On the basis of ubiquity, screwdrivers must be the world’s pre-eminent household tool, second only perhaps to the humble curved claw hammer. But have you ever found yourself taking on an especially fiddly screw in need of something a little more precise?
Most screwdrivers are manufactured with thick metal shafts and wide ergonomic handles for comfort and durability combined, but these design choices come at the cost of agility and accuracy when taking on the smallest of screws. If you have a screw in need of addressing that's too small for your regular tools to effectively tackle, you’ll need a precision screwdriver.
As the name would suggest, precision screwdrivers are able to deploy far more exact and precise rotation onto smaller subjects by virtue of their light and slender design, with scaled-down screw heads to fit the smallest of screws.
Want to kit out the rest of your toolbox? Check out our other articles on socket sets, tools for DIYers and folding workbenches.
What can I use my precision screwdriver for?
Precision screwdrivers are often used in the assembly and disassembly of electrical devices including mobile phones, gaming consoles and laptops, as such devices are often manufactured with small screws so as to remain inconspicuous and generally undetectable during use.
The same design principle is carried over into the assembly of car interiors, too, especially in the application of electronic components to the car’s centre console, to create a clean and smooth environment. After all, who wants to feel as though they’re literally driving around in a bucket of bolts? Not us.
Of course, as in life so too in the entrails of a car’s electrical wiring, something is inevitably going to go wrong. Enter our bi-metal paladin: the precision screwdriver.
Not sure which is right for you? We’ve picked our favourite sets for you to check out.
Click hereto see the rest of our favourite screwdrivers.
Great for the tighter spots
This precision screwdriver set from Draper includes 11 pieces of both Philips and flathead screwdrivers in several different sizes. Each tool is manufactured from hardened steel for durability under heavy loads.
Unlike other precision screwdrivers, the tools included in this set feature no handle at all to keep their profiles at a minimum. Instead, rotation is carried out by holding onto the shaft’s metal casing or the hexagonal driver head.
Pros:
• Quality items at a great price
• Tweezers included
Cons:
• May be hard to maintain purchase on the tools without an ergonomic handle
All the screw bits you could want
This set from Amazon Basics represents fantastic value for money, boasting 51 screwdriver bits ranging from Philips and flatheads to stars, squares and other speciality shapes, covering just about every small screw going. Made from chrome vanadium steel, the screw bits and the driver are built to last, the latter featuring an ergonomic comfort handle to fight hand fatigue and ensure the longevity of your working day.
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
If you prefer the idea of having something a little more substantial to hang onto, then this six-piece precision screwdriver set from celebrated hardware manufacturer Stanley might be the set for you. While the swivel-head handles of these tools provide precision and reach, the soft cushions ensure comfort, grip and stability when in use. Stanley even throws in a plastic storage case, so you can always keep your set together.
Pros:
• Soft cushioned grips are great for aiding comfort
Cons:
• Size of the pieces may impede manoeuvrability in the tightest areas.
Highest quality
uk.rs-online.com
If you’re looking for true professional quality, then look no further than this precision screwdriver set from Facom. This, the Facom E Protwist set, features 23 pieces and a 4V ratchet handle for a more efficient approach to tackling small screws.
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
Recommended
www.screwfix.com
Perhaps myriad screw bits and intricate handles aren’t what you’re looking for. If you’d like to address your small screw in comfort and without busting the bank, this six-piece set from Magnusson is ideal for fiddly jobs. Like the Stanley set, the Bi-material soft-grip handles are designed for comfort and easy use, while facilitating the torque needed to drive screws straight and true. The shafts of these screwdrivers are made from chrome molybdenum steel for improved durability and strength.
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.