Best multi screwdriver

[Rod N]

I did a search and surprisingly nothing came up.
What is the best multi screwdriver?
Cost doesn't matter as my wife is tired of stripping screws.

 

[four.cycle]

recent thread on "multi bit drivers" (be sure to note the comments from @Fedwrench, who seems to have his finger on the button on this one.)

while these are not a tool I use frequently, I had an old one with the "screw-in cap" (that held four or five bits in the handle) and loved it.
(every tool company in the galaxy made some version of the same tool - the one from which the screw-in cap always gets lost.)
I'm more inclined to grab a ratchet or breaker and put a bit on it.

I recently received (from Secret Santa) a 77791 Wiha multi-bit driver, but I've been too busy going to doctors this month to have put it to use.
I sent out about half a dozen "Amigo" multi-bit drivers to "NOT Secret Santa" recipients, but other than my buddy (who LOVED his) I haven't heard any feedback from the others who received them.

 

[nadogail]

My "Screw in Cap" multi bit screwdriver was made by Vermont American, I bought it in 1984.

 

[Grokew]

Ok, if you want a pocketable, self contained multibit screwdriver, with good fitting bits, then the PBSwiss Insiders are good, but really expensive.

PB 6464 - Insider 1 Pocket Tool

If you need the bits to be long, and don't mind having to carry a small case, then the Wera Kraftform Kompact 40

https://www.amazon.com/Wera-Kraftform-Bitholding-Screwdriver-7-Piece/dp/B000X1UXXK/?tag=atomicindus08-20

or the Vessel 220w3j1 set.

https://www.amazon.com/VESSEL-BALL-Interchangeable-Screwdriver-220W3J1/dp/B00E55DL4I?tag=atomicindus08-20

If you want Long bits, but self contained then a Picquic.

https://www.amazon.com/Picquic-8810...-Resistant/dp/B0018IXS7A?tag=atomicindus08-20

I own the vessel 220w, and it's been great, but it only comes with PH 1 - PH3, Slotted 6mm - PH2 , and PZ1 - PZ3 double sided bits. I was able to remove some really stuck concrete anchors with the bits included, and it didn't strip them, it actually sheared the head of one of the anchors completely off, but never stripped it. :/

 

[LB-1911]

I did a search and surprisingly nothing came up.
What is the best multi screwdriver?
Cost doesn't matter as my wife is tired of stripping screws.

Give Megapro a look.

Home | Megapro Tools Multi-bit Screwdrivers | Canada

Megapro makes the best Multi-bit Screwdrivers as proven through non-stop messages of appreciation from customers and product reviewers. Find out why.

megaprotools.ca

Good Luck

ETA Link

Picquic – We still make'em like we used to

The Original Instant Multi. Is it the best? You decide. The original Picquic Professional or at-home use, the bit assortment you need most. Picquic, on a budget Shorter handle, shorter bits, nothing short

picquic.ca

 

[JradM]

It might be handy, before this spirals into a multi-page thread with no consensus, to consider whether you can narrow down your request a bit. There are so many different types of multi-bit screwdrivers that it's hard to just pick "the best".

E.g.:

• Do you want ratcheting or non-ratcheting?
• Insert bits, power bits or are you ok with a non-standard bit?
• Should the bits be capable of double-duty in an impact driver?
• Does the size of the screwdriver matter - do you want to be able to pocket it?
• Do you want to store the bits in the screwdriver?
• How many bits do you need? What variety?
• When you say the "cost doesn't matter", are you ok with a $100+ recommendation?
• Are there any special drive types you need?
• Does country of origin matter?

Those are a few factors that come to mind. I'm not trying to be difficult, but it's hard to pick "the best" without knowing what matters.

E.g. I love my Felo Smart multi-bit screwdriver set. The bits are double-ended, the handle converts to a T-handle for torque, the handle is comfy and the bits are precise. However, this is clearly the wrong recommendation if you want it to fit in your pocket or don't want to spend $150.



Picquic multi-bit screwdrivers are a more traditional design. They are excellent value and have high quality bits. They don't ratchet though.

