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Precision screwdrivers. Prefer 1-piece or removable bits?

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toolmutt

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Sep 5, 2009
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I also prefer one piece. Interchangeable bits are okay if you're truly crowded for space but, as said, the bits tend to go missing.
 

n8n

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Curtis Bay, MD
I prefer one piece to use, but I primarily use the bit sets because of space/convenience concerns.
 
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Jacobson

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One piece it is. Especially, considering you don't even get a discount for the bit set type. All are $25
 

PBCampbell

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WV
The interchangeable kits with the double ended shafts are the ticket when the fastner is recessed deeply. I have a Felo kit similar to the Wiha from the original post as well as individual electronics style drivers. I think a mix of both if you really want to be prepared.
 

NoahG

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Feb 24, 2013
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Detroit, MI
I prefer one piece, and one day I'll own that huge Wiha set. But in reality I have a mix of one piece for my often used sizes, and bits to cover the rest.

I really like the Picquic Teeny Turner and those Husky 8in1 minis, like this Its a great design.
 

orca8589

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May 26, 2012
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Concord, CA
I prefer one piece, and one day I'll own that huge Wiha set. But in reality I have a mix of one piece for my often used sizes, and bits to cover the rest.

I really like the Picquic Teeny Turner and those Husky 8in1 minis, like this Its a great design.

Same for me - both. :thumbup: My most-used precision drivers are the Husky set mention above.

I have a full set of fixed-shaft precision screwdrivers and a full set of precision hex-bit drivers as well. (I also have the same arrangement for full-size fixed shaft screwdrivers and 1/4" hex & 5/16" hex bit driver sets.)

An example of the need for this is that for many of the modern folding knives in my collection, the handle slabs & scales have a spacer between them, and a screw running through each scale into the spacers, holding the knife together. You need a screwdriver for each side.

~Chris
 
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jd_1138

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NE Ohio
I had to buy some just today (to help my disabled brother repair 200+ watches that he's collected over the years). I went to Harbor Freight and bought this 34 piece set for $7:

http://www.harborfreight.com/33-piece-precision-screwdriver-set-93916.html

The actual bits seem to be precisely machined and fit nicely, but the handle and chuck both seem a little flimsy like it won't last long. I used it on a few watches today. Didn't get that many fixed, because I need to order lots and lots of batteries.

I may take this set back and get some Wiha one piece screw drivers. I also bought a Watch Repair Kit from HF for $7. I only used one item from it (the thing that is sort of like a puller for a car).
 
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nicksnothereman

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Oct 19, 2013
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In the Mojave

I hate micro bits (and bits in general) so...one piece.

Before anyone says it, I use bits a lot but that doesn't mean I like using them. Using a bit socket kind of eliminates the bit rage.

The thing with precision is that you're going to wear them out regardless of whether or not they're bits or drivers. I guess some drivers have lifetime warranties so maybe get those; I don't know of any bits that have a lifetime warranty.
 

nanofrog

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Mar 1, 2012
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Both for me.

Dedicated drivers for what I use most (far more convenient), blade types for everything else. Gets me all the different types & sizes, and saves on bench space at the same time (electronics use).

Wiha Drive-Loc for blade systems, Wiha (precision), Vessel (JIS), and PB Swiss for the dedicated drivers (standard stuff).
 

FMC1959

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Feb 9, 2014
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Montreal, Canada / Upstate NY
One piece for me, and never tried claiming warranty on any screwdriver. My guess is like I have heard others say, the manufacturer will give you grief stating it was wear and tear.

BTW - I got those Wiha's with the bonus pliers. Both work and feel nice, the drivers are made in Germany. On the packaging using the smallest font possible, they say forgings by Wiha Vietnam, packaged by Wiha USA
 

Davefr

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My opinion is to get one piece drivers for those that you frequently use and then get a micro bit set for everything else.

I just bought some 1 pc Wiha's to complete my precision set. I chose the one piece drivers for only Slotted, Torx, Phillips and JIS. (all sizes they offer).

I also bought this bit driver set. This gives me coverage for virtually anything precision. I'm not a huge fan of bit drivers but how many times does the average person need things like Pentalobe?

The Wiha master technicians set is nice but it's far from complete. I also saved quite a bit by getting a mix of bit sets and dedicated drivers.

KC Tools has the Wiha bit set on sale and they also give GJ members a 10% discount! :

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Jacobson

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Anyone want to declutter and sell me a precision screwdriver set?
I'm looking for some worthwhile discount off the $23 price on Amazon for a Wiha caliber set.
 

nanofrog

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Anyone want to declutter and sell me a precision screwdriver set?
I'm looking for some worthwhile discount off the $23 price on Amazon for a Wiha caliber set.
What do you mean by "Wiha Caliber Set"? :headscrat
 
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Jacobson

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I meant a decent quality set. Like not the $1 store kind that are ****.
 

nanofrog

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I meant a decent quality set. Like not the $1 store kind that are ****.
If you're after Wiha, you might get Wiha a couple of bucks cheaper from their Proturn line for similar items (i.e. same type of configuration & approx. quantity).

Otherwise, you'll have to find a different brand, such as Tekton. Might do you, if for occasional use, and not on anything that the screws will be bonded (i.e. Apple's products that tend to use too much Loctite that snap tips off of precision screwdrivers).

Also sending a PM (why will be explained).
 
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