Right off the bat, I’m sure some of you are going to ask, “Why on earth would you review a 4V screwdriver in a publication dedicated to tradesmen and tool-using professionals?” Sure, we could have filled this space with another 18V saw or perhaps the latest hand tool or accessory. Heck, even a review of liquid fasteners might have been more appropriate. So why did I choose the Worx SemiAutomatic Driver to review here and now?
Because it’s a screwdriver that acts like a semiautomatic weapon. And I don’t care who you are, that’s just cool.
How’s It Work?
The Worx SemiAutomatic Driver (or Worx SD) is, first and foremost, a 4V lithium-ion screwdriver—similar to the Black & Decker 4V Max screwdriver but cooler-looking. The design, however, is rather unique. You see, the driver looks a little like a pistol. They missed the finger guard and traditional grip, but the SD features a sliding semiautomatic bit loading system that you’ve got to see (or use) to believe.
Rack, I mean, pull back the slide, and the current bit retracts into the tool as the removable 6-bit chamber rotates. Push the slide back forward and the new bit emerges, ready to drive a faster (or a pilot hole if you’re using that particular bit).
What’s even more amazing than having a screwdriver function like a semiautomatic pistol is the fact that it actually works. And I tried to break it as best I could. The bit changing is super-reliable and quick. The only hang-up is that you have to cycle all the bits to get to one that might be last in line. Still, that’s a maximum of six pulls on the slide.
The chamber is removable. In fact, Worx gives you a second with a whole different set of bits inside. (You get twelve in all.) The bits stay in the chamber thanks to a centrally located rare-earth magnet. Charging was relatively quick for a tool of this type and I loved the fact that Worx went with standard 1″ bits and not some proprietary system.
The “Fun to Use” Screwdriver
In any case, the Worx SD (SemiAutomatic Driver) gets you about as close to “fun” as you can get doing menial tasks around the house. I found myself wanting to find odd things to tighten up just so I could load up a new bit with the semiautomatic cocking action. Kitchen cabinet doors? Fixed. Drawer pulls in the spare bedroom? Tightened up. Even the hinges on my office door got some love as I finally fixed the sag that had been plaguing me for months.
What Are You Waiting For?
You should probably not buy this tool if you are a very serious person. If, however, you like to be a little playful—or you’re looking for that perfect gift for next Christmas—look no further.
And, when you pull out this screwdriver in front of your 10-year-old son, he’ll think you’re the greatest Dad ever. And he’ll be right. But hopefully not solely because of this screwdriver.
