Screw driver brands top 3
- Thread starter noid
- Start date
My opinion is that there are several 'top' screwdriver companies, including, but not limited to:
Snap-on PH#2: $19.45
Wera PH#2: $9.99
Wiha PH#2: $7.25
PB Swiss PH#2: $10.69
GearWrench PH#2: $7.00
(prices from Amazon and Snap-on online store)
There's little or nothing to choose between the quality of blades and the handles are largely a matter of taste. However, you'd have to be very convinced of the merits of Snap-on's customer service to pay nearly triple the price of the least expensive screwdrivers for their offering.
The most comfortable screwdrivers I've used are Facom. I choose Wiha because I have an excellent local retailer, but I'd happily swap to any other good quality brand.
Snap-on PH#2: $19.45
Wera PH#2: $9.99
Wiha PH#2: $7.25
PB Swiss PH#2: $10.69
GearWrench PH#2: $7.00
(prices from Amazon and Snap-on online store)
There's little or nothing to choose between the quality of blades and the handles are largely a matter of taste. However, you'd have to be very convinced of the merits of Snap-on's customer service to pay nearly triple the price of the least expensive screwdrivers for their offering.
The most comfortable screwdrivers I've used are Facom. I choose Wiha because I have an excellent local retailer, but I'd happily swap to any other good quality brand.
mrholeshot
MEMBER EMERITUS
- Joined
- Jun 22, 2010
- Messages
- 8,043
Snap-On
Craftsman Pro
Klein
I also like
Husky Pro
Harbor Freight Pittsburg Pro.
Screwdrivers I hate are
Craftsman
Stanley Regular
Kobalt
Matco
S-K (just hate the handles)
Craftsman Pro
Klein
I also like
Husky Pro
Harbor Freight Pittsburg Pro.
Screwdrivers I hate are
Craftsman
Stanley Regular
Kobalt
Matco
S-K (just hate the handles)
jwitt
Well-known member
Mac red hard handles
Klien
Snap-on
Klien
Snap-on
Indy_500
Well-known member
onewaydave
Well-known member
The absolutely best screwdriver I've used was Marine Aviation issue circa 1971-1975. Aint nothin out there that compares.
Runner ups all came from junk stores, auctions, garage sales, etc. But the brands that have survived are;
Stanley (don't know age but older)
Craftsman
lots of old, no name wood handled drivers
My requirements for SD are; No square handles! and blades that don't brake under appropriate use (most SD are used too small, to thin, etc).
It's not fair to complain about a SD that breaks when being used as a pry bar, chisel, torque bar...
Dave.
Runner ups all came from junk stores, auctions, garage sales, etc. But the brands that have survived are;
Stanley (don't know age but older)
Craftsman
lots of old, no name wood handled drivers
My requirements for SD are; No square handles! and blades that don't brake under appropriate use (most SD are used too small, to thin, etc).
It's not fair to complain about a SD that breaks when being used as a pry bar, chisel, torque bar...
Dave.
I would never rate Klein as top tier. (at least not the new ones). The older ones might have been good but the new ones are so soft that the tips get destroyed at the first mild cam out.
I got tired of hassling the warranty and got rid of these Kleins.
I got tired of hassling the warranty and got rid of these Kleins.
IMHO
1. Matco (AKA Wiite) These feel the absolute best of any SD's I have owned. Too bad we no longer have a Matco truck.
2. Snap On Instinct soft handles. I know this is the opposite of the popular opinion, but these are my favorite SO handles.
3. Mac Macsimizer's. I know that there exists allot of Mac hate on this forum but I really like these SD's. Unfortunately we no longer have one of these trucks either.
1. Matco (AKA Wiite) These feel the absolute best of any SD's I have owned. Too bad we no longer have a Matco truck.
2. Snap On Instinct soft handles. I know this is the opposite of the popular opinion, but these are my favorite SO handles.
3. Mac Macsimizer's. I know that there exists allot of Mac hate on this forum but I really like these SD's. Unfortunately we no longer have one of these trucks either.
I have never bought snap-on because of it's very high price. I believe there are products comparable in quality which are much less expensive.
Best brands that I have tried are:
Wiha
------------
This is an excellent set of 8 for a good price:
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000T9XUHW?ie=UTF8&tag=hubpages0814-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000T9XUHW">Wiha 30298 8-Piece Slotted and Phillips Screwdriver Set with Soft Finish Handles</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=hubpages0814-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B000T9XUHW" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
This set is like twice the cost but is a bit more durable - your call...
