The Klein Tool addiction thread! :)

redwrench60 · May 3, 2026

I wonder if they’re trying to cater to the folks who don’t want their tool Tupperware in either “steal me red” or “jack my tools orange” maybe the black will attract less attention and provide some camouflage effect.

As for the pricing……..you fellas didn’t think you were gonna buy Klein and save money did you?

I love Klein stuff but IT’s everything but budget.

LXCam · May 3, 2026

willf650 said:
One thing Klein is really missing is an open crate. I have six or seven of the DeWalt crates to stack and move material around. Relatively inexpensive and a good value for the money compared to the pack out crates.

When you're working out of a half ton truck you can't carry everything so I keep material stored in our shop and then bring it on site in these crates and drop it all off in one shot

I literally have to empty my truck to move material.

These just got delivered yesterday. Such a simple concept why weren't these around 20 years ago.

This should cut down on the carnage of broken spools rattling around in a truck.

I hadn’t seen those. Looks like I’ll be ordering 3-4 of them today. That’s a perfect solution for what we’re doing right now on a controls cutover.

willf650 · May 3, 2026

LXCam said:
I hadn’t seen those. Looks like I’ll be ordering 3-4 of them today. That’s a perfect solution for what we’re doing right now on a controls cutover.

Code TVE10 for a 10% discount on them.

They ain't cheap but less expensive and more useable for their intended purpose than the Milwaukee and Klein versions.

LXCam · May 3, 2026

willf650 said:
Code TVE10 for a 10% discount on them.

They ain't cheap but less expensive and more useable for their intended purpose than the Milwaukee and Klein versions.

The Klein version is a joke for the expense verses capacity. The ones you posted make good economic sense. I ordered 3 today.

MattV · May 4, 2026

A few things I've picked up recently. The 2 on the left were auction sale finds, the ones ln the right I bought after throwing my cheap stripper/crimper combo into the bush out of frustration. Haven't had a chance to use them yet, not sure if the katapults will be all that or not, but I like the idea.

willf650 · May 4, 2026

Ok since this thread has taken a jump I bought this over the upcoming Klein based upon recommendations in this thread.

The ratchet mechanism in it seems noticeably nicer than the Klein ratcheting screwdrivers I have. The lockup in it is so tight it seems that there is no difference in it compared to a standard screwdriver.

KnurledNut · May 5, 2026

willf650 said:
Ok since this thread has taken a jump I bought this over the upcoming Klein based upon recommendations in this thread.

The ratchet mechanism in it seems noticeably nicer than the Klein ratcheting screwdrivers I have. The lockup in it is so tight it seems that there is no difference in it compared to a standard screwdriver.

Nice.
When I got mine years ago I figured it wouldn’t last. All the plasitc and rubber didn’t inspire much confidence, but it has proved me wrong. I have had no problems with the ratchet mechanism and its handled some heavy loads. It does take a bit of use to soften the backdrag, more than I like, but once broken in its noticeably more user friendly. I initially tried accelerating wear by spinning it with a drill, but that didnt do anything. It took real use and fastener resistance.
The direction selector has a learning curve and took a while to grow on me, I disliked it at first. But once I got used to holding it near my thumb, I appreciated the design. The left/right orientation that some complain about being backwards really didn’t bother me. Go figure.
I try to use long bits as much as possible and this has been a functionally compatible option. Retention is excellent and don’t feel like a locking mechanism would improve it.

ecotec · May 5, 2026

willf650 said:
Ok since this thread has taken a jump I bought this over the upcoming Klein based upon recommendations in this thread.

The ratchet mechanism in it seems noticeably nicer than the Klein ratcheting screwdrivers I have. The lockup in it is so tight it seems that there is no difference in it compared to a standard screwdriver.

I just saw a video about the ball grip ratcheting Klein screwdriver this morning before work.

I need another ratcheting screwdriver like I need an extra hole in my head… but, it looks like a nice screwdriver.

