The humble handheld screwdriver has been around for ages and it’s an essential tool in any household or workshop. There are so many different types of screwdrivers out there, how do you choose the best one for you?
In this blog post, we’ll take you through the different types of handheld screwdrivers, what to look for when buying one and our top picks for the best screwdrivers to add to your toolbox.
Types of Handheld Screwdrivers
1. Standard Screwdriver - This is the most basic type of screwdriver and comes in different tip sizes to fit various screw heads. They’re usually made from steel or chrome-plated and have a comfortable grip.
2. Phillips Screwdriver - This type of screwdriver is designed to fit into the cross-shaped recess of a Phillips screw head. They’re ideal for tightening or loosening screws with a cross-shaped indentation in them.
3. Torx Screwdriver - This screwdriver has a star-shape tip and is ideal for fastening or loosening screws that have a six-point star shape indentation in them.
4. Hex Screwdriver - The hex screwdriver has a hexagonal-shaped tip and is used for screws with a hexagonal-shaped indentation.
5. Electric Screwdriver - This type of screwdriver is powered by electricity and can make screwing and unscrewing much easier and faster. Electric screwdrivers are ideal for heavier workloads and can help reduce fatigue.
What to look for?
When purchasing a handheld screwdriver, there are several factors you should consider. Here are some of the most important ones:
1. Comfort - Look for a screwdriver that has a comfortable grip. A rubberized grip can help reduce hand fatigue and make it easier to use the screwdriver for extended periods.
2. Quality - Investing in a high-quality screwdriver can save you money in the long run. Cheap screwdrivers may be tempting, but they often have poorly made tips that wear out quickly.
3. Tip Size - Make sure you have the right size screwdriver tip for the screws you’re working on. Using the wrong size can cause damage to the screw head or make it difficult to turn.
4. Magnetic Tip - A magnetic tip can make it easier to hold the screw in place and prevent it from slipping.
Our Top Picks
1. Klein Tools 32500 Multi-Bit Screwdriver - This screwdriver has a comfortable grip and comes with 11 different bits, making it great for a variety of tasks. The bits are also held in place by a strong magnet which prevents them from falling out.
2. Wera Kraftform Plus 334 Screwdriver Set - This set comes with four screwdrivers of different sizes and heads. The tips are made of hardened steel which ensures that they last a long time.
3. DeWalt Max Fit Screwdriver Set - This set comes with eight screwdrivers that have a magnetic tip and comfortable grip. The screwdrivers are also color-coded, making it easy to identify the right one for the job.
Conclusion
Choosing the right handheld screwdriver can make all the difference when it comes to screwing and unscrewing. A good quality screwdriver can last a lifetime and help make your DIY projects a success. When buying a screwdriver, consider the type, comfort, quality, tip size and whether it has a magnetic tip. Our top picks are all high-quality screwdrivers that will get the job done right.