Best screwdrivers

[katiexoxo]

Who do you think makes the best screwdrivers?
I'm trying to make a poll

 

[Teenager with old tools]

My channellock screwdrivers are holding up amazingly


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[wornoutoldman]

Working on anything Japanese? Vessel. For anything else. Snap-on.

 

[nanofrog]

PB Swiss are the best I've ever used. Not cheap, but they still offer excellent value as they last so long (I've not worn one out yet).

But I also have a lot of Wiha (mostly sizes for electronics). Some Moody as well (small JIS sizes).

 

[ssdave]

Snap On have worked the best for me overall. But, I haven't tried the Wera, Whia, PB Swiss, Felo, Facom. Never even seen them. Have access to Snap-on, but not the european ones. Klein are okay, but Craftsman and Stanley are suitable for paint stirring and prying only. I have a lot of Proto also, and they're good. The old green and white handled SK were very good. Have had some indestro that were very good. Have had some Vermont American that were very good. Have some Mac, they're almost as good as the Snap-on, but I have no access to buy or warranty them easily. Had some Matco, didn't like as well.

Over the last 35 years, I have had literally hundreds of also-ran brands that have worked, but are an order of magnitude lower in quality than the Snap On, Proto and MAC. Most all are on the same quality level as Stanley and Craftsman. I guess that's the consumer commodity quality level. The professional level ones (Snap-on, MAC, Proto, SK, Indestro) that I have had are subjectively 10 to 100 times better than the consumer level ones. In that a #2 phillips will remove 10 to 100 times as many screws before it gets worn enough to start slipping. In the case of the last Craftsman I had, a Snap-on will remove 1000's of times as many before it wears. The last Craftsman #2 I had, I warranted when it deformed, and the replacement deformed on the very first use. I warranted it out, and then sold it or donated it along with all the other assorted Craftsman ones that I sorted out of my box. Figured it wasn't even worth trying it out. Now, I don't even bother to warranty them when I get them in old tool boxes. I just use them for tent stakes, which they work great for. (Seriously, the handle makes them real easy to push in and remove, they work excellent).

 

[Ainsley]

My favorites are Witte, PB Swiss and Wera.

 

[zmotorsports]

I have always been a fan of the Snap-On screwdrivers. I bought my first set back in 1988 when I started as an industrial maintenance apprentice. I bought the old square handled Snap-On (Contour Grip) and love them. I then traded them for the newer version of hard plastic handles (PowerGrip Plus) and didn't care for them as much. About 8 years ago I bought a set of the Snap-On Instinct in Red and really like them. I wished I hadn't sold my old square handled Contour Grip Snap-On and the closest thing I found to them was a set of green MAC Gator National screwdrivers that I bought used. I recently gave them to my son as I found a very nice used set of old Contour Grip square handled Snap-Ons that are now my second "go to" screwdrivers, with the Snap-On Instinct Comfort grip my #1 set.

I also had a transparent yellow set of Blue Points in my race trailer that I quite liked. Still have them after selling my race trailer so I will put them in the mix when I get the new shop built.

I have a set of Matco's in my Jeep that I also like that are a hard plastic handle but tapered a slight amount. They are quite comfortable as well.

Mike.

 

[Capt Chrysler]

Snap On

 

[woody 73]

Please don't take this the wrong way...I have seen the PB Swiss screwdrivers and yes they are the Kat's Meow, would I like to own a set you bet.

I would call them a "boutique" item for people with deep pockets. I don't know what happens to them when say the tip breaks do you pick up an envelope and mail them back to Switzerland ? The postage alond would set you back some money, do they even have any warranty? Fixing cars in the rust belt would kill those off in a short time.

So I voted other for something like snap-on, Williams, proto, etc. yes expensive but easier to get replacements if they break.

Just my two cents for what it is worth on the GJ.

 

[M6erfan]

for slotted, PB Swiss (Hollow ground cabinet tip). Cross point, Vessel and Wiha

 

[nanofrog]

...[snip]...PB Swiss screwdrivers..[snip].

I don't know what happens to them when say the tip breaks do you pick up an envelope and mail them back to Switzerland ?
...do they even have any warranty?

Fixing cars in the rust belt would kill those off in a short time.

Warranty = unlimited guarantee on materials and workmanship. Does not cover abuse or normal wear.

The tool owner sends it into the retailer, so you don't have to send it to Switzerland unless you bought it there.

Why would the rust belt kill them any faster than any other very high quality screwdriver in said environment?

 

[oldldh]

Proto Yellow Handled Classic Professionals!!!

They aren't made anymore...

But...

They should be!!!

 

[DieselDent]

Snap-On hard handle preferably in orange.

 

[Sco Deac]

Proto Yellow Handled Classic Professionals!!!

They aren't made anymore...

But...

They should be!!!

But for $25, you can own 15 pieces of history.

http://www.harryepstein.com/index.php/15-pc-proto-screwdriver-set.html

 

[FMC1959]

Never mind Japanese motor bikes, lately I have been trying one of my Vessel, a Philips and even a Posidrive, on every screw I need to screw in to do my own unofficial poll. For most screws on many retail items I need to assemble when new or unscrew to fix or adjust something, my Vessel have the best fit 80% of the time.

