Most hand tools feature design characteristics to improve their usability around the house. Take the mighty screwdriver for example, they might sport chunky ergonomic handles for comfort in the hand or thick, reinforced shafts for strength and rigidity under pressure. When addressing the smallest screws, however, these characteristics can sometimes get in the way. If you have a screw in need of addressing in an area too tight to use one of your regular screwdrivers, you’ll need a precision screwdriver instead.
Precision screwdrivers are used in the same way as regular screwdrivers, only their slender profile and interchangeable heads grant them more manoeuvrability in tighter areas. Got a screw loose in your engine bay? A precision screwdriver will provide you with the means to deploy firm yet accurate rotation so you can get things back in order.
Most household tool manufacturers offer a range of precision screwdrivers, though not all are alike. Depending on the quality of the metal, the number of screwdrivers included and the interchangeability of their heads, the price of one set may vary drastically compared to the next. To help guide you in your search for the perfect set, we’ve picked some of our favourites for you to check out.
Pros
- Quality items at a great price
- Tweezers included
Cons
- May be hard to maintain purchase on the tools without an ergonomic handle
| <strong>Pieces</strong>: | 11 |
| <strong>Types</strong>: | Philips, flat, tweezers, awl |
| <strong>Extras</strong>: | Carry case |
Pros
- You’ve got pretty much all screw types covered.
Cons
- Handle and frame of the driver itself are less wieldy than other precision screwdrivers
| <strong>Pieces</strong>: | 51 |
| <strong>Types</strong>: | Philips, flat, Pozi, hex, Torx, triangle, Pentalobe, tri-point |
| <strong>Extras</strong>: | Carry case, spanner, screwdriver handle with extension bar and more |
Pros
- Soft cushioned grips are great for aiding comfort
Cons
- Size of the pieces may impede manoeuvrability in the tightest areas
| <strong>Pieces</strong>: | 6 |
| <strong>Types</strong>: | Philips, flat |
| <strong>Extras</strong>: | Carry case |
A ratcheting handle will especially aid in reducing hand fatigue in low torque applications, while the bimetal ensures your work is carried out in comfort. Delivered in a sturdy, foam-padded carry case, this is a top-grade tool set and a matching box to cover your needs.
Pros
- Professional quality
- Top-grade carry case
Cons
- Very expensive
| <strong>Pieces</strong>: | 23 |
| <strong>Types</strong>: | Philips, flat, Pozi, hex, Torx |
| <strong>Extras</strong>: | Carry case, 4 V protwist handle |
Pros
- Simple, cheap but effective
- Great for keeping hand fatigue at bay
Cons
- Limited in screw bit types
- Bigger handles may get in the way
| <strong>Pieces</strong>: | 6 |
| <strong>Types</strong>: | Philips, flat |
| <strong>Extras</strong>: | Carry case |
FAQs
What can I use my precision screwdrivers for?
Precision screwdrivers are great for taking apart electrical devices as they’re often held together by a series of small, inconspicuous screws in deep seats. The same principle of inconspicuousness is employed in the assembly of car interiors, so passengers don’t feel as though they’re travelling along in a bucket of screws. To remove or replace the screws, you’ll need a screwdriver with a very thin shaft to reach them, making a precision screwdriver the perfect choice.
What is a ratcheting screwdriver?
Some sets feature a ratcheting screwdriver handle, allowing for turning force to be applied in one direction. Ratcheting handles are great for fasteners in tight spaces as the screws can be driven without the need to remove and then reposition your screwdriver, all the while delivering more torque. However, to encase the mechanism, ratcheting driver handles are usually a little larger than regular precision screwdrivers while also more expensive.
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