 

[Bubba Fett]

Megapro - Holds bits in the handle. They have ratcheting drivers that are quite good. Made in USA or Canada (ratcheting versions). The Automotive Ratcheting is my favorite. The handle is comfortable, though it is a bit large. It's magnetic and takes standard insert bits, while the rest take double-ended ball detent bits.

Klein - Has a wide variety of multi-but drivers. Some ratcheting, some with nut drivers. Most are made in Taiwan, but are good quality. Their 11-in-1 is a favorite.

Picquic has a nice selection. Well made, good quality bits. They have push-through bit storage. Made in Canada.

Snap-On - A mechanic's favorite. Expensive, and bit storage isn't that great. Made in USA.

Williams - Nearly as good as the Snap-On driver, and made in the same factory, but for less than half the price.

Wiha - has wide range of drivers, which are generally highly regarded. Usually made in Germany.

Wera - has wide range of drivers, which are generally highly regarded. Usually made in Germany.

There's a lot of others, but off the top of my head, these are good ones. If you need a simple 6-in-1 driver, most hardware stores carry Lutz, often near the front counter. Available in several colors, and are excellent for the money.

 

[drtyler]

I'm not a huge Tekton fan, but I find their multibit drivers very handy. Quality seems fine.

6-in-1 Driver (#1 x 3/16 in., #2 x 1/4 in.) - Red | TEKTON

Multi-bit driver DMS18010 has 6 tools in 1: two Phillips, two slotted, and two nut driver sizes (3/16, 1/4 inch). DMS18010.

www.tekton.com

 

[Rod N]

Thanks for the replies.
Needs to have Robertson bits as I am in Canada as well as slot and Phillips.
No ratcheting.
All in one. I prefer the long bits on the side instead of in the handle, but not a deal breaker.
This will be in a drawer in my wife's craft room.
She will abuse it by maybe not using the right bit, not going at the fastener straight on etc. She won't use it as a hammer. lol
Not too worried about where it is made as long as it is quality.

 

[Davefr]

Wiha 26 in 1:
+ I don't know of any multi bit screwdriver with a whopping 26 on board bit options.
+ The bit retention is locking so no weak magnets or bits that fall out during the job
+ Wiha has a reputation of excellent quality bits
+ Good handle ergonomics and feel

- My only complaint is you really need to squeeze hard to get the cap to pop out. I guess the good news is that it won't pop out accidentally.

 

[JradM]

Thanks for the replies.
Needs to have Robertson bits as I am in Canada as well as slot and Phillips.
No ratcheting.
All in one. I prefer the long bits on the side instead of in the handle, but not a deal breaker.
This will be in a drawer in my wife's craft room.
She will abuse it by maybe not using the right bit, not going at the fastener straight on etc. She won't use it as a hammer. lol
Not too worried about where it is made as long as it is quality.

Sounds like a Picquic Sixpac Plus or Multique would fit the bill to me. They both have Robertson bits and the other usual selection of Phillips and flat.

The Sixpac is the "standard" Picquic and uses regular 1/4" hex bits - easy to find substitutes if you want a particular driver.

The Multique uses skinnier, non-standard bits, but the benefit is better access to recessed screws and a slimmer handle (which your wife might prefer if she has small hands).




Picquic's bits are very good quality, precise and better finished than most. Some, maybe all now, have a coating of some kind - maybe a thin layer of chrome? I'm not sure.

I'm not claiming they're up to PB Swiss standards, but I think they're a bargain. Plus if your wife ruins them, it's going to be <$20 for a new one.

P.s. Since you're in Canada, you may be familiar with the Mastercraft look-alike. That is NOT an equivalent product, despite the visual similarities.

 

[Rod N]

I thought Klein or other jobber types would be at the top, but most places recommend the Picquic.

 

[Paco Pena]

Thanks for the replies.
Needs to have Robertson bits as I am in Canada as well as slot and Phillips.
No ratcheting.
All in one. I prefer the long bits on the side instead of in the handle, but not a deal breaker.
This will be in a drawer in my wife's craft room.
She will abuse it by maybe not using the right bit, not going at the fastener straight on etc. She won't use it as a hammer. lol
Not too worried about where it is made as long as it is quality.

Picquic -look no further. I have one in just about every box or drawer.

