THG 2003 Holiday Buyer's Guide

New Automatic Loading Screwdriver Makes A Nice Gift

Sears retail stores (as well as Canadian Tire) have available for sale one heck of a handy tool for computer users: the Craftsman Autoloading Multi-Bit Screwdriver. This tool has been advertised on television for some time, but we were somewhat leery of the advertising claims made, as we are of most products that make repetitive, sounds too good to be true, advertising pitches. However, the Craftsman Autoloading Multi-Bit Screwdriver is a pleasant surprise and an item that you might want to add to your wish list.

The Craftsman Autoloading Multi-Bit Screwdriver features a one-of-a-kind automatic loader that exchanges screwdriver bits. This is done with a pump-action mechanism inside the Screwdriver that makes changing the bits a breeze. The problem that I have with most bit-oriented screwdrivers is that I always loose the bits for them. With the Craftsman Autoloading Multi-Bit Screwdriver, you won't have this problem since the bits are stored inside its handle. The base unit from Sears includes six screwdriver bits: P1, P2, slotted ¼", 3/16", 1/8" and T6 Torx. The bits are replaceable and the Craftsman Autoloading Multi-Bit Screwdriver can be customized with the purchase of other bits to suit your particular bit needs.

While the Craftsman Autoloading Multi-Bit Screwdriver isn't as rugged as a normal screwdriver, it offers multi-bit use in one convenient device, and this makes it a winner. While it is still not the primary tool I use nor is it the one that I use when I have a number of systems to build, it is very useful as a supplemental tool for home or office use. It is available at Sears (with a Part Number of 00947380000) for about $20. As we mentioned earlier, Canadian Tire also carries this Autoloading Multi-Bit Screwdriver under its own label, and we have seen a similar model advertised using the Franklin Tools label. This is a very handy item to own, and it also makes a useful and thoughtful gift.

Digital Cameras Are Still A Hot Gift Idea This Season

Digicams: Comparison of Six 3-Megapixel

Those seeking to balance both performance and cost in their selection of a digital camera this holiday season need look no further than the Canon PowerShot A70. While this camera is only 3.2 megapixels, this capability is more than sufficient for personal and home use, and produces very good-looking photos. In our review, it was the top digital camera and earned an Editors' Choice. The three-megapixel cameras are very well suited to noncommercial, everyday use, and they can be found at very attractive prices.