Milwaukee Tool has a new “7-in-1” multi-bit mini ratchet set, model 48-22-2950, that looks compact and highly portable.
The mini bit ratchet ships as a set – it comes with the tool, a bit holder, (4) screwdriver bits, and a 1/4″ hex to 1/4″ socket drive adapter.
The ratchet has a 90-tooth gearing for a 4° swing arc. Milwaukee says that the tool allows for better access in tight spaces.
The mini ratchet has 1/4″ hex and 5/16″ nut driver sockets, and a rotatable thumbwheel that allows for easier tightening or loosening where the tool might be more difficult to swing.
It also has a direction selection lever.
The mini ratchet has a carabiner clip for convenient attaching of the included bit holder, and for securing the tool to tool bag D-rings, belt loops, or other such places.
Here’s where the 7-in-1 functionality comes from:
- 1/4″ and 5/16″ nut driver recesses
- 1/4″ square drive adapter
- Phillips #1, #2 screwdriver bits
- Slotted 3/16″, 1/4″ screwdriver bits
Price: $20
ETA: Coming Soon
Compared to Klein
The new Milwaukee mini bit ratchet looks a lot like Klein’s 65200, but better.
Both options come with the same bit selection. Milwaukee’s bit holder has a ring for convenient carrying.
Milwaukee’s has 90T gearing, Klein’s has 72T. Finer-tooth ratcheting allows for a smaller minimal swing arc, which can make a difference in very tight spaces.
Both have 1/4″ and 5/16″ nut driver recesses.
The Milwaukee mini bit ratchet has a carabiner clip, but the Klein has a smoother ring that could potentially be more comfortable.
Klein’s is a little less expensive at $16, compared to $20 for the Milwaukee.
Discussion
I think that Milwaukee sought to improve upon the Klein design, and it looks like they did just that.
I like that Milwaukee’s mini bit ratchet can clip to various loops, and that the bit holder can also attach to the tool.
One can use a separate mini clip with the Klein ratchet, but Milwaukee’s solution is simpler and also provides easy attachment for the bits. With the Klein set, you need to put the bits in a separate pocket or similar.
If the Milwaukee bits can be easily swapped out for standard 1/4″ insert bits, this can be used in so many more places.
