How to Choose the Right Screwdriver

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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There are three main types of screwdrivers: standard, which has a straight, flat blade; Phillips, which has a tip that looks like a plus sign; and square-tipped, which is used for recessed screws that have a square hole in the head. Several variations of these exist - choose the best one for your comfort and safety. Here are some guidelines.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Phillips Screwdrivers
Pozidriv Screwdrivers
Electric Screwdrivers
Jeweler's Screwdrivers
Magnetic Screwdrivers
Nut Drivers
Ratcheting Screwdrivers
Screw Holders
Screwdriver Sets
Slotted Screwdrivers
Square-tip Screwdrivers
Stubby Screwdrivers

Step1

Match the screwdriver to the screw head.

Step2

Don't assume that all cross-head screws are for Phillips screwdrivers. A Phillips will slip out of a screw designed for a Pozidriv screwdriver, which has a slightly flatter tip.

Step3

Drive hex-head screws with nut drivers.

Step4

Do fine work, such as on eyeglasses and computer equipment, with a set of jewelers screwdrivers.

Step5

Find screwdrivers with contoured handles that are at least 5 inches long and that fit the shank tightly. Handles without finger grooves are the most comfortable.

Step6

Try an offset or a stubby screwdriver in close quarters where a normal screwdriver won't fit.

Step7

Get a ratcheting screwdriver or an electric screwdriver to prevent repetitive motion injuries.

Step8

Use a screwdriver that has the same blade tip width as the screw head and fits in the slot tightly.

Step9

Look for screwdrivers with black oxide tips, which improve control.

Step10

Use a screw holder or a magnetic screwdriver to start screws in awkward or hard-to-reach places.

Tips & Warnings

Store your screwdrivers in a rack or pouch that leaves the tips exposed; this way you can find the proper screwdriver quickly.
Keep in mind that rubber handles on screwdrivers are for comfort and grip. They aren't designed to protect the user from electrical shock. If you must work on live electrical equipment, be sure that your screwdriver has an insulated handle and a nonconducting shaft.

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Comments

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Electric drills can drive screws rather quickly, but impact drivers offer more torque, less kickback, more reliable driving, and less damage to screw heads. I find that screws which require two hands on the drill can be driven one-handed with a cordless impact driver.