Multi-bit screw drivers… I feel like I’ve been screwed

[CR888]

I second the Picquic they are great! I also like the dollar Harbor Freight 4 in 1 or whatever they are, I leave them all over, and they are generally fine

"Generally fine"...Are you sure about that?

 

[jimbothecricket]

I second the Picquic they are great! I also like the dollar Harbor Freight 4 in 1 or whatever they are, I leave them all over, and they are generally fine

I have one of those in a drawer at work. Not my favorite but it saves me a trip across the lab (the company provided it). The bit dimensions are incorrectly stamped which cracks me up. The 1/4 bit is labled as 3/16 and the 5/16 as 1/4

 

[CJM8515]

i have a williams ratcheting bit driver. the thing works super well and is def just a snappy rebrand unlike some of the other williams stuff.

butmy go to for at least ten years now is a home depot husky 6 in 1. nothing special, just a 6 in 1 that i have beat on, dropped, thrown, lost in vehicles, etc, etc. hell i even hammered on it no issue. about the only thing that happened to one of them is the bits loosen up inside it when you hammer on it. i have 3 of them and several of the old orange handled buck bros brand that are floating around. they are my go to unless i need something specific

 

[mooman]

The snap-on is nice, but the Williams is the same and a lot cheaper, you just can't get it in a color to match your hair.

They are not the same. The handle on the Williams is only 3 sided vs. 4 of Snap On and a different shape. The shaft of the Snap On is knurled, Williams is not. Also, the bits that come with each one is different. You get a Torx bit with the Williams vs. P3 with the Snap On.

 

[Dave455]

They are not the same. The handle on the Williams is only 3 sided vs. 4 of Snap On and a different shape. The shaft of the Snap On is knurled, Williams is not. Also, the bits that come with each one is different. You get a Torx bit with the Williams vs. P3 with the Snap On.

Yes, the handles are made of a different material too.

The Williams is fine, in fact excellent for the money (I have one in my road box) but the Snap On is the better tool.

 

[bobg03]

They are not the same. The handle on the Williams is only 3 sided vs. 4 of Snap On and a different shape. The shaft of the Snap On is knurled, Williams is not. Also, the bits that come with each one is different. You get a Torx bit with the Williams vs. P3 with the Snap On.

I didn't know that. I seem to recall reading that statement here in an older thread, anyway I'm not a mechanical professional and am happy with the Williams for what I use it for.
I'd still get to eat everyday no matter the brand, as Arthritis grows within I find myself doing less and less.

 

[bonneyman]

The problem I've found with most bit drivers is the quality - or lack thereof - of the bits. The phillips strip out, and the standard tips bend. That's what sold me on the Enderes - their bits are tough!

Though I have one of those GreenLee's for the house and it has done well

 

[Dave455]

The problem I've found with most bit drivers is the quality - or lack thereof - of the bits. The phillips strip out, and the standard tips bend. That's what sold me on the Enderes - their bits are tough!

Though I have one of those GreenLee's for the house and it has done well

The quality of the bits is probably more important than the bit driver.

The best are PB Swiss and Zephyr.

Second best are Wera, and probably Apex.

Snap on used to be excellent (they were made by Zephyr) but not so good since they switched. Still acceptable.

Wiha were good when made in Germany, less so now.

The Vessel bits are probably up there with Wera / Apex.

If you use any of the better ones you won’t have an issue. But decent bits are expensive…

 

[jives]

I also like the dollar Harbor Freight 4 in 1 or whatever they are, I leave them all over, and they are generally fine

I've got free HF 6 in 1 all over the place, and packed them in my kid's car tool kits. Haven't failed me yet.

 

[matthew]

But decent bits are expensive…

Only when compared to the price of cheap ones.

(Yea, I know, we’re all part of the choir singing that hymn…)

 

[Boogerman]

Really dislike all in one drivers, had Klein, Wilwaukee, and number of others that I don't even recall. All were miserable expedient, not a great tool. Good to have in toolbelt in case you need screwdriver. Not something would grab when know you need screwdriver.

Have an unknown quantity of Snap-on 1/4" bit drivers in several configurations. Love them. As well as few other bit drivers, but Snap-on the best I've tried. Used non-ratcheting one yesterday, noticed magnet has removed itself and bits fall out, so will warranty it next time I catch the truck. That happened to one of my ratcheting ones, too. Other than that, they have all been extremely good to use.

 

[Robinson1]

It’s hard to beat a regular old fashioned 6 in 1. Even the cheap ones are pretty good. I’ve got them stashed everywhere and probably own a dozen or more at this point.

