Best Robertson Screwdrivers?

[Handyandy23]

I've been doing a lot of research on screwdrivers lately, and through searching on here I've found a ton of good recommendations and info. However one thing I'm struggling with is finding sets / brands that have Robertson head screwdrivers included. I guess this is a very Canadian thing, and not so popular in the US, but I encounter a lot of Robertson / square heads around the house, and any screwdriver set I go with I'd want to have them.

The problem is, searching online for the "most recommended" brands by GJ, I'm struggling to find Robertson head versions. For example, the black hard handle Williams, and the Proto Durateks seem to both be popular options. However even looking at a 19-pc Williams set, there are no Robertson's. And maybe I'm not looking hard enough, but I'm failing to even find them as singles from Williams or Proto.

The Robertson options I have found in the "quality" category are very limited. Gray Tools out of Canada makes them, but I have no idea on the quality. Online reviews are very limited, and I don't know of any brick and mortar stores that sell them to even look at. Anyone have any experience with these?

Klein is the other "major" brand I see that has Robertson's readily available, but the general consensus in reading on GJ is that these are just 'meh' screwdrivers, and the quality has gone downhill versus the classic Klein's. Anyone have the newer Klein / Greenlee screwdrivers that can chime in?

I could of course just buy a set I want like the Williams, and then just supplement with a 3pc Robertson set from Gray Tools, but my OCD is having issues with that idea. I'm not 100% against it, but if there is an option like Gray that I could purchase everything from that would be ideal.

Thanks for any words of wisdom.

 

[LOW1]

Wera and Felo both make them, along with phillips, flats, etc. You could get a matching set from either of them. I don't have either brand but they appear to be good quality. I hope that PB Swiss sooner or later has them. In the meantime I have some of the house brand that I bought cheap at Menards. Not great but decent and certainly adequate. Won't help with your OCD though.

 

[JBH]

Felo’s square bits are the best I’ve used. The only square drivers I have are Witte, from an insulated set. They work well but I don’t like the handle design as much as Felo or Wiha.

 

[BigBoreFan]

Felo and Wiha from KCToolco.com, both drivers and bits.

 

[ku17]

I own the Proto robertsons and really like them. I'm partial to the Duratek handles. I bought the whole set but the individual part numbers are:
JS0005R #0 TIP
JS0205R #1 TIP
JS0205R #2 TIP
JS0305R #3 TIP

I just checked and all of them are in-stock on Zoro

 

[Handyandy23]

Thanks for the responses. I forgot to mention Wera but I had noticed them being mentioned before. I'm just a little confused by all the variations. I see they have laser tip and chisel tip, and I seem to find conflicting info online about both, which makes me nervous to take the plunge.

The Felo I hadn't seen much about before and they look like a good option. Are you guys using the Ergonic line?

 

[rlitman]

The best Robertson screwdrivers I've found are the genuine ones from Robertson. FWIW, they were rebranded with all sorts of names. Just look for a 2-piece tip design like this:

And NOT a one-piece design like this:

 

[Sine Swept]

That looks like a Fuller.

I live in the land of the Red Robby, but I usually reach for my Wera's, unless doing electrical work I will grab the Klein's.

 

[Hytekrednek]

square drive and robertson drives are similar, but different. I forget which is which, but if I recall, one is tapered a bit and the other not. I run into both robertson and square drive screws, so I keep bits for both on hand.
I use mostly power bits and 1'' insert bits, but I do have a couple square drivers, forget the brands. I have a handle that accepts power bits and is then effectively a true screwdriver, this is what I use mostly for hand driving square and robby drive screws.

Yes, the 2 may work ok with each other, but the proper bit/tip fits much better for the R2 or Sq2, and other sizes. I mostly use size 2, and a few size 1 trim head screws. LOVE me some square/Robertson drive screws!

 

[ChrisLS8]

Robertson fasteners are far more popular in Europe cause they weren't stupid enough to embrace Phillips like us. Most of the major EU players make good ones like Felo or Wiha

 

[rlitman]

Robertson fasteners are far more popular in Europe cause they weren't stupid enough to embrace Phillips like us. Most of the major EU players make good ones like Felo or Wiha

Robertson is popular in Canada. I've never seen it on a European part. Europe has embraced PoziDriv instead.

square drive and robertson drives are similar, but different...