Paco

 

[four.cycle]

@JradM - thanks for that. Seriously.
@Davefr - now I want to find a reason to use that thing! (In too much pain right now to do any work, unfortunately.)

One of the things Fedwrench mentioned in the other multi-bit driver thread was:

what happens when you drop it five feet onto a concrete floor?

Does the handle shatter?
Do the bits end up all over the shop floor?
That issue might be something worth considering for some of us.

 

[F-22]

I like my Vessel 230W. Its an impact-rated ball grip driver and uses extra long bits. I like that it's just a handle, no external shaft, so you can use both long and stubby bits and it feels like a regular screwdriver at that. The handle has a tang-thru steel design for the impact striking cap, so it also has some heft to it which I like a lot. And the ball grip feels very good in the hand.



Downside is no bit storage. But that's also why it is so solid. I have a nice Wera bit driver with in-handle storage and I really do not like to use it. Just feels flimsy and plastic-y

 

[Beauregard]

This is a great combo for around the house and craft room.

 

[RAS61]

I don't know if it's best, but I'm a big fan of the Milwaukee 11-1; well made, very comfortable handle, and not expensive. Great for doing odd jobs where you're not sure what type of fastener you'll have to deal with, and also has a wire stripper and gut hook for electrical work - saves a lot of trips back to the tool chest

11 IN 1 Multi-Tip Screwdriver

The 11 in 1 Screwdriver includes the 9 bits and nut drivers most requested by professionals.

www.milwaukeetool.com

 

[Rod N]

I picked this one up. I really expected to spend twice as much.

 

[drtyler]

@JradM - thanks for that. Seriously.
@Davefr - now I want to find a reason to use that thing! (In too much pain right now to do any work, unfortunately.)

One of the things Fedwrench mentioned in the other multi-bit driver thread was:

what happens when you drop it five feet onto a concrete floor?

Does the handle shatter?
Do the bits end up all over the shop floor?
That issue might be something worth considering for some of us.

I haven't seen a post by Fedwrench in that thread yet.

 

[four.cycle]

sorry... I'm not operating at 100% efficiency right now. got my wires crossed. it wasn't Fedwrench. it was bwringer.

I think Fedwrench commented on these in yet ANOTHER "multi bit holder" thread. I'll see if I can find it.

 

[four.cycle]

thread about "LTT" Ratcheting screwdriver (way too long, and way more information than anyone needs about a damn screwdriver.)

another thread on "multi-bit drivers" (not nearly as windy as the first one)

thread on "Screwdriver Decision Fatigue" which is way too long and was actually intended to be a discussion about regular ol' screwdrivers, not these fancy-schmantzy "multi-bit" gizmos

 

[richfinn]

I'm going to vote for the regular P B Swiss Ratchet screwdriver (no bit storage), if you pair this with something like a Facom R.180 kit (I believe ICON sell a version) all your bases are pretty much covered for bit driving tools.

 

[MWEric]

Based on the fact that you need Robertson bits, Picquic for the win. I’m pretty sure I got mine at Wal-Mart in Thunder Bay. Very easy to source.

 

[four.cycle]

@Rod N - it might be worth noting that both "Picquic" and "Megapro" are Canadian products:

Picquic / Picquic Tool Co. Inc., 110, 8383 Manitoba St., Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V5X 3A9 / http://picquic.ca/ / est. 1988 / "The Pic" multi-bit screwdriver / https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/threads/the-pic.523393/ /

Megapro / 5492 Production Blvd., Unit #5, Surrey, BC, V3S 8P5 / "Megapro" screwdriver / patent 5265504 Nov 30 1993 Hermann Fruhm & 7258046 Aug 21 2007 Hermann Fruhm and Waltherus Christianus Klomp / see also Winsire Enterprises, International Tool Mfg. /

The "Amigo" driver handles (available from Bowers Tool) were made BY Megapro. Shipping to Canada might be a deal-killer on that one, though.

 

[AJHD]

Where is the best place/source to buy Picquic screwdrivers? Amazon seems to have a few, but I think they're all 3rd party sellers.

 

[Chris Christiansen]

Where is the best place/source to buy Picquic screwdrivers? Amazon seems to have a few, but I think they're all 3rd party sellers.

