Spiral screwdrivers went out of style sometime around when the power driver appeared, but I find it a very handy tool and use mine all the time. Using this tool to back a screw out seems counterintuitive, as you’re pushing forward to get the screw to move backward, but it really works.
A short amount of time spent with a bench grinder and a file will turn a regular hex extender into something can fit into this tool, allowing you to use any hex bit. There are companies that sell such adapters, but it’s really quick to make your own.
Millers Falls sold drill bits for this tool as well, but unlike a push drill, this ratchets on the return, so you don’t get chip-removal. Though, I’ve not found that much of a problem.
The one pictured here is missing the last “S” in Millers Falls so cleanly on the handle that it looks deliberate.
The best site about Millers Falls stuff says:
Spiral Ratchet Screwdriver with Automatic Return
1956 — Spring in mahogany-finished hardwood handle allows for automatic return; double spiral locks and turns to the left or right; ratchet controlled by shifter button located at base of handle; quick release chuck; chuck, shifter sleeve and the screw in the handle are nickel plated; shipped with one screwdriver bit.
1960 — as above, but handle painted black.Intended for the homeowner, rather than the professional, the No. 29 was designed for driving and removing smaller and medium-sized screws. A smaller screwdriver bit, drill points and a countersink attachment could be purchased separately.
Sold as a Millers Falls V-Line (Value Line) product from 1956 to ca. 1960.