Steel_Rain · May 8, 2026

glenng said:
Edit: ^^ You beat me to it by a minute. Lol.

BZEUG got his hands on one and it's made in Taiwan.

KnurledNut said:
I like the improvements, design and function of this ratcheting version much better. Glad I held off on getting the original.
The stronger spring tension is a plus, but I still wish it was a flush design to prevent accidental release. Better yet, nix the locking retention altogether and go with a deep snug tolerance fit like the Anex 397. I use that driver on the job and once it gets broken in, the 72t mechanism has such a great feel. The backdrag when new is a little strong.

FYI, this is now available on Amazon:

Klein Tools 32960ARCHT Ratcheting Fastbit Tru-Grip Screwdriver, Ratcheting Ball-Style Handle with Quick-Release Collar, #2 Phillips and 6 mm Slotted Double-Ended Bit, 1/4-Inch Bit Compatible: Amazon.com: Tools & Home Improvement

Klein Tools 32960ARCHT Ratcheting Fastbit Tru-Grip Screwdriver, Ratcheting Ball-Style Handle with Quick-Release Collar, #2 Phillips and 6 mm Slotted Double-Ended Bit, 1/4-Inch Bit Compatible: Amazon.com: Tools & Home Improvement

www.amazon.com

I bought one last night when I got the alert, but forgot to post this right away, doh!

willf650 · May 8, 2026

I wanted another screwdriver mounted conduit reamer as I‘ve been running a fair amount of conduit lately but I didn’t have a square shafted screwdriver among my Klein screwdrivers anymore.

I looked and a single screwdriver was like $13. A twin pack was $17 but somehow the “limited edition“ blackout set was only $15 and more is better, right

Here it is compared to my 30 year old conduit screwdriver. I haven’t used set screw connectors unless I was trying to to match existing runs in years so a screwdriver is more practical at this point.

I swear the last screwdriver mounted reamer I had was gold in color. Klein needs to make a high vis limited edition screwdriver set as I can see losing this black version

KnurledNut · May 8, 2026

willf650 said:
I wanted another screwdriver mounted conduit reamer as I‘ve been running a fair amount of conduit lately but I didn’t have a square shafted screwdriver among my Klein screwdrivers anymore.

I looked and a single screwdriver was like $13. A twin pack was $17 but somehow the “limited edition“ blackout set was only $15 and more is better, right

Here it is compared to my 30 year old conduit screwdriver. I haven’t used set screw connectors unless I was trying to to match existing runs in years so a screwdriver is more practical at this point.

I swear the last screwdriver mounted reamer I had was gold in color. Klein needs to make a high vis limited edition screwdriver set as I can see losing this black version

That looks kinda cool on the blackout screwdriver.
Good to see the reamer is still being made in the USA.
I keep one of mine on a long power bit holder so it can be used with either a drill or bit handle.

MainerJimmy44 · May 9, 2026

Hi all, this isn’t quite an addiction yet but the beginning of one. I just picked up these 9” linesman’s pliers from the local Ace to give to my dad for his birthday. He has 2 chinesium linesman’s that don’t cut for nothing and I figured that I might as well get him some new ones while I’m at Ace and have a $5 off coupon.
Have a good one everybody.

LXCam · May 9, 2026

Alright @willf650 those crates came in today. Now I just need some 1/2” emt, we never use anything under 3/4 sooo

redwrench60 · May 9, 2026

MainerJimmy44 said:
Hi all, this isn’t quite an addiction yet but the beginning of one. I just picked up these 9” linesman’s pliers from the local Ace to give to my dad for his birthday. He has 2 chinesium linesman’s that don’t cut for nothing and I figured that I might as well get him some new ones while I’m at Ace and have a $5 off coupon.
Have a good one everybody.