I often cussed at screwdrivers cramming out when probably most of these would have gone better wth JIS. With so many retail items being mfg abroad, I suspect that thy use JIS or a similar spec on the screws.

I love my Vessel (specifically for Philips)

 

[pcmeiners]

I have Wiha, nice screwdrivers, but this poll is basically useless as no one here has researched, or tested ALL (or a least most) of the brands side by side...basically this only gives preferences; also this subject has been covered many times before on the forum.

 

[HomeTheaterMan]

Snap On for me too although I prefer the Instinct handles over the old hard handles. The handle style is really a personal preference.

 

[Super Sport]

I prefer Wera. I'm also a big fan of Snap On/Williams hard handles. For precision stuff, I've had good luck with Wiha, but like the ergonomics of Wera better (but I haven't used them enough to determine quality).

 

[neonlazer]

Wiha for electrical related and Williams hard handle for normal!

 

[Infinia]

Xcelite the snap-on of the electronics world. XST black handles are truly xceptional based on my years of use. but somehow I doubt they are the same quality from post Apex years ( based on Amazon users), AFAIK they also rebrand imported Felo sets ( both sold under the same Apex umbrella)

The Monster Craftsman (also a pair of generic 4mm) for size reference

 

[Sine Swept]

I've got Snap On, Williams and a big collection of Wera. It depends what I am working on, but I usually go straight for the Weras. I have 2 x #2 Phillips that get used in rusty step panel screws that would probably not work with other branded drivers. The tips have worn the newness off of them, but not the functional parts. Being in Canada I also use a lot of Robertson screws and the Wera's got a grip on them, no joke! The owner of
the establishment that I buy them from locally looked me dead in the face and said he would honour lifetime warranty. Not that I've ever needed it.

 

[FMC1959]

Also wanted to add that screwdrivers are a 50/50 proposition.

50% being the quailty of the tip, not rounding or chipping easy, and fitting snug into the screw, as well as toughing it out over the years.

The other 50% is more personal, the handle. I have many screwdrivers, in my car, shop and 2 work sheds, I try many. First off I am not a fan of hard (usually acetate) handles; the slightest bit of sweat, oil, or anything, they slip too much.

My favorite handle is the PB Swiss Santoprene, the are hard but are covered in a rubberized not slip material, and overall nice feel. Wera I neither like or dislike. The weird handle shape is OK as well as the handle texture.

I have a set of Felo black with yellow trim, soft handle....the model line is Ergo something, nice handles, up there close to the PBS

Wiha are decent, not as comfortable as the Felo, but I prefer them to Wera

I have Gray screwdrivers, the hard acetate are OK, the soft textured handles are great, probably second to my PBS handles.

I have some really old Rosco USA, nothing special but have lasted for 40 years.

I have one Snap On old black sort of square handle that I know many like these. I find it is decent, but others I prefer over them.

I have tons of Master craft, not expensive and do the job, the tips are OK, won't last in tough jobs.

Also have a couple of old sets of Fuller, hard handle acetate, which is not my preferance, but probably the best among the acetate handles I have used over the years and overall excellant drivers.

Never had a chance to try the Proto (Dynacraft?) with the grey handles. I know the are the favorite for many.

 

[Farmer_dk]

most of the time I'll use my Wera 900 series (http://www.dvsalg.dk/admin/public/g...t=jpg&Width=600&Height=&Compression=80&Crop=5)

but I do keep my bacho ergo nearby
(https://www.fotoagent.dk/single_picture/10485/138/mega/BE_9875.jpg)

mostly i'll reach for bacho for indoor, electrical and wood work, where the wera's is most commonly used for auto/metal/dirty work

 

[IMStuner]

For JIS I like Vessal brand drivers.


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[Farmall450]

No SO?
A search would have found you 200+ responses...
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=239689
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=224881

 

[M6erfan]

I have fond memories of Xcelite screwdrivers, sadly in my experience, their quality has suffered. To bad...

 

[gdocktor3]

I like both handle styled Snap On screwdrivers. New and old hard handles. I also like my green SK acetote handle screwdrivers made by Western Forge.

 

[IslandBikeCo]

I like Wera for most things but have a nice set of Wiha Terminal block and posidriv screwdrivers as well. Vessel for JIS.

 

[nanofrog]

I have fond memories of Xcelite screwdrivers, sadly in my experience, their quality has suffered. To bad...

Unfortunate that Apex got hold of them and dropped the quality.

These days, I'd have to say Wiha rules the electronic screwdriver realm overall (decent on performance, relatively reasonable on price/value, and the largest selection of electronic screw profiles out there AFAIK). FWIW, the one's made in the late '80's/early '90's were better made than current production IME.

Current production certainly isn't the absolute best in regard to quality IME, but it's not **** either (not by a long shot). I've found PB Swiss to be better made, but they cost more per driver (particularly as they don't discount the cost/driver in sets*). Unfortunately, their selection is far, far smaller. Hence my statement regarding Wiha for electronic/precision screwdrivers.