On the flip side I really dislike the 10 in 1 and 11 in 1 drivers and find them pretty fiddly and not as nice to use. I can see their application in service work.

Milwaukee makes one of the better ratcheting bit drivers. The 3 inch bits they use will work with recessed screws. On the down side they are heavy and by design have no 5/16” nut driver option and that’s kind of a deal breaker for the type work I do.

I was never a fan of the bit driver handles that accept 1 inch bits. That being said they have a place doing assembly work and are a huge space/weight saver if you’re trying to assemble a mobile kit to cover practically everything. Major downfall they cannot do recessed screws. The work around for this is to use them with longer bits. Far from ideal.

At the end of the day none of these options are as good as a traditional screwdriver. But in the real world they have a place

 

[scooby074]

Picquic is the best IMHO.

The Milwaukee Picquic knockoff (rip off) *****. I got both.

 

[thunderskunk]

I got the Picquic super 8 I think it was. Excellent build quality, it just hasn’t had the bits I’ve needed when I needed it. If I grab the Klein, so long as it has all the bits I know there’s nothing I can’t get into. For now I just fidget with it.

 

[seber]

I get why electricians use Klein. But for me, that rubber overwrap is just horrible.

 

[thunderskunk]

The true ending of the Milwaukee: the wife found the missing bit, but my oldest dropped it from a height of 2 feet:

 

[Hohn]

I bought a Vessel for my brother, I'll have him field test for me before I decide whether I proliferate more Vessel stuff. All the other Vessel stuff has inclined me towards them.

 

[Grokew]

Alright… I’m sure there’s a hundred posts like this, but sometimes ya just gotta let it out.

Background: One day, I got sick of the excessive number of screwdrivers everywhere, so I collected them all in one giant bin, made a drawer for all the bits to collect as needed, and tried to convert to multibit screwdrivers. Started with Klein and fell in love… but the love soon faded.

The Klein screwdriver kinda sucked: for a while it felt like having everything at your disposal, but the fingers gripping the bits started to loosen. There’s a plate inside that’s now broken and freefloating so the bits can get stuck inside with no way to get them out. If you open the cylinder too fast, bits go flying. I’ve been using this the most on ladders so… not fun. The extention is a great idea; I’ve tossed it in the impact a few times, but practically it’d be better to just have an impact extension since the screwdriver is useless without it. At this point, the design and the quality are subpar for me. On to the next one.

The Milwaukee 13 in 1 kinda sucked too. I got the one with the ECX bits which are wonderful for doing lots of electrical. I’ve had it less than a week: dropped it from a short ladder; one of the hex drivers went flying with the ECX bits whose location is still undiscovered, and the larger mid section hit the coated floor and marred the… chome-looking finish. As a last ditch effort to get some more use out of it, I flip the internals for a flat head. I took it out of my pocket, and the slight flick from pocket to workpiece sent the bit flying. Design and quality again…





Maybe I’m just not a multi-bit screwdriver guy… If I lost the bits on my own, I’d say I’m incompatible with this type of tool. Unfortunately the quality of the tool isn’t enough to retain the bits, so I hesitate to say it’s all me.

Anyways. Any recommendations? These weren’t cheap tools, so it’s a bit boggling to me.

If I could, I would just modify a picquic, by adding a locking impact bitholder to it (just cut the shaft until it is the proper length for it to fit just like a solid unit, and fix it with a set screw, or superglue). Then I would have a nice solid locking, multi bit screwdriver, with in handle storage for long bits.

 

[four.cycle]

Haven't dropped it on the floor to see if all the bits will scatter and break, but I was kinda-sorta impressed with the ingenuity of this Wiha-made unit.
The "Amigo" unit sold in various iterations by Bowers Tool, looks like it might be the answer to some mens' prayers, but I haven't used one myself - I sent half a dozen of them out to other members as part of the "Secret Santa" thing but haven't heard any feedback from any of the recipients thus far other than my buddy, who loved his (but mentioned he wished it had "TORX" bits in it.)

 

[CoogarXR]

I have a few X-in-one drivers, but I rarely use them. I have a 6-in-one in my datacom box, but it's mostly just for removing/installing wall plate screws or camera mounts.

I use an Xcelite 99 handle in my electronics road case, but it's bits (shanks) don't store inside the handle, so it doesn't really count. I prefer it because the bits fit super tight, don't wobble, and the tips are long and able to fit in recesses.

I have a malco connext locking handle too. I have considered switching over to it, since it uses standard 1/4" bits, and it holds much better than a regular magnetic bit driver. But I just can't bring myself to leave my Xcelite 99, lol.

