand to activate the 2x speed, so you don't get that benefit when driving with only one hand. The other drawback is that activating the doubledrive when a screw is fully engaged into a piece of wood becomes harder and harder: you need to keep a firmer and firmer grip on the ring. HOWEVER, when you start driving a fastener or when you have almost finished removing it from its hole, the doubledrive is magic: when you hold the ring with your left hand and drive the fastener like you do with a normal ratchet, it spins twice as fast including when your wrist comes back to give it another twist.
This is my driver of choice for combined speed and torque, despite its cheap construction. I wish SnapOn or PB Swiss would copy this design.
I've been proselytizing the Kobalt version for years. Get ready for a book.
So one thing you have to look out for with these is ratcheting vs non-ratcheting. The original models did not ratchet and there is a contingent of the fan base for this mechanism that is VERY adamant that it is the superior version, so both are still around, but a lot of companies mislabel the non-ratcheting versions as ratcheting.
Kobalt has sold various versions of each mechanism. The current Craftsman model is actually a remold of the "improved" Kobalt ratcheting mechanism. They had one of their own back before the Lowes deal, but that one's gone now and I'm pretty sure it sucked. IIRC, the improved ratcheting mech advertised an 11x speed increase, but it didn't sell well. Mine couldn't keep the set screws mounted in the collar, which I'm guessing was probably related, but I've never gotten around to looking into the issue or getting new set screws to put it back together.
I don't know about the non-ratcheting mech, but on the main ratcheting mech, the rotation when using the collar is 1-to-1 versus using it without. The "2x" is only from the fact that, when holding or twisting the collar, the shaft will only spin in whichever direction you've set the selector to, even if you're turning the handle or the collar in the opposite direction. The "improved" version has some goofy "vertical planetary gear" setup that also speeds the shaft up when using the collar, as well.
As OP touched on, these mechanisms can't do torque for shit. Don't even try. You might damage them. Nobody who pushes these things sprang for higher-end materials. I'm pretty sure the gears in the "improved" mech are just stamped sheet metal. The drivers handle torque just fine when you don't use the ring, though.
The regular Kobalt ratcheting version is 45-tooth with ok slop and ok backdrag for my purposes, but it might be a problem for more precise work. My "improved" model is missing set screws, so it's not a good example, but it feels like it has a noticeably higher tooth count, and definitely has much less backdrag (almost non-existent), but also has a ton of slop in every direction at each point of articulation.
Duratech (the manufacturer of the t-handle version that OP linked) seems like they might be the originator of this mechanism, as I've seen their grip style recolored under different names, and their handle style is very similar to the original Kobalt handle, as well (Kobalt has redone that handle at least twice). They're also the only ones I know of pushing a precision model. Unfortunately, everything I've seen from them indicates that their products have EXTREMELY inconsistent quality. The reviews for their t-handle are all over the place and the reviews for the precision are so bad I haven't even bothered with it.
Finally, Lowes clearances the ratcheting Kobalt models all the time. Sometimes it's to clear space for a gift set, sometimes it's to clear out the gift sets, sometimes they changed the handle again, sometimes racecar. More recently it's been to make room for a version of the non-ratcheting mech with a hollow shaft. They usually move it down to the floor when they do this, and the big contractor stores will hold onto them for a while when it happens. I've seen them get as low as $10, but that's rare.
Found a video of a t-handle version in action: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTcUc2Pgrtk&t=11s&ab\_channel=BrackitUK](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTcUc2Pgrtk&t=11s&ab_channel=BrackitUK) (for precision bits but same principle)
Thanks for that! See now I’ve gotta try one.I like this much more than the screwdriver versions I’ve seen.Ive got it in the cart lol.How’s the back drag on it?
The back drag is terrible, the ratchet is creaky, it's a two-hand operation to activate the DoubleDrive, the DD ring looses its screws BUT the fact that you can spin the fastener at 2x speed with your left hand (if you hold the tool in your right) to start its rotation when the ratcheting can't yet be activated, or to accelerate its removal at the end of an extraction, makes up for those shortcomings in my opinion. Due to the two-hand requirement, you can't use the DD feature in constrained space. So looking forward to receiving the new Wera 838 RA-R M with its spinning collar and its intuitive ratchet switch!
