Klein just made me smile at the weight I’ll be dropping from my tool backpack. How’d they do that? They’ve just released the new Klein Tools Adjustable Length Screwdriver. One screwdriver now replaces six that I currently carry.
At the center of this new screwdriver is, obviously, it’s adjustable length. Similar in looks to Klein’s Switch Drive system, there are key differences. The double ended shaft can retract well into a Klein Tools Adjustable Length Screwdriver handle. This accounts for the ability to drop down to a 4″ screwdriver. Where we found a quick lock mechanism on the Switch Drive handle, there is also a locking system in place on the Adjustable Length Screwdriver.
The double bladed shaft features a #2 Philip’s head on one side and 1/4″ flat head on the opposite. There’s no word at the moment if more shaft options will become available, but it seems likely. Unlike the Switch Drive Shafts, these aren’t designed to be used in your drill or impact driver.
Klein Tools Adjustable Length Screwdriver Use
When I first heard about the new system, I thought Klein might have notched the shaft and used a similar quick lock system. They didn’t. The shaft can be held in any position from 4″ to 8″ allowing you to make micro adjustments if needed. The locking mechanism requires you to push down on the collar to extend the shaft and push it up to retract it. The mechanism is proprietary, and while I’ve never used it prior to this tool, I found it simple to operate. After inserting the blade the screwdriver felt just as secure and durable as any traditional Klein fixed blade screwdriver I’ve used. It’s uncanny because the attachment method is obviously a friction fit.
“Klein is constantly researching and identifying ways to make the electrician’s job easier. We created a screwdriver that easily adjusts to multiple lengths and provides different bit tips to minimize the number of tools needed to get the job done—all with the same durability of a traditional Klein fixed blade screwdriver.”
– David Bower, associate product manager at Klein Tools
I used the Klein Tools Adjustable Length Screwdriver to do some electrical work on our shop, and it proved to be reliable and efficient. I could switch between the flathead blade for securing neutral wires in a panel to the Phillips head for securing electrical box covers or securing 12-gauge stranded wire to electrical outlets.
Like we’ve come to expect from Klein screwdrivers, these feature a Cushion-Grip and are Made in the USA. Now my 4″, 6″, and 8″ Philip’s and flat heads can make room for just one Klein Tools Adjustable Length Screwdriver.
Shop all Klein Hand Tools at Acme Tools!
Here is a video about the new Klein Tools Adjustable Length Screwdriver
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gxOng1PWGv4&feature=youtu.be
