Torx Screwdrivers - PB Swiss or Snap On

[nezzman]

I am looking to grab some torx screwdrivers, for general purpose use, small engines, car work...

I am looking at the PB Swiss Multicraft T8-T30, or Snap On set, does anyone have any opinions on either? I know the PB are well regarded, but in comparison to the SO, how do they fair out?

I don't want Swissgrip, as they are hard to clean, and the classic handle is a bit small. I would be getting the SO hard handle, old style handle.

I have some PB multicraft, swissgrip and classic, along with SO screwdrivers too, so I know what the handles are all like, I am just wondering what the business end is like on both brands,

Warranty isn't a concern to me.

Thanks all.

 

[dukefx]

You can't go wrong with either, they are both top quality.

 

[F-22]

Yep, both are about as good as a torx screwdriver can be, the difference is just personal preferrence...

Wera also makes nice ones but I really don't like their handle shapes.

 

[hailwood1965]

I hope that there is a special corner in hell for whoever decided the world needed torx, pushing all of us to buy yet another set of screwdrivers.

 

[Dave455]

I actually have both of the exact sets that you are considering.

It’s difficult to make a direct comparison as I use them differently. The Snap On live in my workshop and tend to get used on vehicles and general engineering, whereas the PB Swiss tend to get used on cleaner stuff.

To be honest, both are superb at the role I use them for, and I have no complaints. One thing I particularly like about the Snap On, which you touched on, is the handles.

I have some Wiha ball hex drivers, but in the small sizes (2 and 2.5mm) the handles are tiny. I get the whole “don’t overtorque” thing, but my hand is the same size whatever tool I’m using. Only Snap On seem to acknowledge this and put a decent size handle on everything down to T8.

You’re right about the Multicraft. Bigger than the Classic. For some reason some of the classic handles have been getting smaller. A classic handle on a 2mm hex driver now, is smaller than one from a few years back.

Overall, I don’t think the PB Swiss tips can be beaten, but there is nothing wrong with Snap On. PB maybe slightly tougher. I don’t think the plating on the current PB Swiss drivers is as good as previous.

I prefer the hard handles (from either maker) to the soft (again, from either maker).

 

[dukefx]

I hope that there is a special corner in hell for whoever decided the world needed torx, pushing all of us to buy yet another set of screwdrivers.

I think there is a special place in hell for whoever invented the slotted and philips heads. Torx heads are a dream to work with. I have no experience with external torx, but I'm sure they are far more resistant to rounding than hex heads.

 

[F-22]

I hope that there is a special corner in hell for whoever decided the world needed torx, pushing all of us to buy yet another set of screwdrivers.

Torx design took a lot of things in consideration. Despite the complex shape, it's all a comtinuous curve so it's not too demanding of the stamping tool. It does not cam out. It is commonly used on high tension bolts, it offers a better grip on small diameter fasteners... Like, you generally won't get wood screws with an allen head but they're common with torx. You generally won't get phillips machine screws above M6, and no robertson machine screws at all, but there's plenty of them with the torx head. It's very versatile... I'd say I prefer phillips for really small screws (M4 and smaller...), but otherwise torx is a good choice for almost any other application.

 

[Grokew]

I hope that there is a special corner in hell for whoever decided the world needed torx, pushing all of us to buy yet another set of screwdrivers.

Torx is alright, but there are some issues with selecting the appropriate size. One size up can usually fit, but badly, and one size down looks just like it fits perfectly, but wobbles... Still I like torx more than phillips, and Square/Robertson more than torx.

 

[Moose-LandTran]

PB Swiss or Wera, i have both. PB is definitely the best i've used, unbeatable.

I had a Snap-on set and sold them, wasn't at all impressed with them. The fit and strength of the tips was nowhere as good as Wera, let alone PB Swiss.

 

[Walkers]

I have the SO hard handle set. They are a fine tool, no problems. Buy whichever set you like the look of or can get a better deal on, as you are choosing from a pretty good lot of tools.

 

[Steve_P]

I'd say Wiha or Wera. Im a Wiha fan, but both will serve you well

 

[nezzman]

Thanks for all the replies.

I’m still undecided.

The price for the PB is £94 here, the SO is about £160.

I feel the bigger handles on the SO might be an advantage.

 

[nezzman]

I don’t have PB but I do have a Bondhus set and strength-wise would recommend it, but they are super short.

