Hear us out. We do reviews of rock crawlers and Scalextric and the like, but it's important that we also review the tools that you need to tinker with them.
Taking this idea and running with it we've done something rather novel and reviewed a precision screwdriver set. This along with our review of a bucket is certainly one of the more niche tests we've undertaken. Nevertheless, it's very important.
About Draper
Draper is one of the big and established UK names in tools that’s been around for about a century. It produces a massive range of hand and power tools for DIYers and professional tradespeople alike.
The problem manufacturers such as Draper are battling against is the influx of cheap, unbranded knockoff products being sold on places such as Amazon.
Draper has a well-cemented reputation for balancing quality and value and we hope this stands true with its 31 Piece Precision Screwdriver & Bit Set. But more importantly, this set needs to outperform the cheaper competition that so many people are buying. Or to put it more bluntly, falling victim to.
How we tested it
The requirements of a precision screwdriver, or indeed regular screwdriver are very simple: they need to be well made and good to use.
In order to test these requirements, we used the Draper set for tinkering with the RC rock crawlers we have on test. In terms of car-related applications, this is a very important one for precision screwdrivers. Rock crawler bodies sometimes have fasteners in funny places that test the reach and magnetic strength of the handle.
Recommended
Testing
Magnetic bit holder: This was a simple case of inserting the bits into the handle and seeing if the magnetic hold kept them in place and without jiggling around. We’re pleased to report the kit passed with flying colours. The bits are held firmly into the handle but are easy to remove.
The handle: Without any bits, the handle is 11.7cm long, which is a good size for adult hands. The grooves and shape make it comfortable to hold too, and as an excellent touch, the black sections are rubberised for grip.
Bits: Maths fans will have worked out that given this is a 31-piece set, there are 30 bits:
6 x plain slot bits: 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0mm
4 x cross slot bits: No.00, No.0, No.1, No.2
8 x Draper TX-STAR bits: T4, T5, T6, T7. T8, T10, T15, T20
7 x hex bits: 1.0, 1.3, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 4.0mm
1 x star bit: 2mm
1 x round bit: 1mm diameter
1 x triangle bit: 3mm
1 x tri-wing security bit: No.3
1 x spanner security bit: 2.6mm
These are made from chrome vanadium steel. Like the handle, they’re very well-made and perform very well. They don’t have any defects and grip fasteners firmly.
We commend the inclusion of the two security bits, the tri-wing bit especially that comes in very handy in fixing consumer electronics, which the manufacturer deliberately tries to discourage by using such fasteners in the first place.
The only part of this set that feels sub-par are the clips on the plastic case, which probably won't stand the test of time like everything else will.
Verdict
Having the single handle and interchangeable bits is certainly the way to go for a precision screwdriver set (and regular size, casual-use screwdrivers) because it’s more compact and easier to find the right bit.
This set includes all the essential bits and a couple of extras without going overboard and offering 100 different bits. It’s not necessary because the No. 00 cross slot, for example will work on smaller sizes too.
This is the ideal precision screwdriver set for any relevant project such as adjusting and building car models to replacing watch batteries.
Recommended
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| • All the bits you need, none you don’t | • Flimsy case clips |
| • Good build quality | |
| • Strong magnet |
As an FYI, our favourite full-sized toolkit for home mechanics and DIYers:
CAR's top-rated DIY toolkit
This tool kit knows its market and caters perfectly to it. Ideal for the home mechanic, this comprehensive kit from German brand WZG Werkzeug is a great addition to any garage. The sturdy aluminium carry-case contains 194 pieces, secured in place by Velcro or rubber straps.