Tool Review: Tool Bench 12-in-1 Screwdriver Set

The saying "you get what you pay for" holds true sometimes more than others. With the Tool Bench 12-in-1 Screwdriver Set (SKU# 178179) that maxim definitely applies.

The Tool Bench 12-in-1 Screwdriver Set is sold at Dollar Tree discount stores for a dollar. Any time you see a screwdriver with 12 attachments for a buck, you're probably right to be wary.

In theory, this set is nice. It comes with a driver, seven bits, and five sockets. The bits include one slotted bit, one Phillips bit, two star/Torx bits, two hex bits, and one 1/4" drive adapter (for the sockets). The packaging is very nondescript, and doesn't specify what sizes any of the bits or sockets are. The Phillips bit looks like it's probably a #2.

The sockets look okay, and they work okay, but the bits look soft and poorly-made. The star bits, even before their first use, are rounded at the top edges, so they will probably slip during use. The sockets fit loosely onto the 1/4" drive bit, which makes taking them off easier, but doesn't inspire a lot of confidence for their use.

This screwdriver's main selling point is that it can store all of the bits and sockets in its plastic handle. Half of the handle swings open, revealing 12 holes for storage. All of the bits and sockets are easy to take out and reinsert. The handle is held shut by a flimsy piece of plastic that barely latches over a small plastic tab, and it looks as though the plastic latch piece will break off after a handful of uses.

The driver itself is not particularly well made. The hole where the bits fit in is extremely shallow, and doesn't provide a lot of support for the bits themselves. The bits also fit loosely into the hole, and there is a significant amount of wiggle room.

All you really need to know about this tool is that it's sold for $1. Unless you are experiencing an emergency where you absolutely need a screwdriver and you don't have more than a dollar in your pocket, this driver and bit set is a waste of money. An argument could be made that it's worth the price for the 1/4" drive adapter bit, if you happen to need one, but you'd probably be better served spending a little more on a quality adapter.  I give this screwdriver 1.5 out of 5 stars.

(Originally published on Bubblews.com, January 2014)