Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, gear drive mechanism includes a non-driving space in reversing direction of rotation of the handle of ratchet wrench, within that interval providing for handle engagement with a toggle-type switch for reversing ratcheting direction, handle engagement of ratcheting mechanism being by way of a handle twistable out of alignment with mounting structure of the handle portion of the wrench such that non-circular circumscribing inside wall surfaces of the handle as viewed in transverse cross-section, engages and wedges a roller against the rounded surface of the drive shaft whereby while the roller is wedged, reverse direction turning of the handle causes the drive shaft to turn to thereby flip the toggle-like switch mechanism reversing the ratcheting direction of the ratchet wrench.

Abstract: There is disclosed a novel ratchet wrench assembly comprised of a barrel assembly visa-versa. a clutching mechanism positioned for rotational movement about a drive shaft of the ratchet wrench assembly including a drive stud and gear assembly. The clutching mechanism of the barrel assembly is interconnected to the drive shaft whereby rotation of the barrel assembly about the axis of the drive shaft in either direction causes the drive shaft to rotate in response thereto and thereby rotate the drive stud through the drive stud and gear assembly in a responsive rotational direction. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the clutching mechanism is designed such that the rotational movement of the barrel assembly and the drive stud are coincident, i.e. counter-clockwise rotational movement of the barrel assembly results in a counter-clockwise rotational movement of the drive stud, and thus loosening of a bolt or nut mounted on a right hand threaded stud, and vice-versa.