Over at the ToolGuyd forum, Fancy_Dan requested a head-to-head review between PB Swiss’s new Insider Stubby mini multi-bit screwdriver and a similar Wiha offering.
Generally, both brands produce exceptional tools, but I would give the edge to PB Swiss Tools, except if cost is a major consideration.
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But, to the point – this was the first I’ve heard of a stubby-sized PB Swiss Insider screwdriver.
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The PB Swiss Insider was one of the first tools I ever reviewed here on ToolGuyd, and remains one of my favorite hand tools to use. It’s small, comfortable to use, and the screwdriver bits are magnificent.
I was looking into possible getting a batch of PB Swiss Insiders made up for ToolGuyd giveaways, but the rep at Count On Tools never got back to me after a few back-and-forth Q’s and A’s, so I back-burnered the idea.
I reviewed the PB Swiss stubby screwdriver bit holder not too long ago, and use it regularly as well.
This new PB Swiss Insider Stubby combines aspects of both tools – it’s a short soft-gripped screwdriver with built-in bit storage.
It’s not stocked by USA distributors yet, and so there’s no word about price. If I had to guess, I’d say it’ll likely be priced at around $30. It’s hard to say. The 8-bit Insider (aka Insider 1) is usually priced at $40.
As with the Insider 1, the Insider Stubby has a magnetic bit holder. Unlike the Insider 1, and the other Insider models, this one has a soft-grip handle, likely made using the same Santoprene material PB Swiss uses for their full-size soft-grip hand tools.
My gut instinct tells me that, despite my great affinity for PB Swiss tools, the Insider Stubby is probably going to be priced higher than I could justify. Then again my brain is telling me that, as with the Insider, a great chunk of the price is due to the included PB Swiss screwdrivers bits.
Finally, my hands are telling me buy, buy, buy, we need this, based on my great experiences with other PB Swiss tools, especially their SwissGrip screwdrivers. Their MultiCraft hard-handle screwdrivers are great, too. MultiCraft vs. SwissGrip comes down to preference and situational need.
Maybe I’ll do a head-to-head for Fancy_Dan, once the new screwdriver is available in the USA. But, as mentioned in my response on the forum, I think the new Insider Stubby might be more comfortable than competing models, but it certainly won’t be anyone’s “value” pick.
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Thanks to Dan for the tip!
voodooaw says
The handle shape and materials are more about personal preferences. I know many people who like the soft PB Swiss Grip, but there are also lots of people who hate it.
Generally speaking, PB Swiss has a hexagonal handle. It is better in detail and has a softer grip. But there are some complains that it can be easily dirty.
The Wiha one is a little bit harder. It’s handle is a little bit squarish and is not so easy to be messed up by dirt.
rob says
Was just flipping through the 2016 catalog.
That stubby insider is due this month.
Some other stuff for March, and some more in June.
There’s some hex keys coming out on knurled round stock.
Also some offset 100 degree torx l-keys.
William says
Purchased the ratcheting screwdriver from PB a little while ago, it’s obnoxiously priced, but it’s certainly the nicest ratcheting screwdriver on the market, just a pleasure to hold and use.
i would definitely consider this one.