ABSTIFFGS
Well-known member
Have had a few over the years. Never really use them.
Do you use a ratcheting screwdriver?
- Thread starter Jacobson
- Start date
I knew I forgot one. I have pretty much all the GW ratcheting kits. I don't use them as screwdrivers most of the time though, they're mostly used as ratcheting nut drivers. They are very nice and if I had bought them first I wouldn't need any other, but probably would still have bought them anyway.
If I had a complaint about those GW sets, they're almost too much. I have TONS of extensions and pieces when really all I need is the handle and one 4" extension.
Qualitytools
Well-known member
Oh Man! Jim C. I had this screwdriver and I loved it. I lost it at work and can not find another like it at sears, this thing was simple and GREAT. I have 2 Snap-Ons one black and one red and I use them all the time whether I am changing an outlet at home or working under the hood. I love my ratcheting screwdrivers but I sure miss my Craftsman.
I have a couple. One's the ratcheting handle with the gear wrench driver kit (screwdriver/torx/nutdriver). The other was a no name that came with a pc repair kit. I've used both quite a bit and prefer them to standard screwdrivers. The gear wrench handle has a 3 positions, ratcheting tension for tightening/loosening and a center position to lock it to a standard driver (non ratcheting). It just makes screw or hex cap screws that much easier. Especially when you have a long extension or long bit deep into a nook or cranny and prefer to leave the driver in place and not have to get back on the screw or use two hands. Personal preference I guess.
DeliveryGuy
Well-known member
No one ever asks to borrow it!
It bothers me that the Snap On ratchet screwdrivers roll away when laid down.
It bothers me that the Snap On ratchet screwdrivers roll away when laid down.
Sine Swept
Well-known member
- Joined
- Feb 2, 2014
- Messages
- 440
^ Then you need to get a soft grip handle instead.
I also realized that I have a hollow nut driver set made by Signet. The Signet shanks fit perfectly in my SO. It came with 6 shanks 6mm-12mm.
http://www.signetcanada.com/gearwrench10.htm
I also realized that I have a hollow nut driver set made by Signet. The Signet shanks fit perfectly in my SO. It came with 6 shanks 6mm-12mm.
http://www.signetcanada.com/gearwrench10.htm
Snap on standard and stubby ones are my go to drivers for all purposes. Not only do they have very light resistance on retract motion, but really what I love is spinning the shaft by hand. Apply light pressure on the handle with one hand, spin the shaft with the other. Very fast to drive a screw or bolt. Also I do the same with just one hand but I've got screwing skills.
I have a cheap Craftsman with the red handle that I've been using for years. I like it a lot. They're very useful to me, both around the house and on my car. They come with all kind of bits and have a magnetic tip. I've dropped it from 5 ft. countless time and it's still going. $20 well spent.
Dust Devil
Well-known member
The stubby Snap-On with interchangable shafts.
Awesome. I keep 3 (one each color) on my cart.
Awesome. I keep 3 (one each color) on my cart.
Hey Q tools,
Unfortunately I haven't seen that model of ratcheting screwdriver at Sears in many years. I received it as a Christmas gift way back when anyone could walk into any Sears tool department and without even trying, buy a durable, affordable, made in the USA tool like that screwdriver. I miss those days. Anyway, I know that I've been using it for at least twenty years. It's not a tool I use every day, but when I need a screwdriver, that's usually the one I reach for first. I also remember that I liked the thing so much, I bought one for my dad for Father's Day right after I got mine a few months earlier for Christmas. I know my dad still has his because I used it this past weekend at his house. Like you said, it really is a GREAT tool. If I ever do see another one, I'll pick it up and send it your way.
Jim C.
espyking83
Well-known member
What do you consider cheap? Bahcos and Williams are phenomenal and under$35. Gearwrench makes a good one with bits and several shanks that you can get for ~$30 on Amazon.
And yes, I use them every damned day. They're a must have if you work with any types of panelS.
And yes, I use them every damned day. They're a must have if you work with any types of panelS.
Last edited:
angrystroker
Banned
They were once called Yankee screw drives .
Art From De Leon
Well-known member
I don't recall using them when I worked at the JD dealers I was at, but they are the only type I use at the house.
I especially like my ratcheting "T" Handled Snap-on.
I especially like my ratcheting "T" Handled Snap-on.
