You might remember a little while ago, we covered the Ideal 12-In-1 Screwdriver. If you happened to read that review, well, I donโt mean to ruin any suspense here, but this review will be a lot like that one, except smaller. How come, you ask? Well, itโs because the Ideal 6-in-1 Stubby Screwdriver is basically the same piece of equipment, only stubbier. Or huskier if thatโs less offensive. Like itโs longer counterpart, this stubby little guy uses a shank design that houses a few different bit types and sizes, as well as a couple different hex nut driver sizes. Rather than punching in at a standard 9โณ, the stubby version gives you 3-1/4โณ of hard steel to work with.
Size Actually Does Matter
The Ideal 6-in-1 Stubby Screwdriverย doesnโt pack as many screw and nut driving options as its big brother but still has its advantages. For instance, this palm-sized tool can fit into tighter spaces that might not accommodate a larger unit. And thatโs the entire reason Pros carry stubby screwdrivers in the first place. Theyโre generally not as easy or comfortable to use, but they get into spaces that longer drivers canโt.
Like the average-sized model, this Ideal stubby driver has a comfortable handle to grip down on. The rubber overmoldingย has enough ribbing toย get a solid grip in nearly any awkward or tight space.
Like many drivers, Ideal has clearly printed identifying marks on the base of the handle so that you donโt have to spend too much time digging around in your bag looking for it.
The Ideal 6-in-1 Stubby Screwdriver covers a variety of different fastener types. Packed into the shaft, youโve got the option of using #1 or #2 Phillips heads, 3/16โณ or 1/4โณ slotted heads, and 1/4โณ or 5/16โณ hex driver sizes.
Thatโs where one of your hangups might be. These six bits/drivers certainly cover the most common fasteners youโll run across whether youโre a Pro or DIYer. Since the bits are the pin detent style (like almost all multi-bit drivers), customizing the set after the fact is a pain. But thatโs just a general gripe of mine thatโs not specific to Ideal.
Final Thoughts
The Ideal 6-in-1 Stubby Screwdriver is currently running in the $15 โ $16 range online. Thatโs just a touch higher than some of the closest competition, but still a little less than youโre going to pay for a ratcheting model. However, this is a Made in the USA product. Personally, Iโd pay the extra $1 or $2 for a good ratcheting stubby, since it makes those awkward fastening situations easier to deal with.
That said, I donโt have any issues with this design. The build quality is there for a multi-bit driver like this and all the pieces nest securely. Itโs as comfortable as you should expect for a stubby, so the only question left is if the combination hex, Phillips, and slotted drivers are the right mix for you.
Ideal 6-In-1 Stubby Screw And Nut Driver Features And Specs
- Model Number: Ideal 35-945
- Made In The USA
- 3/16โณ & 1/4โณ Slotted Head
- #1 & #2 Phillips Head
- 1/4โณ & 5/16โณ Hex Driver
- $15 โ $16 online
