Abstract: A rotary brush or other rotary implement constructed in accordance with the instant invention includes a first fixed handle means and a second movable handle means hinged to the fixed handle and operable by squeezing. The brush head to be rotated is mounted on an elongated rod which extends through the handle portion. The movable handle carries a rack which engages a pinion gear carried on the rod for rotating the brush. The pinion gear includes internally disposed alternately selectable ratchet portions which upon selection by the user cause the brush head to rotate in a first and only a first direction upon a squeezing of the handle. Upon user adjustment, the brush will rotate in the second and only the second direction upon the squeezing of the handle. The rotation mechanism of the brush is completely enclosed within the handle portion.