Multiple bit driver

Abstract

A driver is provided with storage for interchangeable bits in the handle portion. The handle portion comprises a generally cylindrical driver body, that is aligned along a common longitudinal axis with the shaft. Evenly spaced and outwardly opened grooves span longitudinally along the body for providing channel access to bits, such that one bit is stored in each groove. A bit cap is positioned over the heel end of the driver body and extends at least partially along the length of the driver body to form bit storage chambers. Through apertures in the closed end of the bit cap are spaced to align with the corresponding grooves in the handle body, for inserting and removing bits. A bit gate consisting of a circular disk having a single gate aperture is positioned between the heel of the driver body and the bit cap for selection of a desired bit. A bit selector knob extends longitudinally outward from the bit gate, through the back portion of the bit cap. By turning the bit gate, a user can cause the gate aperture in the bit gate to align longitudinally with any one of the grooves in the handle for replacing or removing bits, or alternatively, the gate aperture may be positioned between grooves effectively locking the bits in their respective bit channels.