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000T9UKO8?ie=UTF8&tag=hubpages0814-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000T9UKO8">Wiha 53097 Screwdriver Set, Slotted and Phillips, Extra Heavy Duty, 7 Piece</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=hubpages0814-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B000T9UKO8" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
If you are unsure if you will like this set I recommend this:
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001IDJ8OC?ie=UTF8&tag=hubpages0814-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001IDJ8OC">Wiha 38450 1/4</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=hubpages0814-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B001IDJ8OC" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
(nice to be able to change bits and try out the handle design)
Wera
----------
This one is only a 6 Piece set but is also a good price:
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0001NQQCM?ie=UTF8&tag=hubpages0814-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0001NQQCM">Wera Kraftform Plus Lasertip 334/6 Professional Screwdriver Set. 6-Piece</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=hubpages0814-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0001NQQCM" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
Again a 6 Piece set but meant for more abuse:
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0001NQQCC?ie=UTF8&tag=hubpages0814-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0001NQQCC">Wera Kraftform Plus 932/6 Chiseldriver with Pound-Thru Blade Screwdriver Set, 6 Piece</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=hubpages0814-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0001NQQCC" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
Finally if you are looking for 1 to test out try this:
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003GDIT0Q?ie=UTF8&tag=hubpages0814-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003GDIT0Q">Wera Kraftform 3816 R Stainless Bitholding Screwdriver, Hexagon 1/4</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=hubpages0814-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B003GDIT0Q" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
or
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003GDIT2E?ie=UTF8&tag=hubpages0814-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003GDIT2E">Wera Kraftform 812/1 Bitholding Screwdriver, Hexagon 1/4</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=hubpages0814-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B003GDIT2E" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
Klein
(I agree with DaveFr, one this... I thought maybe mine were just defective as I had good experiences in the past but now I wonder. If this is the current trend for Klein, I will definitely have to find a different brand for the top 3 spot... They do feel nice though.)
-------------
This 7 Piece set is at a good discount from retail and feels great in the hand but I have reservations about it's tip durability..
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001I0CDZ6?ie=UTF8&tag=hubpages0814-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001I0CDZ6">Klein JSDS02 7-Piece Journeyman Screwdriver Set</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=hubpages0814-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B001I0CDZ6" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
Others:
The Stanley Demolition drivers are actually pretty good, and not a bad deal at all.
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FCIMSU?ie=UTF8&tag=hubpages0814-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000FCIMSU">Stanley 67-546 FatMax Xtreme Demolition Driver Set, 2 Piece</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=hubpages0814-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B000FCIMSU" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
I have not yet tried PB Swiss or Felo but I have heard good things about them...
I do believe when looking for a driver you have to consider these things:
(please excuse me if I am stating the obvious but consider it a reminder)
Cost - What's the point in buying a driver that lasts 20% longer but costs 200% the price? Think "best bang for the buck".
Comfort - If the driver feels comfortable in your hand it will obviously reduce stress and can make you more productive. You may also enjoy using it more...
Durability - I would rather have a quality driver that I only have to replace once a year (or hopefully much longer) after very heavy usage, than to have to buy 10 crappy drivers in that same time.
Origin (important to some) - Many people prefer to buy something made in the USA or possibly Germany etc. because they expect the quality to be higher. While this is often true, and it might be worth paying extra for the quality, do your research. Not everything out of china is junk these days and I'd rather buy a good tool from china for less money than buy a piece of **** made here in the USA. So while country of origin might be an important factor, make sure you don't get suckered in by the USA mark, especially when tool makes try to trick you and put USA on the tool packaging, and only the box was made in the USA... To me that is like a slap in the face, and I'd rather buy something that says CHINA on the tool than to buy a product under false pretenses which is made the same damn place yet I'm being charged a premium for. You even have to watch those top brands I picked as even they outsource some stuff, but I digress...
Best brands that I have tried are:
Wiha
------------
This is an excellent set of 8 for a good price:
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000T9XUHW?ie=UTF8&tag=hubpages0814-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000T9XUHW">Wiha 30298 8-Piece Slotted and Phillips Screwdriver Set with Soft Finish Handles</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=hubpages0814-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B000T9XUHW" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
This set is like twice the cost but is a bit more durable - your call...
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000T9UKO8?ie=UTF8&tag=hubpages0814-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000T9UKO8">Wiha 53097 Screwdriver Set, Slotted and Phillips, Extra Heavy Duty, 7 Piece</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=hubpages0814-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B000T9UKO8" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
If you are unsure if you will like this set I recommend this:
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001IDJ8OC?ie=UTF8&tag=hubpages0814-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001IDJ8OC">Wiha 38450 1/4</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=hubpages0814-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B001IDJ8OC" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
(nice to be able to change bits and try out the handle design)
Wera
----------
This one is only a 6 Piece set but is also a good price:
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0001NQQCM?ie=UTF8&tag=hubpages0814-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0001NQQCM">Wera Kraftform Plus Lasertip 334/6 Professional Screwdriver Set. 6-Piece</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=hubpages0814-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0001NQQCM" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
Again a 6 Piece set but meant for more abuse:
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0001NQQCC?ie=UTF8&tag=hubpages0814-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0001NQQCC">Wera Kraftform Plus 932/6 Chiseldriver with Pound-Thru Blade Screwdriver Set, 6 Piece</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=hubpages0814-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0001NQQCC" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
Finally if you are looking for 1 to test out try this:
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003GDIT0Q?ie=UTF8&tag=hubpages0814-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003GDIT0Q">Wera Kraftform 3816 R Stainless Bitholding Screwdriver, Hexagon 1/4</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=hubpages0814-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B003GDIT0Q" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
or
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003GDIT2E?ie=UTF8&tag=hubpages0814-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003GDIT2E">Wera Kraftform 812/1 Bitholding Screwdriver, Hexagon 1/4</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=hubpages0814-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B003GDIT2E" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
Klein
(I agree with DaveFr, one this... I thought maybe mine were just defective as I had good experiences in the past but now I wonder. If this is the current trend for Klein, I will definitely have to find a different brand for the top 3 spot... They do feel nice though.)
