User Ratings
KR Tools 12650 Autoloader 6in1 Auto Loading Screwdriver
The Blue KR Tools 12650 Autoloader 52-Piece Combo Set includes two innovative screwdrivers, 48 magnetic-tip bits, and a tool light--all packaged in a convenient zipper storage case. The screwdrivers...read more
$29.98
Average Customer Rating
4 out of 5 |
Product Features
- Patented pump action design to quickly and easily change bits
- Magnetic bit tips help ensure you won't loose a screw
- Includes 48 different bits in convenient carrying case
- Comes with two autoloaders: precision and classic, and UFO tool light for work in dark areas
- Lifetime warranty
Product Description
The Blue KR Tools 12650 Autoloader 52-Piece Combo Set includes two innovative screwdrivers, 48 magnetic-tip bits, and a tool light--all packaged in a convenient zipper storage case. The screwdrivers each hold six bits in the handle, and any bit can be auto loaded quickly and easily with the screwdrivers' patented pump action.
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The Autoloader's anti-roll handle fits comfortably in your hand. |
Why the Autoloader?
Featuring an award-winning, patented design, the Autoloader is incredibly easy to use. Its zero-contact bit change mechanics let you quickly find the right bit for the job, and the anti-roll handle fits comfortably in your hand. And thanks to its high-grade metal component construction, the Classic Autoloader meets or exceeds ANSI (American National Standards Institute) specifications and can withstand up to 150 pounds of torque.
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Two Screwdrivers to Fit Any Purpose
The Autoloader 52-Piece Combo Set comes with a Classic Autoloader for most screw types and a Precision Autoloader for finer work, including eyeglass, jewelry, watch, and electronics repair. Both the Classic and the Precision screwdriver hold up to six bits at once, making it quick and easy to switch between different sizes of flathead, Phillips, Torx, or other bit types. For further convenience, each bit features a magnetic tip to keep you from dropping or losing screws.
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To load a different bit, simply pull back on the handle of your Autoloader, rotate the handle until you locate the bit you want, and push the handle back into place. You'll never be caught wishing you had a different screwdriver in your hand.
 The patented pump-action design makes for quick and easy bit changes. View larger. |
Customize Your Screwdriver
If you consistently work with the same type of hardware and screw heads, you can customize the Autoloader to fit your needs. Simply preload the six bits you know you'll be using, slip the screwdriver in your pocket or toolkit, and stop worrying about hunting down a different screwdriver for each new task.
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The KR Autoloader 52-Piece Combo Set features a patented bright magnetic UFO LED that mounts to any metal surface to illuminate the general area where you're working. The UFO LED also slips onto the front of your Autoloader screwdriver for pin-point lighting of your work piece.
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The ruggedly designed zippered storage case conveniently keeps all the Combo Set's pieces together, including the Classic and Precision Autoloaders, the UFO LED light, and the extra bits. This means you won't have to worry any more about searching for your screwdriver or bits at the bottom of your tool bag.
Lifetime Satisfaction Guarantee
The KR Tools 12650 Autoloader 52-Piece Combo Set is backed by a lifetime satisfaction guarantee.
What's in the Box
Classic Autoloader screwdriver with 3 flathead bits and 3 Phillips bits; Precision Autoloader screwdriver with 3 precision flathead bits and 3 precision Phillips bits; 36 additional bits for a total of 48 bits, including a wide variety of classic and precision flathead, Phillips, Robertson (square), hex, and Torx bits; magnetic UFO LED tool light; and a zippered storage case.
 | KR Tools 12650 Autoloader 6-in-1 Auto Loading Screwdriv End Time: 2010-09-29 09:13:36. Time Left:20 Days 21 Hours 47 Minutes 16 Seconds | Current Bid: $ 11.7 #Bids: 0 Bid Now |
 | KR 12650 Autoloader Auto Loading Screwdriver 52P Set End Time: 2010-09-09 18:16:00. Time Left:1 Days 6 Hours 49 Minutes 40 Seconds | Current Bid: $ 41.45 #Bids: 0 Bid Now |
Product Details
Brand: KR ToolsModel: 12650
UPC: 051779126507
Product Code:
Product Accessories
39 Responses to “KR Tools 12650 Autoloader 6in1 Auto Loading Screwdriver”
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cheap shaft
Rating:1 out of 5 stars
Received one as a gift. Innovative design on the loading portion.
However, it is possible to push the button and pull out the base, which then drops the bits and spring.
I was using the small unit on a tight spot. The tool got stuck in a metal rail. While pulling on the handle to pull the unit out at an angle, the metal collar around the bit broke off where the magnet touches the bit. The shaft could have used some reinforcement.
For use on small hobbies, the bits seem to work fine, otherwise, this would be a 0 rating, if that were possible.
Very handy
Rating:5 out of 5 stars
This tool has quickly become one of my favorite tools that I go to. The ratcheting mechanism is especially handy, and no more looking for bits. Changing the standard set of bits is a bit inconvenient but in reality, I stick to only a fit types of bits anyway. The UFO light is somewhat cumbersome and I don’t use it at all, but it is there for anyone who wants to use it.
Good way to keep multiple bits handy. A little awkward to use.
Rating:3 out of 5 stars
We built a home, a shop, and a garage on our property. The list of projects never ends! So, I’m always on the lookout for tools that help us accomplish things more quickly.
We have similar tools to the AutoLoader, but you need to open a compartment and manually insert different bits, the Autoloader does this much more quickly, so seemed like a great option for projects requiring multiple different bits.
My first job for the Autoloader was a new cabinet requiring a large flat #2 driver, a flat blade, and a hex head. In use found the following benefits and disadvantages to the tool:
GOOD:
1. The large grip made the regular-sized Autoloader easy to hold and get good torque.
2. Switching bits is quick and easy.
3. The tool feels very well-made and sturdy.
4. Hard chrome bits seem to hold up well and don’t round off.
BAD:
1. The way I insert a screw into a hole usually includes gripping the shaft with my left hand as the driver end is held in my right, I use my left hand to guide the screw. Unfortunately, pulling on the shaft with my left hand retracts the bit into the Autoloader. I had to revise my regular way of doing things and remember not to pull on the shaft while guiding the screw.
