Types of screwdrivers by slot type, design and purpose

Date updated: 02/28/2021 14:39:48 9186 Share:

Author of the article: Vinogradov Dmitry Alekseevich

*Review of the best according to the editors of simplerule.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

A screwdriver turns out to be useful for any work in the house, from replacing an outlet to installing furniture. If you have a car, then even replacing the license plate light bulb will require a screwdriver, not to mention more serious repairs. At enterprises and construction sites, electricians, car mechanics, and installers cannot do without screwdrivers. But since the heads of screws and self-tapping screws have slots for different slots, it is practical to immediately have a set of screwdrivers with the appropriate equipment. Let's figure out what the best screwdriver sets exist today and how to choose such a tool for specific tasks.

What to look for when choosing a screwdriver

It is recommended to select modern screwdrivers focusing on specific characteristics.

Types of tools:

1. Cordless - good rotation speed so you can drill at the same time.
2. Dielectric - safety, low sensitivity of the material to cold and heat.
3. Drums are a durable metal base that allows you to use a hammer and a large number of different bits.
4. Reversible - small size and versatility, allowing you to work with cross-shaped and straight profiles.
5. Indicator - high protection against electric shock, thinness and simultaneous strength of the tip.

The tip must first of all be durable. On low-grade screwdrivers, when used for a long time, the edges quickly become damaged, crumble and lose their original shape. On the contrary, tools made of high-strength materials - molybdenum steel, chrome vanadium - are practically indestructible. Another advantage is the magnetic properties of the nozzle, which makes it convenient to work with small parts.

It is recommended to select the rod according to GOST - within 47-52 HRC.

This indicator allows you to maintain optimal strength of the tip, preventing it from damage when twisted with great force. Too soft rods bend under force, and hard rods - more than 52 units - burst. To protect against corrosion, they must be coated with a layer of zinc.

Problems

Disadvantages that complicate operation are also associated with the set of functions. The fewer additional options a screwdriver has, the higher the chance that the tool will last a long time.

Problem areas:

• Rechargeable type - requires constant changing or charging of batteries. In conditions of major renovation of the premises, it quickly breaks down. More often this feature is found in Chinese technology, the quality of which does not always meet the needs of Russian conditions.
• Ratchets are sensitive to abrasives and dust. The mechanism fails when used in dusty areas or at a construction site.
• Drums are unsightly due to their metal casing; ergonomic models of this type are rare.
• Indicator - the main problem is the indicator light burns out, after which the model turns into a regular screwdriver. An audible indication requires changing batteries.

The current charge is not displayed on the case, so at the right time it is easy to find yourself without the corresponding functionality.

Models with reverse are not included in the list of problems, since the mechanism rarely fails. Dielectric variations are similar to ordinary ones, the only difference is in the coating, so their operation does not cause problems.

The best cordless screwdrivers

These tools are often confused with screwdrivers. Their fundamental difference is light weight and low power. The best in this category are considered to be models produced by the German brands Military and Bosch, as well as the famous Russian company Interskol.

Military SD4.8

Rotating at 180 rpm, this screwdriver allows you to quickly drive screws and screws, as well as drill various holes. Convenient to work with wood and sheet metal. The screwdriver is incredibly light and compact, easy to use in a cramped car interior - there is also a built-in flashlight. The handle is soft, rubberized.

Nickel-cadmium battery: capacity 0.6 Ah, voltage - 4.8 V. There is an indicator by which you can control the charge. A charger is included in the kit. The maximum torque is 2.5 Nm.

Pros of the screwdriver:

1. Good rotation speed - also allows for drilling.
2. Light weight - 0.28 kg.
3. Compact sizes.
4. It fits comfortably in the hand and does not slip out - the rubberized lining has an effect.
5. Availability of built-in lighting.
6. There is a lanyard for the wrist.
7. Presence of reverse.
8. Holds charge well.
9. German quality.

Disadvantages of a screwdriver:

1. Insufficiently powerful - cannot cope with tightly tightened screws.
2. No spare bits included.

Bosch Go kit

Cordless screwdriver with electronic speed control in 6 positions: speed 1 - for delicate surfaces, positions 2-4 - standard screws, speed 5-6 - large screws and hard materials. There is also a switch between manual and automatic mode. Good power compared to other models in the class. The idle speed is 360. A standard charger is included. Stops due to the electronic clutch E-clutch.

Lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 1.5 Ah and a voltage of 3.6 V. Charges in 1.5 hours. Turns on via the Push&Go button. Suitable for all bits on the market.

Pros of the screwdriver:

1. Presence of reverse.
2. High torque - 5 N.m
3. Supplied in a case.
4. There is a set with 33 bits, a charger via micro-USB.
5. There is a KM regulator - 6 positions.
6. Light weight - 280 g.
7. Turns on with a simple press.
8. Universal HEX holder.

Disadvantages of a screwdriver:

1. Only 1 operating speed.
2. High price.
3. Greater inertia - you need to adapt to unexpected jumps in the instrument.
4. No backlight.
5. No magnetic bar.
6. The electronic stop does not always work clearly - a mechanical brake would look better.

Interskol OA-3.6F

Cordless screwdriver made in Russia. An excellent assistant for the motorist - the tool is equipped with good backlighting, allowing you to work in hard-to-reach and dark places. The handle is rubberized, so the grip is comfortable and the tool does not slip out even during intensive work. The set comes with many different bits that quickly lock into the 6-point chuck.

The Li-Ion battery has a capacity of 1.3 Ah and a voltage of 3.6 V. The charger is of the usual type. The device weighs 0.5 kg.

The maximum KM is 5 N.m, and the number of revolutions is 210 per minute. There is a power button lock. A charge indicator is built into the case, allowing you to promptly know about low power levels.

Pros of the screwdriver:

1. Built-in flashlight.
2. The battery does not discharge at rest.
3. Equipped with a charge indicator.
4. Handle with rubberized lining.
5. Ratchet.
6. Reverse mode.

Disadvantages of a screwdriver:

1. Only 1 operating speed.
2. Somewhat heavy for its purpose - 0.5 kg.
3. The reverse switch is too light, located in an inconvenient place.
4. Supplied without case.
5. Poor quality bits - they rust quickly.

How to choose the right high-quality and reliable screwdriver set

It is not necessary that the set be from a leading brand, although this also matters - famous manufacturers usually care about their reputation and do not skimp on quality. But their products will also be more expensive. It is best to choose German ones; if the budget does not yet allow, then products of the Russian brand. You should absolutely not look for something cheaper on Chinese websites - as a rule, the buyer will be disappointed. Unknown products of dubious production break down, if not after the first, then after the second or third repairs.

The first thing you should focus on when choosing is the purpose of what you plan to do with these tools. These can be impact screwdrivers, magnetic or for precision work.

The second important point is the alloy. It is preferable to choose tools with a chrome vanadium rod with a rubberized two or three-component handle that does not slip in the hand.

Video - How to choose a set of tools for the car and home

The best dielectric screwdrivers

This group contains tools that can be safely used under electrical voltage. To do this, they are coated with dielectric material almost to the very tip. The rating was topped by products produced by the Russian Encor and the relatively young Chinese Rexant International.

Encore 19690

Slotted dielectric screwdriver with straight tip, size SL3, equipped with a magnet for convenience. The purpose of the tool is to work under electrical voltage up to 1000 V. Unscrews and tightens self-tapping screws and slotted screws. Tool length - 100 mm. Material: chrome vanadium. Dimensions: 3x100mm.

Pros of the screwdriver:

1. Low cost.
2. Chrome vanadium steel tip.

Disadvantages of a screwdriver:

1. Sensitivity to frost below 20 degrees Celsius and high humidity.

Rexant SL3

Chinese screwdriver with a straight magnetic tip and an ergonomic insulated two-component handle. An excellent item for electrical work in a car. It can be used to quickly and easily remove and screw in fasteners. The tool's shaft is coated with a special insulating material, allowing safe operation under current.

The length of the rod is 75 mm. Material: chrome vanadium alloy steel. Weight - 0.04 kg.

Pros of the screwdriver:

1. Comfortable, good handle.

Disadvantages of a screwdriver:

1. Not detected.

The best impact screwdrivers

Powerful tools that are pointed at fasteners and hit from above with a hammer. During an impact, a large twisting force is generated. The best impact screwdrivers are made by Taiwanese King Tony and Licota.

