The EDC Tool Roll is a feature on Jerking the Trigger in which we profile various every day carry worthy tools. The tools shown aren’t multi-tools but rather real tools, that by virtue of their compact size, light weight, usefulness, or unique functionality, can find a place in any range kit, emergency kit, or every day carry bag.
Feel free to comment on the tools that you carry so we can all learn! The discussion on these posts has been very valuable so far.
I initially bought the Tekton 14-in-1 Offset Screwdriver (2945) because it looked like a more affordable version of one my favorite tools. It turned out to be a pretty solid tool on its own. I’ll profile the original tool in a future edition of The EDC Tool Roll.
The 14-in-1 Offset Screwdriver is a replaceable bit screwdriver that can accept bits at either end of it’s “L” shaped handle. The bits that come with it are double sided but it will also accept standard 1/4″ shank bits (they just sit a smidge deeper in the bit holder). The tool includes 7 double sided bits – hence the 14-in-1 moniker.
The bits are retained via a detent and spring steel collar. This set up applies solid tension even on bits that aren’t notched. The handle is plastic over metal with the metal seeming to run all the way through the tool. There is no flex or twisting under load so it seems that the metal shaft runs from end to end.
The beauty of this driver is the offset design. This “L” shape keeps the tool very compact but allows the user decent reach and the ability to apply a lot of torque when necessary. I find myself reaching for this tool in all kinds of situations, even when I have a tool chest full of other screw driving options. I keep this one in my range bag because it is one of the few compact drivers that can actually reach screws like an AR-15 grip screw and still provide enough tool to hold onto when loosening or tightening the screw. It’s ability to accept standard bits means I can use it on just about any fastener found on my guns.
I should note that this tool does NOT ratchet. For some reason, almost everyone who puts hands on this thing thinks it is going to ratchet but it does not. There are even people who give it poor reviews online because it doesn’t ratchet… even though the descriptions of the tool never say that it does.
I should also note that the bit holder is marginal. It holds bits but it doesn’t clip onto the tool very well which renders the pocket clip on the holder mostly useless. This wasn’t a big deal for me since I’ll never clip something like this into a pocket.
Overall, this is a very handy tool for around $10.
Where to Buy: I’ve never seen this tool or the other version of it that I use anywhere but online. I purchased mine from Amazon for $10 shipped (which is almost half what I paid for the other tool I mentioned): Tekton 14-in-1 Offset Screwdriver (2945)
Alternatives: We’ve reviewed a number of other compact screw drivers in previous installments of The EDC Tool Roll (click the links below to read the reviews):
Replaceable Edition Fix It Sticks
Doc Allen’s VersaTool
Wera Kraftform Kompact 25
Do you have a compact driver that you prefer or any other tool you want to recommend? Tell us about it below.
