Whats your favorite screwdriver handle?
- Thread starter KnurledNut
- Start date
OP
KnurledNut
Well-known member
Thank you for sharing that./thread
I have used these before and they have surprisingly little backdrag and a mechanism that rivals many modern ratcheting screwdrivers.
I think it was member @bonneyman that really liked using these because the big ball handle was easy on his arthritis.
OP
KnurledNut
Well-known member
Dave455
Well-known member
I didn’t know that!@Dave455
Some of the contour grips received a second life rebranded after Snap-on discontinued them.
Such as Williams and Harley Davidson.
Sadly, in the pre internet days Williams tools were not widely available in the U.K.
I suspect Harley were, but anything so marked would probably have been more expensive than the Snap On here!
I’ve seen a few of the yellow ones around. I quite like those. ANYTHING but invisible black!
@Dave455
Some of the contour grips received a second life rebranded after Snap-on discontinued them.
Such as Williams and Harley Davidson.
Does the second one from the bottom have glitter in it, I have a couple of the anniversary ones, but neither have a magnet.
OP
KnurledNut
Well-known member
No. I believe it was originally clear. It is a pocket screwdriver and has a clip and magnet.
Wood can work quite well. Often grippy dven when oily. But depends a lot on the way it is made. Gessel makes wood composite screwdriver handles specifically meant to be used in oily environmenta, but I think it looks more like cork. Never tried one but they seem interesting. They also sell regular wood screwdrivers, and also a massive old school all-forged screwdriver including the handle, that acceps two wood halves on the handle portion.
The only exception are the Hazet drivers made by Oplast. The hex portion at the top is made as a separate piece. Bit of a shame, as these are actually quite decent drivers. For the price, extremely decent, but not in the same league as the older Hazet.
That is not exclusive to Hazet or Oplast. Gedore (also by Oplast) uses the same kind of bolster, as does Unior (also by Oplast). But it is very common on most European brands. You see it on Felo screwdrivers with a bolster, and also Wera and Wiha. Witte also does it but not always. The Spanish Irazola is also made this way. I think an all forged screwdriver made in Europe is very uncommon, maybe some old production of all wooden screwdrivers is still made the same way.
A lot of the others that are one piece like PB Swiss are friction welded instead of forged. I assume Witte does it this way too on their one piece versions.
Making them out of a thin round bar is just a lot faster and cheaper, and may not impact quality if done properly. But a single piece forged one is way cooler - e.g. the Vessel powergrip series.
This screwdriver doesn’t make sense to me. This is 100% theory because I’ve never used this screwdriver (above): If you have a full tang screwdriver, presumably you are using that for heavy work, hitting it with a hammer etc, the handle should be big and clunky like an instinct.
I think some of the Japanese and euro screwdrivers look cool, but may have old fashioned handles (despite the colors and materials) with the thick part of the handle at the **** end like this antique.
The euro screwdrivers all look like variations of this 19th c tool (originally called a “turn screw” in Britain.). The old tools’ handles were shaped this way partly to ensure the short grain at the **** end wouldn’t breakout.
I think European and Japanese designs place a large value on tradition, so not surprising their screwdrivers retain a centuries old design.
If you made this instinct out of wood, it would be fragile. The fattest part of the handle is in the middle of the handle lengthwise in a diamond like shape (plan-wise).
With the end of the screwdriver close to your palm, the thick part of the handle should be under your thumb and fore fingers, like the picture below.
Screwdriver handles should be designed ergonomically. It’s not a beauty contest. Note that Instinct isn’t the only screwdriver with that diamond shape. Even the craftsmans I posted had that shape 30yrs ago and there are MANY others on the market today with the diamond shape.
The neck, just on top of the bolster, is used to support the tool while spinning, which is a low torque usage. Most or all screwdrivers have a neck to support this technique.
Notice where his fingers are. This works because he is using two hands. Some screwdriver handles might be optimized for this finger tip technique. I prefer round shanked screwdrivers over hex shaped because I do this also.
This tee shaped screwdriver handle makes a lot of sense to me. I’ve never owned one, but have always wanted one. Though this is a ratcheting screwdriver and they are used differently from normal screwdrivers, this unique handle shape would probably still work with a fixed blade.
For automotive, one hand operation is important for many tasks. That‘s where the ratchet screwdrivers can really shine.
Last edited:
Yeah, you could say I have problem with those!Thank you for sharing that.
I have used these before and they have surprisingly little backdrag and a mechanism that rivals many modern ratcheting screwdrivers.