King Tony 4108FR

Impact screwdriver, which comes with 6 interchangeable bits, 2 slots for PH and SL. Applicable in places where it is necessary to dismantle fasteners using shock loads.

Bit sizes: SL9, SL11, PH1, PH2, PH3. Case dimensions: 190x60x48 mm. The weight of the tool in the package is 1.04 kg.

Pros of the screwdriver:

1. Possibility of using cross-shaped and straight nozzles.
2. Supplied in a case with other accessories.

Disadvantages of a screwdriver:

1. High price.

Licota ABD-73003

Supplied in a plastic, convenient case. Inside, in addition to the impact screwdriver, there are 6 bits of different types - 2 with SL profile and 4 PH.

Metal handle. The tool is designed for work in places where a lot of twisting force is required - it works great with rusty and soured car nuts. Bit sizes: SL8, SL10, PH2, PH3.

Pros of the screwdriver:

1. There are bits for slotted and cross.
2. Supplied in a convenient case.
3. Solid handle - withstands hammer blows.
4. High resistance to loads - the bits are made of durable S2 steel, the splines are high-precision, milled.

Disadvantages of a screwdriver:

1. No SL11 and PH1 bits.

Characteristics

The characteristics of a tool can be read by its full markings. For example, SL1*80 is a flathead screwdriver with a 5mm diameter blade, 80mm long, suitable for fasteners with a diameter of less than 3mm.

In combination with the type marking (SL, HEX, PH, etc.), the table gives a complete picture of the characteristics and application features of a particular tool. Sometimes the marking is supplemented by an indication of the metal alloy from which the slot is made.

The best reversible screwdrivers

Most loved by motorists for its versatility. Once considered specialized and rare instruments, today they are found in large numbers. The standout models in this category are the Stanley FMHT0-62688 and Wolfcraft 1386000.

Stanley FMHT0-62688

Universal screwdriver with ratcheting mechanism, equipped with 6 interchangeable bits. 3 different profiles are used - PH, PZ, SL. The bit fit is ¼ inch. Nozzle sizes: SL5, SL6, PH1, PH2, PZ1, PZ2.

Pros of the screwdriver:

1. Versatility - bits fit cross-shaped and straight profiles.
2. Possibility to choose the color of the handle - purple, black, yellow.

Disadvantages of a screwdriver:

1. Poor container for attachments in the handle.
2. Small number of bits.

Wolfcraft 1386000

A universal German set - a screwdriver holder with interchangeable bits. Bit sizes: Robertson SQ 0-1-2, Phillips PH 1-2-3, hex SW2-5, T 6-9, TW 1-3, Torq TS 6-8-10, Torx TR 6-7-8- 9 and 10-15-20-25-27-30, SL 5-6, PZ 1-2. Packaged product parameters: 285x205x30 mm. Weight - 610 g.

Pros of the screwdriver:

1. 30 bits included.
2. Convenient case.
3. Low cost.

Disadvantages of a screwdriver:

1. Not detected.

The best indicator screwdrivers

Devices or testers that allow you to quickly find a phase wire. Below are the leaders of the rating - products from German and American companies.

Haupa 100700

Electrical probe with a single-pole optical phase indicator. The tip is reliably protected. Measuring range - 125-250 V. Weight - 0.037 kg. Length - 190 mm.

Pros of the screwdriver:

1. Well-protected tip from short circuits.
2. Low price.

Disadvantages of a screwdriver:

1. There is no illumination of the measurement location.
2. No Data Hold.
3. The measurement phases do not alternate.

Stanley STHT0-66121

Screwdriver with durable chrome vanadium steel tip. The handle is made of plastic. It will help the motorist to quickly find “+” or “-” when repairing electrical wiring. The maximum measurement limit is 250 V. The length of the entire tool is 190 mm, the working part is 65 mm.

Pros of the screwdriver:

1. Durable alloy steel.
2. Excellent thin tip.
3. Good protection against electric shock.

Disadvantages of a screwdriver:

1. There is no magnet in the rod.
2. Chinese quality, although the label says USA.