Decided to upgrade your screwdriver set, but you don’t know where to start? There is a vast range of screwdriver sets on the market, so it can be hard to know which one is the right one for you. Don’t worry, in this blog we will help you review your options to make the best decision!
A screwdriver is used for a huge range of professional and DIY tasks. It is a length of metal which is shaped to fit specific screw sizes and shapes, attached to a long shank and handle. From turning, driving, and removing screws, a screwdriver can help you with the task at hand. However, picking your new screwdriver sets can be a daunting task with the endless options that are available today.
What Types of Screwdrivers are there?
There are many different variations when it comes to screwdrivers, the specific screws and application will vary which one you need. It is essential to match the screwdriver head to the screw head to reduce the chance of damaging the screws or slipping out of the screw head. The most common variations of screwdriver tips are Phillips, Flat Head (Slotted), Torx, Hex, and Pozidriv.
Phillips: This is one of the most popular choices amongst professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Phillips screwdrivers have a cross shaped design with a plus sign in the centre.
Flat Head (Slotted): Another popular choice for screwdriver heads, featuring a flat single slot that fits into straight line indentations. Due to the simplistic design, it can occasionally slip out of the screw head slot if a lot of pressure is applied.
Torx: Torx screwdrivers are another common choice, especially amongst the electrical and automotive industry. This head features a six-pointed star shape which provides excellent torque, reducing the risk of stripping the screw head.
Hex: These types of screwdriver heads are commonly found in machinery and equipment assembly. The hexagonal shaped head can be tightened with an Allen key or Wrench.
Pozidriv: This screwdriver tip is similar to a Phillips head but have additional ribs across the centre cross. Pozidriv are brilliant for use in applications which require high torque to tighten the screws.
Do I Need an Insulated Screwdriver?
You might ask yourself, what is the difference between an insulated screwdriver and a standard screwdriver? An insulted screwdriver is a tool which has been specifically designed for electrical work, protecting the user from touching live parts. From having the shaft of the screwdriver coated with a protective non-conductive material, it is safe to use with electrical circuits. A lot of screwdrivers will have plastic handles or even handles made from non-conductive material, but this is not a guarantee that it is properly insulated.
What is a VDE Screwdriver?
The term VDE has been around since 1896, it was founded to provide a safety standard for electrical installations and equipment. VDE 1000V means that the screwdriver is certified as suitable for use on circuits with up to 1,000 volts AC or 1,500 volts DC, however these tools are tested up to 10,000 volts AC for extra safety.
Screwdriver Sizes and Materials
Screwdrivers can come in a variety of sizes, from large all the way to stubby. The size of the screwdriver you may want depends on the application, for example, stubby screwdrivers are brilliant for use in tight or confined spaces, whereas slim long shafted screwdrivers can help you when dealing with screws heads that are out of reach or recessed.
Screwdriver bits are made from a variety of materials, each material has its own benefits and ideal applications. Here are a few examples of materials which may be used: Titanium, Stainless Steel, Tool Grade Steel, High Speed Steel, Chromium-Vanadium-Molybdenum, or other non-sparking metals to reduce the risk of combustion.
Do I Need a Screwdriver Bit Set?
Screwdriver bit sets can be more efficient as everything you need is readily available. These bit sets are brilliant for use home use, however for professional use an individual screwdriver will always weigh less than a set and the longer shaft can help you to reach difficult to access areas. Both screwdriver bit sets, and individual screwdrivers will get the job done, so use whatever feels most comfortable to you!
This Armeg 32 Piece Screwdriver Bit Set is designed to make sure you always have the right bit for the right job. The set features an impact rated ‘Click and Drive’ Adaptor which allows you to quickly change between bits for ease of use.
Screwdriver Accessories:
Screwdrivers accessories can help to get you out of a tricky situation where visibility or space is limited. A handy accessory to keep in the tool bag is the CK Magnetic Pivot Joint Bit Holder, it allows you to lock the collar for use in a straight line or pivot the head when the screw isn’t accessible because of awkward angles. Along with these benefits the magnetic base also holds the screwdriver bit in place, reducing the risk of you losing your screwdriver bits!
Our Top Picks:
With all that in mind, we have made up a selection of our best picks depending on your needs!
Interchangeable Screwdriver Set
The CK T4925 1000v Insulated Interchangeable Screwdriver Set is VDE approved and individually tested to 10,000v for safe working up to 1,000v. It features a quick locking mechanism for fast and easy blade interchange, toughened sturdy alloy steel blades for outstanding lasting durability, soft handles for increased grip and comfort. And it even comes with fabric storage pouch with integral belt loop, making it easy to transport.
This set contains:
1000v VDE High Torque Screwdriver Handle.
1000v VDE Precision Screwdriver Handle.
1000v VDE Slim Screwdriver Blades: Slotted sizes: 3.5mm, 4.5mm, 6.5mm, PZ1 & PZ2, Modulo (Plus/Minus) sizes: 1 & 2.
Fabric Storage Pouch.
Slim Slotted Screwdriver Set
The CK T49283D 1000v Insulated VDE Slim Slotted Screwdriver comes as a set of 5 and is VDE approved. This set provides long lasting performance and reliability thanks to the precision German engineering. It offers soft handles for increased grip and comfort, a slim shafted insulated blade which allows easy access to recessed screws and fixings and an ergonomically shaped dual component handle with a long neck to provide precise fingertip control.
This set contains:
3 x Slotted Parallel Screwdrivers. Sizes: 3.5 x 100mm, 4.0 x 100mm & 5.5 x 125mm.
2 x POZI Screwdrivers. Sizes: PZ1 x 100 & PZ2 x 125mm.
Adjustable Torque Screwdriver Set
The Armeg SDSBSET001FL 13 Piece VDE Adjustable Torque Screwdriver Set comes with two VDE screwdrivers both VDE rated to 1000V, one with an adjustable torque feature and the other without. The torque screwdriver features white markings and an audible clicking sound which allows users to easily identify, adjust, and know when the correct torque is set. This set also comes with a VDE T-Handle, with an ergonomic shape which provides better leverage for high torque applications.
All handles have a secure blade auto locking mechanism to provide you with extra safety when working, on top of this the quick release system allows for the fastest blade changes, saving you time on site. This set comes with 9 interchangeable blades allowing you to have an incredible 27 different handle and blade combinations from this set. To add even further to this impressive set, it also features 3mm and 4mm hex blades.
The torque adjuster that comes in this set allows you to change between 1 and 6 Nm for increased versatility when meeting manufacture requirements.
This set contains:
1 x 1000V VDE Adjustable Torque Screwdriver Handle
1 x Torque Adjuster
1 x Calibration Certificate
1 x 1000V VDE Interchangeable Screwdriver Handle
1 x 1000V VDE Interchangeable T-Handle
9 x 1000V VDE Interchangeable Blades (1 x PZ1, PZ2, Plus / Minus 1 – PZ/SL, Plus / Minus 2 – PZ/SL, SL3.5, SL4.0, SL5.5, Hex 3mm Hex 4mm)
Stubby Screwdriver Set
The CK T48349 1000v VDE Slim Stubby Screwdriver provides excellent strength and reliability thanks to the premium quality chrome vanadium steel blades. The screwdrivers have anti roll flats to stop them rolling off any uneven surfaces. This set features tip type marking for easy identification on the job. For jobs with tight awkward spaces, these slim shafted insulated blades provide easy access.
This set contains:
1 x T48344-040 SL4.0mm
1 x T48344-050 SL5.5mm
1 x T48343-2 PZD2
1 x T48345-2 MOD