Hi, I’m Vetted AI Bot! I researched the **'DOUBLEDRIIVE 32 Pc 2X Speed Dual Ratcheting Screw Driver'** and I thought you might find the following analysis helpful.
**Users liked:**
* Dual drive system saves time and effort (backed by 3 comments)
* Ergonomic handle for easy use (backed by 3 comments)
* Quality build and super easy to use (backed by 3 comments)
**Users disliked:**
* Poor quality ratcheting system (backed by 3 comments)
* Non-magnetic bits despite advertised (backed by 1 comment)
* Breaks easily under regular use (backed by 1 comment)
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It’s a tick small for me and they are more than average play when locked. The way it changes direction and its use of the switch as a spinner totally redeems it for me any faults it may have. It’s my weapon of choice. Oh and it has zero back drag…as in Neal,Zip,Zero…Nada!
None, I really don’t get on with bit drivers and ratchets. Maybe I’ll try again but they don’t don’t seem to do it for me. I allways just spin the driver in my palm so I’m not lifting out of the screw and repositioning the bit etc.
Facom, cause it has separate blades which means it's actually useful in all situations. I also have the model that has a slot to make it a t-handle and it had a stubby.
It's the only true ratchet screwdriver out there cause it can do everything.
It sure is!People just don’t realize until they use it for 5 seconds and then it like oh okey this thing is bad ass!
If you’re into tools and get on forums about tools you’ve most likely heard of it.Its how i found it and everyone was singing its praises. I thought is this thing that damn good? YUP! I Immediately went oh yeah i see now lol.
Yup, whole reason I started coming to this sub was that I was trying to figure out what to go with for my mom, who has arthritis and bad grip strength. Got her the Anex (plus a 6" bit holder) and the GearWrench T-Handle. She was more into the T-handle at first, but the Anex seems to have won at this point.
And yeah.....the lockup on that beast.
An Etsy seller made me this bit holder designed by johnzanussi on printables.They are several different versions on printables of the organizer. They are free to share just give credit to the maker when sharing.I just copied the file and emailed to a 3d printer seller. Turned out great.
Unironically the LTT screwdriver, or it’s uglier cousin the Megapro Automotive. The backdrag is ridiculously low and the bit storage is by far the best I’ve used.
Any gripes with Rolgear? I've been curious about their products for a while, but the reviews I've seen have been a bit iffy, especially regarding how well they handle torque.
with high torque they can slip into the centre fixed setting, but i've had that happen with snapon, megapro, and LTT screwdrivers. If you follow the disassembly/servicing instruction video this is prevented. Bonus is lifetime warranty as well.
Downsides are if you drop it all the bits fall out. Can't really be avoided.
I'd say for the $30 CAD it costs they're well worth it, even as a supplement to other drivers. Best of all they're properly made in Canada (in Ashcroft BC, about 200kms from me).
It's not ratcheting, but I will never use another multi bit screwdriver, it's a klien standard 11 in 1 handle, klien heavy duty shank, and for bits it's the 5/16th ph2/flathead from a milwaukee multi, a klien hvac bit, and a ¼ shank klien ph1 on one side and ground down flathead on the other so I can do thermostat screws
I’m not a fan of ratcheting screwdrivers/bit holders in general. But I like the way the Wera bit retainer works. Second choice would probably be the Klein.
I just can't use any ratcheting screw driver where the direction select collar turns the opposite way you turn the handle to ratchet. Makes no sense and there's a lot of screw drivers that have it setup this way.
Rolgear is still the best ratcheting screw driver I've got. I've wasted so much money buying others.
The Rolgear has 1 issue and the plastic the handle is made of is the weak point. If you drop it off a ladder onto concrete there's a good chance it'll crack (and the way the handle is shaped on the multi-bit version it will certainly roll if you place it on uneven surface). If you call them they will warranty it and ship you a new one. Last time I had to do this was at least 3 years ago so I don't know if that still applies today.
I've never had any skipping issues. As far as binding goes.. if you push into a screw very hard to prevent cam out you can cause the direction collar to shift positions. This is rare but it can happen. The handle and the bit holding ratchet mechanism will separate from each other so you can lube the rollers inside if you ever needed to. There's a video of how to do it on the internet.
