Meet the Wiha Ultradriver, a 26-in-1 multi-bit screwdriver. It features an interesting bit storage magazine that looks to make bit selection quicker and easier than with other multi-bit screwdrivers you might have used in the past.
From the promo video (embedded below), it looks like the bit storage magazine is spring-loaded and pops out with a press of a button.
And the front bit holder looks to have a locking bit holder, or at least a spring-action unlock mechanism, for quicker bit changes.
But, here’s the catch… it uses what look to be proprietary double-ended bits. (Uch!) There’s no word as to whether it can also work with standard 1-inch insert bits, but I hope it can.
So that’s where the 26-in-1 comes from.
There’s a certain utility and efficiency boost in working with double-ended screwdriver bits, but I generally just don’t like ’em.
Wiha is offering 3 Ultradriver styles, with slightly different bit loadouts and aimed at different user types.
- Tradesman (77790): Phillips, Slotted, PoziDrivm Square, Hex Inch, Hex metric, Torx
- Technicians (77791): Phillips, Slotted, PoziDriv, Square, Torx
- Industrial (77792): Phillips, Slotted, hex Inch, Hex Metric, Torx
Price: $37 to $42 each
The bits are also available separately, and at pretty good pricing. A full set of 13 replacements is $13 via Wiha directly, or $4 per pair of different sized bits, or $10 for a pack of 10.
The screwdrivers are said to be made in Germany.
Buy Now(via Amazon)
More Info(via Wiha)
Wiha has better pricing than on Amazon, but there’s a $6.95 flat rate shipping on orders under $100.
Promo Video:
First Thoughts
I really like the look of the Wiha Ultradriver spring-out bit storage compartment, and the quick release locking bit holder.
If these drivers can also work with standard 1″ screwdriver bits, I’ll be in for one – probably the industrial model.
And with that model, I’d likely only change out maybe one of the Torx bits (the 2 largest sizes) for something else – Robertson #2. But… the only way to get a Robertson #2 is with a 10-pack or full 13-piece replacement loadout. I hope you can see why I really want this to be able to work with standard 1/4″ hex 1″ bits.
The pricing is a little high for a non-ratcheting multi-bit screwdriver, but you’re not exactly going to see spring-out bit storage magazines and locking bit holders on entry-level models. Hopefully the price will come down a little with time.