Phillips # 3 with 200mm < blade length < 450mm

[ChevyEFI]

I've put a fair amount of (on-the-clock ) research time into this.

Apparently, there's something utterly perfect about #3 Phillips screwdrivers blade length of about 6" or 150mm. It's what everyone offers. What's your theory on why?

I've found PB Swiss offers a 200mm (a bit under 8") # 3 Phillips in Swiss Grip.
And Vessel offers a 450mm (under 18") # 3 Phillips in their 6603 series.

That's a broad range. Is there anything in between those?

Can I disassemble the Vessel, re-swedge the blade and have exactly what I want?

Is my google-fu in need of practice?
Thanks.
-J

 

[T45]

what is the application, and why do you need a hand driver?

300mm is a common extension length, and easy enough for a one off or rare use.

Why not use a bit driver socket on a T-handle, or ratchet+extension?

Socket Driver, PHILLIPS®, Long, #3
30.00 USD
Item: FP34E

 

[gj67stang]

Can I disassemble the Vessel, re-swedge the blade and have exactly what I want?

Yes, you should be able to do this. I've done it many times with success (albeit not with those specific drivers).

 

[ChevyEFI]

Clearance past a handle on a valve selector is why I'd like the hand driver for the best clearance. The bit driver and short bit required moving the handle for clearance.

A long bit extension, and 6" bit is one option.

 

[T45]

you can rig up a snap on ratcheting driver handle to do this pretty easily, if that form factor works better for you.

just need a p3 bit, then use a 11 inch 1/4 extension pluged into the handle and the driver/bit holder plugged into the extension

the sq drive extension cannot have any bolsters and the extension goes in backward, which may seem counterintuitive at first...but simple once you see it...the removable shank has a square 1/4 drive with standard friction ball setup....so its plug and play and the other end is hex bit holder.

this is only trying to be helpful in case a traditional driver is not forthcoming.

good luck, and hopefully will find a tool you like if you need this alot.

_________

Or combine these parts for an oem solution to any ratcheting driver handle.

9" Magnetic Bit Holder Shank
SGDMRC4-80
22.50 USD

Bit, Power, Phillips®, #3, 1/4" hex, 6"
8.90 USD
Item: SDM623A

 

[ChevyEFI]

I visited Menards in recent travels and bought a Masterforce® # 3 x 7-1/2" Phillips-Tip Bolster Screwdriver which seems solid. I think it's Pratt-Read produced? I didn't know they made that size; I had only previously seen the 16" and 6" blade versions on Menards' site.

Another option I didn't run into until now was the Tekton #3 Phillips x 8 in. Screwdriver.

Now, what other tools do I need?

 

[Ole Slewfoot]

Well, if we are all measuring our screwdrivers, I got a 2 footer in the back of the drawer.

I also got a couple the other day that had their handle length refined with a hacksaw.
Simple, but effective.

 

[Wamsutta]

Snap-on F40B + FP32E. Done.

 

[bob from indiana]

I have the Tekton #3 driver and use it daily. I mount a lot of transformers and it gives me knuckle clearance.