 

[Skellyii]

Dunno, but I rarely use one; IMO, they're more of an "emergency" tool- like in a toolkit in a car, or maybe once a year in the garage if there's some weird screw that's not slotted, phillips, or torx. I can see the value for carrying one in a small toolkit in a car, or in a carry bag you're an industrial mechanic or electrician, or in a kitchen drawer, but I wouldn't consider one for general use because of all of the issues you listed.

I have to agree. A shop I worked for in the 80s bought us all the SnapOn multibit drivers. Since then, I had a variety of different brands with different features, and haven't really liked any of them.

I still have the same SnapOns they gave us in the 80s, they seem to be the best of any that I've used. I only keep them in my traveling bag, I never reach for them when I'm in my shop.

 

[KnurledNut]

I prefer to use 4-6" bits, where possible, with a variety of application-specific handles.
They are interchangeable but can't really be considered multi-bit, lacking on-board storage.
Some of mine are custom made/modified, like these:



Here’s some with self-contained storage:







Lots of nice options out there once you determine your individual needs.
One size does not fit all.

 

[Shocker]

I actually have quite a few multi bit and 6-1, 11-1 drivers etc. I like them all pretty much for quick little jobs.

Here is my goto bit driver



Made in USA driver and bits. As you can see the threads finally snapped off the storage cap. One quite email and they sent me 2 new caps, no issue. These are 20 years old at least.

I also have a couple of long ones that I use for hard to reach as needed. Otherwise I grab my long SKs.

 

[seber]

I have several ratcheting and non ratcheting bit drivers. But I rarely use any of them. Instead I keep cheap six in one generic drivers in many places. For general purpose use they work just fine.

 

[AreBeeBee]

Picquics are good. My wife's Canadian, so we make family trips there, and I always stop in at Canadian Tire. On one trip, I got one of all their models! Including the little cutie pocketable "The Pic." So with those and the 6-in-1s, I'm outfitted.

From what I understand — Canadians please correct me — this is an exclusive product for Candian Tire.

 

[Zewnten]

I prefer to use 4-6" bits, where possible, with a variety of application-specific handles.
They are interchangeable but can't really be considered multi-bit, lacking on-board storage.
Some of mine are custom made/modified, like these:



Here’s some with self-contained storage:







Lots of nice options out there once you determine your individual needs.
One size does not fit all.

How did you make the black handle one with the locking ring? A locking extension in a handle? If so what brand? Looks easy to operate. That’s a multi-bit I could get behind.

 

[Southernbuild]

I like the Klien 6 in 1 extended length drivers for general use. Otherwise, I prefer dedicated.

That's been a good compromise for me; handles common stuff in one driver, without all the less used bits slowing down the bit change / finding process.

I've tried the 10+ in one options, but it's frustrating swapping / finding the right bit. Especially if you have several models, where they have a different sequence of what bit is where, it quickly becomes frustrating.

 

[KnurledNut]

How did you make the black handle one with the locking ring? A locking extension in a handle? If so what brand? Looks easy to operate. That’s a multi-bit I could get behind.

I used a quick change adaptor. Im not sure what brand it is, I bought it used. It is high quality and only accepts power shank bits.
The end that is pressed into the handle has flats that keep it from spinning. A company called Snappy makes some similar.
I also added a reflective ring behind the collar to aide in low light situations.
The tool is very user friendly and it feels like a normal screwdriver in form and function. The 4-6" bits are easy to carry, locate, identify, and less likely to lose if dropped. I've lost several 1" bits working outdoors in gravel, grass, coal sludge, mud.
I was basically going after something like the Snap-on SGDQ6, but didnt need the Wera-esque adjustable length shank.
I went with a SDDP31 #1 PH hard handle as it's a good median size, large enough to be comfortable for general use but not overwhelming for smaller fasteners.
Thanks for asking.

 

[rancherbill]

PicQuic
https://picquic.ca/

 

[rancherbill]

From what I understand — Canadians please correct me — this is an exclusive product for Candian Tire.

No, they're everywhere. They are just so good. It is what is in my kitchen drawer and it has save tons of time running to the garage.

Where to BUY Picquic


You can get them on Amazon in the US.

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=picquic&ref=nb_sb_noss_2&tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[Wamsutta]

I'll tell you what, if the Williams was soft grip, it would be real close to being perfect. That's the only thing I don't like; the smooth plastic.

 

[F-22]

I'll tell you what, if the Williams was soft grip, it would be real close to being perfect. That's the only thing I don't like; the smooth plastic.

Problem of soft grips is how dirty they get in many automotive jobs. Hard grips are super easy to clean. The soft ones are more suited for clean work like on electronics.