Robertson has a slight taper. Robertson fasteners are relatively common, whereas square drive ones are just about unheard of. When it comes to the tools, though, there are lots of square drive drivers, and they just plain **** when used on actual Robertson fasteners.

 

[davidgreams]

If you don't use them for something other than their intended purpose (i.e., don't use a screwdriver as a pry bar!) pretty much any major name brand will likely last. If you go premium, they'll be easier to use.

The Wera laser tip has a fantastic reputation for loosening screws that other screwdrivers might have trouble with.

If all you want is durability, go with something like the ones you listed. If you want premium features, look at Wiha, Wera, or PB Swiss. Be prepared to spend twice as much.

 

[Professional Tool User]

Thanks for the responses. I forgot to mention Wera but I had noticed them being mentioned before. I'm just a little confused by all the variations. I see they have laser tip and chisel tip, and I seem to find conflicting info online about both, which makes me nervous to take the plunge.

The Felo I hadn't seen much about before and they look like a good option. Are you guys using the Ergonic line?

The Wera Robertson's that I have don't have laser tip on them. They seem to have similar tip geometry to their hex plus keys. Chisel tips are their striking ones and I don't think they are even available in Robertson. Also, if you are going to choose Wera and want to buy a set, try to find a local dealer. Prices are around the same, if not less than Amazon if they go on sale. Make sure you don't buy one of those US market sets with no Robertson drivers included.

 

[CBassB]

I have the Wera set of Robertson screwdrivers and I've been very happy with them. I have also used Wiha and didn't find anything wrong with them. If you are trying to match the Williams set and have money to spare SO makes a hard handle robbie set.

S

 

[Snap_cap]

Wera are the nicest I've found, got them on Amazon in every size from 1-1/2" up to 8" from a distributor in Alaska.

 

[catron44]

I have Kleins, I dont remember when I got them but probably 5 to 10 years ago. They have seen very little use since I dont come across many square drive screws. When I do, I typically use my impact driver. My regular kleins (slotted & philips) see moderate use in carpentry/housework and have been fine. I only bought them about a year ago and I'm happy with them.

That said, since I've learned about the proto duratek handles, I would go that route if I had to do it over again.

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[Handyandy23]

Robertson is popular in Canada. I've never seen it on a European part. Europe has embraced PoziDriv instead.



Robertson has a slight taper. Robertson fasteners are relatively common, whereas square drive ones are just about unheard of. When it comes to the tools, though, there are lots of square drive drivers, and they just plain **** when used on actual Robertson fasteners.

You're right on this, which has also opened up another source of confusion - from what I'm seeing most of these European companies like Wera and Wiha have SQUARE drive options, but no Robertson. In fact trying to find anything that is an actual Robertson vs square drive is looking very difficult.

If I'm going to purchase something new I want it to be actual Robertson to get full use out of them, so it looks like I'm going to have to dig a little deeper.

 

[mrspeed]

This is an interesting thread for me, as I'm in the US, but I love using Robertson screws in my woodworking, so I also like screwdrivers sets with available Robertson screwdrivers. I've bought several to be able to compare.

Before I get into that, I have to ask, does anyone have any resources to read about the difference between "square" drive versus Robertson drives? Everything I have ever read says they are the same thing. Wikipedia for example lists only one type of square drive fastener, and it's Robertson.

When trying to find information on the difference between square drive and Robertson, literally the only results that come up are forum posts of people claiming there's a difference, but I haven't been able to find a single authoritative source to back any of it up. On the flip side, several manufacturers use the names interchangeably.

It's true that Robertson's innovation was in the taper and depth of the square socket, which allowed more easily cold-forming the screws and also allowed the driver to more easily fit into the screws. However, this is also why no other square-socket screw design took off. As far as I know, Robertson drive screws are the only square-drive screws or screwdrivers that are made. I would think if square drive screws exist without the taper, it's because they're cheaply made, not because they're intended to be a different design.

