Wera 838 RA-L ratcheting screwdriver

[SixThirtyTwo]

Is this a good ratcheting screwdriver? Or is there another (preferably less expensive) driver I should consider?

I'm not familiar with Wera's naming convention. I assume the following is true:

RA = ratcheting
L = large

I don't know what the numeric component denotes.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0DYP63RX1?tag=atomicindus08-20

One requirement is that it's compatible with the standard one-inch hex bits that I already own. I also don't like the type with a hollow-handle bit reservoirs.

I might just get a cheap ratcheting driver and put the money toward some high quality regular screwdrivers. Wera's Lasertip look interesting. Is there a basic set one of you might recommend that consists of the most "useful" (subjective) sizes to start with? Not precision drivers, as I already have plenty of those.

I'll try to clarify tomorrow if anyone takes the time to reply and the above was unclear.

 

[lu787a]

The recently released Klein Racheting Bit Holder has good reviews. The bit holder supposedly is compatible with almost all 1/4 hex bits and has little play. I'm not a big fan of the Wera Rapidaptor, I think the bits have too much slop in them.

https://www.amazon.com/32960ARCHT-Ratcheting-Screwdriver-Quick-Release-Double-Ended/dp/B0GYFVRYMP/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[YesIHaveAHammer]

The M size one is good. Good size for the pouch set it came in, but a little on the small size for self tappers sometimes.

One requirement is that it's compatible with the standard one-inch hex bits that I already own

It will be, but you'll be aware of the limitations of no shaft and short bits. My set came with their 89mm long bits.

 

[BWWgarage]

The recently released Klein Racheting Bit Holder has good reviews. The bit holder supposedly is compatible with almost all 1/4 hex bits and has little play. I'm not a big fan of the Wera Rapidaptor, I think the bits have too much slop in them.

https://www.amazon.com/32960ARCHT-Ratcheting-Screwdriver-Quick-Release-Double-Ended/dp/B0GYFVRYMP/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Just grabbed the Klein and really like it (used yesterday). Not compatible with 1” bits tho.

 

[Dave455]

Wera offer quite a lot of bit drivers that accept those “E6” style bits.

Not a bad idea, as the bits (particularly the longer ones) are fairly readily available, and the Wera bits are quite good quality.

The main issue with all of the current Wera drivers is their handles. The soft inserts I find simply awful in any “real world” situation. In any automotive application they pick up grease, then grit, and they are horrible to use. Difficult / impossible to clean too.

Even in a relatively clean environment, such as woodworking, I find that the handles get dirty and unpleasant to use. And over time the soft pads seem to decay and fragment.

Shame, as the Wera blades are really very durable, but I just can’t recommend the drivers overall.

 

[BWWgarage]

The snap on gets reviewed well. Williams could
Be the same and is only $40.

 

[bonneyman]

I recommend you give the EASYDRIVER a shot. I've been using one for years (still have my first one!) and it's never caused me a problem. Ball shape gives me good grip (especially helpful of late with arthritis), made of LEXAN so it's shock resistant, and has various attachments that allow bits, sockets, or normal screwdriver usage.
I tend to accumulate them.

 

[SixThirtyTwo]

To those who've taken the time to respond, I appreciate the suggestions and feedback I've received.

The snap on gets reviewed well. Williams could
Be the same and is only $40.

I've thought about that. I could get it for about $35 from Zoro with a coupon, which at this point is decidedly more probable than purchasing the Wera from the title. I'd just store the bits externally, which is my preference anyhow. I'm skeptical that there's anything special about it, even if it is identical to the Snap-On, but I haven't written it off.

I've temporarily shifted my attention to upgrading my general-purpose household screwdrivers. I've got plenty of respectable quality bit sets, but most of my individual screwdrivers aren't great. Because I've got a couple dozen receptacles and some light fixtures that need replacement, I've been looking at sets by Klein. I recently bought the Klein Tools 250th Edition Screwdriver Set from Lowe's, which was probably a bad idea, because most sets will result in duplicates.

Hmm... I bet there might even be one or two screwdriver threads in the GJ forums already. Nah.

 

[SixThirtyTwo]

The main issue with all of the current Wera drivers is their handles. The soft inserts I find simply awful in any “real world” situation. In any automotive application they pick up grease, then grit, and they are horrible to use. Difficult / impossible to clean too.

Even in a relatively clean environment, such as woodworking, I find that the handles get dirty and unpleasant to use. And over time the soft pads seem to decay and fragment.

I've seen many comments here expressing a distaste for Wera's handles, but none quite so detailed. Coupled with the high prices in the U.S., incomprehensible naming schemes, and (to me) obnoxious marketing, I think I have enough reasons to consider alternative screwdriver brands.

 

[CGarage]

Vessel ratcheting screwdriver with internal bit magazine in the handle is my favorite. The handle is clear plastic. It has the best mechanism and I think it superior to Snap-On. My only gripe is the shaft is a little short in length.

 

[SixThirtyTwo]

Vessel ratcheting screwdriver with internal bit magazine in the handle is my favorite. The handle is clear plastic. It has the best mechanism and I think it superior to Snap-On. My only gripe is the shaft is a little short in length.

Vessel Tools TD6808TX CRYSTALINE Ratchet Screwdriver with Insert Bits, 8 Pc.

Buy Vessel Tools TD6808TX CRYSTALINE Ratchet Screwdriver with Insert Bits, 8 Pc. with fast shipping and top-rated customer service Haus of Tools is your home for Tools

hausoftools.com

Is this the one you're referring to?

I don't know the best place(s) to order Vessel tools. The one above is inexpensive and shipping is supposedly free. Is that a trustworthy site?

Are Amazon's international sites (e.g., amazon.co.{,uk,de,jp}) still a good way to save money on (some) tool brands? The price in my cart didn't look too good on Amazon Germany when I last checked, but I never made to the checkout screen.

 

[CGarage]

I have bought several off of Amazon US for under $25 USD. I think one purchase was around $18 USD. IIRC.

Look up Vessel TD-6800.

There are a few different models offered by Vessel that come with different bits. The top of the line model comes with a red bit magazine with typical Philips and flat/chisel bits, and a green bit magazine with Torx bits (going off of memory).

There is also a stubby/shorty as well.

 

[KnurledNut]

@SixThirtyTwo
Is your intended use for a ratcheting screwdriver general purpose or application specific?
A little more detail might help with recommendations. Also it seems budget may matter?
There are a lot of good quality ones on the market, and while most of them would be okay for multiple tasks, some have features that may make them better for an individuals needs.

 

[lu787a]

Some folks complain about Haus of Tools, but I have had zero issues with them. I make sure to only order items that are in stock (see
image). If it says extended handling needed, I look elsewhere.

 

[Dave455]

I've seen many comments here expressing a distaste for Wera's handles, but none quite so detailed. Coupled with the high prices in the U.S., incomprehensible naming schemes, and (to me) obnoxious marketing, I think I have enough reasons to consider alternative screwdriver brands.

Some people seem to really hate the shape of the handle. Personally, I don’t mind it. I think it just depends on your hands.

But the soft inserts just don’t work. I overcame my prejudices and bought a couple with stainless steel blades. Superb blades. Maybe the best of the stainless. Great for any outdoor work, or poor fitting screw recesses that would damage plating.

But even reserved for clean work the handles get grubby, and the inserts just won’t wipe clean.

I’ve got mixed views about the Wiha handles, but they are considerably better. And of course both are mid price drivers in their own countries. I wouldn’t pay any sort of premium for either.