 

[Davefr]

IMHO the near perfect multi driver does not exist:
- I want lots of bits (including Torx, Hex) all self contained and a cap that won't get lost. Why buy a multi tool if you have to go back to the toolbox to hunt down bits because they only give you 4-5. (tool should be self contained and portable). If I need a separate carrying case for the bits might as well use regular drivers.
- High quality bits
- A locking bit retainer that isn't too fat. (not a weak magnet)
- Ratcheting would be nice
- Ergonomic hard handle. The handle does not have to be small IMHO.
- A cap that locks secure (from drops) but easy to open to get the bits. (not a screw cap)

The Wiha 26 in 1 comes pretty close. Anything else come close?

I'd also like a companion multidriver that has double ended self contained 4" bits for accessing fasteners in recessed holes. Maybe 6-8 bits for 12-16 options.

 

[KnurledNut]

IMHO the near perfect multi driver does not exist:
- I want lots of bits (including Torx, Hex) all self contained and a cap that won't get lost. Why buy a multi tool if you have to go back to the toolbox to hunt down bits because they only give you 4-5. (tool should be self contained and portable). If I need a separate carrying case for the bits might as well use regular drivers.
- High quality bits
- A locking bit retainer that isn't too fat. (not a weak magnet)
- Ratcheting would be nice
- Ergonomic hard handle. The handle does not have to be small IMHO.
- A cap that locks secure (from drops) but easy to open to get the bits. (not a screw cap)

The Wiha 26 in 1 comes pretty close. Anything else come close?

I'd also like a companion multidriver that has double ended self contained 4" bits for accessing fasteners in recessed holes. Maybe 6-8 bits for 12-16 options.

The problem with a “perfect driver” is its not necessarily perfect for someone else.

 

[four.cycle]

^ obviously... otherwise there wouldn't be 999 different models on the market. like cars - there just isn't any "one size fits all".

 

[Bubba Fett]

I love Klein screwdrivers, because the round rubber grips offer a lot of torque, and make them easy to turn fast, so they are great on screws with fine threads.

They are not the best choice if you have dirty, oily hands. For that, Williams/Snap-On, or Tekton hard handle drivers would be a better choice. The four-sided handles give you better torque in a dirty environment, and they are less likely to roll away. The handles are also chemically resistant, and easy to clean. But they are designed to be held a certain way, with the thumb toward the tip. I often grip drivers in a number of different ways that are uncomfortable, which is also why I like Klein/Ideal/Greenlee, etc.

For something in-between, a classic acetate handle is just fine, but some people don't like them. (I love them). There is no right ow wrong design for handle shape, because everyone's hands are a bit different.

 

[Zewnten]

My wife found me one in a pawn shop $1 bucket. No brand name but it hand a triangular handle and the handle was hollow for small bits. She just loaded it up with loose bits and gave it to me. Bit retention wasn’t great but it was very smooth ratcheting. Problem was it never fit anywhere, always recessed holes the shank didn’t fit into

 

[SuzukiGS750EZ]

I am the least snap on happy person I know. Some of their tools I think are good, most these days I’m less than impressed with. However, their ratcheting screwdriver line has been around forever (my grandfather used them in his day) and has the lowest drag of any I’ve used. I have the picquik ones as well and like them but they don’t ratchet.

 

[monster1]

I love this thing.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00E55DL4I?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[F-22]

IMHO the near perfect multi driver does not exist:
- I want lots of bits (including Torx, Hex) all self contained and a cap that won't get lost. Why buy a multi tool if you have to go back to the toolbox to hunt down bits because they only give you 4-5. (tool should be self contained and portable). If I need a separate carrying case for the bits might as well use regular drivers.
- High quality bits
- A locking bit retainer that isn't too fat. (not a weak magnet)
- Ratcheting would be nice
- Ergonomic hard handle. The handle does not have to be small IMHO.
- A cap that locks secure (from drops) but easy to open to get the bits. (not a screw cap)

The Wiha 26 in 1 comes pretty close. Anything else come close?

I'd also like a companion multidriver that has double ended self contained 4" bits for accessing fasteners in recessed holes. Maybe 6-8 bits for 12-16 options.

I'd say the PB Swiss Insider models.

More bits that the competition, relatively easy to open, top quality bits, very strong magnet, very good ratchet, Swissgrip handle shape but in hard plastic, and the bits are easy to pull out and open but won't fall out easily.

E.g. the Wiha does store a bunch of bits but that style of bit retainment seems kind of weak to me (would snap if you drop it while open). The PB Swiss is simple and functional and very sleek.