To the person saying the Wera screwdrivers are not Robertson drivers, I don't believe this is true. They call them square drive screwdrivers in the same way that everyone else uses "square drive" and "Robertson" interchangeably. But part of the Robertson system was also coloring the different sizes in a specific sequence. Size #1 was green, #2 was red, and #3 was black. And Wera's square/Robertson drivers even follow the Robertson colors, which has lead people, including myself, to be annoyed that their Robertson screwdrivers don't match the rest of their Wera sets. Bu it's because they're following the Robertson color system.

Also, while the Wera laser-tipped drivers are amazing, they don't laser-etch any of their square drivers, unfortunately. But they do come in all sizes, and as both part of their Kraftform Plus line and their VDE line as well.

In addition to the Wera square drivers, I also recently got square drive screwdrivers from Bahco, Witte, and Peddinghaus. My favorites right now are the Wera and Witte screwdrivers, but the Bahco screwdrivers made in Spain are a close third.

 

[Handyandy23]

Good info @mrspeed - I agree that it seems many companies are interchangeably using "square drive" and "Robertson", which causes me a lot of confusion and trepidation.

It does make a lot of sense that your Weras are color coded and therefore likely are the tapered version. Would you be able to confirm by eyeballing one of the larger sizes? Or would you think it's too subtle to see?

 

[Rattle]

In the sparky trades Klein's and still the go to brand. Greenlee are basically a knock off, a bit cheaper but still decent drivers.

I have a couple sets of crappy tire screwdrivers to use and abuse. Electrical work I will always reach for my Klein screwdrivers.

 

[Handyandy23]

In the sparky trades Klein's and still the go to brand. Greenlee are basically a knock off, a bit cheaper but still decent drivers.

I have a couple sets of crappy tire screwdrivers to use and abuse. Electrical work I will always reach for my Klein screwdrivers.

Is this just because the Klein name carries weight with electricians? Or is there something in their design that makes them more effective in that line of work?

For a multi purpose DIY set would you recommend the Klein's?

They're another company interchangeably using square and Robertson names. Do you know if yours are tapered like a true Robertson style?

 

[mrspeed]

Good info @mrspeed - I agree that it seems many companies are interchangeably using "square drive" and "Robertson", which causes me a lot of confusion and trepidation.

It does make a lot of sense that your Weras are color coded and therefore likely are the tapered version. Would you be able to confirm by eyeballing one of the larger sizes? Or would you think it's too subtle to see?

It's pretty subtle, but they all appear to my eye to have a taper.



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[WittHay]

I have Klein, Milwaukee, Mastercraft, Fuller, Craftsman, Jet and Westward robertson screwdrivers and Snap-on square drives.

The best is probably the Klein followed by the Canadian made drivers Fuller, Craftsman and Jet made by Fuller. I think a lot of the Mastercraft screwdrivers over the years were made in Canada also

The worst fitting driver is probably the Snap-on but the hard handles are oil and chemical resistant so they are in the service truck

 

[Sine Swept]

The Klein drivers have rubber grips which helps get a good torque when tightening screws in an electrical box, switch or what have you. The right tool for the job.

 

[Handyandy23]

Do you guys know how the Klein rubber grips hold up to oil? Would they get destroyed with occassional automotive use?

 

[Bottlecapdigger]

If you want to stay with Canadian made there is always the Pic-quick multi bit. I have one in every vehicle, the quality is in my opinion pretty good too. The thing I like they use the longer bits which can easily be used in the drill. They can be bought everywhere. At least I think they are still made in Canada. BCD

 

[peteco]

If you want to stay with Canadian made there is always the Pic-quick multi bit. I have one in every vehicle, the quality is in my opinion pretty good too. The thing I like they use the longer bits which can easily be used in the drill. They can be bought everywhere. At least I think they are still made in Canada. BCD

I second the picquik. I have about 10 picquik screwdrivers and the quality and function is great.

 

[Rattle]

Is this just because the Klein name carries weight with electricians? Or is there something in their design that makes them more effective in that line of work?

For a multi purpose DIY set would you recommend the Klein's?

They're another company interchangeably using square and Robertson names. Do you know if yours are tapered like a true Robertson style?

