Screwdriver sets are only as useful as the tools included in them. So, when you’re shopping around for new sets, you’ll want to look for options that give you the most bang for your buck.
In this article, we’ll discuss five key pieces that should be included in any quality screwdriver set, highlighting how you can use each specific tool.
1. Phillips/crosshead screwdriver
A Phillips screwdriver is a type of screwdriver with a cross-shaped blade, designed to fit the slotted head of a Phillips screw. The design was patented by Henry F. Phillips in the US in 1936 and in Canada in 1937.
The Phillips screwdriver can be used for different purposes such as stripping wires, opening paint cans, assembling furniture, and more. The design makes it easier to grip than other types of screws because of its crosshead shape, which also prevents the driver from slipping off the head of the screw.
2. Flathead/slotted screwdriver
The flathead screwdriver is a type of screwdriver with a blade that is flat and wide. It is used to drive screws into wood, metal, plastic, and other materials.
The flathead screwdriver was invented in the 1920s by Robert W. Sears and became popular in the 1930s. The tool typically consists of a shaft with a handle at one end and a metal blade at the other end which can be used to turn screws or pry objects apart.
The blade of the flathead screwdriver has an angle between 60-90 degrees from the shaft. This allows it to apply more torque than an ordinary slotted or Phillips head screwdriver because it does not have to break through the coating on the screw head before applying pressure to it.
3. Hex screwdriver
Hex screwdrivers are intended for loosening and tightening hex screws. While Allen keys or wrenches are more popular for this purpose, hex screwdrivers serve the same function and more ergonomic thanks to their longer shank and comfortable handle.
You’ll find hex screwdrivers useful for bike maintenance, furniture, and appliance manufacturing, and even in prison maintenance.
4. Torx/star screwdriver
Torx screwdrivers are one of the most common types of screwdrivers in use today. They are used to drive screws with a six-pointed star-shaped pattern. They allow the user to apply torque more easily than with other screwdriver types.
‘Torx’ is the trademarked and most common name for this type of screwdriver, but the generic name is ‘star’ screwdriver, representing the shape of the screw head. They’re commonly used in mechanical production applications.
5. Robertson/square head screwdriver
The Robertson screwdriver is a type of screwdriver with a square head. As you might expect, you can use this tool to drive square-headed screws, which you’ll often find in furniture and other woodworking applications.
Robertson screwdrivers were originally limited to Canada, but today, they’re popular around the world. They’re popular because they’re easy to use with one hand and because the tool’s tapered socket more readily retains screws.
You can also find combination Robertson/Phillips screwdrivers, which are useful in the electrical trade for working with clamp connectors and circuit breaker terminals.
Conclusion
Make sure your next screwdriver set includes most or all of the above screwdriver types to get the most bang for your buck and cover as many angles as possible.