If there was ever a first Klein tool to have, that would be it. I’m sure your pop will love them.

willf650 · May 9, 2026

LXCam said:
Alright @willf650 those crates came in today. Now I just need some 1/2” emt, we never use anything under 3/4 sooo

24" will work for those. I had 2 sticks of 1/2" at the shop in the pipe rack but it is literally there for my racketeers.

I do have 40' of 1/2" on site for a project I'm starting next week but it's for some rework of existing stuff, not new install.

I only used 1/2" if I needed to come out of all 3 KOs on a 4" box. This seldom happens.

JBH · May 11, 2026

jeffmoss26 said:
Stopped by Lowe’s to get the 250th linesman and spotted this guy. Never knew they existed!

The 1/4” shaft on a precision body is a neat idea. I bought one because of that. Execution is a bit lacking though. The clip defeats the purpose of the spinner, and the handle just feels not great. Fine to keep in a car for use in a pinch, but in terms of a micro spinner handle to actually use with 1/4” bits the Witte is far better. For micro bits there are probably 10 different designs that are more ergonomic, starting with the OG Wiha hard plastic one.

Also, how many precision screwdrivers with incompatible shafts and bits is Klein going to release? Bad enough they picked a proprietary size to start with (so did PB Swiss but theirs are shafts not bits) but now I think they have 4 or 5 different proprietary micro bits and at least two shafts that don’t fit in the other handle. Iteration and innovation are fine, but eventually a company needs a strategy and not a shotgun.

Steel_Rain · May 12, 2026

FYI, it appears that Klein is offering discounts on many items on Amazon. I'll post this in Amazon thread as well.

The Knect stuff for example:

I'll post this in Amazon thread as well.

PowrKraftsman · May 12, 2026

I now have one of the new Klein ratcheting ball handle screwdrivers. Not as smoothly operating as my Snap On hard handle and Megapro (automotive version), but with the finger spinning function it operates just fine. I’ve never worried too much about the direction of selector switches but I do like that this one operates in the intuitive manner and dovetails well with the spinner portion of the handle. I bought it because I was intrigued by some of the other ball handle options and wanted to finally take the plunge and try one out. Overall, I think it’s well made, priced reasonably, and operates smoothly enough but the ratcheting ball style handle is going to take some getting used to.

Steel_Rain · May 12, 2026

Steel_Rain said:
FYI, this is now available on Amazon:

Klein Tools 32960ARCHT Ratcheting Fastbit Tru-Grip Screwdriver, Ratcheting Ball-Style Handle with Quick-Release Collar, #2 Phillips and 6 mm Slotted Double-Ended Bit, 1/4-Inch Bit Compatible: Amazon.com: Tools & Home Improvement

Klein Tools 32960ARCHT Ratcheting Fastbit Tru-Grip Screwdriver, Ratcheting Ball-Style Handle with Quick-Release Collar, #2 Phillips and 6 mm Slotted Double-Ended Bit, 1/4-Inch Bit Compatible: Amazon.com: Tools & Home Improvement

www.amazon.com

I bought one last night when I got the alert, but forgot to post this right away, doh!

Got this today:

Compared to the fixed ball handle:

Compared to a few of it’s brothers:

It’s good. Solid build quality and it’s not lightweight. You can tell the tooth count is lower, but the backdrag is less then other Klein ratcheting drivers. The bit holder is great and held the 20 or so bits I tried in it. The direction switch is a little tight but that got better with my other Klein models. The on center lockup is my only real complaint, I think they could have done better.

Overall, this feels good, but is definitely geared towards you sparky’s. It has an industrial feel but still has the good, classic things that make Klein drivers some of the best available.

KnurledNut · May 12, 2026

Nice pics as always @Steel_Rain
Thanks.

willf650 · May 13, 2026

Well here's Modbox truck revision 3.0. New truck with same ****** cap but a 100% extension 2200# bed slide.

I pulled the rear seats out completely and built a small platform with a drawer. Previously **** just got piled in the back to be lost forever.