I have bondhus T handles which I like, though I would like a set of screwdrivers, I think they will be a little handier.

Can't comment on the Weras, but their other L-keys are nice. I like that Hafu set, i have a matching short set too. With either Wera or those Hafus, you won't be disappointed.

I don’t like the Wera handles, just due to the soft material on them, thanks though.

I actually have both of the exact sets that you are considering.

It’s difficult to make a direct comparison as I use them differently. The Snap On live in my workshop and tend to get used on vehicles and general engineering, whereas the PB Swiss tend to get used on cleaner stuff.

To be honest, both are superb at the role I use them for, and I have no complaints. One thing I particularly like about the Snap On, which you touched on, is the handles.

I have some Wiha ball hex drivers, but in the small sizes (2 and 2.5mm) the handles are tiny. I get the whole “don’t overtorque” thing, but my hand is the same size whatever tool I’m using. Only Snap On seem to acknowledge this and put a decent size handle on everything down to T8.

You’re right about the Multicraft. Bigger than the Classic. For some reason some of the classic handles have been getting smaller. A classic handle on a 2mm hex driver now, is smaller than one from a few years back.

Overall, I don’t think the PB Swiss tips can be beaten, but there is nothing wrong with Snap On. PB maybe slightly tougher. I don’t think the plating on the current PB Swiss drivers is as good as previous.

I prefer the hard handles (from either maker) to the soft (again, from either maker).

Could I ask you to take a picture of both sets beside each other?

Thanks

 

[ecotec]

I had planned on ordering the Caterpillar set at some point… I hesitated, and now we shall see if that will ever be possible again. CAT really was the best deal for Snap-on.

I have MasterForce ones now, and they are fine for everything I have needed them for.

 

[Ton ton]

Be sure to get the T27 bit size for working on Stihl products.

 

[nezzman]

Be sure to get the T27 bit size for working on Stihl products.

Yes, I have needed it a few times before. Both come with t27.

Thanks

 

[Ton ton]

Yes, I have needed it a few times before. Both come with t27.

Thanks

Cool.

 

[matthew]

I think there is a special place in hell for whoever invented the slotted and philips heads.

I can accept that slotted was a necessary phase in history - but should very much be relegated to history now.

Phillips, on the other hand, should never have taken off.

And Pozidrive is another special corner - it may be better than Phillips, but that doesn’t excuse it for being too easily mistaken and too easily improperly substituted.

 

[nezzman]

I can accept that slotted was a necessary phase in history - but should very much be relegated to history now.

Phillips, on the other hand, should never have taken off.

And Pozidrive is another special corner - it may be better than Phillips, but that doesn’t excuse it for being too easily mistaken and too easily improperly substituted.

Here in the UK we use Pozidriv.

It would surprise you the number of tradesmen that don’t know there is a difference in PZ and PH!

 

[nezzman]

I ordered the Snap On set from eBay and the PB set, so I will see what I like best, and return or sell the other.

 

[F-22]

I can accept that slotted was a necessary phase in history - but should very much be relegated to history now.

Phillips, on the other hand, should never have taken off.

And Pozidrive is another special corner - it may be better than Phillips, but that doesn’t excuse it for being too easily mistaken and too easily improperly substituted.

Phillips for small diameter fasteners, with an appropriate screwdriver, works quite well. Pozidriv or the ISO/DIN/JIS version of phillips even more so.

The main advantage is cost. There's a strong taper to the indentation, that makes the stamping tool last a lot longer than any sharp corners...

Also, concerning fastener strength - phillips and pozidriv are great for small diameter tapered head screws like wood screws. The taper makes the internal forces travel better... So you can use worse steel for those fasteners and still have a fair bit of fastener head strength.

Also, it is "minimal". For drywalll or wood... It makes it easier to fill up the hole. So they're very common in those applications.

 

[tamaraw]

I can accept that slotted was a necessary phase in history - but should very much be relegated to history now.

In regards to general purpose fasteners, that is pretty much the current state of things. But they are still very useful for applications that call for fine adjustments or where aesthetic considerations are important.

 

[dukefx]

In regards to general purpose fasteners, that is pretty much the current state of things. But they are still very useful for applications that call for fine adjustments or where aesthetic considerations are important.

Exactly. Not so long ago my sister asked me if I had a screw driver for her glasses. I took a look and it was a tiny slotted screw. Of course it slipped while tightening.