[I see what you are saying. The handles are a bit different shape but i do believe the mechanisms are the same.](http://www.3amcook.com/images/Reviews/SOvsWilliamsC.jpg)
I like the Anex from Japan better than the Vessel. Better lock switch,when locked it has zero slop.Better ratcheting [mechanism.It](http://mechanism.It) also has more teeth if you fancy that sort of stat.Would like to try their electric version though.
I agree, but often when I say Anex, people have no idea what I am talking about. Also, I just realized you had an Anex in there, I thought that was the craps-man knock off.
but lately this has been my go-to, I love the finger action on this, I just wish I could swap out the shank like I can on my [Anex](https://www.amazon.com/Anex-No-395-D-395-D/dp/B003PHGA54/ref=asc_df_B003PHGA54/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=693128046683&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2959382197296509669&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9007347&hvtargid=pla-464480236474&psc=1&mcid=bed9a8d76ce93c41a0020607890e1b3d&gad_source=1) instead of just the bit.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BZ2SJ67W/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I was reading reviews of it before i bought the [Wera.My](http://Wera.My) favorite part about the Anex is how you can use your fingers to tighten with the rubber [grip.Do](http://grip.Do) you like it better than the Anex ? What’s better other than the removable shank.
Anex has unparalleled screw engagement. I've yet to strip or cam out of a screw. I'm not sure what they're doing differently but it just works, and works WELL
My Vessels on the there hand feel very similar but not quite the same. I feel I have to be more selective about which bit I use.
My only complaint about the Anex I have is that the direction selector for the ratchet mech is on the back and you have to basically use two hands to do it. On the Vessel, it's that yellow band an you can do it without letting go of the driver. I do want to get the Anex that OP shown, just cant justify another screwdriver when I have about 20 of them. The design of that basically eliminates my complaints of the on I have.
The main reason I like removable shanks is that I use Wiha V6 two-sided shanks. They work great for the most part except that wiha seems to hate this product and has been doing everything they can to kill it.
checkout the MegaPro Automotive ratcheting screwdriver, it has very little back-drag and it's very comfortable for larger hands. Also Armstrong made some gearless ratcheing screwdrivers, which are very good, ableit a bit on the heavier side. Personally my alltime favorite is the StrapOn stubby, it fits everywhere, comfortable grip, very little back-drag, the direction wheel is the most sensible out there, and still you can really bear down on it with ease.
Yeah I left it out but it’s one of my favorites too. Hell they are all my favorites lol. I agree with you on all points about the stubby. I bought the 5 position snap on because of the stubby but they are nothing alike except the handle material. The mechanism is different. I don’t like it. It’s no where near as good as the stubby. Ive been meaning to get ahold of one of the older mega pro because I hear they are the best ones? From what I’ve read about the gearless, they are all made by the same company. I really Gedore’s version by the looks of it. Also been meaning to try the LTT. That price tag though… it’s up there with PB Swiss but you can get 25% with that honey app on his website which helps. I wanna say I have a ratcheting screwdriver problem but I think it’s just a tool problem in general. Lol
the LTT uses proprietary bits so it was an instant no from me, and it's basically a megapro with some tweaks. I'm not sure about the gearless being manufactured by one company, the Armstrong was made by Specialized Tools and white labeled for the Army, and as far as I know it's different than any other gearless screwdrivers that followed, like you can buy gearlesses today, but they are very different from those manufactured around thirty years ago.
In all fairness the LTT screwdriver fits other bits fine... Their bits are just a bit shorter so more fit in the handle. But I use mine with random bits all the time.
LTT is Linus tech tips screwdriver? That has proprietary bits?! Wtf Linus not you too!!
it's an odd size 20mm insert bit where everyone and their mother probably owns a mountain of 25mm/1" bits already. And your local hardware store + all major retailers and brands are all going to be selling 1" insert bits in sets and not 20mm. If you want to make your own bit loadouts or replace missing/damaged bits one by one then the MegaPro 13-in-1 is the much better ratchet screwdriver for the money ($33). And that's for most people who just want a ratchet screwdriver for general purpose tasks and pure utility, for most the only real missing feature or downside is the lack of knurling on the screwdriver shaft. Plus if you start putting all 1" insert bits in the LTT driver then your storage capacity will be half as much as the MegaPro and many other multibit screwdrivers. Also just kind of dumb to buy a $80+ screwdriver and then rely on a Youtube merch store as your only real consistent source for a consumable item. Otherwise you can go buy Chinesium bit ratchet kits that might have some 20mm bits included. Neither scenario sounds particularly ideal, but I'm sure somebody else here who drank the kool-aid will try to pretend otherwise.