I think it was member @bonneyman that really liked using these because the big ball handle was easy on his arthritis.
Attachments
Yeah, I have a small one like that. At first I thought it was a collectible amble handle, then found out it was just clear that got funky.
I do have a Snappy pocket schrader valve core remover, with diamond dust grip tip.
Attachments
OP
KnurledNut
Well-known member
Very familiar and have a few myself, but only a fraction of your collection. Liking those 4 specialty tools in the second picture.
Holt
Well-known member
Wera Kraftform or Vessel Megadora for me.
OP
KnurledNut
Well-known member
That Hazet does not have a thru tang, which I assume you meant by "full tang." Nor does it have a striking cap.
I dont think Hazet ever offered that until recently with the new 811S series which I would really like to try.
Video: https://www.hazet.de/asset/download/af161a36-1595-4e9b-9743-d93cf165e94d?
This screwdriver doesn’t make sense to me. This is 100% theory because I’ve never used this screwdriver (above): If you have a full tang screwdriver, presumably you are using that for heavy work, hitting it with a hammer etc, the handle should be big and clunky like an instinct.
I think some of the Japanese and euro screwdrivers look cool, but may have old fashioned handles (despite the colors and materials) with the thick part of the handle at the **** end like this antique.
The euro screwdrivers all look like variations of this 19th c tool (originally called a “turn screw” in Britain.). The old tools’ handles were shaped this way partly to ensure the short grain at the **** end wouldn’t breakout.
I think European and Japanese designs place a large value on tradition, so not surprising their screwdrivers retain a centuries old design.
If you made this instinct out of wood, it would be fragile. The fattest part of the handle is in the middle of the handle lengthwise in a diamond like shape (plan-wise).
With the end of the screwdriver close to your palm, the thick part of the handle should be under your thumb and fore fingers, like the picture below.
Screwdriver handles should be designed ergonomically. It’s not a beauty contest. Note that Instinct isn’t the only screwdriver with that diamond shape. Even the craftsmans I posted had that shape 30yrs ago and there are MANY others on the market today with the diamond shape.
The neck, just on top of the bolster, is used to support the tool while spinning, which is a low torque usage. Most or all screwdrivers have a neck to support this technique.
Notice where his fingers are. This works because he is using two hands. Some screwdriver handles might be optimized for this finger tip technique. I prefer round shanked screwdrivers over hex shaped because I do this also.
This tee shaped screwdriver handle makes a lot of sense to me. I’ve never owned one, but have always wanted one. Though this is a ratcheting screwdriver and they are used differently from normal screwdrivers, this unique handle shape would probably still work with a fixed blade.
For automotive, one hand operation is important for many tasks. That‘s where the ratchet screwdrivers can really shine.
I think you are turning a blind eye to a lot if you generalize like that. Vessel just by themselves make over 10 different screwdriver handle designs. A lot of them are very unique and innovative. The ball grip is popular because it does work very well in many scenarios. But it depends from hand to hand, there is no one design for everything.
But there's the patented ones such as multicraft/swissgrip by pb swiss, wera kraftform which is what that whole brand revolves around, and the Kraftgrip patented by Oplast and used on Hazet amd Gedore and others (though evidently they produce many more shapes than just that one).
That Hazet does not have a thru tang, which I assume you meant by "full tang." Nor does it have a striking cap.
I dont think Hazet ever offered that until recently with the new 811S series which I would really like to try.
Video: https://www.hazet.de/asset/download/af161a36-1595-4e9b-9743-d93cf165e94d?
I have a 810U for a while. Slightly different to the ones you posted. They're fine. Feels quality but quite light duty for an impact screwdriver.
Last edited:
You tell me!
Vessel
19th c English Antique
Not saying it’s bad. I love traditional designs. They are time tested. Just bear in mind, the REASONS for the traditional designs may have something to do with the materials and technology available at the time.
Remember: “Form follows function“ is a design goal, not a given. Form follows process, materials IS a given.
If your point was Japanese and European designs don’t consider hundreds of years of craft tradition, you’d have to explain the 2 photos I just posted. It’s not a bad thing to be traditional. As of 2016, I could buy a warrington hammer and a gimlet in a UK hardware store. (For anyone who doesn’t know what they are, they are 200yr old tools, still being made as they were, sold in the UKs version of HomeDepot called B&Q. Neither are readily available in the USA). A UK hardware store than sells door locks and things is still called an “ironmongery”.