 

[Dave455]

Could I ask you to take a picture of both sets beside each other?

Thanks

I only have the PB T15 and T30 to hand in my shop, but here they are compared to their Snap On equivalents. These are Instinct grip, as Snap On had not re introduced the older style hard handle Torx at the time. The older style hard handle (Contour Grip?) are preferable, which do turn up on deals every so often.

Here are the T15’s compared to Wiha, that I also own, and Beta “L” shape. To put price into the equation, a Wiha T25 will set you back about £7, PB about £9, and Snap On a whopping £27, so the latter isn’t happening without some sort of “special”.

 

[BlackHorseSaga]

I am looking to grab some torx screwdrivers, for general purpose use, small engines, car work...

I am looking at the PB Swiss Multicraft T8-T30, or Snap On set, does anyone have any opinions on either? I know the PB are well regarded, but in comparison to the SO, how do they fair out?

I don't want Swissgrip, as they are hard to clean, and the classic handle is a bit small. I would be getting the SO hard handle, old style handle.

I have some PB multicraft, swissgrip and classic, along with SO screwdrivers too, so I know what the handles are all like, I am just wondering what the business end is like on both brands,

Warranty isn't a concern to me.

Thanks all.

I own two sets of the Snap-on. The smaller T8-T10 blades will eventually marr, depending on what you use them on. I'm hard on mine. I replace the blades often.

 

[Bubba Fett]

I wish Williams had Torx drivers with hard handles.

 

[BarrelRoll]

I really like the new old school hard handle snapon stuff. They are offering more and more in the old school hard handle again. I have a bit of a power blue addiction and have upgraded a ton of cheaper stuff to snapon power blue when it's in stock on the truck. I work on greasy, muddy, dusty industrial stuff and it's super easy to clean compared to the fancier handles.

https://shop.snapon.com/categories/Standard-Hard-Handle,-Chrome-(TORX-Tip)/885903

 

[bwringer]

I have MasterForce ones now, and they are fine for everything I have needed them for.

Same; the business end is great, and the value is phenomenal. although those damn clear acetate handles dissolve in gasoline and carb cleaner. I really try to avoid clear hard handles because they're so stupidly vulnerable.

Be sure to get the T27 bit size for working on Stihl products.

Yep. It's amazing how many Torx sets skip T27, although the OP's choices include it. Something to watch for.

 

[nezzman]

I only have the PB T15 and T30 to hand in my shop, but here they are compared to their Snap On equivalents. These are Instinct grip, as Snap On had not re introduced the older style hard handle Torx at the time. The older style hard handle (Contour Grip?) are preferable, which do turn up on deals every so often.

Here are the T15’s compared to Wiha, that I also own, and Beta “L” shape. To put price into the equation, a Wiha T25 will set you back about £7, PB about £9, and Snap On a whopping £27, so the latter isn’t happening without some sort of “special”.

That you very much.

The PB in the bigger sizes doesn’t seem much smaller, considering the SO instinct is quite big.

I have ordered the SO old handle, and PB multicraft, I will see what I like most.

 

[Dakotadadv8]

Also looking into a set, have been using the CM USA torx bit sockets.

 

[Bubba Fett]

Here's another option. Made in USA*, chemical resistant handles, includes T27 tip.

* At least until recently. The shanks might be made in Europe now.

Proto® DuraTek™ 9 Piece Torx® Screwdriver Set - Proto Industrial

 

[Dave455]

That you very much.

The PB in the bigger sizes doesn’t seem much smaller, considering the SO instinct is quite big.

I have ordered the SO old handle, and PB multicraft, I will see what I like most.

That is the usual “Garage Journal” solution!

I must admit that probably 70% of the time I’m working on Torx I’m either using a 1/4” hex bit in a bit driver, or (especially in the larger sizes) a Torx bit on a ratchet.

But, while the Torx bit’s are a great option if you think the bit might get damaged (cheap to replace), they’re not a solution for everything - particularly if there’s a risk of the bit coming out of the driver, hence the Torx screwdrivers.

 

[nezzman]

That is the usual “Garage Journal” solution!

I must admit that probably 70% of the time I’m working on Torx I’m either using a 1/4” hex bit in a bit driver, or (especially in the larger sizes) a Torx bit on a ratchet.

But, while the Torx bit’s are a great option if you think the bit might get damaged (cheap to replace), they’re not a solution for everything - particularly if there’s a risk of the bit coming out of the driver, hence the Torx screwdrivers.