I bought four Picquic screwdrivers at Tractor Supply Co (TSC) in Kansas USA just today. I cleaned them out! They had only the Dash 7 with Teenie Turner. $10.99 for the combo.

 

[16again]

You guys cost me more money.
Bad influence on me.
My first Picquic driver.

 

[AJHD]

You guys cost me more money.
Bad influence on me.
My first Picquic driver.

That's the one I want to buy. Where did you get it?

 

[16again]

That's the one I want to buy. Where did you get it?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0018IYTYQ?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[Wamsutta]

 

[House Doctor Ray]

Klein. I don't know what is different about them but the phillips doesn't slip or cam out.
The 11-in-1 has R1 and R2 so that'll work for you.

11-in-1 Multi-Bit Screwdriver/Nut Driver, Phillips, Slotted, Square, TORX® - 32500 | Klein Tools

This versatile 11-in-1 multi-tool has everything the professional needs. The integrated screwdriver / nut driver shaft holds 8 popular tips and converts to 3 nut driver sizes. The blades are interchangeable for quick and easy switch out. The Cushion-Grip™ handle allows for greater torque and...

www.kleintools.com

 

[rust in the eye]

No bit storage but this one, looks like a copy of the Hazet 810BH, came along with an engine oil gallery cleaning brush set.
Comfy grip on it.

Engine Brush Kit, 20-Piece

Amazing deals on this 20Pc Engine Brush Kit at Harbor Freight. Quality tools & low prices.

www.harborfreight.com

 

[bobg03]

I did a search and surprisingly nothing came up.
What is the best multi screwdriver?
Cost doesn't matter as my wife is tired of stripping screws.

I may be thinking outside the box, but it seems that his (or should i say her) problem is the bits and not solely the driver. I don't have the answer for what I'm thinking is the bigger problem here and the suggestions here are as always top notch. Just something to consider that for the OP the bits may be more important or just as important as the actual driver is.

 

[ObnoxiousFumes]

I really like the 15-in-1 driver that Rolgear makes, I keep one handy at all times. Gave one to my sister and she loves it, keeps it in a kitchen drawer. Made in Canada, and it has the Robertson bits. Also has a super slick ratchet mechanism.

 

[rust in the eye]

I may be thinking outside the box, but it seems that his (or should i say her) problem is the bits and not solely the driver. I don't have the answer for what I'm thinking is the bigger problem here and the suggestions here are as always top notch. Just something to consider that for the OP the bits may be more important or just as important as the actual driver is.

excellent point^
Regardless of bits there needs to be enough pressure applied too. A fat grip might help her

 

[jdl25]

Klein. I don't know what is different about them but the phillips doesn't slip or cam out.
The 11-in-1 has R1 and R2 so that'll work for you.

11-in-1 Multi-Bit Screwdriver/Nut Driver, Phillips, Slotted, Square, TORX® - 32500 | Klein Tools

This versatile 11-in-1 multi-tool has everything the professional needs. The integrated screwdriver / nut driver shaft holds 8 popular tips and converts to 3 nut driver sizes. The blades are interchangeable for quick and easy switch out. The Cushion-Grip™ handle allows for greater torque and...

www.kleintools.com

$14.50 on Amazon. Hard to beat.

 

[CGarage]

Vessel

 

[big bab bob]

Mac has a 134 pc set, works great, has every bit known to man (or wife) not cheap but good

 

[Snapped-off]

14-in-1 HVAC Adjustable-Length Impact Screwdriver with Flip Socket - 32304 | Klein Tools

The 14-in-1 HVAC Adjustable-Length Screwdriver features the most commonly used HVAC driver bits and nut drivers in one tool. Use as a screwdriver or as an impact driver attachment. Flip socket on end of blade has three positions for multiple functions. Great for tight spaces, impact driving and...

www.kleintools.com

14-in-1 Precision Screwdriver/ Nut Driver - 32314 | Klein Tools

Klein Tools’ 14-in-1 Precision Screwdriver / Nut Driver features 14 of the most common precision sizes in one tool. The Cushion-Grip™ handle and spin cap provide outstanding comfort and control. This smartly designed tool contains 6 sizes of integrated steel nut driver shafts that securely hold...

www.kleintools.com