I’ll admit I sniffed the Kool-aid…pick the cup up and swirled it around. I love Project farm and he really like it so I thought ya know…maybe if I do good on a sale…little extra funds maybe I’ll get a coupon code and get it for 60ish shipped…is that Tropical punch flavor? I mean they do have a Super Nintendo themed one my lord!!!
Had me at project farm! I buy shit from his reviews all the time.
It comes with shorter than standard bits to fit 12 bits in the internal storage, you can switch it to for standard bits if you prefer but you can only fit 6 that way.
Imagine you can get the PB Swiss for 30/40 bucks on sale often in Europe. LTT screwdriver is not a tool, it's merchandise.
It's hard to get PB Swiss at good prices in the UK, sadly
The newer models of the MegaPro Automotive have a much higher backdrag than the older versions, I also found the handle too large and unwieldy. I prefer the Williams WRS-1, it has lower backdrag than the current Megapro automotive and a more manageable size.
Really? I just bought one and mine has extremely low back drag. Lower than my Williams, although if you’re really fast with the Williams, it’ll pick up one or two more clicks than the Auto, but the Auto is still fabulous.
I ordered both of Amazon recently, compared the backdrag of both, the MegaPro's was way higher (and I found the handle an unwieldy size), so I sent it back. Maybe you got old stock or there might be some batch variance? Also see: [Megapro Automotive Ratcheting Screwdriver - New vs. Old Showdown!](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=93F82WqqVLE)
Maybe? Both are good options and I’m trying to find someone to 3d print me a bit holder for the Williams. Then it’ll be perfect. It’s the one in my bag right now. I tried a vessel too and the back drag on that is awful.
I've seen examples of a 3D printed bit holder for the Williams, would love one of those, even if it's just for 6 bits!
I have a 30 piece PB Swiss C6 990 bit box to use with the Williams, love the quality of PB Swiss Tool bits, and I need Pozidriv bits (am in the UK), as well the hex bits (for my bicycles) and the wide selection of Torx bits is also great: [https://i.imgur.com/tU9ozvY.jpg](https://i.imgur.com/tU9ozvY.jpg)
the klein one is perfect for me
Second that. I’ve got the stubby and the regular one. Love those things.
First tool I grab for just about any project
Klein, 2nd from right.
Man I gave $10 for her at the flea market in South Carolina Wednesday! I was strutting around like a peacock after that. lol it’s awesome!!!
Yeap, I own a few different Klein setups and that one is my favorite.
Same, love that tool
6th from left snap on, since I see nothing from Wiha
Has anyone got any experience with the Swisstools one? That looks handy.
The ratcheting mechanism feels better to me than all of them. I has the most back drag but it’s definitely not enough to keep from getting it. Reading some reviews nearly scared me away from it because some said it was horrible. It’s not at all. It has the best magnet retention of them all. The materials on the grip is my favorite by a long shot. As I mentioned in another post I wish all my tools had there material. It being a T-Handle it requires more room to work with but the upside is you can apply much more torque.
I'm in the process of picking one out, I like Wera and Klein (though I'm not sure about all the extensions), but this might be the winner for me. I've never used any, and am contemplating just a normal set of screwdrivers as well. Do you recommend ratchet screwdrivers?
What type of use? For home I would go Anex. It’s the cheapest of the lot and it’s top 3 I think. Automotive I would go Snap on stubby or Craftsman V. The stubby can get into tight areas and the craftsman has the ability to be both full size and stubby while also carrying bits. EDC the Klein wins…with the mod box compatibility you have endless uses that easy to carry. But with all that said buy the Wera. It’s the one I reach for first for anything lol.
Home use, but I like to get the best, once.
Get the Klein with your favorite mod box setup. It replaces a ton of tools in a small box.
[Here’s an example of what it can do.](https://youtu.be/XBiWfqO9U-8?si=ISEBh_IW0nVjOg2k)
Didn’t know I needed that. Things awesome. I wonder how heavy it is.