I have a SO ratcheting driver with a selection of bits, but tbh, I find myself using it locked most of the time unless I need a lot of downward force to stop cam out.

I use bit sockets when working on my vehicles, but around the house, I usually use the driver, I just find it quicker to grab, and faster to spin Fastners out, for example, I was changing the bearing on the tumble dryer, all torx screws, about 6mm long.

 

[nbpt100]

I have a SO ratcheting driver with a selection of bits, but tbh, I find myself using it locked most of the time unless I need a lot of downward force to stop cam out.

I use bit sockets when working on my vehicles, but around the house, I usually use the driver, I just find it quicker to grab, and faster to spin Fastners out, for example, I was changing the bearing on the tumble dryer, all torx screws, about 6mm long.

That is the usual “Garage Journal” solution!

I must admit that probably 70% of the time I’m working on Torx I’m either using a 1/4” hex bit in a bit driver, or (especially in the larger sizes) a Torx bit on a ratchet.

But, while the Torx bit’s are a great option if you think the bit might get damaged (cheap to replace), they’re not a solution for everything - particularly if there’s a risk of the bit coming out of the driver, hence the Torx screwdrivers.

I do a fair amount of work on small engines and ODPE. I use bits a lot out of convenience. It keeps me from walking back and forth to get the right dedicated tool. Typically on T30 and under a screw driver handle is fine and desirable for speed. Not always but usually. The only problem I run into is when you need to get into a counterbore. It is common enough on ODPE. Especially on covers. You can not get away with the bits. I have a Carlyle set and an old c'man with the acetaly handles. The Carlyles are my go to. I love the feel and they are longer than the C'man. I feel the tips are a better quality. The handles are a soft rubber but I dont get them too dirty so I dont have that problem. Sometimes I will use a 1/4" impact if I have a lot of them, just for speed.

On larger sizes or on stuburn smaller Torx I will use my sockets with a ratchet for the needed leverage. I do not ever recall stripping one. I have come close. You can if you realy try. I have even used 1 size under by accident with my impact and not an issue. I do not recommend it but it could happen. They really improve productivity.

Back in the 80's and 90's I would ***** about the rare Torx I encountered. Like some are today. Now I prefer to work with them over Philips any day fo the week. Especially in carpentry work. It is a natural evolution. Once you get over buying a new tool set you will appreciate them.

I feel there are lots of brands you can not go wrong with in the mid to expensive range. Get the one that feels good in your hand and has a reputable warranty. And do not skip the T27 as mentioned a lot above. I double down on that one. I am not sure about auto work but Definitely needed for Chain saw repair and other ODPE.

Excellent thread!

 

[javyLSU]

I've got a set of the Snap-on Torx drivers with the Instinct handles. I use them a good bit, and I'm a big fan of them, haven't had any issues yet - but I do like Instinct handles, I know opinions vary on those.

 

[lardy1]

I have Bondhus and I'm very happy with them.

 

[Bubba Fett]

Klein also has some MIUSA Torx screwdrivers, but IMO the cushion grip drivers may not be the best for automotive applications.

The Craftsman acetate drivers at Lowe's are actually pretty good, if you are looking for an inexpensive option. Again, the handles may not be the best for automotive work, but the price is hard to beat. Made in Taiwan.

A locking bit holder handle (ex. Malco Connext) and some longer power bits is another solution, that I have used.

Also, take a look at what Tekton has to offer. Their USA-made hard handle drivers are pretty good from what I hear.

 

[bwringer]

Unless I have no other option, I loathe and detest bits and bit holders. Give me separate drivers, at least whenever I have the room for them. With Torx stuff, it's incredibly common for the fasteners to be hidden in deep holes you can't reach with a bit driver.

Also, I find that I reach for my Torx t-handles most often. I have a nice set from Gearwrench, but there are many others in all the usual brands. Don't overlook t-handles; quite often the greater torque is much needed especially at about T20 and above.

 

[drtyler]

Another excellent option is Proto J1209STS. These have the Duratek hard handles & sizes T8 - T45 (included T27). I have this set and a set of Wera, and prefer the Proto.

 

[dukefx]

With Torx stuff, it's incredibly common for the fasteners to be hidden in deep holes you can't reach with a bit driver.

Yup, my hedge trimmer can testify. Most of them are about 4 cm deep. Not even a long bit would fit.