The Engineer DR-55 is a low-profile right angle ratcheting screwdriver that fits into tight spaces other drivers won’t reach.
It could also be considered a bit ratchet, but is different from other tools in that it’s optimized for use with the included “bullet-style” bits. According to the product description on Amazon, it’s said to work with standard 1/4″ hex screwdriver bits, but we have not confirmed this firsthand yet.
See Also: Made-in-Japan Low-Profile Screwdrivers
With the included bits, the Engineer bit ratchet is just 22mm tall, which is even smaller than the height of standard 1″ insert bits. The handle measures 111mm long (~4.37″).
The ratcheting direction is set by a lever (positioned mid-handle), and the ratcheting mechanism also has a “quick rotation dial” that allows for fast driving with your finger tips.
The bit storage holder has a tab that can be used as a bit removal aid. Since the included screwdriver bit tips could be difficult to pull out, you can use the accessory to push them out from the top.
It comes with Phillips #1, #2, #3, and slotted 6mm screwdriver bits.
Price: ~$19.20 (as of the time of this posting)
COO: Made in Japan
Buy Now(via Amazon)
Discussion
I’m not much a fan of proprietary screwdriver bit interfaces, but do like that the Engineer low-profile bit ratchet can be used with the included bits or standard 1/4″ hex bits. Engineer also makes a more “standard” sized bit ratchet that only works with 1/4″ hex bits, but I can’t find a good source for it at the moment.
(Note: We have not yet confirmed firsthand that it works with standard 1/4″ hex bits.)
The DR-55 looks like a good solution for low-profile screw-fastening needs. It seems reasonably priced at ~$20, although there are others – such as one by Craftsman – with enclosed gearing. Laminated and open-gear-style bit ratchets are simple but tend to be very robust.
Comparison
In the image above, from top to bottom: AA-sized battery, Wera bit ratchet, Craftsman offset bit ratchet, Proto 1/4″ square drive ratchet.
The Wera bit ratchet, now called the “Zyklop Mini 1,” remains one of my favorite tight-space fastening tools. It measures ~3-3/8″ compared to ~4-3/8″ for the Engineer.
Price: ~$34 by itself, $38 with a holder and bit set, ~$70+ as part of a larger screwdriver bit set.
See Also(Wera Bit Ratchet via Amazon)
