Best Two Insulated Screwdriver Sizes For Homeowner Use

[Zinc2005]

So I would like to pick up a set of VDE drivers.. probably Wiha slims ...but I am having a hard time selecting the best sized drivers. I don't really need or want a large kit covering every possible size. I think I could get by fine with a #2 Phillips and........?

Wiha sells a 2 piece kit that has a p2 and a slotted 4.5 mm. Doesn't 4.5 mm seems kind of small to cover American homes? They also sell a 5.5 and 6.5 mm.

Which size slotted driver do you think would be optimal for basic electrical work (receptacle installs, basic wiring, etc.

Also, am I overlooking a better brand for Insulated drivers?

Thanks!

 

[gdocktor3]

I just bought this set when they were on sale on Black Friday. They're really nice. Even at that price. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008...ords=wiha+kraftform+insulated+screwdriver+set

 

[KnurledNut]

#2 Phillips and........?

7/32 or 5.5mm slotted IMO

 

[M6erfan]

I have these Wihas and they're great. I recently replaced 5 duplex receptacles and several light switches and find the 4.5mm slotted perfect.

 

[DSLTRK]

You want a 0.25'' cabinet tip driver with at least a 6 inch shank, and a standard Phillips #2.

Most screws in either breakers/bussing or receptacles can be tightened with those two drivers.


I'd also say get a R1/R2 drivers also, most electrical parts use Robertson extensively.

 

[KnurledNut]

If you do ebay, check out cripedistributing.
Do a search for Gedore insulated screwdrivers.
They have a bunch of singles for sale at very good prices.

 

[Zinc2005]

I have these Wihas and they're great. I recently replaced 5 duplex receptacles and several light switches and find the 4.5mm slotted perfect.

That's the set I was looking at. I can create that set a bit cheaper buying individual drivers on Zoro.com (Which is currently doing 25% $200 BTW).

I can just as easily grab the 5.5mm driver. Given the choice, you think you would still prefer the 4.5mm?

5.5 mm = .216 inches. So still shy of the standard 1/4 slotted that comes with American insulated sets (Klein, Milwaukee)

I realize I am splitting hairs.. but that's the fun, right?

 

[DSLTRK]

That's the set I was looking at. I can create that set a bit cheaper buying individual drivers on Zoro.com (Which is currently doing 25% $200 BTW).

I can just as easily grab the 5.5mm driver. Given the choice, you think you would still prefer the 4.5mm?

5.5 mm = .216 inches. So still shy of the standard 1/2 slotted that comes with American insulated sets (Klein, Milwaukee)

I realize I am splitting hairs.. but that's the fun, right?

I'm telling you, 1/2'' slotted is way too big for residential bkrs.

The insulated Klein 601 would be the driver I would get if I could only buy one.

 

[Zinc2005]

Haha. Typo, sorry. Meant 1/4" slotted.

 

[openwheelracing88]

Milwaukee ECX #1 !!! Thank me later.

Those Wiha 4.5 are great too (insulated)
I also like the Klein Tool 605 (none insulated)

 

[M6erfan]

That's the set I was looking at. I can create that set a bit cheaper buying individual drivers on Zoro.com (Which is currently doing 25% $200 BTW).

I can just as easily grab the 5.5mm driver. Given the choice, you think you would still prefer the 4.5mm?

5.5 mm = .216 inches. So still shy of the standard 1/4 slotted that comes with American insulated sets (Klein, Milwaukee)

I realize I am splitting hairs.. but that's the fun, right?

I cant comment on the 5.5 but I haven't found the 4.5mm to be lacking in any way whatsoever. If the set came with 5.5mm I would have happily accepted that too. Really, you're right, splitting hairs (1mm)

 

[rlitman]

I'm telling you, 1/2'' slotted is way too big for residential bkrs.

The insulated Klein 601 would be the driver I would get if I could only buy one.

Klein's insulated stuff *****! The insulation is too easily damaged.

Milwaukee ECX #1 !!! Thank me later.

Those Wiha 4.5 are great too (insulated)
I also like the Klein Tool 605 (none insulated)

+1 for the Milwaukee ECX. Their 3-piece set would fit the OP's needs pretty well. I've got just their ECX driver (traded it with someone who didn't need that from the set), and it's REALLY well made. One of the best quality insulated screwdrivers I've seen.

I've got mostly Wera, and am happy with their stuff. Wiha's offerings look pretty good too. Especially their unique cabinet tip.

I'm loathe to admit it, but I recently took a close look at the insulated screwdrivers at HF, and they too look fairly nice. I'm not sure when they added VDE certification (individual voltage testing), but if you're on a budget, it might be worth considering. Though I would not expect the tips to last as long as better brands.

 

[cheechi]

I have non-insulated Klein ECX #1 & #2 in a set. Love those drivers. I also have a TON of ECX bits for drill/driver that get used in multi bit screwdrivers and a Milwaukee 11 in 1 driver that was on clearance. Used them all a lot, maybe not quite pro electrician level but a lot, and they are all very good. None are insulated but I wouldn't go for an ECX bit if it wasn't Klein or Milwaukee.

For insulated drivers if you feel the need to get some just get the set and be done with it;
http://www.sears.com/wiha-6-pc-screwdriver-set-insulated/p-00973626000P

 

[DSLTRK]

Klein's insulated stuff *****! The insulation is too easily damaged.



+1 for the Milwaukee ECX. Their 3-piece set would fit the OP's needs pretty well. I've got just their ECX driver (traded it with someone who didn't need that from the set), and it's REALLY well made. One of the best quality insulated screwdrivers I've seen.

I've got mostly Wera, and am happy with their stuff. Wiha's offerings look pretty good too. Especially their unique cabinet tip.

I'm loathe to admit it, but I recently took a close look at the insulated screwdrivers at HF, and they too look fairly nice. I'm not sure when they added VDE certification (individual voltage testing), but if you're on a budget, it might be worth considering. Though I would not expect the tips to last as long as better brands.

Those Milwaukee ECX drivers look good, but I can't comment on the durability yet.
I despise Wera, I had an insulated slotted and the tip twisted like cheese.

Klein insulation is OK if you pay attention, which I hope anyone does working on live panels. I like Klein because their Slotted tips hold up to professional use. Plus still made in USA.

 

[Zinc2005]

Well, I ordered the insulated Wiha P2 and three sizes of insulated Wiha slotted: 4.5, 5.5, 6.5. I also got the Milwaukee 3 pc insulated set with the ecx... Planning to keep at most 3 drivers.. ideally two. I will see what works best for me and gift/sell whatever doesn't. Thanks for all the input today!