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.
Nathan
I find the smaller the socket or ratchet size the more likely it’s in a spot where there is less room. So most of my 1/4 drive and my bit drive is fine tooth or no tooth
Going up my 3/8 is 90 and so is my locking flex head version. But at 1/2 drive they are 72 and have been for a while seems good enough.
Jared
I meant to reply to Nathan, but I guess I messed up and put my comment at the bottom.
Joel
I bought the original when it was released. It’s the tool of choice in cabinets and enclosures where you can reach a fastener but can’t get a screwdriver, ratchet, or even a short 90 degree driver. The finger loop lets you put the driver on the fasteners and just pull. The bits are stubby and need minimal clearance.
Jerry
I have one of the originals. Love it, works great. However, the ONE time it just would not quite fit into a very tight spot makes me think the new slimmer one would be worth the $5 more, considering it would have saved me maybe a half hour of work. If I were shopping for one, I would spend more for the new slimmer one. However, already owning one, I’m not sure I’d replace it with the new one, as my issue was a one time ordeal (or at least I hope it was).
ElectroAtletico
For crying out loud, you’d think they make the bit holder bright orange so that it would not be lost as easily!!!
Dan
I’ll probably be picking it up. I’ve got the old tool and for about a week, I was sure it was going to replace my old tried and true USA craftsman tool. All was well until the magnet came unglued and went off to a better place. Now the bit just passes right on through as there is very little to no mechanical detent for the bit. It looks like they’ve fixed this on the new model. I love the finger loop because I’m often using it in a place where I can only fit a finger or two. The bit holder, I don’t hate it but it doesnt really do anything for me, I’m not working out of a pocket and when I use the ratchet, I usually grab whatever bits I need out of my Railer bit holders in my bag. I’m looking forward to giving it a try.
Steven Lauren
Would you purchase the newly updated Klein or the older Milwaukee version?
I was wondering which one you would recommend or if it’s a simple draw.
Stuart
I’d buy the Milwaukee sooner – I like that it has a built-in clip.
James
I’d buy the Klein (new or old) for this reason: the clip may be handy on the Milwaukee, but it’s really nice to have the smooth hole around your finger. It’s a really intuitive feeling with the Klein that I’ve only had with this tool and when spinning off nuts in tight spaces, the 360 degree smooth is appreciated.
Beanhole
Serious question, what’s the use of this tool on its own? Do people really carry something like this every day, or is it always part of a more complete system? I can’t see myself using it, but I’m also a bit of a tool nut who carries enough gear to rebuild an engine in my manpurse daily.
Jared
My math suggests it’s likely about 2mm difference at the very end of the handle in terms of how much you have to move the tool to get to the next tooth.
That’s probably an exaggeration in terms of what you would notice because you wouldn’t normally move a ratchet by pushing on the very end.
It’s not “no difference”, but I still think it would barely register most of the time.
On a 24″ ratchet like Gearwrench XL 1/2″, the difference between their 84t (already pretty fine tooth) and 120xp models (double pawl) is about 14mm – and you would be holding those near the end. I think that’s more plausible the difference between getting a click or not – and the difference is more pronounced if you start comparing it to old-school 36t ratchets.
That’s not to say “you’re wrong!”, but just to illustrate what I’m talking about. Also, math isn’t my strong suit so if someone wants to correct those numbers, feel free.
AKJ
Don’t forget about the Chapman MFG ratchets. You can buy individually or in sets of different sizes. Their bits have a little ball to keep them seated. Not fancy but I use mine a lot. I even bought a ratchet and a few bits to keep in my Indian Springfield motorcycle for when I take the accessories on or off.