Milwaukee has come out with a new compact multi-bit ratcheting screwdriver, model 48-22-2320. There will also be a new non-ratcheting version (48-22-2120) that will be available in February 2015.
The new stubby screwdriver features a 3-way ratcheting mechanism that can be set to work in either direction, and setting the switch to the center position locks the mechanism in place for manual use.
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The ratcheting screwdriver comes with 7 chrome-plated screwdrivers bits. Why chrome-plated? This gives the bits marine-grade rust and corrosion resistance.
It comes with Phillips #1 and #2, slotted 1/4″ and 3/16″, square (Robertson) #1 and #2, and Torx T15 bits, and the bit holder can serve as a 1/4″ nut driver. This is why Milwaukee markets it as an 8-in-1 bit driver.
If you’re thinking you can use this with standard bits, you can, but the built-in bit storage only works with 1.5″ bits. 1.5″ screwdriver bits are available via industrial suppliers, although it might be tough to find direct replacements for these chrome-plated bits.
As an aside, I measured these bits after recording the video that’s embedded below. It wasn’t until the third take with the video that I realized these weren’t 2″ power bits and that they were in fact mid-way between 1″ and 2″ bits. I didn’t whip out the ruler until afterwards.
As with other stubby screwdrivers, Milwaukee’s is designed to be used in tight spaces where full-size drivers are often too long to fit.
I have only used this driver a couple of times, but thus far it seems comfortable to use, and the ratcheting mechanism seems pretty strong. It’s not as fine-toothed as I prefer, but keep in mind that this is a $15 screwdriver. At least it’s not as coarse and clacky as other inexpensive ratcheting screwdrivers.
Milwaukee’s multi-bit driver is larger than other stubby screwdrivers and bit holders I have (this is shown in the video), but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The extra handle width allows for extra torque delivery, and it provides space for the built-in bit storage.
Milwaukee used all-metal gearing for greater durability and torque transmission.
Overall, I think this is a great new addition to Milwaukee’s hand tool lineup. I use stubby screwdrivers fairly regularly, but not for long marathon driving sessions. The PB Swiss Tools stubby screwdriver bit holder I reviewed is enough for my needs, but the Milwaukee screwdriver’s $15 price tag makes it a hard alternative to resist.
If you don’t own any stubby screwdrivers, this is something you might want to consider trying out. But then again, if you don’t own any stubby drivers by now, you might not need one.
I would say that this is my favorite stubby ratcheting screwdriver to date, but the only other stubby ratcheting screwdriver I’ve used in memory is the Kobalt Direct Drive ratcheting driver I tested last year.
Price: $15
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Thank you to Milwaukee Tool for providing the review sample unconditionally. Review samples are typically given away, donated, or retained for editorial and comparison purposes.
Mike says
I was sold till the part about using 1.5″ bits. I’m also not sure about the open design. I’m a bit of a Milwaukee fan boy generally but I don’t think this will replace my current stubby bit holder. Also doesn’t look that stubby, almost more mid-sized then shorty.
I’ll also probably still buy one when it’s on sale.
fred says
Looks neat – may need to give it a try.
I came across this Titan variant today when I was looking up the Stanley 66-358 . I bought the Stanley about 3 years ago, tried it and gave away since I found it mildly annoying to use despite its decent rating on Amazon. Here’s a link to the Titan:
http://www.amazon.com/Titan-11055-Stubby-Gearless-Ratchet/dp/B000HB0IZ4
Dale says
I like the longer bits on the full sized version because they make it possible reach some screws that I couldn’t with my other multi-bit drivers dug to their fatter shafts.
Chris Fyfe says
Sound good !
Chris
Boyd says
Where did you buy this? Home Depot says it not in stock, I don’t see it in store and going to the Milwaukee website also yields no results. I’ve been waiting to get my hands on one!
Stuart says
I didn’t. The kind tool fairies at Milwaukee sent over a test sample.
These *should* soon start appearing at Home Depot stores and online, and possibly other Milwaukee dealers.
Boyd says
Awesome. Thanks.
Pete says
Check out the milwaukee demo screw driver set. Got the set today. Freaking awesome.
SteveR says
It’s a stubby screwdriver because Milwaukee calls it one. I’m not so sure it is in fact because it’s so large (bulky) compared to most other stubby screwdrivers I’ve seen or used. Many are non-ratcheting, which allows them to be smaller, and thereby able to get into small/restricted spaces to turn screws. And that’s what you need a stubby screwdriver for.
Given its size and the proprietary-length bits (1-1/2″), I believe there are better alternatives available. If nothing else, it would pay for those contemplating the purchase to ask themselves, “How often will I REALLY need to use this tool?”. If you’re honest, the answer may just be once in a blue moon or, at best, rarely. If you have non-ratcheting stubbies in your toolbox already, maybe they’re all you need.
I have three stubbies; a #1 and a #2 Phillips, plus one flat-tip bladed version. Like most people, I can’t remember the last time I used any of them. Instead, I often use a stubby 3/8″ drive ratchet with a screwdriver socket (with a 1″ screwdriver bit) or my ratcheting offset screwdriver (Blue Point BTWOS) that also uses 1″ bits. Tools can multi-task, given the opportunity.
Stuart says
Well…
Milwaukee calls it a compact screwdriver. I called it a stubby because it’s pretty close to being stubby sized.
I don’t know if it shows clearly enough in the video, bit it’s not much larger than other stubbies. It’s a little wider and a little longer.
jesse says
Which distributors carry 1.5″ bits? I didn’t see any.