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b TVMDC
Just bought a few hex drive drill bits and what a pleasure to use when switching back and forth from a philips driver to a drill bit: the chuck jaws only have to open and close a little bit to release and regrip. This is a whole lot faster than racking the jaws down on small bit then opening them back for the driver. Found them at Home Depot in the DeWalt section.
Also found some tapered hex drive bits good for longer wood screws.
By the way, anybody know where to find a reversible philips/square drive bit? Only reversible sq drive bits I’ve found are #2/#3 square drive or philips/slot.
b CDMVT
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I don't know about the DeWalt system, but Stanley and Craftsman have bit holders that'll clamp on to the bits, so you don't even have to unchuck the drill for simple swaps like you describe. There's a collar that you pull/push on, it engages the bit to prevent it from coming out. Great system, except when you break a drill bit and can't find a replacement without buying a whole set...
Sean
*I have the Makita quad driver which is similar to the setup Mr. Pita is talking about. The local tool place also has replacement bits.I have to remember to blow the sawdust off the bit before flipping it over else it will gradually fill up the pocket and the collar won't lock any more.
*b TVMDCI have avoided the "Qwik-Change" systems for just those reasons. Thanks for your input.b CDMVT
*I have the Sear's/Craftsman set. I like it very much. It has a brass outer casing, about 1/2" dia. which you you pull back to exchange the bits. I've seen the DeWalt system and they are much larger in diameter. This isa rare instance in which Sear's beats DeWalt!Individual replacement bits are available."Lock-N-Load" from Home Depot offers spades bits with this scheme, including extentions.
*I have a Dewalt Quick Change thingy myself & I love it. I love the fact that it works on other hex bits then dewalt because DEWALT BITS SUCK! I bought a Dewalt hammer drill bit to put in Tapcons & it wore out in 2 holes.. NOT KIDDING.. 2 HOLES! I then went to Canadian Tire & bought 3 Generic brand bits of the same size (thinking I would need at least 3 to finish) & I drilled well over 30 holes with just the one bit & the thing still looks to be in prety good shape.They cost half of what the Dewalt one cost. If thats what Dewalt drill bits are like I dont think I'll shell out the big dollars for their cordless stuff.Once again.. My opinion.. DEWALT SUCKS.. but their radios pretty neet & thier quick changer was pretty good too untill you use it with a hammer drill.. Guess they just cant take that sort of thing.
*The only experience I have with DeWalt bits was when I worked at Home Depot. I had to drill holes in the big orange beams to mount some displays, and DeWalt cobalt bits were the only things tough enough. They wore out about every 20 holes, 1/8" dia. in maybe as thick steel. But I tried literally every brand we carried, none of the others lasted more than 10 holes. Sean
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b TVMDC
Just bought a few hex drive drill bits and what a pleasure to use when switching back and forth from a philips driver to a drill bit: the chuck jaws only have to open and close a little bit to release and regrip. This is a whole lot faster than racking the jaws down on small bit then opening them back for the driver. Found them at Home Depot in the DeWalt section.
Also found some tapered hex drive bits good for longer wood screws.
By the way, anybody know where to find a reversible philips/square drive bit? Only reversible sq drive bits I've found are #2/#3 square drive or philips/slot.
b CDMVT