The Workpro Ratcheting Screwdriver features a nonslip grip and solid feel, making it easy to get a firm grasp on the handle. The tool stores six 3.5-inch double-ended bits in its base, which gave us 12 different bits to choose from, including slotted, Phillips head, star, and Torx. The bits themselves are magnetic—rather than the head—but they remained firmly in the tool, even when we shook it upside down. Consider buying the Megapro Ratcheting Screwdriver if you want more bits than the Wera model above offers. The Megapro Ratcheting Screwdriver includes six bits with a tip on both ends for a total of 12 options, including Philips, slotted, square, and torx heads. The onboard bit storage is also great. Pull the end cap to extend the revolver-like bit storage. We tested the Milwaukee’s ratcheting action on a variety of boards, and it didn’t bog down even when we used maximum force inserting screws into walnut wood. Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement. The WorkPro 12-In-1 Ratcheting Screwdriver feels and performs like a tool that should cost nearly twice as much.

Makita P-79142 Screwdriver and Ratchet Set (12-Piece)

All-in-ones keep it simple, doing the job of many tools without clutter, and are always ready to use. Ergonomics We appreciate how the six dual-sided bits slide into the storage slots. Some similar models hold the bits too tightly, making it hard to slide bits out. But the WorkPro 12-In-1 Ratcheting Screwdriver’s storage slots are sized well, and swapping bits on the fly is easy The bits storage and ratcheting mechanism show the build quality. First, the six included bits hide in the barrel, which is excellent for the overall design. We were impressed when lightly pressing a button on the butt of the screwdriver, and a hidden bit storage compartment satisfyingly springs open to reveal the six bits.The approach to bit storage is both convenient and a potential downside. The bits can be stored loosely when untwisting the end cap or placed in the carrying case in dedicated slots. These storage options add convenience since you can carry the tool as an all-in-one with the bits stored onboard, and there’s a reduced risk of losing the bits. Some ratcheting screwdrivers store bits loosely in the handle by twisting off an end cap. This design approach is good for portability, but it can be annoying with the bits shaking around. Plus, when swapping bits, you need to pour out all the bits onto your work surface, which isn’t ideal. This ratcheting screwdriver has good ergonomics and includes a wide array of bits. The almost egg-like grip fits well in your hand, and there are rubberized knobs for greater torque and gripping power. We also appreciate that it includes a few useful bits beyond the standard Philips and slotted heads. You’ll get seven nut driver bits ranging in size from 3/16” to 7/16”. But sets aren’t as portable and typically require some tool set up before use since the screwdriver typically can’t be stored in the case with a bit inserted. If you’re looking for a heavy-duty ratcheting screwdriver capable of frequent use, consider the Wera Kraftform Kompakt RA Screwdriver. This ratcheting screwdriver has secure in-handle storage for your bits. It also has an ergonomically designed grip for comfortable use and plenty of torque.

Makita 47-Piece Ratchet Screwdriver and Bit Set | Robert Dyas

As opposed to storing your bits inside the handle, several models come with storage on the handle. These models have slots or holes for holding the bits right in the grip. They either clip into place or slide in from the bottom of the handle. Budget models will typically forego premium materials for plastic and straighter grips. More premium models can have better ergonomics with grippier materials and finishes and more thoughtfully-designed curvatures to hold the ratcheting screwdriver confidently with more torque. Shaft and grip types Working days are defined as Monday-Friday 8am-7pm inclusive, excluding Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays. Next Day & Named Day Delivery The benefit of storing the bits in the handle is that it’s harder to lose them. As long as the cap stays shut, the bits are secure, even if they pop out of their clips. The downside is that switching between bits stored in the handle does create some downtime. Also, these bits are often smaller and harder to grip. Bits on the Handle The MulWark is made to insert and remove fasteners where there’s very little room to maneuver. Although it was the smallest ratcheting screwdriver we tested, we were able to insert screws in different types of wood—even in walnut—without the ratcheting mechanism failing. But because the MulWark is intended for use with fingers, not a fist grip, our fingers wore out before the tool did. For those times when you need to insert fasteners behind a mounted flat screen or in another tight spot, the MulWark shines.On the larger Klein Tools screwdriver, using strong force to insert a screw into a walnut board was more than it could take, and the ratcheting mechanism broke. We tested the Workpro by inserting screws in a variety of wood types, and it came through with flying colors—even when we used maximum force and dense walnut wood. We then tested the tool on a range of fasteners and found the bits are well made and appear to be hardened steel. Each of the ratcheting screwdrivers we tested was pushed to its limits so we could get a good idea of how it would perform over time and in various situations. With each tool, we inserted screws into three types of wood—pine, ash, and walnut—to see whether the ratcheting action would stand up to the different densities. Not all screwdrivers will have their torque rating clearly displayed, but durable models can handle around 50 newton meters (nm) or about 36 foot-pounds of torque. Taking a screwdriver beyond its torque capacity will usually break the pawl or shave teeth off the ratcheting gear, making the screwdriver useless. Length