Your Guide to Screwdrivers
Screwdrivers are available in various different types because each of them is suited for a specific function, for example, there are screwdrivers that are used specifically for woodworking and carpentry, some that are essential for handling electronics and electrical equipment, and others that are used on metalwork and to fasten wood to metal.
There are screwdrivers that have been designed to handle a range of general-purpose applications and are usually insulated to protect the user such as the electrician’s screwdriver. Screwdrivers also come in different sizes, you will, therefore, find that they are different in length (shaft) and width (head). In essence, is that the units are sized in imperial measurements and metric, the reason why you must always check the scale of the screwdriver that you want before purchasing.
Flat Head Screwdriver
Flat head screwdrivers are characteristic of a wedge-shaped flat tip. Flat head screwdrivers are used for tightening or loosening screws that have a linear or straight notch in their heads. They are multipurpose and can be used for a variety of applications.
Phillips Screwdriver
Philips screwdrives are usually designed to be used with specific types of screws also known as the Philips head screw. The latter is characteristic of a slot at the top that looks like a cross.
Cordless Electric Screwdrivers
Electric screwdrivers can be a cordless drill, impact driver or a dedicated cordless electric screwdriver. Dedicated cordless electric screwdrivers are smaller in size, good for general DIY, and tight spaces. Impact drivers are perfect for heavy duty screwing jobs such as decking, fences, driving long screws, and screwing directly into thin metal sheets. Cordless drills are for those who primarily want a drill, but do not want to purchase dedicated electric screwdrivers. Using electric screwdrivers require less effort from you, are perfect for repetitive tasks, and can speed up jobs.
Torx Screwdriver
Torx screwdrivers are mostly used with bicycles, motorcycles, vehicles, and computer systems among other electronic equipment. They are characteristic of a star-shaped head that makes them secure when compared to the flat or cross head screws. They normally allow higher torque transmission and you can, therefore, tighten the screws and bolts more securely.
Ratchet Screwdrivers
Ratchet screwdrivers are extremely popular for one simple reason, they make using a handheld screwdriver tasks quicker and easier. How? The screwdriver shaft spins freely from the handle, this means you can continue to fasten or unfasten screws without adjusting your wrist. If the job you are doing requires a handheld screwdriver, make sure you use a Ratchet screwdriver, if you are looking for the best Ratchet screwdriver see here.
Precision Screwdrivers
Precision Screwdrivers are used for small delicate screws. Think of screws you find in watches, computers, various gadgets, and smart phones. Precision Screwdrivers are usually have thin handle with a long shaft with the type of screwdriver head at the end of the shaft. At the top of the handle, you will often find a rotating knob, this allows you to put your palm on it whilst turning the screwdriver, it is almost like a ratchet screwdriver. You will most likely find that precision screws don’t require much torque to fasten or unfasten, hence why they are designed with thin handles, however, there are the odd occasions they can be tough, the rotating knob allows you to apply more downward pressure, and turning torque with your hand when using a Precision screwdriver.
Insulated Screwdriver
Insulated screwdrivers are characteristic of a tough non-conductive plastic cover over its shaft as well the handles. Only the tip of the screwdriver has been exposed and that is why they are mostly used by electricians. The insulated screwdriver goes by other names such as Safety screwdrivers and are mostly used by electricians.
Conclusion
When it comes to purchasing screwdrivers, getting them in sets allows you to have a variety of the pieces, and which come in varying sizes. If you, therefore, choose to go with a set of screwdrivers ensure that they suit your application.
Can You Unscrew With an Electric Screwdriver?
How Do You Screw In A Screw With An Electric Screwdriver?
How to Use An Electric Screwdriver on Wood
Common Screwdriver Types Explained
Why a Screwdriver is Important?
Best Electric Screwdriver
Self-Proclaimed Property Maintenance Expert
Welcome to ToolPick.co.uk, My name is Ken Miller, I am a very photo shy individual, but would like an image that represents me on my site, the animation on the left describes me perfectly, and will be a common theme throughout the site.
I have a lot of knowledge on general property maintenance that I would like to share. I have been involved in property maintenance for the last 22 years and have gained a wide range of knowledge on various topics that come under property maintenance.
ToolPick.co.uk will specialize in recommending tools and products that that fit under the home and garden category. I do get a commission on products I recommend, however, I will always give my honest opinion on recommended products.
Contact me at: enquiries@toolpick.co.uk
