Cheap Lee Valley Ratcheting Screwdrivers

These interchangeable-tip screwdrivers have unique internal bit clips that could have been designed for a science-fiction film. Just press a button, and the clip slides slowly out of the handle as if actuated by a hydraulic cylinder, taking about 5 seconds to deploy fully.

Mesmerizing action aside, they are well-conceived and useful tools, each with a 20-tooth ratchet mechanism that operates right, left or locked.

The micro-tip version comes with eleven small interchangeable bits (#00, #0 and #1 Phillips; 2mm, 2.5mm, and 3mm slot; and T-6 to T-10 Torx) ideal for working with the small screws commonly found on assembled consumer products. 6 1/4″ long overall.

The standard version is supplied with 12 bits (#1, #2, and #3 Phillips; #1, #2, and #3 square recess; 3mm, 5mm, and 6mm slot; and T-15, T-20 and T-25 Torx). 7″ long overall.

Available individually or as a pair. As intriguing as they are practical.