2. The hard chrome surface of the bits makes them slip off screw heads. This is especially apparent with flat-blade applications.
SUGGESTED UPGRADES:
For the price, the addition of a ratchet-style head would make this a very effective tool.
Although this is a well-made product and an ingenious design, it did not make the job of building our cabinet any faster or easier. Switching bits in a ratchet driver was faster. Not needing to switch bits in the Autoloader, but screwing everything in by hand was slower and more tedious.
The addition of the light attachment, although a cute idea, is hampered by the size of the light. Typically you’d need light in tight spots, and this “halo” takes up too much space, plus makes using and changing bits more difficult.
This would be a good kit to keep in the house, the high-quality zippered pouch stores everything neatly away, and you’d never be without the right bit for a quick job. For the regular toolbox, and large jobs, it is not as effective as a regular ratchet or power driver.
Very good secondary screwdriver set
Rating:4 out of 5 stars
PROS:
*Includes an insane number of different bits. I’m a DIY homeowner having done many remodeling projects and it’s extremely rare I’ve needed anything except the standard and Philips heads but it’s good to have the extra bits around. I’ve needed a square or star shaped bit to unscrew my ADT security alarm panels. Some electronics equipment (that you’re not supposed to open, hehe) will also require specialized bits.
*Easy to change bits with the well-designed autoloading mechanism.
*Nice case which securely holds all your bits. No need to worry about your bits falling all over the place.
*Having both a regular-size and “eyeglass”-size screwdriver in the same kit is convenient.
CONS:
*If you simply want to change your bit from standard to Philips, there are other screwdrivers that make this common task easier. With the Autoloader, there are 6 bits loaded so you have to look and rotate to the correct bit every time. You can’t just flip the stem like with some other screwdrivers. I’ve done a lot of home renovation/repair work and 95% of the time I change bits, it’s to simply switch standard and Philips so you want this task to be as easy as possible especially if you are in a low light area or crunched under your sink.
*Handle is not that comfortable in your hand. There is no curve to it and there are no rubber grips.
*The regular-size screwdriver stem is very short at about 1.6″ which makes it difficult to access tight, narrow areas. There are a lot of tight areas in a house so you’ll want to have another screwdriver around for these situations.
*Very expensive at $50.
OTHER:
*The UFO-shaped LED light attachment isn’t practical. It’s way too wide and gets in the way. You can’t store it with the light attached so you have to put it on every time you want to use it which isn’t worth the hassle. This is not really an issue since I’ve never used a screwdriver with a light anyway.
OVERALL:
This is a nice set to have around or give as a gift because of the variety of bits and the great storage case. For your primary everyday screwdriver, I would recommend the Stanley Proto screwdriver (available at local big box stores) because it is easier to flip from standard to Philips, has a longer stem ~3″, and a more ergonomic, rubber handle.
Cool but pricey
Rating:4 out of 5 stars
I’ve been using the Autoloader around the house. Definitely got the cool gadget factor…I enjoy switching out my bits like I am Tim the Toolman Tailor. For a minimalist do-it-yourselfer like me this kit has more bits than I will ever need or use.
I do think for the actual carpenter professional this would be too much of a gadget and it would just be quicker to have the actual screwdrivers on hand to grab.
Quality- doesn’t seem that rugged so I’m knocking off one star. We’ll see how it holds up over time. Some of my other changable bit screwdrivers have tended to lose the magnetics over time so we’ll see how that holds up.
Color- I have the pink one based on availability but I have to wonder what the true market size is for pink screwdrivers (Marketing 101). Carpentry is typically male dominated and I’m not sure if Tim the Toolman Tailor would walk around with a pink screwdriver!
All you need in one case
Rating:5 out of 5 stars
I absolutely love this item. All the different screwdriver bits in one case along with the handles. This works great for me because my other screwdriver with different bits came separately and now the bits are all lost! I recommend this product, what a handy item.
Very nice tool and love that it comes in pink
Rating:4 out of 5 stars
Like every review you’ve read before on the Autoloader, it is a great set to have for those occasional little jobs around the house or even some office settings. Yes, it has plenty of bits to choose from and what sets this apart from other tools is the fact the bits don’t trickle out of their place. I’ve had various tools similar to this and it seems every time I go to use it, the bit I’m wanting got left behind somewhere. With this, you don’t have to settle for the wrong size bit because they are all self-contained.
I agree with some other reviewer that the overall feel and quality isn’t quite what I was expecting. Had a couple more dollars been spent on improving the quality in production I’d given it 5 stars. Nevertheless, I recommend it to anyone as the tool to fix those little things from day to day.
Astonishing number and variety of bits, easy to change out
Rating:4 out of 5 stars
I’ve never seen a screwdriver kit come with so many different bits. Plus, it’s delightfully easy to change them out, reminiscent of pumping a shotgun. I do consider the screwdrivers’ octagonal handles ergonomically incorrect and a bit lightweight, although the latter is a byproduct of having to have a hollow handle so as to fit all those quick-change bits it. Plus, the in-handle case can slip out while your using the driver. Nevertheless, with the optional LED light attachment and the never-have-to-worry number of bits that come with this kit, it’d make a fine set for anyone who doesn’t have room for a whole set of individual screwdrivers or is tired of having to fish through their toolboxes.
A nifty tool with cool features…
Rating:4 out of 5 stars
I read/watched/listened to HMMWV’s review…and I agree wholeheartedly with his take on this tool. I bow before his multimedia evaluation, and all folks interested in this tool should take full advantage of his effort and consider what he has to say…he “nails it” ["screws it" doesn't sound right]. His review is hard to add anything new to, and I will not even try…I will simply say, “listen to what the man says!