Tronyadorable
Banned
- Joined
- Sep 25, 2014
- Messages
- 1,170
Yankee is "stuff the fat *** on and it drives the screw itself"
http://www.garrettwade.com/improved-yankee-style-screwdrivers/p/08C03.01/
logixjock
Well-known member
do people still do this in 2014 with 800 lumen Cree headlamps that can be purchased for $36 including the 3400mAh rechargeable Li-ion batteries?
I'd rather close my **** in a car door than wear a headlamp.
MikeF2316
Well-known member
Oh Wow!!!
I don't like them either, but I might wear on all day in public rather than your alternative
maxwage
Well-known member
I have a few. My favorite is the Megapro. They make several different varieties geared toward different trades. Great Canadian craftsmanship and good design. I want a Wera Kraftform.
BioNerd
Well-known member
Fuiuuuude!! I was checking at a kobalt double ratcheting driver review and I stumbled upon this one mayor super awesome review:
VG
Kobalt 29 Piece Double-drive Screwdriver Set Model # 0362632
I've been looking for this ratcheting screwdriver for a while and it's always sold out or not in stock. There is a reason why, it's a very well-designed tool for a life-time of use. You can either drive the screw with your wrist or use your thumb and fore-finger for starting the screw, the double-drive. The screwdriver has a thumb set to set the drive mechanism to either direction, left or right. The double-drive gives your wrist motion double the driving capacity, but you have to grasp the driver with both hands for it to work. OK, to get the double action, moving your wrist right, then left, while holding the blue collar you get the same direction of torque.
With this set there is included a flexible-steel flat spring shaft for driving screws on an angle and a drive/bit set. There are 20 bits with 1/4-inch hex shaft and 6 nut drivers with a 1/4-inch hex shaft sizes 3/16, 1/4, 9/32, 5/16, 11/32, and 3/8-inch hex. The ergonomic handle has a screw top base that can hold a variety of bits or screws and it has a slip-resistant rubber grip.
29 piece Set includes: 1 piece Double-driver screwdriver handle, 1 piece 150mm flexible shaft. 20 piece CRV 1" bits with plastic dispenser - Sand blasted. 6 piece Power nut driver bits - Sand blasted. Kobalt Lifetime Hassle-Free Guarantee.
This tool should be in every toolbox, if you don't have it, get it. This screwdriver is excellent for setting corner screws that are counter sunk in cabinet construction. Also, for getting into corners when setting blinds in windows. For bicycle repair, this tool would prove very valuable as you can use it with the nut drivers and be one your way quickly. I've used this screwdriver often over the last 3 years, and it is a handy tool. My original screwdriver was stolen and finding a replacement proved more difficult than I thought, but when I found it on Amazon, I knew not to wait. I'm glad that I have my old-new tool back. The Kobalt double-drive screwdriver is well-engineered. The double-drive is easy to use and can be accomplished with your fingers or hands depending on your strength. Once you get comfortable using this screwdriver you'll want to use it more and more. You will not want to be without it, once you own one. The only problem that I see is the price, get it at the big box home store. The ratchet mechanism is solid and will withstand all the torque that your hand can administer to the tool itself. This would be an excellent gift for the handyman in the family. The combination of bits that comes with this screwdriver, gives you greater flexibility and being a standard 1/4-inch hex shaft, you probably have bits that would fit this screwdriver in your toolbox, giving you even more flexibility.
If I were wanting any improvements to the Kobalt double-drive, I would add a collar to the end of the magnetic shaft tip to make sure the bits were solidly in place, even with the magnetic tip, so as not to leave the bit and screw together when finishing your work, much like the Stanley 69-189 multi-bit's collar.. Also, in the Kobalt double-driver's handle, I would re-engineer a better bit holder that would rotate to hold a greater assortment of bits and drivers, like the Craftsman 9-41796. Making it very handy to find the bit that you'd need for the job at hand. I would put a recessed spring loaded button in the cap, that would activate once the cap was opened, to eject the bit I needed, very similar to a detent. The third improvement would be interchangeable shaft lengths using a detent fastener for the driver, much like the Stanley 66-358 stubby in length or an even greater length if needed. Making it very handy to get closer to really tight spots. If Kobalt makes these improvements, you would have a very versitile multi-bit driver, indeed.