Here was my point: Manufacturers shape screwdriver handles for lots of reasons. Esthetics, tradition, ease/cost of manufacture, ergonomics etc. Think about how YOU use your screwdrivers, what you do with them, then pick a handle that supports your technique, hand size etc. This shouldn’t be a beauty contest ( tho I’m enjoying the thread and ALL your posts).
BTW: Was anyone surprised to see these pics? Did you know the awesome looking Vessel in the top picture was a modern design and not a plastic version of a 200yr old design?
Last edited:
CHI_Tool&Die
Well-known member
A lot of people use a screwdriver by simultaneously applying pressure and turning with their palm and thus the euro designs work better.
OP
KnurledNut
Well-known member
Was the 810U thru tang or just capped?
Dave455
Well-known member
I pretty much have to agree.Oplae With respect, this kicks the **** out of that!
Although I prefer the hard handle version, the Snap On short ratcheting driver is pretty much my most used. It’s great if you are working on something you are holding, like a petrol pump or carb, as your hand doesn’t end up a foot from your workpiece!
My two favourite ratcheting drivers are the short one with the regular handle, and the standard length with the T handle
You’re right! I have a couple of Irazola that I just checked and they are the same. They don’t have anything like the balance or feel of my old Stanley or Steadfast forged drivers.
As a couple of others have said, these are not ”through tang”, just a regular blade with a bolster. Fine by me, as I don’t generally like the balance of full tang drivers. The Vessel Powergrip are the exception.
I quite like these Hazet’s. They are one of the better Oplast made drivers, but not as good as the older Hazet’s.
They’re a great design. Whoever came up with these really knew their stuff. When you use them your wrist twists where it wants to twist, and they are very comfortable. See above!This tee shaped screwdriver handle makes a lot of sense to me. I’ve never owned one, but have always wanted one. Though this is a ratcheting screwdriver and they are used differently from normal screwdrivers, this unique handle shape would probably still work with a fixed blade.
For automotive, one hand operation is important for many tasks. That‘s where the ratchet screwdrivers can really shine.
And yes, for one handed use they are invaluable, but as you point out they need to be ratcheting.
The Williams version is a very good deal, so long as you don’t mind the Henry Ford colour choice!
Last edited:
Fedwrench
ALLIANCE MEMBER
A few of my favorites from home: Left to right: Wera Chisel Driver, vessel. older Snap on comfort grip, SK from Slovenia I think. really comfortable handle, green area is soft, black sections are hard. Felo kind of hard handle with striking cap. Old school Wiha microfinish made in Germany. I couldn't find them but, I also have an older set of microfinish screwdrivers with rectangular shaped handles. Best screwdriver I've used because, you can get a great grip even when covered in ATF or coolant. The roughened section of the handle is the epitome of non-slip. I don't care for the current versions. Lastly, Wiha old pattern German made softfinish from like 20 years ago. Real comfortable handle bolstered hex shaped blades
Not pictured: Proto Bolstered Duratecs & Toptul are at work.
Not pictured: Proto Bolstered Duratecs & Toptul are at work.
Attachments
DemoFly
Well-known member
These train whistle style.
OP
KnurledNut
Well-known member
I rotate screwdrivers, but these two have been my heavy users secularly for the past several months:
-Holex slotted. Germany. I really like this handle and wish it was still available, but all good things seem to come to an end in the tool industry. Its like Wiha Softfinish but square.
-Wera Kraftform. Germany. Yes its insulated, and sometimes that matters for me. But regardless, I found I just grab this one for everything, so its been riding shotgun.
These will probably get the boot sooner than later when I find greener grass.
-Holex slotted. Germany. I really like this handle and wish it was still available, but all good things seem to come to an end in the tool industry. Its like Wiha Softfinish but square.
-Wera Kraftform. Germany. Yes its insulated, and sometimes that matters for me. But regardless, I found I just grab this one for everything, so its been riding shotgun.
These will probably get the boot sooner than later when I find greener grass.
OP
KnurledNut
Well-known member
Yes, another Oplast production.
I never used the SK version but I have a set of Urrea that is basically the same and still available today.
Comfortable handle and pretty nice drivers overall, but doesnt make my list of favorites. I do like that they meet DIN/ISO and make sure you know it.
Here’s an old pic of the PH2 from when I bought them several years ago:
Last edited:
BTL-A4
Well-known member
-Vessel ball handle. I wasn't sure I'd like it, but it just works for me.
-Old school Craftsman (ball on the end, square shaft). I just like these.