The main things I would love to see changed on this product: the quality of the bits, and, possibly, a sturdier handle/driver system [which HMMWV also covers]…the bits can be supplemented with better quality ones, but the tool housing itself is another matter. Still, it’s a nice kit and has some very innovative features for a tool of this size.
Convenient but expensive
Rating:3 out of 5 stars
The main feature of this product, the 6-bit autoloading, is most useful for a situation where you don’t have room to store 6 individual screwdrivers. In that context, the small autoloader is a nice upgrade from my 2-bit Stanley that I used to keep in the kitchen drawer (and I keep the large autoloader upstairs in the desk drawer). I haven’t yet had to go to the garage for any simple screwdriver tasks since receiving my KR Tools Autoloaders — wall plates, sunglasses, and computers are all handled by the autoloaders’ preloaded assortment of bits.
In addition, having Phillips bits down to 000 is handy since many glasses require bits that size, yet you probably don’t have screwdrivers that small unless you have a set of jeweler’s screwdrivers.
There are 48 bits total, though only 36 are unique (the 12 bits that are preloaded into the two screwdrivers are repeated in the set of bits that are housed in the case). The machining of the bits doesn’t appear to be very precise, and the chrome plating on one or two was flaking off even though brand new. I did torque test one of the larger flat heads and found that I couldn’t bend it with moderate manual twisting in a vice, so they are somewhat harder than they might appear. One other minor quibble with respect to the bits is that they are held in place through magnetization, which is a dual edged sword. Magnetization helps to pick up a dropped screw, but you probably don’t want to use this on your watch.
If I ever do come across a job that requires one of the esoteric Torx, square or hex bits, I’ll have to make a trip to the garage. At which point, I will have lost the convenience factor that is this tool’s main value proposition. And the price tag for this pair of screwdrivers, cool though they may be, is pretty high. If reducing the assortment of bits and the LED light could have shaved 30% to 50% of the price tag, it would have been well worth it.
Bottom line is that while I like this product, I think it costs too much. I am therefore deducting one star from my overall rating.
P.S. Be sure to hold the autoloader vertically with the bit at the top when swapping bits. You pretty much have to do this to see which bit you’re selecting, but I’ve noticed that the autoloader sometimes jams if you hold it horizontally or bit downwards.
Never fumble around for the right screwdriver again!
Rating:4 out of 5 stars
This screwdriver set is just plain cool and it just plain works! It would take a huge drawer holing 52 drivers to replace this one handy tool. Switching from one size to another is as simple as pulling on the handle, twisting, and pushing the handle back up. It’s just that easy. The only reason why I didn’t give it 5 starts is because the pink color is kind of silly and the quality of the bits is questionable. Instead of forged steel bits they are chrome which suggests cheap construction. Serious tools aren’t chrome. But for light duty household use you can’t beat this.
Perfect for me
Gotta love pink. They do have a blue set. This is does not have heavy duty bits, so good for easy home fixes, such as hanging mini blinds or tightening screws or putting together simple furniture kits. Not a good choice for major home repairs or remodels. If it takes alot of force to turn the screws, the bits are going to get bent and warped. The handles are comfortable and I really love the led light that can attatch onto the screwdriver or it has magnets to hang onto a metal object to give the area more light. I love this and will get a lot of use out of it.
Rating:5 out of 5 stars
I love this screwdriver set. One reason is because all of the screwdrivers and bits are together in a small case, which means easy to find and grab knowing everything is in one place. Another reason is that my husband most likely will not “borrow” and fail to return my screwdrivers.
Great holiday gift potential here!
Rating:5 out of 5 stars
This is the type of gift you give to someone who doesn’t really have any tools. It’s handy to put in your glove compartment, kitchen drawer or for a college student.
This is not a gift for a contractor/carpenter/mechanic by trade.
The concept is great and I recently used this while installing a outlet-mount surge protector (a surge protector that screws into the faceplate of the electrical outlet). I had to squeeze behind my large TV to get to the dark corner of my living room. I had looked at another electrical face plate and saw that it was a simple Phillips screwhead.
Upon installing the surge protector, the included screw was a flathead. I know this was a minor/trivial task, but let’s re-enact what happens in real life if I didn’t have the 6 in 1 Autoloader.
The re-enactment:
1. Look at faceplate and see that I need a Phillips screwdriver.
2. Grab a Phillips screwdriver and then squeeze in behind the tv to get to the face plate.
3. Can’t see too well, climb back out and search for a few minutes for a working flashlight
4. Climb back in and prop flashlight on wall and begin to take screw out of face plate, knock flashlight over and re-prop it and continue taking screw out, bump the flashlight with my knee in the tight corner and re-prop the round end of the flashlight against a wall that it rolls and falls over on
5. Finally, I’ve taken the screw out and announce manly-success and grunt like Tim Allen
6. Reach for the surge protector and realize the embedded mounting screw is a flathead and I’m holding a Phillips
7. Climb back out, go find a flathead screwdriver
8. Climb back in and realize the flathead screwdriver is too wide for the hole for the surge protector – need a screwdriver that is 1mm smaller in width
9. Climb back out and go find a smaller flathead screwdriver, but grab 3 extras just in case
10. Climb back in and wah-lah, I have a flathead screwdriver that fits, knock over flashlight and re-prop against wall. Firmly mount the outlet-mount surge protector in place, and though there were a few lost battles, the war is won.
11. Climb back out and realize I forgot to get the flashlight. I say heck with it and the batteries it rode in on.
Now here’s what really happened with my Autoloader 6-in-1:
1. I have my Phillips and flathead tips all built into my Autoloader, I simply pull and turn the handle to the tip that I need, no running out to the garage.
2. It got a little dark, so I slide the ‘Autoloader-tip-flashlight’ over the Autoloader and wah-lah, bright LED lighting exactly where I use the tool and NO KNOCKED OVER FLASHLIGHTS.