Update: 10/24/12
What I found available are bit drivers from Megapro, that are close. They are sold here on Amazon just type in their name and you will find drivers for all kinds of different job disciplines. They have shaft extensions and a ratcheting driver, the pull-out bit cartridge in the handle rotates, but nothing that is an all-in-one device. Megapro is made in South Bend, Indiana. The high-quality bits may have multi-country origin,(PL Robertson bits).
Wera also makes a neat tool, called the Wera Kraftform Kompakt. Just type in their name and you will see it available on Amazon. One interesting aspect of this tool is the bayonet shaft, leave it to the Germans to make a useful hand tool that can be both hand and power compatible.
Kobalt has an auto loading 2 piece bit driver set and Lawson has the "Lawson Loader" screwdriver, while Franklin Tools has the "Auto Loader" which is a pump-action loading mechanism with only 6 bits that can be adjusted to your job preference.
Schroeder 1.184.1 pivoting/ratcheting multi bit is an interesting option. Just type it in on Amazon and it should come up. This is what my father uses for his pet projects and he wouldn't be without it.
So, there you have it, there is a wide variety to choose from, both German and domestic and the price has a wide range as well. I'm sure that there are even more manufacturers of Multi bit screwdrivers out there, both ratcheting and not, so, depending upon what you use a screwdriver for, there seems to be one for the specific job, but make sure, if you are using it for electrical work, that it is rated for that purpose. Most of these are for general purpose work as they are NOT insulated. The tools should be clearly marked, but if you are unsure, have them tested before you use them. Screwdrivers for electrical work will have a phrase, "Meets insulation test standards to IEC 900, with the load capacity, responds to OSHA's use specification 29 CFR1910."
Caveat:
To reduce the risk of injury, user must read, understand and follow the tool instructions manual before operating product. Always use ANSI Z87.1 eye protection and proper respiratory protection in appropriate situations. Keep hands, body and loose fitting clothing clear of sharp edges and moving parts. The Kobalt Double Drive does NOT meet: Voltage Rating 1000, nor do they Meet/Exceed ASTM F-1505.94, IEC 900 and VDE 0682/2
VG
Kobalt 29 Piece Double-drive Screwdriver Set Model # 0362632
I've been looking for this ratcheting screwdriver for a while and it's always sold out or not in stock. There is a reason why, it's a very well-designed tool for a life-time of use. You can either drive the screw with your wrist or use your thumb and fore-finger for starting the screw, the double-drive. The screwdriver has a thumb set to set the drive mechanism to either direction, left or right. The double-drive gives your wrist motion double the driving capacity, but you have to grasp the driver with both hands for it to work. OK, to get the double action, moving your wrist right, then left, while holding the blue collar you get the same direction of torque.
With this set there is included a flexible-steel flat spring shaft for driving screws on an angle and a drive/bit set. There are 20 bits with 1/4-inch hex shaft and 6 nut drivers with a 1/4-inch hex shaft sizes 3/16, 1/4, 9/32, 5/16, 11/32, and 3/8-inch hex. The ergonomic handle has a screw top base that can hold a variety of bits or screws and it has a slip-resistant rubber grip.
29 piece Set includes: 1 piece Double-driver screwdriver handle, 1 piece 150mm flexible shaft. 20 piece CRV 1" bits with plastic dispenser - Sand blasted. 6 piece Power nut driver bits - Sand blasted. Kobalt Lifetime Hassle-Free Guarantee.
This tool should be in every toolbox, if you don't have it, get it. This screwdriver is excellent for setting corner screws that are counter sunk in cabinet construction. Also, for getting into corners when setting blinds in windows. For bicycle repair, this tool would prove very valuable as you can use it with the nut drivers and be one your way quickly. I've used this screwdriver often over the last 3 years, and it is a handy tool. My original screwdriver was stolen and finding a replacement proved more difficult than I thought, but when I found it on Amazon, I knew not to wait. I'm glad that I have my old-new tool back. The Kobalt double-drive screwdriver is well-engineered. The double-drive is easy to use and can be accomplished with your fingers or hands depending on your strength. Once you get comfortable using this screwdriver you'll want to use it more and more. You will not want to be without it, once you own one. The only problem that I see is the price, get it at the big box home store. The ratchet mechanism is solid and will withstand all the torque that your hand can administer to the tool itself. This would be an excellent gift for the handyman in the family. The combination of bits that comes with this screwdriver, gives you greater flexibility and being a standard 1/4-inch hex shaft, you probably have bits that would fit this screwdriver in your toolbox, giving you even more flexibility.
