Abstract: A tool comprising a housing having a handle and a distal end wherein the distal end includes a spindle capable of receiving a bit and defining an axis of rotation. The tool further comprises a quick-release chuck assembly that includes a sleeve and a trigger. The sleeve is disposed about the spindle and spring biased in a locked position wherein the sleeve is capable of being moved axially to an unlocked position to permit insertion of such a bit. The trigger includes a finger receiving portion and an actuator portion where the finger receiving portion extends from the housing in a position that enables the user to actuate the trigger with a finger of the hand holding the handle. The actuator portion is in physical communication with an engagement portion of the sleeve wherein the activation of the trigger causes the sleeve to move axially to the unlocked position.

Abstract: A power tool comprising a housing having a member disposed therein and a spindle for receipt of a tool bit wherein the spindle is retained on a shaft. The spindle and shaft define an axis of rotation relative to the housing. The power tool further comprises a collet having a sleeve that includes a collet engaging portion disposed on an inner surface of the sleeve and an opening centered on the axis for passage of the shaft therethrough and for receiving the member disposed in said housing to permit axial sliding movement between a locked position and an unlocked position. The power tool further comprises a spindle engaging portion disposed on the spindle wherein the spindle engaging portion engages with the collet portion means when the collet is moved in the locked position thereby rigidly locking the collet and the spindle together to prevent rotational movement of the spindle.