3. I don’t forget anything behind the TV because all the tools came out of a really nice canvas carrying case.
4. Unfortunately I did burn less calories by being more efficient…
Overall this is a great toolset for household chores, but if handywork were my profession, I’d have an arsenal of expensive tools…and a big toolbelt.
UPDATE: 12-23-2009: I consider myself a handyman and this Autoloader tool really saved the day today and I wanted to chime in: So today I’m on vacation and painting a vaulted wall that’s 20 feet and has 6 windows with blinds. I wrestle an 18-foot extension ladder into place and grab my trusty Autoloader. I remove the highest blinds and I see that the mounting clips are Phillips screwheads, no problem, I remove a set. I move to the next window and repeat – but this time, one of the screws is a flathead – no problem, I adjust my Autoloader and wah-lah, one of the mounting clips is removed. I go to the next clip and it’s 2 Phillips screwheads, but one looks a lot different. I remove the regular screw and notice the Phillips bit is too narrow for the different screw – no problem, I adjust my Autoloader and I remove the last mounting clip I can reach.
Why is this even meaningful? Because it saved me from climbing up and down an 18 foot ladder probably half a dozen times today fetching different types of screwdrivers. Who knew the mounting clips would be different? I sure wasn’t expecting it, but with my trusty Autoloader, no problem – I was prepared!
Handy Dandy Tool Kit
Rating:3 out of 5 stars
This is a great product. There is every kind of tip for the various screws or fastening devices in the world in this kit for around the home, electronics, automobiles or other miscellaneous devices. The tips you tend to use the most can be and are held in the handle. If on occassion you need an oddball tip that isn’t in the handle, check the case, it is probably there. Exchanging tips is straigtforward and not difficult.
The handle is large and substantial enough to allow women or men the torque to really turn. The design allows you change tips very quickly, locking them in place so they don’t fall out. The tips being magnetic with a surprisingly bright light is helpful. All of this in held in nifty zipper case. I like using it and my wife does too! I plan on getting a couple more for Christmas presents. The three stars is is a little pricey at $49 but if you need it and use it, its worth it. Other than that I recommend it.
Great Product – Must have for project drawer!
Rating:4 out of 5 stars
When I first saw this item, I didn’t quite understand how it worked and it looked like another gimmicky item that would not work as advertised. I must say that I’m very pleasantly surprised! It’s very easy to use and you can change out a wide assortment of bits very quickly. The color is also darker than in the picture. It’s more of a light red/very dark pink than the very bright pink in the picture. I’m happy with the color and the functionality of this screwdriver set. There are two sizes to choose from and a little LED flashlight attachment. This would be a great gift for anybody! It comes with a lot of bits and the rare ones as well: the starburst shaped ones. You can also choose from very small and large screwdriver bits. I have no complaints on the selection. It may not be the absolute best of quality – but then, you’re not paying for that either. You’re paying for a very functional tool that is very handy to have in your project drawer or tool box. It’s great to be able to pull out this little case and have all your screwdriver needs right there at your fingertips.
Nice complete set, good for smaller things but not heavy duty
Rating:4 out of 5 stars
An ideal gift for the handyman or woman in your life with a multitude of interchangeable bits and pieces for most jobs around the house, or light DIY. Like other sets of this nature I wouldn’t put too much faith in the strength of the bits although the design of the driver is quite sturdy. The lifetime warranty is nice for those worried about the price, and the included carry case is a necessary but nice addition.
The tool light is also handy for those hard to see places, or even when fiddling behind the TV or something without the need to get a headlight or another pair of hands to hold a flashlight for you.
Auto load and magnetic heads mean no problems fumbling for screws at any angle and all in all I’m impressed.
Small enough to throw in the car glovebox or a drawer in the house, an ideal set to please most when that “Where did I put that tool” question is asked for the awkward shape or unusual screw or fastening.
4 stars overall, I knocked off one star for the bits which seem OK but wouldn’t tackle hard fastened, heavy duty, or rusted in screws I suspect.
Never be without the correct driver bit again!
Rating:5 out of 5 stars
I have a lot of tools and I enjoy using them. I have many driver bit type screwdrivers and many precision screw driver sets. This set is unique in the fact that I can find it when I need it because it fits in a case that is large enough to not loose between uses!
I have purchased many sets of cheap precision screw drivers in cheap plastic boxes over the years. I forget to put them back in the box, or the box gets dropped and destroyed, then they get tossed in the bottom of a larger box of tools never to be seen again. My standard sized driver handles are always getting seperated from the bits.
The removable driver bits for my standard screw drivers are always getting misplaced and the tool handle is constantly not where the other bits are. This set solves all those problems. The bits remain with the handle and are instantly changed. They is no chance of loosing them. Having 6 bits available on each of the 2 driver handles is great. The storage case is large enough for both driver handles, their self contained bits and the extra 36 bits. The add on led light that slips on the shaft in convenient, it that it is only there when you need it unlike some other designs that mount it permanently in place. All in all it is a very well thought out package. I like it a lot. It is great for fine repair work such as on copy machines and electronic equipment, or perhaps even power tool repair where you are running into a variety of Torx and standard fasteners.
It is a great addition to my tool box. And best of all it isn’t going to get buried in the bottom and all the little parts lost. !!
Clever, handy, but gimicky
Rating:3 out of 5 stars
Positives: clever, obviously handy, and my 10-year old daughter loves the pink-stylishness.
The built-in light is surprisingly effective. Overall, it’s a neat product and fine for everyday kitchen junk-drawer use. But when it comes down to it…
Negatives: it feels pretty cheap. I wouldn’t buy it for $50.00. Right out of the box, some of the plating is already coming off from something somewhere (see the pics) and occasionally, when switching the bits the loading mechanism gets jammed.