Electricians and powerline trades Klein's are prevalent probably because of the quality and history. There are lots of other good quaility screwdrivers and tools that would serve you just as well. Part would be personal preference how they fit your hands. I prefer the round cushion grip instead of the ergonomic style of something like a wera screwdriver. Probably more so that is just what I am used too.

Totally would recommend them for a diy.

I think they have a small taper on them. I know they don't destroy fasteners like junk screwdrivers.

 

[WittHay]

Robertson screws are not used on anything automotive from the factory. Its when people replace lights and reflectors on trailers. They replace a Philips with a Robertson on a shield of a lawn mower or piece of outdoor equipment.

I am not familiar with Wira, Wiha and the like but most people have a nice set of soft handle drivers like Klein and a set of hard handles like Fuller or Craftsman for outside use.

 

[superautobacs]

I echo the opinion from others about the Wera ones. I bought an assortment near 10 years ago and I was impressed by their colour-coding of the handles and with their square profile which I tagged "square-plus". Wera has been marketing their "hex-plus" for many years but I never found any reference to their square drive screwdrivers having essentially the same feature.

If you encounter a marred screw head where a standard square drive screwdriver cams out, the Wera will more than likely save you. It did with me on more than a couple occasions. Just like their "Hex-plus", the "Square-plus" feature delivers, too.


This is a good assortment of Robertson bit that I have as well. Maybe you have a Lee Valley store near you?
http://www.leevalley.com/us/wood/page.aspx?p=57951&cat=1,43417&ap=2

 

[neophyte]

If you don't use them for something other than their intended purpose (i.e., don't use a screwdriver as a pry bar!) pretty much any major name brand will likely last. If you go premium, they'll be easier to use.

The Wera laser tip has a fantastic reputation for loosening screws that other screwdrivers might have trouble with.

If all you want is durability, go with something like the ones you listed. If you want premium features, look at Wiha, Wera, or PB Swiss. Be prepared to spend twice as much.

PB Swiss only manufactures Square/“Robertson” bits now.
They made square screwdrivers at one point, but have since discontinued them.

 

[neophyte]

The Klein drivers have rubber grips which helps get a good torque when tightening screws in an electrical box, switch or what have you. The right tool for the job.

I’ve always hated the Klein rubber grips.

 

[Professional Tool User]

If you want to stay with Canadian made there is always the Pic-quick multi bit. I have one in every vehicle, the quality is in my opinion pretty good too. The thing I like they use the longer bits which can easily be used in the drill. They can be bought everywhere. At least I think they are still made in Canada. BCD

Wrong. The bits that come with the handle are Made in Taiwan now. Only the handle is Made in Canada.

 

[captaindiode]

Have a look at the Tekton. I bbought a set of their screwdrivers at Sam's Club and have been impressed. They also have a three piece square recess set.

 

[Professional Tool User]

Is this just because the Klein name carries weight with electricians? Or is there something in their design that makes them more effective in that line of work?

For a multi purpose DIY set would you recommend the Klein's?

They're another company interchangeably using square and Robertson names. Do you know if yours are tapered like a true Robertson style?

Klein is the Snap on of electrician hand tools. Their main core product are their pliers. They do have a few specialized models of pliers I like such as the angled side cutters and their wire strippers are excellent, but other than that, to me Klein is overrated.

Their screwdrivers seem to be pretty average to me compared with other expensive options. There are other handle designs that allow you to get a better grip while letting you spin the screwdriver fast. If you drop a Klein cushion grip screwdriver on the ground and it rolls, it will roll all over the place. Even with some cheap screwdrivers this problem is designed out of the handle. Some people say the tips are decent while others like myself say they are okay for turning screws with but won't hold up to much abuse. Not to mention there is a perception that quality has gone downhill over the years.

Wera screwdrivers can be had at half the cost of Klein ones, a lot more thought was put into the design, and they've got more than just the standard and insulated varieties. Unless you can find used Klein tools that are not beat up for cheap, I wouldn't bother going with Klein as a DIYer.

