Williams WRST8 Ratcheting Screwdriver, Comfort Grip T-Handle, 7-7/8" Blade

Product Information

Consider how much maintenance you’re comfortable doing. If you only plan on fixing a few furniture pieces, a model with six of the most widely used bits is all you need. Sometimes the model will have a handle that doubles as storage for the bits. 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. A ratcheting screwdriver is one of those tools you didn’t know you needed and then wondered how you did without. They are simple yet effective and popular with engineers, electricians, model makers, DIYers, and anyone else who works with screws or small nuts and bolts regularly. They are faster than a standard screwdriver and usually more comfortable to use. In this article, we examine the wide variety of models available and talk about the key features that will impact choice. We also closely examine what we think are the best ratcheting screwdrivers on the market right now. We also tested the wire stripper, and it easily removed the insulated sheath from household electrical wires, making the Milwaukee a beneficial tool for DIY electricians as well as for assembling furniture and other projects.

When shopping for the best ratcheting screwdriver, you may need to choose between a kit and a single screwdriver. When looking for the best ratcheting screwdriver, notice they come in different lengths. Standard-length models are around 7 or 8 inches. Stubby models are under 3 or 4 inches. You can also find longer models with long shafts and handles over 9 inches long. The Wera comes with six bits, including two Phillips-head bits, two square drivers, and two slotted drivers. The shaft also doubles as a ¼-inch nut driver. There are a handful of styles of ratcheting screwdrivers, so the results of our tests and this comprehensive guide let you know what’s out there before you start shopping. The main difference in style is how each screwdriver stores its interchangeable bits. There are benefits to each style, so it’s worth giving some consideration. Bits in the HandleCraftsman has a long history of producing quality tools. This screwdriver is no exception. Its three-setting ratchet adjustment makes tightening or loosening a breeze. It also sports three grip zones specialized for speed, maximum torque, and delicate operations. There are also many styles of bit. Typically slotted, Phillips, and Torx (also called star) will be provided, but others may be included. While they can always be bought as extras, it’s useful to have the ones you need most supplied with the screwdriver. 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. All the ratcheting screwdrivers we looked at have a similar mechanism, but there are a number of individual features that are likely to have an impact on your choice. The following section explains them in depth. Operation & comfort There are 12 single bits, which some people prefer to the double-ended type. They are slotted, Phillips, Torx, and hex. All of them can be stored within the handle. The shaft tip is magnetic to hold them in place, though some owners felt the strength was rather weak. The ratchet mechanism itself also came in for occasional criticism with a few owners experiencing jams or breakages. What to consider when shopping for the best ratcheting screwdrivers

Every so often, you’ll need to clean your ratcheting screwdriver. Keeping tools clean is a great way to extend the life of your tools. If the screwdriver isn’t too dirty, you can simply wipe them down with stainless steel wipes. Tools that need a deeper cleaner are better suited to the use of WD-40. You should also use WD-40 on any comfort grip handles, as these handles absorb the chemicals found in other products, which can cause them to wear out prematurely.

Williams WRS-1 Stainless Steel Magnetic Ratcheting Screwdriver

Klein Tools has been around since 1857, and most of its manufacturing, including its screwdrivers, is done in the US. They have a reputation for durable, high-quality equipment that is particularly popular with professional electricians. The quality of the grip influences the durability and comfort during use. A good driver will have a sturdy handle that can take a beating. It should also have a rubberized grip to prevent discomfort while using the screwdriver. Ratcheting screwdrivers aren’t new technology. One of the first popular models was the “Yankee,” manufactured by North Bros and first marketed in 1895. Not much has changed in the ratcheting function since then. A single screwdriver is a far more streamlined tool than a ratcheting screwdriver kit. The bits all fit inside or on the handle, allowing you to keep everything with you. The issue is that you simply won’t get as many bits as you would with a kit. Also, when storing all of those bits on board, single ratcheting screwdrivers tend to be heavier. Ratcheting Mechanism The directional collar on the Bahco switches directions smoothly, and the screwdriver’s ratcheting action is smooth. We inserted screws into pine, ash, and walnut boards, and the Bahco didn’t miss a beat, even when we exerted force. There’s a tiny bit of play in the shaft, which we would have preferred not to be there, but it wasn’t enough to affect the tool’s performance.