Basically it’s a great idea and will probably prove to be very handy once in a while, but it has to be priced right. Given it’s a tad gimmicky and sorta cheap, I can certainly understand 80 percent of buyers who viewed this pink set bought the $20 blue one without the $30 zippered case!
thoughtful, economical and efficient “a-ha!” set of tools…
Rating:4 out of 5 stars
Was quite amazed at the functionality of this wonderfully thoughtful set of tools. From the LED disc light, which is easily placed on the shaft of the tool to illuminate even the deepest crevice, to the amazingly “non gimmicky” (is that a real phrase?) “autoloading” function, this set of tools impresses this tool collector. It’s hard for me to find any jobs so far that this toolkit isn’t my “go to” set. From electronic work to every day around the house “fix it” jobs, this set is just fine.
Nice job. Amazingly simple. Smart set.
Better than it looks…
Rating:5 out of 5 stars
I received the Autoloader screw driver set last week and immediately put it to use. I installed some hinge accessories on my kitchen cabinets and used a couple different sized bits in the process… it worked great!
I have to admit that my first impression when looking at the packaging and the product was that is was gimmicky and a little lame. It doesn’t look very cool or even sound very cool, does it! HOWEVER – the sheer quantity of interchangeable bits and the bit switching feature is exceptionally clever. I have owned screwdrivers like this before, but the bits were stored on a ring around the outside of the product (as opposed to inside like the Autoloader), and eventually were lost. The bit-switching on this is solid and easy. I spent more than a few minutes marvelling at the mechanics of it all before I was convinced that this was going to be functional and durable. My conclusion is that it is!
Great idea, poor implementation
Rating:2 out of 5 stars
Remember when you were a kid and there were these pens you could change the colors on by selecting the color on the sides?
this is like that only with a screwdriver!
The “KR Tools 12650 Autoloader 6-in-1 Auto Loading Screwdriver, 52-Piece Set, Blue” (who will henceforth be called screwey) is annoying – it’s annoying not because it’s a bad product, it’s annoying because it could have been much better – the mechanism makes screwey too big and bulky to handle – a thing that could have been addressed by adding a mechanism that allows you to turn the screwdriver in both directions with only one direction tightening or loosening the screw – instead you have a 3 led plugin that you attach to it to get light on the spot you tightening which could make for a fun evening of tightening screws in candle light but not much more.
Don’t get me wrong, screwey does what it promises – it has 52 pieces, 2 drivers, and a real nice padded case to carry it with you for those dark nights when you go to assemble an ikea dresser and the loading mechanism works beautifully and is quite easy to use (once you get the hang of it), however, screwey is just not good enough.
i’m afraid screwey gets a 2 out of 5
Great idea and easy to use
Rating:4 out of 5 stars
Forgeting for the moment that the handles are pink, this is an innovative screwdriver. Each screwdriver holds six bits — six small and six medium.
The pros:
1) Fast and easy to change bits loaded into the handle. Extend the shaft, rotate and retract.
2) Solid feel when loading a bit. It’s kind-of like loading a mini pump shotgun. Click click.
3) Bits are magnetic so screws stay in place
4) There are a lot of smaller bits. There’s bits from medium sized down to about 1/8″ small. Most other screwdriver bits are in the medium to medium-large range.
5) There is a large variety of bits and sizes. In fact, there’s so many bits that some will go unused.
The con:
1) The clear plastic that stores the bits in the handle is a little thin IMHO. I don’t know how much torque the handle can take before a failure occurs. I’m also not sure if you could generate enough torque with bits this size to cause a failure. Obviously, I would have preferred it if this part was metal instead of plastic.
In conclusion, I was very impressed with the innovations that this screwdriver set introduces. I really like that there are a large range of bits in the small to medium range. It won’t handle large tasks but in its range, it is highly capable.
A good starter set for many, but not all projects
Rating:4 out of 5 stars
I am biased against “all-in-one” tool sets. I have lots of tools and prefer buying the right one for the job. Makers of all-in-ones often scrimp on quality in favor of quantity and sometimes offer gimmicks that do not really help or just get in the way. The biggest issue is usually the soft metal used for the bits.
That’s why I found this set a pleasant surprise. The quality of the bits is higher than most all-in-ones (though certainly not as good as individual, more costly bits). The range of sizes is mostly appropriate to the two handles (labeled somewhat cryptically as “classic” and “precision” to indicate big and small), but does not fit all situations and projects, so if you are buying with a particular task in mind, check carefully. For example, the smallest Torx bit is a T6 and to work on my Garmin GPS I need a T5. The largest, a T40, is very unlikely to unscrew that size fastener, which often can’t be budged by a screwdriver-type tool and really requires a ratchet or other handle with leverage to get it started.
The three-lamp LED light is clever, but the three beams tend to miss the precise spot you need to see. But in an emergency — this kit might be very handy in your glovebox, for example — it would still be much better than a handheld flashlight.
The autoload feature is pretty much a gimmick, but one that works as described and does not interfere with the main function of the tool. To be truly useful it requires knowing in advance which bits you want pre-loaded, but on my motorcycle (which has a lot of Torx fasteners), this will be fairly useful and allow me to leave the full case at home.
None of these issues detracts from what is a decent starter set for someone who needs a useful range of bits. The price is higher than some seemingly similar assortments, but so far it looks to me like the extra money went into decent metal for the bits, which is so important because a cheaper set might be of no use at all. A tool that strips or damages fasteners instead of removing them is no bargain.
Great multi-tip screwdriver
Rating:5 out of 5 stars
This is a well thought out and manufactured tool. Everything feels firm and well put together, from the casing to the foam padding, to the screwdrivers themselves. I used it to install my window guards and it worked like a charm. The form of the handle is comfortable and sturdy and there is enough variety in the tips to fit the various screws that I have collected. The auto loader mechanism is very easy to use, the assortment of tips quite sufficient, and the smaller set, called ‘precision’, actually very impressive. The light is a bit more of a gimmick, but it is bright, so if not attached to the screwdriver, it could be quite useful. Overall, I am very happy with it can certainly recommend it.
GREAT idea!
Rating:5 out of 5 stars
There aren’t enough adjectives to describe the KR Tools 12650 Autoloader is, so I will only use one; great.