A lot of electricians in Canada use the Klein Robertson drivers, so it shouldn't be a problem. If you want to know for sure, go compare pictures of tips or get a hold of a physical one and have a look.

 

[Handyandy23]

Maybe I'm not looking in the right places, but on Amazon.ca I'm not seeing a huge price difference between Klein and Wera. Both seem to run around $60-$70 CAD for a 6 pcs set of Phillips and slotted, and around $100-$110 total when you add in the Robertson's.

The Wera are very slightly cheaper, but then there are also the Greenlee version of the Klein's that are a bit cheaper too. Overall though, the difference in price I'm seeing is very negligible.

Am I missing a better source for the Wera's? Keep in mind I'm in Canada so paying shipping and duties on most American sites really kills the value for me.

 

[4xdog]

The best Robertson screwdrivers I've found are the genuine ones from Robertson. FWIW, they were rebranded with all sorts of names. Just look for a 2-piece tip design like this:

I have a couple of typical transparent CAB-handled Craftsman Robertson screwdrivers with two-piece tips like that. They’ve worked well for many years of infrequent use. They might be Canadian-made, but I’m a few thousand miles away from double-checking that.

 

[Hytekrednek]

Robertson fasteners/bits are or were patented, so others did the square drive thing. True robertson drivers will usually be color coded to size. Having the robby driver for the robby screws is best, but square drive will work ok for a while, just not as good or as long as the correct bit/driver. Screws are made in Robertson and also square drive, so I keep drivers and bits for both. Quadrex is also seen a lot around here. It is a mix of Phillips and square drive in one. Square or Phillips drivers will work with them ok, but a quadrex bit in a quadrex screw is superior. Like the cross slot types "Phillips", standard Phillips, JIS, Pozi-drive, and a few others, there are also variations for most other styles. This is frustrating for sure. For this reason, I keep many types of bits on hand.
Then you have the budget brand screws with the poorly formed heads that no bit or driver fits right with. These are the real pain in the screw world. AVOID at all cost. Saving a couple bucks on screws will probably cost you more than you saved in the end, plus make you lose your temper and throw stuff... that you will later have to repair or replace.

 

[mrspeed]

Robertson fasteners/bits are or were patented, so others did the square drive thing. True robertson drivers will usually be color coded to size. Having the robby driver for the robby screws is best, but square drive will work ok for a while, just not as good or as long as the correct bit/driver. Screws are made in Robertson and also square drive, so I keep drivers and bits for both. Quadrex is also seen a lot around here. It is a mix of Phillips and square drive in one. Square or Phillips drivers will work with them ok, but a quadrex bit in a quadrex screw is superior. Like the cross slot types "Phillips", standard Phillips, JIS, Pozi-drive, and a few others, there are also variations for most other styles. This is frustrating for sure. For this reason, I keep many types of bits on hand.
Then you have the budget brand screws with the poorly formed heads that no bit or driver fits right with. These are the real pain in the screw world. AVOID at all cost. Saving a couple bucks on screws will probably cost you more than you saved in the end, plus make you lose your temper and throw stuff... that you will later have to repair or replace.

Any authoritative sources for this info would be great, because again, I'm not sure this info is correct. From everything I've been able to find online, the only square drive design in use today for fasteners or screwdrivers is the Robertson design.

While it's true there were other square drive designs before Robertson, none of them were ever commercially successful or mass produced, before or after Robertson.

Also the last of the Robertson patents expired over 50 years ago according to the Robertson Inc. website, so everyone is free to manufacture Robertson design screws and drivers, and they're free to use the Robertson color coding system, or skip it if they want:

https://www.robertsonscrew.com/

I can also see why manufacturers would call Robertson drive hardware simply "square" drive as well, since they may not want to do free advertising for Robertson Inc.

I could be wrong about the absence of any other square drive on the market today. I just haven't been able to find any information about it aside from random claims in forums. I'm wondering if people are just confused by manufacturers with poor tolerances or getting creative with the Robertson design in their products, rather than adhering to the spec of some other square drive design.

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[WittHay]

Some Robertson screwdrivers, the one with the bolsters are Mastercraft Maximum from Canadian Tire and the hard handled Craftsman and Fuller are made in Canada