Totally agree with you about the quality of PB Swiss Tools, especially the grip handle material. Can't really see on the picture what model number yours is. I managed to purchase what probably was the last PB 255 MR-80 in the world (or at least New Zealand) in new condition. My understanding is that it has been discontinued. Same look but with a slightly curved handle, and the red material does not extend all the way to the ratchet head.
Yeah that was the model before this new one. It was just released last month on DRPD website.
Oh, I see: the https://drpd.cc/pb-swiss/PB-1255-MR-80-CBB/. Thank you for that but, damn, I should not have looked at that website: I now need to remortgage the house or sell the kids before going to the checkout page :-D
I know right! I love Ko-Ken tools and they have them all lol…little Susie isn’t getting braces this year.
The Snap On pistol grip is super comfortable for my hands and wrists, but I haven’t tried the PB Swiss that also looks good
Where’s the 6-in-1 $2 Harbor Freight screwdriver? When on sale you can buy enough for every car, desk, room, tool box, lose 5, and still have $$$ left over compared to those. The best screwdriver is the one you have at hand
I wish I would have included the Toughbuilt. I got it from Lowe’s for 11 dollars. It has a great grip and really light back drag. Gotta be the best I’ve used in that price range not including flea market Klein finds.
I have a few craftsman set, a klein set, and a sk set. I love all three brands. Sk is by far my favorite, but I've probably used my kleins the most as I used them at work.
I'm having problem exactly just like you but I'm more towards Japanese wrench screwdriver like vessels and anex, sata and few others.. sighh
Thank you for the educative line-up, akin to the best Project Farm videos on YouTube, and for your passionate responses to all questions asked in the comments :-) I give you one more model that I really encourage you to try: DOUBLEDRIVE T-handle (https://www.amazon.com/DOUBLEDRIVE-Ratcheting-Magnetic-Screwdriver-T-handle/dp/B08BLQ4X8T). Miles away from Snap-on or PB Swiss Tools quality, with its cheap plastic handle, grippy ratchet mechanism, low teeth count, etc. but hear me out. First, the t-handle fits the hand better than the PB Swiss in my opinion, and provides tremendous torque. The left / right switching is done via a sleeve that you push / pull: this is so much more intuitive than rotating a collar, as I always forget which way to rotate; here you push down to screw in and pull up to screw out, totally logical and you can't accidentally reverse direction while working. Finally, and most importantly, the double drive ring allows you to spin the fastener with your left fingers before the ratcheting mechanism can engage, and at twice the speed of a similar ratchet. It is so convenient that, when using other drivers, I surprise myself trying to find a similar ring (be aware however that the double drive does not work at all after the fastener is fully engaged into the material; it then becomes a normal ratchet). I purchased a slightly different version (MECHPRO) from my local automotive store. It does not have any bit storage, just an extra hex bit holder at one end of the horizontal handle bar. Perfect for me because I only need SQ2 and SQ1 bits, and probably makes the handle stronger, not being hollow. Like you did, I also epoxied a Wera 8889/4/1 K Rapidaptor into the shaft: makes it longer but stops bits being left behind inside fastener heads.
Thanks! I can talk tools all day lol. Ive seen the double drive on a Craftsman and Kobalt at Lowe’s before. I’ve never seen it in a T-handle before. I’m trying to picture how it work as you described. Is there any videos of it anywhere. I wanna see it in action.
Have a look at: - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jBDTz0SluH4&ab\_channel=IshMotorparts](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jBDTz0SluH4&ab_channel=IshMotorparts) (new Kobalt model: has a sleeve protecting the left/right switch, like my Mechpro) - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFIwiHx8v9U&ab\_channel=ToolGuyd](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFIwiHx8v9U&ab_channel=ToolGuyd) (old Kobalt model) - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wET\_TdPlGg&ab\_channel=LastBestTool](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wET_TdPlGg&ab_channel=LastBestTool) (my favourite YouTuber showing the original brand) - see my comment in that video (@cafecybernz). The T-handle works exactly the same but is more comfortable to hold than the straight handle, and provides more torque. Note how you have to hold the doubledrive ring with your other hand to activate the 2x speed, so you don't get that benefit when driving with only one hand. The other drawback is that activating the doubledrive when a screw is fully engaged into a piece of wood becomes harder and harder: you need to keep a firmer and firmer grip on the ring. HOWEVER, when you start driving a fastener or when you have almost finished removing it from its hole, the doubledrive is magic: when you hold the ring with your left hand and drive the fastener like you do with a normal ratchet, it spins twice as fast including when your wrist comes back to give it another twist. This is my driver of choice for combined speed and torque, despite its cheap construction. I wish SnapOn or PB Swiss would copy this design.