I can’t imagine a scenario in which this tool would not be welcome. The light reduces the ability to insert the tool into deeper spaces, but it is still pretty neat for many purposes. I was particularly impressed with the ease with which the bits were changed and how securely they fit into the tool. There are enough bits here to do many tasks, so I would highly recommend this tool to anyone doing jobs around the house, or anywhere else.
Rating: 5 stars – highly recommended
A bagful of screwdrivers
Rating:5 out of 5 stars
This is a neat little gizmo. It’s a screw driver that holds six bits in its handle. Instead of opening the handle to trade bits as most multi bit screwdrivers require, you pull the handle back to view the bits encased in plastic, rotate the handle to select the bit you want then push the handle back into place. The bit you selected is pushed into position. The bits stay encased. You never have to handle or risk loosing them. The kit comes with two handles; one that takes standard bits and one for precision bits.
Each handle holds 6 bits. There are 24 additional standard bits and 12 additional precision bits, for 48 bits total. There’s a good variety of Phillips, straight, Torx, square and hex bits. There’s also a small magnetic led light that can also be attached to the screw drivers as a work light. It all fits in a sturdy zippered case. Neat.
I can’t see a professional handyman using this. As quick as it is to swap bits, it’s even faster to just grab another driver. Also I would say these are meant to be used strictly as screwdrivers and not as some people sometimes use screwdrivers: as chisels and pry bars.
I do have a quibble with the bit exchange mechanism. Once you pull the handle back, it’s sometimes difficult to see which bit you’re selecting. This is especially true of the precision driver. The bits are encased in heavy clear plastic that distorts your view. Also, there are no instructions. Of course, most screwdrivers don’t come with instructions, but it would be nice to know if the batteries in the light are replaceable, for example.
For the layman that needs tools for occasional home repairs, this is just the thing. A whole lot of screw drivers that aren’t likely to get lost, that won’t take much room and are always handy.
Not a Gimmick – Personalize for The Bits You Need
Rating:4 out of 5 stars
I will admit that when I saw the Amazon videos for this screwdriver system, I was skeptical about usability. I think we’ve all been at the checkout aisle at a Home Depot and seen a multi-bit screwdriver, bought it on a whim and then found it cumbersome in real use. This is not that screwdriver; this is useable and darn right cool. The action for switching bits is quick, smooth and has the pleasing sound of mechanical parts meshing. It is also easy to replace bits, just set the bit to the one being replaced, pop it out of its magnetically held place and put in the preferred bit. And despite appearances, the handle is not bulky, it’s about the same as a typical screwdriver and fits the adult hand well.
I can imagine filling the driver handles with bits I need for specific projects. The smaller handle, I will fill with bits used in replacing items in my MacBook and tightening my glasses. The larger handle I will fill with various sized Phillips heads and perhaps one moderately sized slotted head. Should I need one of the more odd ball bits, they are always in the box.
Not that this is perfect. A more grippy rubberized handle would have been better. The included bits are not of particularly good steel; luckily they are of a standard size (at least the larger handle takes standard quarter inch bits) and I can put in higher quality bits as needed. I put in a favorite Wera diamond coated bit without problem. And it’s darn hard to get the smaller bits out of their molded slots, probably near impossible with greasy hands.
Still this is just being picky. These are great both for the toolbox and the kitchen drawer.
Oh, and my four year old son loves the included LED flashlight collar. He was running around the basement hunting ghosts and zombies with it today; perhaps not its intended use.
Handy and clever… a few design flaws
Rating:4 out of 5 stars
I have reviewed the regular two-driver set before
http://www.amazon.com/KR-Tools-12609-Autoloader-Screwdriver/dp/B001NPDJI6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=hi&qid=1259339147&sr=8-1
The two-driver set impressed me with its cleverness, but I didn’t find that the standard-sized driver was preferable to the more standard multi-tools I have kicking around the house. It has six tips, but a lousy grip and I prefer the more typical four-tip tools. The little one, on the other hand, I found more useful, since it’s harder to find smaller tools.
This set takes the cleverness of the first and adds more clever. I’m definitely impressed by the folks who designed these. The extra bonuses are:
1. All those tips! Wow. Whether it’s changing the wheels on a scooter (last week’s allen-wrench job) or something for more standard drivers, there’s a range of bits here. (There are also square and torx tips, but I don’t recall having things that needed those.)
2. The flashlight! This is really clever and will likely come in handy with these screwdrivers or others.
3. The case. Not clever, but just a great addition to the set.
4. I can’t take this one apart, as I could with the last one. Maybe I could if I really really tried, but not just fiddling around. (I’ve realized there are reasons you might actually WANT to take it apart, such as to clean it, but it was too easy to do by mistake before.)
Downsides:
1. The large driver does not have a good grip. (Neither does the small one, but a grip seems less important to me with the smaller driver.)
2. No labeling in the case for what the different bit sizes are. In some ways, this is unimportant, as the bits themselves are marked. But it can be nice to grab the right size the first time.
3. It’s hard to take smaller bits out of the driver (to swap them). It’s just hard to get a grip on them; you might need another tool.
4. It’s really hard to pull the bits out of the foam. Which obviously cuts both ways… it’s nice that the bits are secure. But this to me makes the set less usable. (Hah! But I just figured out that the foam is actually two pieces; if you pull back the bottom, you can push the bits up from the bottom. Easier than trying to pull them out from the top.)
5. I know others are happy with the quality of the bits themselves, but I find them a bit shoddy.
Still:
I know there are folks for whom this would make an absolutely wonderful present. It’s unique, it’s clever, it’s nicely packaged, and it’s handy. I think the thing is it’s not a stand-in for real tools. As some have said, it’s good for keeping in the desk drawer or maybe in the car, maybe on a camping trip, maybe on the second floor of the house, that sort of thing. Handy spare tools.
