Screwdriver Head Types

Screwdrivers come in a variety of heads.

Screwdrivers are an important tool in your handyman arsenal. The screwdriver is used for everything from hanging photos to putting together small equipment and tightening or replacing various household items. There are the traditional flat and Phillips heads, but there are other types that are used for the most unique screw types.

Flat

The flat blade screwdriver head utilizes a vertical slash and adheres to the most common screws available. The tip of the flat head should fit snug into the slot. There should be no slippage when tightening or loosening the screw. The flat blade screwdriver was developed in the early 19th century.

Philips

The Phillips head is another common screw head. The head is shaped as an "x" that matches the head on the screw. The Phillips head was patented in the 1930s by Henry Phillips. The screwdriver was used for screws in many automobiles. The Phillips head has curved edges.

Allen

The Allen head is also called the Allen Key or Allen Wrench. It also is considered a hex wrench. An Allen is an L-shaped metal piece with a hexagonal head. These keys work on Allen screws. Allen screws are often found on bike seats and some pressed wood furniture.

Pozidriv

The Pozidriv has two crosses that appear to overlap. The two crosses are offset at 45 degrees. The additional cross is narrower than the main cross indention. It's also not as deep. This two-cross head provides a tighter fit and avoids slippage. The Pozidrive head can damage similar looking Phillips head screws.

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References

• Home Institute: Types of Screwdrivers
• Swiss Tools: Screw Types