I've not had the opportunity to try Wera, but from what I've read, it seems to be users either love them or hate them. Regardless, their selection is also smaller than Wiha, but greater than PB Swiss.

*In fact, I've found their sets to cost more than buying the drivers individually, even if the set doesn't include some sort of hanging rack, pouch, organizer, ...

 

[Brownsfan]

This a VERY subjective question. You will get 50 different answers. There are so many good quality drivers out there now for not a lot of money. I think a better question would be the best value for the money. My vote would be the Proto Duratek. They offer a complete line and for great prices from places like Zoro.

 

[anndel]

Love my Snap On comfort grip screwdrivers.

 

[chipper]

Craftsman pro fit my hand well...if i ever switch it will be a set of williams or snap on hard handles

 

[Brownsfan]

Here would be my ideal screwdriver. Snap On instinct soft handle with witte(matco/cornwell) tips. But like I said above the best bang for the buck for tip quality and handle comfort is the proto duratek

 

[66354dream]

Proto Yellow Handled Classic Professionals!!!

They aren't made anymore...

But...

They should be!!!

Do these handles stink like vomit after a while like the Craftsman handles?

 

[y4m4]

But for $25, you can own 15 pieces of history.

http://www.harryepstein.com/index.php/15-pc-proto-screwdriver-set.html

I was really excited about 15 nice screwdrivers for $25 and then I read the contents: the "set" only has a single PH#2 driver... What is this, 1934?

 

[PelicanPines]

Wera - for every day... nice screwdrivers
Craftsman - for when you need to break a screwdriver... just because
Klein - they provide a nice dark contrast to the eye burn you get from electrical arching
Proto Yellow handle - for when you need to show tool box jewelry
Snap on black handle - for when you want to warranty a tool that you never used but fell apart.

 

[four.cycle]

Snap On have worked the best for me overall. But, I haven't tried the Wera, Whia, PB Swiss, Felo, Facom. Never even seen them. Have access to Snap-on, but not the european ones. Klein are okay, but Craftsman and Stanley are suitable for paint stirring and prying only. I have a lot of Proto also, and they're good. The old green and white handled SK were very good. Have had some indestro that were very good. Have had some Vermont American that were very good. Have some Mac, they're almost as good as the Snap-on, but I have no access to buy or warranty them easily. Had some Matco, didn't like as well.

Over the last 35 years, I have had literally hundreds of also-ran brands that have worked, but are an order of magnitude lower in quality than the Snap On, Proto and MAC. Most all are on the same quality level as Stanley and Craftsman. I guess that's the consumer commodity quality level. The professional level ones (Snap-on, MAC, Proto, SK, Indestro) that I have had are subjectively 10 to 100 times better than the consumer level ones. In that a #2 phillips will remove 10 to 100 times as many screws before it gets worn enough to start slipping. In the case of the last Craftsman I had, a Snap-on will remove 1000's of times as many before it wears. The last Craftsman #2 I had, I warranted when it deformed, and the replacement deformed on the very first use. I warranted it out, and then sold it or donated it along with all the other assorted Craftsman ones that I sorted out of my box. Figured it wasn't even worth trying it out. Now, I don't even bother to warranty them when I get them in old tool boxes. I just use them for tent stakes, which they work great for. (Seriously, the handle makes them real easy to push in and remove, they work excellent).

^ Interesting observations. I've never had any Snap-on, Wera, Wiha, Proto, Felo, Facom, Klein, or Mac in my hand.
I would agree with Dave on the Stanley and Craftsman - they do make good paint can openers and chisels in a pinch.
All of my forty-year-old Indestros are still just fine, with the exception of the 4681 #1 phillips which is simply worn out from decades of use.
Surprisingly, some of my favorites are an old Challenger slotted and a mess of "Rosco" (Rosenberg Bros., NY) models that I bought when we carried them in the mid-1980's - They're actually pretty nice- the #2 phillips has held up quite well considering the brand would be considered "low end" by today's standards.

I'm surprised there's been no mention in this thread of Enderes. I have a couple Enderes-made models with interchangeable tips that have held up quite well- the one I carry in the glove box has been subjected to some serious use.

 

[a52-830]

williams bi-mold, like these:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001DO2QUY/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[IndyGarage]

I use Wera, Felo, Snap-on, Craftsman and Stanley most often.

I voted Wera, because they fit my hand best. Felo is a close second. I have a set of Snappy hard handles somewhere, but I haven't used them since I got my first set of Felos. Still use the Craftsman Red/blue hard handles sometimes because I've been given about 3 sets of 25 screwdrivers over the years and my toolboxes are full of them.

I use cheap Stanleys when I might break it or I have to modify them - even the $8.99 set from Walmart they work pretty well.

I actually have a Milwaukee 4 way (actually 6 way) that I use quite often as well.

I do have a set of Wiha mini screwdrivers that are pretty good.

 

[bcradio]

Can't stand the channelocks... they are softer than warm butter.

I like Bosch best