If I were wanting any improvements to the Kobalt double-drive, I would add a collar to the end of the magnetic shaft tip to make sure the bits were solidly in place, even with the magnetic tip, so as not to leave the bit and screw together when finishing your work, much like the Stanley 69-189 multi-bit's collar.. Also, in the Kobalt double-driver's handle, I would re-engineer a better bit holder that would rotate to hold a greater assortment of bits and drivers, like the Craftsman 9-41796. Making it very handy to find the bit that you'd need for the job at hand. I would put a recessed spring loaded button in the cap, that would activate once the cap was opened, to eject the bit I needed, very similar to a detent. The third improvement would be interchangeable shaft lengths using a detent fastener for the driver, much like the Stanley 66-358 stubby in length or an even greater length if needed. Making it very handy to get closer to really tight spots. If Kobalt makes these improvements, you would have a very versitile multi-bit driver, indeed.
Update: 10/24/12
What I found available are bit drivers from Megapro, that are close. They are sold here on Amazon just type in their name and you will find drivers for all kinds of different job disciplines. They have shaft extensions and a ratcheting driver, the pull-out bit cartridge in the handle rotates, but nothing that is an all-in-one device. Megapro is made in South Bend, Indiana. The high-quality bits may have multi-country origin,(PL Robertson bits).
Wera also makes a neat tool, called the Wera Kraftform Kompakt. Just type in their name and you will see it available on Amazon. One interesting aspect of this tool is the bayonet shaft, leave it to the Germans to make a useful hand tool that can be both hand and power compatible.
Kobalt has an auto loading 2 piece bit driver set and Lawson has the "Lawson Loader" screwdriver, while Franklin Tools has the "Auto Loader" which is a pump-action loading mechanism with only 6 bits that can be adjusted to your job preference.
Schroeder 1.184.1 pivoting/ratcheting multi bit is an interesting option. Just type it in on Amazon and it should come up. This is what my father uses for his pet projects and he wouldn't be without it.
So, there you have it, there is a wide variety to choose from, both German and domestic and the price has a wide range as well. I'm sure that there are even more manufacturers of Multi bit screwdrivers out there, both ratcheting and not, so, depending upon what you use a screwdriver for, there seems to be one for the specific job, but make sure, if you are using it for electrical work, that it is rated for that purpose. Most of these are for general purpose work as they are NOT insulated. The tools should be clearly marked, but if you are unsure, have them tested before you use them. Screwdrivers for electrical work will have a phrase, "Meets insulation test standards to IEC 900, with the load capacity, responds to OSHA's use specification 29 CFR1910."
Caveat:
To reduce the risk of injury, user must read, understand and follow the tool instructions manual before operating product. Always use ANSI Z87.1 eye protection and proper respiratory protection in appropriate situations. Keep hands, body and loose fitting clothing clear of sharp edges and moving parts. The Kobalt Double Drive does NOT meet: Voltage Rating 1000, nor do they Meet/Exceed ASTM F-1505.94, IEC 900 and VDE 0682/2
Yes, quite often, very handy for around the house repair, access pannels, misc electrical. The standard snap on one is very high quality, but if you had to buy new I would go for either the williams hard or the snap on soft handle.
I'd like to try a pistol grip style next, like the PB swiss or wera, but can't justify the need ATM, especially for just a trial.
I'd like to try a pistol grip style next, like the PB swiss or wera, but can't justify the need ATM, especially for just a trial.
I have a Snap-On and like it. It's very handy.
Same.
Dmar836
Well-known member
Something not yet mentioned is the full length hex shaft on so many screwdrivers - Wera, etc. The idea of a hex below the handle is fine, and might rarely be useful, but I have worked on both aircraft and motorcycles where that hex shaft, particularly on longer drivers, rubs against a painted surface and grinds like a bit. The round shafts don't tend to do this.
JMO,
Dave
JMO,
Dave
Qualitytools
Well-known member
BioNerd
Well-known member
Thanks to this thread, I ended up buying a Stanley to replace my old beat up husky....