Bits are cheap, tool design is innovative, see video
Rating:4 out of 5 stars
Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R2DMYZLOKSNSHY Amazon vine ate my original video review so take 2 is presented here. It actually worked out for the better since in take 2 you get to see the tool fail in 2 ways:
#1 – fail to feed a bit – you select a bit, close the action, and nothing pops out at all
#2 – jam – you select a bit, try to close the action, and the bit bites the plastic magazine preventing you from closing the action, so you recycle the action to unjam it.
It’s not a revolver – it behaves more like an automatic. The feedsystem relies on gravitational and magnetic forces to pull the bit into the tube alligned properly so as not to jam. Your grip may affect its reliability in feeding, but its not a big issue – it just happened to have these 2 failures in this footage, despite being used extensively with no failures.
I really do like this tool for its innovative design, however in the attempt to cut costs, it was (like everything) made in China. This isn’t always bad – see my review on vine’s lowenpro video camera case – made in china also but it would give G***i a run for their money!. In this case though the bits are made from pot metal (melted down cars from the usa) then plated to look tough. The plating flakes off and conducts electricity which is a serious problem around PC boards that are bare like a motherboard in a desktop PC. Those flakes get in between small parts and the board smokes and dies. Smoking is very bad for electronic devices! I chose to use a higher quality set of bits with my screwdriver that are not plated but have a phosphated finish on tool steel from Taiwan.
My only other complaint is shared with other non-metalic tools including high quality nutdrivers – they pass the torque through a weak point – the plastic handle in this case. This handle, unlike a nutdriver, is mostly hollow for holding the bits, so it lacks the strength of a nutdriver handle.
My cautionary words are simply this – YOU HAVE ONE PAIR OF EYES! ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GLASSES!. The bits can break, the plastic can break, and depending on the torque applied a fragment could fly into your eye destroying your stereo vision. Never use extension wrenches or breaker bars to force it – put the bit into a steel 1/4″ wrench if you need more torque.
Enjoy the video – you can see the tool malfunction (I honestly didn’t expect it but kept on going with the script and ad-libed my way through the problem) and you can see alternative bit sets including a 100 pc set I bought for $16 made from tool steel in taiwan – best part is that all 100 pieces are for tamper proof fasteners so you can get into almost anything with them. For going cheap on the 48 piece bits I’m deducting one star. I’ve run manufacturing plants in Suzhou, China and I know these bits likely cost 1cent each to make, plus 0.01 cent each to handload into the case, or 48.5 cents which for an extra buck could have been done with toolsteel and no plating.
Lights, action camera.
Good all in one set
Rating:5 out of 5 stars
Good all around set to keep around the house or to give as a gift, comes with 48 bits that should cover most normal usage. I especially like all the allen and torx heads. Everything is stored in a nice carry case, very convenient and well put together system. When I first saw it I thought the loading system was a gimmick, especially looking at the infomercial like video here on Amazon. However it does work pretty good, I think I would use it more often over a normal screwdriver because of the convenience factor. I am a bit of a tool snob, I like Leatherman and Victorinox multitools, Milwaukee and Bosch drills etc. Buying a higher end or quality tool (usually more expensive) will save you headaches down the road. With that said I cannot fault the quality of this set, works just fine and looks like it’ll hold up.
Brilliant and handy
Rating:5 out of 5 stars
This is a handy way to store all those extra bits on your screwdriver.
I have a screwdriver that I can open up to swap bits, but this keeps the slick bit switching on this driver is a lot more fun to use. to switch bits inside the handle of the driver, you pull on the shaft, twist till the arrow points to the bit you want, and push the shaft back into place. It’s solid, cool, and very reliable. The tool is put together very well. It’s sturdier than the other three multidrivers I have. It’s about at the Craftsman level of quality. The metal was not soft. These drivers did not chip and grind away when I took apart my pinion gear and flywheel assembly on my car.
The drivers each hold 6 bits, but the package comes with 48 total. 9 Torx heads, those allen like things (Robertsons) for furniture, and several sizes of phillips and flathead bits. The smaller bits were quite precise.
Included crosshead sizes were: PH 000,00, 0,1,2,3 and if you know what that means, you know that’s damn small. PH1 is the small flush screws that hold my hard drive together.
This unit doesn’t come with the super huge drivers, but that’s sensible. If you’re using something that big, you need a solid one-piece tool.
The light is very bright and goes on the driver in a simple but functional manner, and the case holds everything together in solid fashion.
I don’t think you really need the smaller driver. It’s not smaller enough to be much different than the normal size driver. But it’s a great size to leave in your glovebox.
To put it plainly, this set is made of great materials, comes with a hell of a lot of bits, and it’s a smart, fun design. This is a bargain, if you need a great tool or a gift for that handy lady or man. I would not give a tool like this 5 stars easily, but I simply can’t find any fault with it, after hard use.
All in one kit
Rating:4 out of 5 stars
The KR 12650 auto loading kit is just the thing to have available when one size doesn’t fit all. The entire system is kept neatly in a nice high quality case so everything is available when the job appears. There is no screwdriver application that this set can’t handle. There are bits in there for screws that I never heard of, but if I ever meet one of those the KR 12650 will come to the rescue.
The KR 12650 outfit features auto-drivers that make changing bits a breeze. Once you have the drivers loaded with your favorite bits you can just click them into working position and go. There is no more poking around in a cluttered tool box or junk drawer to find the right screw driver.
There are two drivers included–a beefy one for the screws in hinges or furniture and one small one for light-handed applications. Those tiny screws in toys and electronic devices are no match for the small driver and the appropriate bits. Have you ever tried to back out the little bolt in a battery compartment door on a radio or clock with a regular sized driver? The KR 12650 can handle that.
I am not thrilled with the bulky light gadget because it sometimes gets in the way, but it is removable. I would also like to have a ratchet feature on the drivers, but that is no ‘deal breaker’ as far as I am concerned. If I had to find a complaint in reviewing this product I would probably mention the price tag. The KR 12650 is about ten bucks over priced in my opinion.
