From toys to computers to most parts of the home, what isn't held together with screws? It's clear your toolbox should have an assortment of screwdrivers. But which ones? Of all the tools in your toolbox, screwdrivers may be the most specialized. Fortunately, most of the screws you'll encounter will have a flat or Phillips head. A handful of various sized screwdrivers of both of these types will cover 90% of your home projects.
It's All About Power
Whatever the head type, screwdrivers fall into a few categories based on how they're powered.
Hand screwdrivers tighten or loosen a screw when you turn the handle of the tool. Hand screwdrivers are easy to use when you have plenty of room to work and can hold the tool at a comfortable angle. Hand screwdrivers are perfect for a simple repairs or jobs requiring a delicate touch
Ratcheting or push screwdrivers work by holding the screwdriver with one hand and pushing toward the screw with the handle. Ratcheting screwdrivers usually come with an assortment of "bits" that fit the head of the screwdriver. These bits allow a single tool to handle many different types and sizes of screw head.
Power screwdrivers use an electric motor to tighten or loosen screws. Power screwdrivers also feature interchangeable bits and can be corded or battery operated. When purchasing a power screwdriver, look for one with adjustable torque settings. This feature allows you to control the speed of screwdriver, which is important when working with delicate material.
Use Your Head, But Which One?
Screws come in an almost dizzying number of head types. Luckily, most of the screws you encounter will be on of two types: flat or Phillips.
Flat or slotted screws are common in woodworking and construction. Hand screwdrivers are best for flat screws. A powered screwdriver has a tendency to slip off flat screws, leading to damage around the screw.
Phillips head screws were developed to avoid the slipping problems of flat screws. Phillips head screws have a cross shaped slot. Phillips head screws are more common in metal work or mixed material applications.
Torx screws have a star-shaped head. Torx screws have become common in automotive, computer and home electronics construction.
Hex or Allen head screws have a hexagon shaped recess. Hex head screws are commonly used in bicycles and self-assembled furniture.
Small screwdrivers, which are usually slotted or Phillips head, are essential for those who work on small scale, detailed projects. If you do these kinds of projects, the best idea is to get a 16 piece small screwdriver set, which will accommodate any screw that you might encounter. Never use a screwdriver that is too small for a screw; you will strip the slot.
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