-I tried the Wera ones, but didn't like them as much as I thought I would.
I prefer hard handles, but the Vessel is holding up well.
Screwdriver handles are a personal choice IMHO; depends on what fits the hand and how you use it. So glad we have so many choices!
-Old school Craftsman (ball on the end, square shaft). I just like these.
-I tried the Wera ones, but didn't like them as much as I thought I would.
I prefer hard handles, but the Vessel is holding up well.
Screwdriver handles are a personal choice IMHO; depends on what fits the hand and how you use it. So glad we have so many choices!
No, my point was more that there are plenty of designs from everywhere, not that europe or japan 'only' make old style designs. Of course a lot of what we know and love today was designed a long long time ago. For example engines - one would think "advanced" stuff like variable valve timing, desmodromics, multi-valve heads with multiple overhead cams and compressors or turbos are modern designs. All of that was exercised and known long ago, in the ~20's and ~30s.
Interestingly, it is the same in my language. Most hardware stores are called something like an ironmongery.
I think it's through-tang. I think it was advertised that way when I bought it. Would probably be weird to put on a metal cap if it was not?
Felo’s wood handle is my favorite. Wish they had a full range. Shape and feel are just right for me.
After that, Felo Ergonic, Wera Kraftform, PB Swiss SwissGrip.
For stubbies, PB Swiss.
For precision drivers I like Wera, though I reach for the tiny PB Swiss multi blade one more often than anything else.
After that, Felo Ergonic, Wera Kraftform, PB Swiss SwissGrip.
For stubbies, PB Swiss.
For precision drivers I like Wera, though I reach for the tiny PB Swiss multi blade one more often than anything else.
cafe_cyber
Member
- Joined
- Oct 25, 2024
- Messages
- 10
cafe_cyber
Member
- Joined
- Oct 25, 2024
- Messages
- 10
VESSEL Cushion Gel: probably not lasting in the long term, especially around chemicals, but provides amazing comfort when applying lots of torque.
The one on the right is just beautiful. Looks like 4 different colors, 2 different textures on handle. The shanks appears to be machined. Look how crispy the hex bolster is. Satin chrome shaft and a vapor blasted tip. There was a lot of processes put into that. The Snap On shaft looks to be forged in that shape.Yes, another Oplast production.
I never used the SK version but I have a set of Urrea that is basically the same and still available today.
Comfortable handle and pretty nice drivers overall, but doesnt make my list of favorites. I do like that they meet DIN/ISO and make sure you know it.
Here’s an old pic of the PH2 from when I bought them several years ago:
Such a beautiful screwdriver. Too bad about the name. Maybe I would embrace it! Pair the Urea screwdrivers with a set of Colon wrenches and gastro sockets.
OP
KnurledNut
Well-known member
They are well made. Urrea has a lot of sleeper products.
Last edited:
Kscardsfan
Well-known member
My house came with one of those in the kitchen junk drawer when I bought it. Blew my mind someone used a Mac hard handle for that but I still have it in there.
Another favorite is the Vessel Woody's with the striking cap/thru tang. The handles feel great. (I'm not a fan of rubber/cushion grip handles). Vessel has the best cross point fitment of any screwdriver I've ever used. At $38 for a set this is a steal. https://www.amazon.com/Vessel-Woody...ver-336PS/dp/B083XJQKPP/?tag=atomicindus08-20
Last edited:
Ohio Andy
Well-known member
Where are these made? I thought they were made in the USA but it doesn't clearly say anywhere obvious which leads me to believe not the USA idle curiosity
Ohio Andy
Well-known member
I really like Tekton screwdrivers more than I thought I would.
Tynee
Well-known member
MUST...RESIST...IMPULSE...TO..BBBBBUUUUUUYYYYYYY.....Another favorite is the Vessel Woody's with the striking cap/thru tang. The handles feel great. (I'm not a fan of rubber/cushion grip handles). Vessel has the best cross point fitment of any screwdriver I've ever used. At $38 for a set this is a steal. https://www.amazon.com/Vessel-Woody...ver-336PS/dp/B083XJQKPP/?tag=atomicindus08-20
Nutria
Well-known member
I like the red-handled Wright drivers with the deep flutes.
Ohio Andy
Well-known member
Very easy to resist since you're about to buy this set instead
VESSEL WOOD-COMPO Non-Slip Tang-Thru Screwdriver (8PC. SET 3308EVA)
Because you know you want the stubbies
Nick Rivers
Well-known member
Stanley Workmaster