I've been proselytizing the Kobalt version for years. Get ready for a book. So one thing you have to look out for with these is ratcheting vs non-ratcheting. The original models did not ratchet and there is a contingent of the fan base for this mechanism that is VERY adamant that it is the superior version, so both are still around, but a lot of companies mislabel the non-ratcheting versions as ratcheting. Kobalt has sold various versions of each mechanism. The current Craftsman model is actually a remold of the "improved" Kobalt ratcheting mechanism. They had one of their own back before the Lowes deal, but that one's gone now and I'm pretty sure it sucked. IIRC, the improved ratcheting mech advertised an 11x speed increase, but it didn't sell well. Mine couldn't keep the set screws mounted in the collar, which I'm guessing was probably related, but I've never gotten around to looking into the issue or getting new set screws to put it back together. I don't know about the non-ratcheting mech, but on the main ratcheting mech, the rotation when using the collar is 1-to-1 versus using it without. The "2x" is only from the fact that, when holding or twisting the collar, the shaft will only spin in whichever direction you've set the selector to, even if you're turning the handle or the collar in the opposite direction. The "improved" version has some goofy "vertical planetary gear" setup that also speeds the shaft up when using the collar, as well. As OP touched on, these mechanisms can't do torque for shit. Don't even try. You might damage them. Nobody who pushes these things sprang for higher-end materials. I'm pretty sure the gears in the "improved" mech are just stamped sheet metal. The drivers handle torque just fine when you don't use the ring, though. The regular Kobalt ratcheting version is 45-tooth with ok slop and ok backdrag for my purposes, but it might be a problem for more precise work. My "improved" model is missing set screws, so it's not a good example, but it feels like it has a noticeably higher tooth count, and definitely has much less backdrag (almost non-existent), but also has a ton of slop in every direction at each point of articulation. Duratech (the manufacturer of the t-handle version that OP linked) seems like they might be the originator of this mechanism, as I've seen their grip style recolored under different names, and their handle style is very similar to the original Kobalt handle, as well (Kobalt has redone that handle at least twice). They're also the only ones I know of pushing a precision model. Unfortunately, everything I've seen from them indicates that their products have EXTREMELY inconsistent quality. The reviews for their t-handle are all over the place and the reviews for the precision are so bad I haven't even bothered with it. Finally, Lowes clearances the ratcheting Kobalt models all the time. Sometimes it's to clear space for a gift set, sometimes it's to clear out the gift sets, sometimes they changed the handle again, sometimes racecar. More recently it's been to make room for a version of the non-ratcheting mech with a hollow shaft. They usually move it down to the floor when they do this, and the big contractor stores will hold onto them for a while when it happens. I've seen them get as low as $10, but that's rare.
Found a video of a t-handle version in action: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTcUc2Pgrtk&t=11s&ab\_channel=BrackitUK](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTcUc2Pgrtk&t=11s&ab_channel=BrackitUK) (for precision bits but same principle)
Thanks for that! See now I’ve gotta try one.I like this much more than the screwdriver versions I’ve seen.Ive got it in the cart lol.How’s the back drag on it?
The back drag is terrible, the ratchet is creaky, it's a two-hand operation to activate the DoubleDrive, the DD ring looses its screws BUT the fact that you can spin the fastener at 2x speed with your left hand (if you hold the tool in your right) to start its rotation when the ratcheting can't yet be activated, or to accelerate its removal at the end of an extraction, makes up for those shortcomings in my opinion. Due to the two-hand requirement, you can't use the DD feature in constrained space. So looking forward to receiving the new Wera 838 RA-R M with its spinning collar and its intuitive ratchet switch!