SweetD
Well-known member
I have the Williams model blue-handled and I love it. Don't use it that often, but comes in very handy when needed. Just bought it this year. As usual, 'right tool for the job'...
Dave
Dave
nicksnothereman
Well-known member
Oddly they're worse for my wrist. Dunno why?!?
Actually I don't mind the kobalt double drive as a bit driver but damn bulky and not top down so clearance issues. I don't mind using a ratchet as a bit driver; nowadays I use that setup more than I used to. Usually use my ultra lightweight 3/8 ratchet in that setup.
Actually I don't mind the kobalt double drive as a bit driver but damn bulky and not top down so clearance issues. I don't mind using a ratchet as a bit driver; nowadays I use that setup more than I used to. Usually use my ultra lightweight 3/8 ratchet in that setup.
NorthSea92
Well-known member
Very seldom, I've got a few Snap On ones and they are all like new. The only time I ever use the ratchet screwdrivers is if I'm working away from my box and need lots of different sizes.
Probably got well over 60 screwdrivers in my box and only 5 ever get used,
PH2, T25, T27, T30 and the big slotted one
Probably got well over 60 screwdrivers in my box and only 5 ever get used,
PH2, T25, T27, T30 and the big slotted one
Agree. Also noticed some shafts are turned down past the bit socket. Snap On's are like this. Some feature a constant section thick shank, which i find gets in the way.
Sirnick
Active member
I have 2 MegaPro's, the 211R1C36RD and 171BK/RD-R. Both take the standard 1/4" bits. I have had these a couple of years now, and my only gripe so far is that the handles are ginormous. I always thought ratcheting screwdriver were gimmicky but these are my go to screwdrivers now.
orca8589
Well-known member
I always thought ratcheting drivers were gimmicky, but then I inherited one from my father-in-law, and I've warmed up to them. My go-to driver was a (non-ratcheting) Vermont-American 1/4" hex driver, and then I tried out my dad's old Popular Mechanics ratcheting driver, and surprisingly I liked it a lot. (I now wish I'd bought that Craftsman driver years ago that Jim C. has the pic of.)
I really wanted a Snap-on ratcheting screwdriver, and got a good deal on one from a member here. I also bought the GearWrench set here, but the Snap-on has a more comfortable handle IMHO.
My late father-in-law's Popular Mechanics ratcheting driver (I think from the early 90's.) One of those "buy-a-subscription-and-get-a-free-gift" deals. As far as I know all the bits are original.
GearWrench ratcheting driver set - very nice set, more extensions than I'll ever use, but the handle is just way too large, IMHO.
I really wanted a Snap-on ratcheting screwdriver, and got a good deal on one from a member here. I also bought the GearWrench set here, but the Snap-on has a more comfortable handle IMHO.
My late father-in-law's Popular Mechanics ratcheting driver (I think from the early 90's.) One of those "buy-a-subscription-and-get-a-free-gift" deals. As far as I know all the bits are original.
GearWrench ratcheting driver set - very nice set, more extensions than I'll ever use, but the handle is just way too large, IMHO.
BioNerd
Well-known member
Have you guys seen the Lee Valley ones?
http://www.leevalley.com/us/wood/page.aspx?p=61117&cat=1,43411,43417&ap=1
A regular and a micro sized one, both for $23.50?
Their assorment of bits is rather generous. They look like standard bits to me.
Anyone owns one or a set?
http://www.leevalley.com/us/wood/page.aspx?p=61117&cat=1,43411,43417&ap=1
A regular and a micro sized one, both for $23.50?
Their assorment of bits is rather generous. They look like standard bits to me.
Anyone owns one or a set?
but the bonus of having a full length hex shank all the way down is not only strength and extra material. but a place to grab with a wrench or adjustable, or like i do, a small pair of knipex pliers wrench, to aid in breaking loose fasteners that you might not be able to get by hand because they were driven in with a power tool last time. or by a guy using the long end of an allen wrench.
theres a plus and minus side to a lot of tools.
No, but for most of the screws I deal with I only need to use the screwdriver handle to crack the screw loose, then apply a rolling motion to the blade of the screwdriver with my fingertips and the screw is out in about two seconds. I can imagine that if you were screwing into something like wood where there is a lot of friction the whole way, a ratcheting screwdriver would save time. But do your wrists a favor and get a cordless bit driver.