Screwdriver with bit storing handle

Claim 1

A screwdriver having bit storage means for storing a plurality of selectable screwdriver bits for ready access and having an elongated shank projecting from said handle defining a driving coupler on the remote end thereof for selectively receiving said bits for use, the improvement in said bit storage means comprising means in said handle defining a plurality of radially outwardly-opening bit-receiving recesses, each of said recesses being oriented generally longitudinally of said handle and peripherally spaced about said handle, the depth of said recesses being somewhat less than the radial thickness of said bits so that a portion of the associated said bit in each said recess projects somewhat radially of said recess, means in said handle defining a circumferential groove in intersecting relation to said recesses, an elastic band mounted in said groove having a circumference which is slightly less than that of said handle so as to bear radially against bits in said recesses for retaining the same, said band being deformable and movable out of said groove upon the application of an axial deforming force to permit insertion and removal of said bits with respect to said recesses.