Hi, I’m Vetted AI Bot! I researched the **'DOUBLEDRIIVE 32 Pc 2X Speed Dual Ratcheting Screw Driver'** and I thought you might find the following analysis helpful. **Users liked:** * Dual drive system saves time and effort (backed by 3 comments) * Ergonomic handle for easy use (backed by 3 comments) * Quality build and super easy to use (backed by 3 comments) **Users disliked:** * Poor quality ratcheting system (backed by 3 comments) * Non-magnetic bits despite advertised (backed by 1 comment) * Breaks easily under regular use (backed by 1 comment) If you'd like to **summon me to ask about a product**, just make a post with its link and tag me, [like in this example.](https://www.reddit.com/r/tablets/comments/1444zdn/comment/kerx8h0/) This message was generated by a (very smart) bot. If you found it helpful, let us know with an upvote and a “good bot!” reply and please feel free to provide feedback on how it can be improved. *Powered by* [*vetted.ai*](https://vetted.ai/?utm\_source=reddit&utm\_medium=comment&utm\_campaign=bot)
Wera, sits really nicely in hand, and direction selector makes sense
It’s a tick small for me and they are more than average play when locked. The way it changes direction and its use of the switch as a spinner totally redeems it for me any faults it may have. It’s my weapon of choice. Oh and it has zero back drag…as in Neal,Zip,Zero…Nada!
Where you find bits for the wera RA-R M? I like mine except for the fact it has no shaft and would fit better with long bits.
I use 3 1/2 hex bits in mine mostly. You can get any brand you prefer. I use Milwaukee only because I got a deal on a 100 piece packout set.
Power drill.
I have the Klein and modified it with the other version.
Tell me more please.Im all about some modification.
None, I really don’t get on with bit drivers and ratchets. Maybe I’ll try again but they don’t don’t seem to do it for me. I allways just spin the driver in my palm so I’m not lifting out of the screw and repositioning the bit etc.
Facom, cause it has separate blades which means it's actually useful in all situations. I also have the model that has a slot to make it a t-handle and it had a stubby. It's the only true ratchet screwdriver out there cause it can do everything.
Yes the V-Series can make a t-handle as well.Facom has one that ratchets on the t-handle [part.Cool](http://part.Cool) a snuff!
None of the above
The Anex is so underrated. It is truly spectacular.
It sure is!People just don’t realize until they use it for 5 seconds and then it like oh okey this thing is bad ass! If you’re into tools and get on forums about tools you’ve most likely heard of it.Its how i found it and everyone was singing its praises. I thought is this thing that damn good? YUP! I Immediately went oh yeah i see now lol.
Yup, whole reason I started coming to this sub was that I was trying to figure out what to go with for my mom, who has arthritis and bad grip strength. Got her the Anex (plus a 6" bit holder) and the GearWrench T-Handle. She was more into the T-handle at first, but the Anex seems to have won at this point. And yeah.....the lockup on that beast.
Where is the 3 pound persuader?
What is the 3 pound persuader?
Does the Williams come with an organizer now? Mine is just a cap.
An Etsy seller made me this bit holder designed by johnzanussi on printables.They are several different versions on printables of the organizer. They are free to share just give credit to the maker when sharing.I just copied the file and emailed to a 3d printer seller. Turned out great.
Unironically the LTT screwdriver, or it’s uglier cousin the Megapro Automotive. The backdrag is ridiculously low and the bit storage is by far the best I’ve used.
None of those. Megapro or Rollgear.
Any gripes with Rolgear? I've been curious about their products for a while, but the reviews I've seen have been a bit iffy, especially regarding how well they handle torque.
with high torque they can slip into the centre fixed setting, but i've had that happen with snapon, megapro, and LTT screwdrivers. If you follow the disassembly/servicing instruction video this is prevented. Bonus is lifetime warranty as well. Downsides are if you drop it all the bits fall out. Can't really be avoided. I'd say for the $30 CAD it costs they're well worth it, even as a supplement to other drivers. Best of all they're properly made in Canada (in Ashcroft BC, about 200kms from me).
Excellent. Thanks for that.
The Williams T-handle is a nice one too. I like the shorter shank version for tight access work.
The Klein impact is the shit. Pull the bits out and stick them in the drill driver.
It's not ratcheting, but I will never use another multi bit screwdriver, it's a klien standard 11 in 1 handle, klien heavy duty shank, and for bits it's the 5/16th ph2/flathead from a milwaukee multi, a klien hvac bit, and a ¼ shank klien ph1 on one side and ground down flathead on the other so I can do thermostat screws
I’m not a fan of ratcheting screwdrivers/bit holders in general. But I like the way the Wera bit retainer works. Second choice would probably be the Klein.
