Tool Review: Craftsman 47380 Autoloading Multi-Bit Screwdriver

It used to be that everyone with a tool box had a good pair of screwdrivers that they relied on. Now, however, screwdrivers that don't have changeable bits are becoming less and less common. People are turning toward multi-bit screwdrivers because of the convenience of having more than one bit at your fingertips. One good multi-bit screwdriver that I've had for a long time is the Craftsman 47380 Autoloading Multi-Bit Screwdriver.

Many multi-bit screwdrivers come with a case or holder for the bits that aren't currently being used.  However, this Craftsman driver stores all the bits internally, in a revolver-like cartridge inside the driver. If you want to switch bits, all you have to do is retract the handle, twist it until you find the bit that you want (the cartridge is clear so you can see each bit) and then push the handle back in.  Switching between bits could not realistically be made much easier.

This autoloading screwdriver comes with six bits -- three slotted bits and three Phillips bits -- but the bits can be removed and replaced with other standard-sized bits.  If there is a bit you don't use often, you can replace it with one that you do. Each bit is clearly marked with its size.  The three slotted bits are sized 1/8", 3/16", and 1/4", and the three Phillips bits are marked P1, P2, and P3.  All of the included bits are good quality and have held up well over time with moderate use, even under high-torque conditions.

This driver doesn't have a ratcheting function, but it is magnetic. The product description on Craftsman's web site states that it's non-magnetic, but the driver I have is definitely magnetized, and it does attract (and hold) screws.

If you are looking for a high-end expensive screwdriver, the Craftsman autoloader is not that driver. But it is a handy screwdriver to keep in a glove box or somewhere close by, when you're not sure exactly what size and type of screwdriver you'll need for a particular job. The bits are sturdy and durable, and the case is plastic but it's easy to grip and turn. It would make a good gift for a new homeowner or someone who doesn't own a lot of tools. On the Craftsman website, this driver has a customer rating of 4.37 out of 5.  Personally, I would give it 4 out of 5 stars.


This version of the driver is outdated now, and Craftsman has updated it slightly.  The handle of the newer model (same model number, sold on Amazon for $28.26) is more textured, but otherwise the driver looks the same.  You can still get the older version from FineHomeBuilding.com for $20.00.

Amazon also has other brands of autoloading screwdrivers that look identical to the Craftsman (other than coloring and logo).  I can't attest as to these drivers' quality, but they do look the same, and they are much cheaper.  The Triplett driver sells for $11.97, the KR Tools driver is listed for $14.99, and there is an unbranded version for $14.88.

(Originally published on Helium.com, January 2013)