Snap-on Incorporated
Socket and bit retention

Abstract:

A tool including a bit including a detent portion in the form of a detent ball and a bias member adapted to provide a biasing force to the detent ball in an outward direction. The detent ball is adapted to engage a receiving portion in a socket to securely couple the bit to the socket. The biasing force may be sufficient to prevent the bit from being accidentally removed from coupling to the socket by hand after assembly. In one aspect, the bit may be removed from the socket upon application of an axial force of about 40 pounds or greater.