Ergonomic handle for hand tool

Claim 1

In a hand ratchet tool or other implement, the combination of a shank means having a longitudinal axis, an ergonomic handle having a substantially elliptical cross-section provided with a center and a major axis, the longitudinal axis of the shank means substantially passing through the center of the elliptical cross-section and intersecting its major axis, the handle being formed substantially as a surface of revolution of the elliptical cross-section about its major axis, the handle having a forwardly-extending relatively-short integral neck portion provided with a bore and a communicating counterbore therein, and a ratchet mechanism connecting the handle to the shank means, the ratchet mechanism having a ratchet housing including a rearward portion secured within the bore and further including an annular shoulder seated in the counterbore; wherein the ratchet mechanism includes a selector which extends radially through an arcuate slot in the neck portion, is pivotable about the axis of the shank, and is disposed forwardly of, and substantially adjacent to, the handle; and wherein a spinner is carried by the ratchet mechanism forwardly of, and substantially adjacent to, the selector; whereby the selector and spinner are readily accessible to the operator's thumb and forefinger, respectively, for substantial one-hand control of the ratchet tool.