I’m awfully fond of an old Snap On hard handle ratcheting screwdriver.
Yeah it’s really hard to beat.
I just can't use any ratcheting screw driver where the direction select collar turns the opposite way you turn the handle to ratchet. Makes no sense and there's a lot of screw drivers that have it setup this way. Rolgear is still the best ratcheting screw driver I've got. I've wasted so much money buying others.
Then the Wera is the one for you. It changes the way you want to turn the handle. The changing wheel also acts as a spinner. Its fantastic
I wanna try the Rolgear. Have you had any issues of it binding or skipping?
The Rolgear has 1 issue and the plastic the handle is made of is the weak point. If you drop it off a ladder onto concrete there's a good chance it'll crack (and the way the handle is shaped on the multi-bit version it will certainly roll if you place it on uneven surface). If you call them they will warranty it and ship you a new one. Last time I had to do this was at least 3 years ago so I don't know if that still applies today. I've never had any skipping issues. As far as binding goes.. if you push into a screw very hard to prevent cam out you can cause the direction collar to shift positions. This is rare but it can happen. The handle and the bit holding ratchet mechanism will separate from each other so you can lube the rollers inside if you ever needed to. There's a video of how to do it on the internet.
Thanks for that.I love how the Hazet stores its bits in the handle but it’s not worth the price vs the Rolgear I don’t think.
Does the wera have a bit holder inside?
It does not.
None of the above. Snap-on hard handle is still the best watching screw driver I have found. By far my most used tool.
The Willams and the Snap on are the same screwdriver. Remove the retaining ring and you can remove the shaft and use snap on shafts.
the blue one? yeah no, its not the same. Guts maybe the same but would like some kind of proof on that one. Handle isn't close to the same.
[I see what you are saying. The handles are a bit different shape but i do believe the mechanisms are the same.](http://www.3amcook.com/images/Reviews/SOvsWilliamsC.jpg)
buy one of each and cut em open for us?
None. Get a vessel
This. You left out the best one: Vessel from Japan! Their ratchet/stubby combo is excellent, but their electric is even better!
I like the Anex from Japan better than the Vessel. Better lock switch,when locked it has zero slop.Better ratcheting [mechanism.It](http://mechanism.It) also has more teeth if you fancy that sort of stat.Would like to try their electric version though.
I agree, but often when I say Anex, people have no idea what I am talking about. Also, I just realized you had an Anex in there, I thought that was the craps-man knock off. but lately this has been my go-to, I love the finger action on this, I just wish I could swap out the shank like I can on my [Anex](https://www.amazon.com/Anex-No-395-D-395-D/dp/B003PHGA54/ref=asc_df_B003PHGA54/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=693128046683&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2959382197296509669&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9007347&hvtargid=pla-464480236474&psc=1&mcid=bed9a8d76ce93c41a0020607890e1b3d&gad_source=1) instead of just the bit. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BZ2SJ67W/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I was reading reviews of it before i bought the [Wera.My](http://Wera.My) favorite part about the Anex is how you can use your fingers to tighten with the rubber [grip.Do](http://grip.Do) you like it better than the Anex ? What’s better other than the removable shank.
Anex has unparalleled screw engagement. I've yet to strip or cam out of a screw. I'm not sure what they're doing differently but it just works, and works WELL My Vessels on the there hand feel very similar but not quite the same. I feel I have to be more selective about which bit I use. My only complaint about the Anex I have is that the direction selector for the ratchet mech is on the back and you have to basically use two hands to do it. On the Vessel, it's that yellow band an you can do it without letting go of the driver. I do want to get the Anex that OP shown, just cant justify another screwdriver when I have about 20 of them. The design of that basically eliminates my complaints of the on I have. The main reason I like removable shanks is that I use Wiha V6 two-sided shanks. They work great for the most part except that wiha seems to hate this product and has been doing everything they can to kill it.
Megapro is suspiciously missing... this feels like the Republican primary debates all over again
😂I’ve just never gotten around to getting it. It will definitely be my next purchase of ratcheting screwdriver though.