Klein Tools has launched an updated mini bit ratchet, model 65200MAG.
Klein doesn’t send out press or media communications anymore, but luckily some retailers have functional “what’s new” product listings.
From what I can tell, this model, 65200MAG, is very similar to the one that launched a few years ago, 65200, but with a couple of differences.
Advertisement
To start off, it costs more. The new model Klein bit ratchet is priced at $22, vs $17 for the older model. So what does the extra $5 get you?
Well, it has a new ratcheting head mechanism.
From what I can tell from going back and forth between product copy, the new one has a slim profile and magnetic head. It indeed does look to be shorter than the older tool.
Additionally, this Klein bit ratchet has a 90-tooth ratcheting mechanism, which allows for a slightly finer swing arc compared to the older 72-tooth tool.
Also, they redesigned the included bit holder, which can be attached to the bit ratchet. This allows for more compact carry.
Milwaukee’s bit ratchet has a portable bit holder/caddy.
Advertisement
Klein’s older/original bit ratchet came with bit storage, but there was no easy way to tether it to the tool.
The new model looks to be much-improved in that regard.
Thus, the higher price gets you a lower profile higher-tooth ratcheting mechanism with strong magnet (rather than a ring magnet), plus the new style of connectable bit holder.
The older model had built-in 1/4″ and 5/16″ nut driver heads. You lose the 5/16″ socket with this newer version.
It comes with (3) 1/4″ hex screwdriver bits – Phillips #2, 1/4″ slotted, square #2, and also (1) 1/4″ square drive adapter.
Price: $22
James
I have the old one and love it. It absolutely shines in tight spaces and the finger hole is glorious.
I never knew the backside hole was a 5/16” nut driver but I can tell you I put the bit in backwards just about every time I use it, so closing up that hole makes things more user friendly.
Bit storage: I guess if this is the only tool in your pocket or something then the upgraded bit storage is handy, but clipping bits to tools does not seem at all practical for my use cases. I want more bits than are present and I much prefer to have them all in a Railer case or similar and then toss it all in a bag.
Nathan
The bit clip doesn’t interest much but overall I like it. Would buy
I like the finertooth at 1/4 size. I could see putting that in a bike kit
Jared
I doubt you would notice the difference between 72 and 90 teeth in a ratchet of this size, but it’s a good marketing point. The swing arc difference would be very small. It’s another matter when you get more teeth on an XL 1/2″ ratchet.
The closed-cap with a magnet is probably nice to use. I generally prefer bit ratchets that don’t add any height to the bit, but more options is better and that style can’t be magnetic.
I like the new model overall. As a pocketable tool, adding a clip-on bit holder is a fantastic upgrade.
Jared
I was just looking at the photos again – are those stubby bits it comes with? That would also be nice. It would mitigate any extra height from the tool for at least those four bits.
Stubby bits (like Vim’s half-cut) are hard to find and unreasonably expensive. It doesn’t make any sense to me why there aren’t cheap knock-offs. Just shortening the average 1-inch 1/4″ hex bit doesn’t seem like it would be a patentable improvement.