The new Southwire 2-in-1 Adjustable Length Screwdriver pretty much tells you everything you need to know in the name. It includes a double-sided driver shaft with a #2 Phillips on one end and a 1/4″ slotted end on the other.
You push the handle’s collar down to extend the shank out or push the collar out to shorten the shank, giving you adjustments between 4″ and 8″ in shaft length.
10-Second Summary
- #2 Phillips and 1/4″ slotted on one shaft
- Adjustable shaft length between 4″ and 8″
- $9.00 retail price, around $5 less than Klein
When you’re using the tool, the collar locks the shaft about as solid as any fixed-length screwdriver. Even when you’re making a length adjustment, there’s no budging it in the wrong direction. On the other hand, the adjustment action is very easy.
In measuring the blade locked into the handle, the real-world shaft lengths are actually 4-1/4″ to 7-5/8″. With the handle, that’s a total length of 9-5/8″ to 13″. So it’s not quite the full 4″ to 8″ range, but close enough to do the work it’s designed for.
While Southwire isn’t the first on the market with this design, it’s an incredibly handy tool to have in your bag. It covers the most common screw types you’ll come across for both Pros and DIYers. The adjustable length and dual ends mean you can replace up to 6 drivers with one tool.
Using the Southwire 2-in-1 Adjustable Length Screwdriver, you’ll find the handle overmold is reasonably comfortable in your hand. There’s also plenty of grip whether you’re using a bare hand or glove. None of that is a surprise, though.
Expect pricing to settle in around $18 when it hits retailers. The most direct competition is with Klein, and their version runs around $23 from Acme Tools. That certainly gives this model an attractive price. If you’re still waiting to give Southwire a shot and see how they compare to your favorite brand, this is a great product to start with. It’s also a 2018 Pro Tool Innovation Award Winner!
Southwire 2-in-1 Adjustable Screwdriver Specifications
- Model: Southwire SD2N1AL
- Screwdriver Tips: #2 Phillips, 1/4″ slotted
- Shaft Length: 4″ – 8″
- Measured Total Length: 9-5/8″ – 13″
- Measured Weight: 7 ounces
- Price: $9.00