Now I need to refit the bed somehow.

This brings us to the next new Klein foreign made tool. I was hoping this would be great it would allow me to carry just one nut setter. It ***** in reality. The one time I attempted to use it it was too big in diameter to get to the head of the screw.

Another tool that will be given away.

Trapps · May 13, 2026

Cuts so clean and easy even my wife likes using it.

KnurledNut · May 14, 2026

@willf650
Nice job on that cab drawer. Much more functional.

For anyone:
The new Klein ratcheting fastbit, does the reverse switch take two hands to operate? From what I have seen, it doesn’t seem to be real easy with one hand. This would irritate the **** out of me.
Very few of the youtubers reviewing these seem to actually use tools for their livelihood, and much of their input seems to be biased so Klein keeps sending them free stuff. But they all seem to struggle reversing it.

As I mentioned, I use the Anex at work often and have gotten used to the one hand user friendly switch.
Having a locking quick release mechanism does nothing for me. I’m perfect fine with the superior Anex retention and bit changes are hassle free.
I’m really trying to like this Klein, and the cost is minimal, but I’m waiting to hear more thoughts from actual users before getting one.
TIA.

PowrKraftsman · May 14, 2026

KnurledNut said:
@willf650
Nice job on that cab drawer. Much more functional.

For anyone:
The new Klein ratcheting fastbit, does the reverse switch take two hands to operate? From what I have seen, it doesn’t seem to be real easy with one hand. This would irritate the **** out of me.
Very few of the youtubers reviewing these seem to actually use tools for their livelihood, and much of their input seems to be biased so Klein keeps sending them free stuff. But they all seem to struggle reversing it.

As I mentioned, I use the Anex at work often and have gotten used to the one hand user friendly switch.
Having a locking quick release mechanism does nothing for me. I’m perfect fine with the superior Anex retention and bit changes are hassle free.
I’m really trying to like this Klein, and the cost is minimal, but I’m waiting to hear more thoughts from actual users before getting one.
TIA.

The new Klein is my first ball grip ratcheting screwdriver and I’m getting used to the different feel in hand and operation so with that background I’ll give my thoughts. The selector switch can be operated with one hand but I don’t find that to be easy. The bumps on the switch ring designed to aid with grip so the ring can be turned are very smooth and not grippy. Of course, that is beneficial in that your hand is unlikely to snag on the switch and accidentally turn it but it does also make it more difficult for the fingers on the turning hand to move the ring. And I find moving my fingers all the way back to the ring to position it for grasping the ring to be cumbersome.

jeffmoss26 · 2026-05-21T20:47:13-0400

Keep an eye out at Lowe’s, these sets are on clearance from 59.99 to 38 and change!

willf650 · 2026-05-21T21:47:15-0400

My Lowe’s had THIS in the clearance section for $14 so I bought one simply because it was there. I already have the kit version of this in my computer bag.

LXCam · 2026-05-21T22:26:46-0400

Well Will I added to the box collection. I’m not sure which one or even either will solve what I want done but if anything they’ll get used that’s fur sur

KnurledNut · 2026-05-22T10:43:46-0400

LXCam said:
Well Will I added to the box collection. I’m not sure which one or even either will solve what I want done but if anything they’ll get used that’s fur sur

Whose dumpster did you dig that Snap-on battery charger out of?

LXCam · 2026-05-22T10:58:32-0400

KnurledNut said:
Whose dumpster did you dig that Snap-on battery charger out of?

Lmao, you’re not far off. I got it second hand a couple decades ago and it had already had a rough life.

And life with me along with several employees having access to it didn’t help at all

My personal truck normally gets driven about once a month just to keep things lively. But I haven’t had time in the last 3-4 so of course the battery is dead

Yesterday while grabbing it from the shop I also grabbed a few things to do some clean up on it this weekend.

The Klein Tool addiction thread! :)

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