Irwin Quick Change Bit Holder
This is a perfect example of great things coming in small packages. I’ve used magnetic bit holders for years. Some have been better than others. A couple were complete trash. This new system (which isn’t really new; just modified) from Irwin has some nice features and is priced right.
To start, these bit extensions come in several different lengths. The ¼” jaws come in 2”, 6” and 12” versions. The 3/8” model comes in 2”, 5 ½” and 12”. Finally, the 7/16” version is available in 5 ½”, 12” and 18” lengths. There is truly a size for everyone, depending on your needs.
The real benefit to these extensions is the locking mechanism of the bit holder. It holds securely any six-sided or ball-detent bit. I used both with no problems whatsoever. Strangely, what got me excited was the fact that when the locking mechanism is released, the bit springs forward under pressure. There’s not enough force to fling it across the room, but just enough so that you’re not struggling to get a grip on tiny driver bits.
This is (IMHO) an example of a tool being designed by someone who actually used it, or at least spent enough time with someone who did, to understand what was good and what wasn’t. That seems to be a rarity in the world of tools anymore. They seem to emerge from the clever minds of engineers who wouldn’t know which end of a hammer to hold. But I digress…
In addition to the spring-loaded tip, the best feature of this line-up is length. Isn’t that always the case? I should clarify and say varying lengths. The 6” extension now lives in my drill full-time. When needed, the 12” version comes in handy for those harder-to-reach spots. For those doing a lot of work in stud pockets, the 2” extension is perfect.
The only feature missing is a magnet. Screws tend to move around a bit at the end of a 12” extension, but a magnetic tip could have aided in that area. I guess you can’t have it all? For anyone who took auto shop, a length of wire and a 12 -volt car battery can fix that problem in about 30 seconds. It just would have been a nice feature to have pre-installed.
As for durability, I can only say, “So far, so good.” The tools feel solid, and the textured grip is a nice touch. It makes a huge difference for those of us who tend to get sweaty fingers.
Of course, the bottom line is usually the price tag.
At around $10 for the longest of the extensions and less than a ten-dollar-bill for most of the rest, you may opt to buy several. I give the Lock-n-Load Quick Change system from Irwin a thumbs-up.
Brad Staggs
Contributing Writer/Producer at Tool Skool
Brad has worked in and around the home improvement and tool industry most of his life. He was host of Talk2DIY Home Improvement, Co-produced DIY Tools & Techniques and is the author of Spend a Little, Save a Lot Home Improvement.
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