A company called Maxtech Innovations has reached out to me to to introduce to us a new connection called the QL3 connector that accepts 1/4″ hex bits and locks them in place without the need for the the standard slot that helps lock them in place with impact chucks. This means that non slotted bits including double ended bits can also be inserted and locked in place all by the special QL3 connector. This same connector can even accept and lock in smaller diameter precision bits as shown in the below video. The Maxtech Innovations QL3 connector can be found on other brands such as Home Depot’s Husky brand and Lowe’s Kobalt brand.
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Maxtech Innovations didn’t disclose how the QL3 Connector works internally but considering all it can do, if I had to make an educated guess as to how it works, I believe it’s using metal balls (such as those found in ball bearings) that roll in one direction to allow bits to be inserted but lock in the opposite direction meaning that bits will not slide out. Just keep in mind this is my guess as to how it works. I am curious to see how good the grip is and if they are subjected to enough pull force if one could pull them out or if they are on for good. I also wonder how reliable the mechanism is over a long period of time.
I do like what Maxtech Innovations has come out with and I like it when ideas that think outside the box to improve on existing designs comes to fruition. I also wonder how much this idea will take off, I hope it does.
Maxtech Innovations has said they are also licensing their technology to other brands including Bosch, Milwaukee, Klein Tools, Kreg Tools and others. So it seems this tech will be taking off at some point in the future.
Below is a Husky branded 12 in 1 screwdriver featuring the QL3 connector.
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