At first I thought this screw driver kit was more gimmick than tool, but I have changed my mind. The thing is a valuable addition to my do-it-yourself arsenal.
This is such a great tool to have handy everywhere in the house!
Rating:5 out of 5 stars
I actually haven’t used this particular KR Tool Autoloading Screwdriver set yet because I have used and LOVE the blue one I have that is exactly the same tool. I keep the blue one at my desk and I will keep this one downstairs in one of my “tool drawers”. This is such a handy set to have readily available for all those jobs that pop up everyday without warning. And I have used the blue one for many many repairs requiring different screwdriver bits. I don’t use either set for really heavy duty work…….that’s what the battery powered DeWalt and Milwaukee drills are for…….but they are perfect for those small jobs around the house. I think this is a fabulous, handy tool to have throughout the house.
this one stays in the kitchen
Rating:4 out of 5 stars
this is a handy item for light to medium duty, my wife likes it for misc. household maintenance. we keep it in the pantry for easy access.
Great set of useful tools
Rating:5 out of 5 stars
I didn’t expect much when I ordered this set, but I must say I am very pleasantly surprised. This is a very nice, well made, 52 piece combo set which contains most of the size and style bits used to assemble many electrical and mechanical items. The bits fit well in both the large and small handles, and a great deal of torque can be applied to the fastener you are dealing with. The bits themselves do not appear to be too soft or brittle, so it looks like they’re pretty durable. The entire set comes in a nice zippered case. Good quality tool set in a convenient zippered case. You can’t go wrong with this.
Handy indeed
Rating:5 out of 5 stars
Packaged in a convenient hard shell zippered carrying case this autoloading screwdriver has six interchangeable steel bits built right into the handle. It comes with both Phillips and flathead bits that load automatically using a pump action design. The bit tips are magnetic which makes it easy to keep track of small parts,screws,bolts,etc.. Also included in the kit is a smaller size also auto-loading screwdriver. Additionally there’s a UFO tool light which will attach to the screwdriver allowing you to work in dark areas. It’s also magnetic and can be used separately as a handy work light for a small space. There are even 48 different sized bits provided which allow you to handle almost any job.
If you only want one screwdriver for your home tool drawer or chest, this is a very inexpensive and versatile choice.
Great tool set!
Rating:5 out of 5 stars
Pink is not my favorite color, but I’m willing to overlook it in this set – has a light that attaches to the tool, 48 quality bits including star (“torx”) bits for computers and stuff, in a compact zippered case that goes anywhere. I may just put it in the car and leave it there – you never know when you might need a screwdriver on the road. This will come in VERY handy!
But the coolest part is how it loads the bits FOR you. You put in all the bits you’ll need to use for the job, then when you want to change to a different bit, you extend the screwdriver “bit bay”, twist to select the one you want, then push the bay back into the handle – and presto change-o – you’ve got a different bit loaded. It’s very handy and very clever! Both of the screwdrivers in this set work the same way.
The small 3-LED light is also useful – you twist the pink ring to turn it on/off, slide it over the shaft of the screwdriver, and light up your life. Much easier than “Honey, can you hold the flashlight right THERE? NO, over there another 2 inches!” etc.
Nice carrying case too. Overall this set rocks!
Great idea and execution
Rating:5 out of 5 stars
The set comes with two quality autoloaders and each holds six bits. The grips are large and very comfortable on both autoloaders. Each autoloader also has a spin collar that helps in holding the screwdriver while spinning screws since the autoloader do not have ratcheting mechanisms. The light is very bright and easy to use but is a bit bulky and can get in the way of precision work. The set comes in a quality zippered case and all parts are held in place firmly by the case.
Replacing the bits in the autoloader is very simple, just select the bit you want to remove and replace it with the new one you want making sure the bit size faces in the same direction so it is visible when you are switching bits.
The classic loader uses standard 1/4″ hex shank bits so replacements and addition of specialty bits should not be a problem. The precision loader uses 5/32 hex shank bits. The set comes with a wide variety of commonly used bits in two shank sizes to fit the large and precision drivers including:
For the classic autoloader:
Philips: 0, 1, 2, 3 (also 1, 2, 3 loaded in the classic autoloader)
Flat: 1/4, 3/16, 1/8 (second set is also in the classic autoloader)
Square; 1, 2, 3
Hex: 5/64, 3/32, 7/64, 1/8, 9/64, 5/32, 3/16
Torx: 10, 15, 20, 25, 27, 30, 40
For the precision autoloader:
Philips: 000, 00, 0, 1 (also 000, 00, 0 loaded in the precision autoloader)
Flat: 5/32, 1/8, 5/64, 1/16 (also 5/32, 1/8, 3/32 loaded in the precision autoloader)
Square; 0, 1
Torx: 6, 8
The set is a bit pricy but it certainly fills a void in the market for anyone who requires quick changing of screwdrivers in a compact package and I highly recommend it.
Great idea, high quality
Rating:5 out of 5 stars
I’m impressed. The idea is that the screwdriver is ‘loaded’ with 6 bits. To change bits, you move to another chamber. You pull, twist until you see the chamber you want, then push. A new bit is thus fitted in a couple of seconds. The obvious advantage is that you don’t need to carry bits or be afraid of losing them. There are two screwdrivers, for the larger and smaller bits respectively, so you can be carrying 12 bits in your toolbelt, ready to use. There are 48 bits in all. Over the course of using the screwdrivers, your 12 most often used bits will tend to be loaded. I think it’s a brilliant idea.
There is an attachment to add light, if you want. You twist it to switch it on. It is surprisingly bright. They refer to it as a UFO light, presumably because it is round and therefore resembles a flying saucer, if you are a total nerd.
These are not ratchet screwdrivers. You move your grip at each turn. I’m not sure if there are people committed to ratchet screwdrivers, but if there are, they might give these a miss.
The shafts are quite short – about 2 inches, a little less with the light fitted – which might be a problem in some situations.
The whole thing comes in a zip case. Everything about this product seems well designed and high quality. Recommended.