ISO Slotted Screw Starters

[TypeRepairBill]

Hello All, New Here!

I've been in search of a Slotted Head Screw Starter.

I've seen plenty of ones that have clamps that split open and grab the screw around the head, and ones that have the twisting threads to release the screw, but near the head. I am unfortunately unhappy with how they perform.

My ideal screw starter is one that is a dedicated flat head that splits open in the screw to secure it, and has a release that can be pushed from the end. Something long and slender as to reach small hard to reach screws.

If I'm totally out of base with this, please don't hesitate to let me know, I just know there are great minds here, and I'm eager to hear what exists...if anything.

Thanks so much!

 

[2oolhound]

Welcome to the forum!

I have all 3 types but the best solution is to replace the slotted screws with allen head screws.

 

[TypeRepairBill]

Hi 2oolhound! Thanks for the welcome.

I'd love to replace the screws I'm working in, but I'm in the restoration business.

I should have mentioned my line of work, I repair Typewriters! 99% of screws on the machines are slotted head, and I love my magnetic tipped drivers, but sometimes a nudge, a bump, and I'll spend 10 minutes shaking the machine trying to get it to fall out haha. Do you have any recommendations on brands of the three you have?

 

[bob from indiana]

Kedman quick wedge wedge or Klein makes just the thing you need.

 

[larry_g]

Search out a 'split shank screw starter ' That may be what you need.

lg
no neat sig line

 

[PhysicsDude]

Felo makes a set of screwdrivers ("M-TEC") that have a magnetic screw holder built into the tip. Obviously the downside to these is they only work on screws that can be magnetized.

https://www.kctoolco.com/felo-51757-m-tec-4-x-200mm-slotted-screwdriver/

 

[mikebaker1129]

Yes , quickwedge ,Klein and Vaco.
Vaco makes some small ones that are pocket sized.
Vaco is owned by Klein.
Ideal may offer them as well

 

[rlitman]

Felo makes a set of screwdrivers ("M-TEC") that have a magnetic screw holder built into the tip. Obviously the downside to these is they only work on screws that can be magnetized...

Magnets **** on slotted screws. The screw always wobbles.

The Vaco split tips are the best for this use:

They don't take up precious space that the ones with the stuff that surrounds the screw does:

, so they can be used in tight places (they're effectively cabinet tips). And they have a much tighter hold than the ones which have that spring loaded twisting piece in the middle:

Just remember that with the exception of the ones with external screw holding mechanisms, they're all only starters, and you need to switch to a real screwdriver for tightening.

 

[zktk01]

I have a set of Vaco's that work really well will post pics later.

 

[bob from indiana]

Here is a link to the real deal
https://quickwedge.com/

 

[mikegt4]

I have a Craftsman branded Proto #J9855 that I bought back in the 1960's to install points in distributors. It is like the last photo in post #8 except it is about 10" long. It works great for starting slotted screws in difficult positions. If I drop or lose a screw in the distributor the magnet can recover the screw.
http://www.protoindustrial.com/en/i.../J9855_Proto®-Slotted-Screw-Starter---9-5|8"/

 

[Steve_P]

Ullman makes the classic design slotted screw starters, available on Amazon

 

[zktk01]

Here is a link to the real deal
https://quickwedge.com/

My Vacos are like that. Those would work well the VACOs do.
The end looks like this one.
https://quickwedge.com/product/m-1804/

 

[TypeRepairBill]

Thank you everyone for all the help and advice!!!