Tamiya Ratcheting Screwdriver Pro
FEATURES
One of Tamiya’s newest tool releases is the Ratcheting Screwdriver Pro, a precision screwdriver featuring a 72-tooth ratcheting mechanism. This fine-tooth ratcheting mechanism provides a precise feel when in use, and when combined with the integrated Quick Rotation grip it makes fast and easy work out of tightening and loosening screws. The Ratcheting Screwdriver Pro comes with a magnetized, chrome-vanadium 100mm long #2 cross-type bit that works with Phillips style screws. The overall design of the screwdriver is meant to fit in the palm of your hand, while the Quick Rotation grip sits right at your fingertips. The Ratcheting Screwdriver Pro is compatible with Tamiya’s other quick-detach bits, including their 7mm wheel hex driver (sold separately).
TESTING
The first thing I noticed with the Ratcheting Screwdriver Pro handle is that it’s very comfortable. It has an ergonomic shape that sits nicely in the palm of the hand. There is a small switch located on the side of the screwdriver that changes the direction of the ratcheting mechanism, allowing you to go from tightening to loosening quickly and easily, and a 3rd option to lock it completely when the ratcheting function is not needed. The Quick Rotation grip feature is great too. It sits perfectly at my fingertips and makes some of the more precise tightening work really simple, especially for some to of the smaller screws that don’t require a whole lot of torque.
The rubber finish on the outside of the screwdriver is firm, but still has a slight amount of give to make the overall handle nice and comfortable.
What really sets the Ratcheting Screwdriver Pro apart from the rest is its 72T ratcheting mechanism. If you haven’t used a fine-tooth ratcheting tool before, they’re an amazing thing to have at your disposal. The 72T mechanism on this screwdriver reminds me very much of some of the high-end Snap-on ratchets that I use on full size cars. That level of precision is a welcome addition to my toolbox any day.
Another feature that makes this screwdriver great is that you can easily swap out the bits with
Tamiya’s other bit options. In case they don’t have the specific type of bit you’re looking for the Ratcheting Screwdriver Pro handle will fit any 1/4in quick detach bit with a standard length shank, which unlocks a ton of possibilities for this screwdriver handle. Overall, this is a great versatile tool to add to your collection.