Wera Kraftform 816 RA Bitholding Ratcheting Screwdriver, 1/4" Head ((2.Units))

I love Wera Kraftform handles - between the super dense plastic with rubber inserts and the intricate shape, it let you drive screws both fast and tough, something that you wouldn't expect from its compact size. The direction switch knob is solid metal and has a positive, satisfying click. The ratchet is 44-tooth and rated for 50 Nm of torque (440 in-lbs). The ratcheting mechanism works every bit as advertised (if somewhat loud). The rapidaptor bit holder is top notch and lets you turn this into a "stubby" when used with 1" bits or a normal screwdriver 3-4" long power bits are used. Once you hold it, you know that you got a real thing.Which makes it all the more bewildering why did Wera choose not to fashion a better joint between the rapidaptor and the handle. As it is, there is a lot of play in between. I even gave Wera a call to inquire about that - they mumbled something about manufacturing tolerances. The only thing that comes to mind is that, maybe, they wanted the rapidaptor part to be replaceable (has anyone tried that?) But whatever the reason, the play between the rapidaptor and the handle leaves a sour taste about this otherwise solid screwdriver, especially considering the chunk of change it costs.

4 1/2 starsI needed a ratcheting screwdriver to replace an old worn out cheapy model (a well intentioned gift) and spent many days deliberating and researching. I knew that I was not going to go down the same ten bucks or less road, since the quality in this range is severely lacking.I was initially sold on the 60 tooth ratchet of the Wera brand and it certainly is smooth and seems very solid. Wera claim a 50Nm (approx 37 ft lbs)capability with their ratchet screwdrivers and this unit feels well built enough to live up to that.I almost opted for the Wera KK 27 "James Bond" ratcheting screwdriver since it comes with 6 self-contained driver bits and a fixed magnetic bitholder WERA Tools (WER05073661002) KK 27 RA Ratcheting "James Bond" Screwdriver but I liked the compactness of the 816 RA model plus it has the rapidaptor hex chuck, and I already have a vast supply of 1, 2 and 3+ inch hex driver bits of various types.The rapidaptor chuck will accecpt any 1/4 inch hex bits, but the chuck mechanism seems smoother when using power bits (with the groove near the base of the shank) rather than 1 inch length bits, which require a little extra force to disengage the lock. So far I have found 2 inch power bits to be most useful in this tool. The 3-1/2 inch DeWalt bits I tried had too much play, and 2 inch bits are easier to find in any hardware store.The handle of the tool is fractionally smaller than I anticipated and also marginally heavier, but it sits incredibly well in the hand and feels both sturdy and well balanced and I soon forgot about my size preconceptions.I dropped 1/2 star from this product since the selection collar which determines ratchet direction will sometimes not turn into position without wiggling the chuck first. This is just a minor frustration right now and I trust it will not develop into a more major flaw over time.

Careful... these WIRA 1/4" bit drivers are so good, you'll find yourself neglecting any others you my own and buying more of these. The 'reverse-ratchet' mechanism is smooth and you can feel the quality in he way the tool sits in your hands. Working with these is effortless- II use them primarily for gunsmithing and it's hard to goober a screw when you don't have to lift the blade out of the screwed to make the next rotation.

Seemingly well made, with nice tolerances and quality materials, and for the price. The handle and Wera's Rapid Adapter are the stars, here, providing great ergonomics in use. Somewhat confounding their benefits though, is the top heavy weight distribution centered around the drive selector mechanism; My guess is cast aluminum or alloy, and the internals make for a pretty heavy feel in use and a concentrated just beyond where your forefinger and thumb seat when gripping. This choice seems obviously more like an attempt at providing a sense of heft and quality at the expense of ergonomics. I think most would be pretty OK with a nice tough plastic blend or carbon fiber solution for the switch exterior, and would in no way compromise robustness or function. Personally, the cast metal selector feels more like a sword hilt than a switch - overly bulbous with a 'powder coated' look, which I personally also find looks a bit on the cheap side. Having said all that, it's working great and feels robust for anything inside the house, it's intended role, and the handle, quick release, and extra-toothed ratcheting are fantastic.

Great feel of the two part Kraftform handle. Good action from the rapidaptor. Holds on to power bits and insert bits. Has the least wobble of any ratchet I've ever held in my hands. Just a note: the rapidaptor does not come out or extend. Solid and well balanced. My first Wera, and I already ordered more. Great wih apex or other bits.

Pretty nice screwdriverI have a couple of tools and several rachet drivers in some way or for similar to this, quality in this one is great and way better than most of the other ones i own, there are many teeth on this so that makes for a fairly detailed action and small adjustments.The looks and weight are of a high quality item, haven't used too much but will post an updated review after several months

This screwdriver almost molds itself to your hand. At first, I thought the grip was a little on the "small side", but it's actually very practical; the ergonomics built into its design make the handle comfortable, with less fatigue to your hands during extended use. Rock-solid and very durable. The quick release bit holder allows you to just press the bit inward and it locks with a firm "click"; to release it, just slide the sleeve forward. The collar for changing drive directions is of generous size and is well marked for forward and reverse "smooth-as-silk" ratcheting function. Well worth the money. GJM