-------------
This 7 Piece set is at a good discount from retail and feels great in the hand but I have reservations about it's tip durability..
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001I0CDZ6?ie=UTF8&tag=hubpages0814-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001I0CDZ6">Klein JSDS02 7-Piece Journeyman Screwdriver Set</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=hubpages0814-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B001I0CDZ6" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
Others:
The Stanley Demolition drivers are actually pretty good, and not a bad deal at all.
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FCIMSU?ie=UTF8&tag=hubpages0814-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000FCIMSU">Stanley 67-546 FatMax Xtreme Demolition Driver Set, 2 Piece</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=hubpages0814-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B000FCIMSU" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />
I have not yet tried PB Swiss or Felo but I have heard good things about them...
I do believe when looking for a driver you have to consider these things:
(please excuse me if I am stating the obvious but consider it a reminder)
Cost - What's the point in buying a driver that lasts 20% longer but costs 200% the price? Think "best bang for the buck".
Comfort - If the driver feels comfortable in your hand it will obviously reduce stress and can make you more productive. You may also enjoy using it more...
Durability - I would rather have a quality driver that I only have to replace once a year (or hopefully much longer) after very heavy usage, than to have to buy 10 crappy drivers in that same time.
Origin (important to some) - Many people prefer to buy something made in the USA or possibly Germany etc. because they expect the quality to be higher. While this is often true, and it might be worth paying extra for the quality, do your research. Not everything out of china is junk these days and I'd rather buy a good tool from china for less money than buy a piece of **** made here in the USA. So while country of origin might be an important factor, make sure you don't get suckered in by the USA mark, especially when tool makes try to trick you and put USA on the tool packaging, and only the box was made in the USA... To me that is like a slap in the face, and I'd rather buy something that says CHINA on the tool than to buy a product under false pretenses which is made the same damn place yet I'm being charged a premium for. You even have to watch those top brands I picked as even they outsource some stuff, but I digress...
superautobacs
Well-known member
Which Kleins are we talking about?
Cushion-Grip:
Grip-It® Screwdrivers:
Journeyman™ Screwdrivers:
"These new Journeyman screwdrivers copy other manufacturers’ three-sided design with their “tri-lobe” handle, made with a soft-grip material molded over a solid inner core. The **** of the handle features Klein’s Tip-Ident — these patented markings allow you to instantly see what type of screwdriver you’re holding and the orientation of the tip.
Klein precision-machines the tips to precisely fit the fasteners, and they weld a hex-shaped “bolster” to the hard steel shaft for extra strength. Although they don’t mention it, I’m sure the bolster can also help you get that extra bit of torque with a wrench."
Cushion-Grip:
Grip-It® Screwdrivers:
Journeyman™ Screwdrivers:
"These new Journeyman screwdrivers copy other manufacturers’ three-sided design with their “tri-lobe” handle, made with a soft-grip material molded over a solid inner core. The **** of the handle features Klein’s Tip-Ident — these patented markings allow you to instantly see what type of screwdriver you’re holding and the orientation of the tip.
Klein precision-machines the tips to precisely fit the fasteners, and they weld a hex-shaped “bolster” to the hard steel shaft for extra strength. Although they don’t mention it, I’m sure the bolster can also help you get that extra bit of torque with a wrench."
I was referring to the set I posted as a link - the journeyman series. It remains to be seen if this was a manufacturing defect that will be corrected or if their quality has gone downhill permanently. If so... expect them to loose popularity as word spreads... It's sad if this is the case as I really like the new handles.
dont understand the affection for PB Swiss here when they're so friggan expensive and so limited in what they produce as well. If i were to pick good brands they'd be the ones that produce largely complete sets, not a just a handful of sizes.
mrholeshot
MEMBER EMERITUS
- Joined
- Jun 22, 2010
- Messages
- 8,043
I like the cushion grip Klien in the Klien line. never tried the others
Deskmechanic
Well-known member
Aren't Pratt Read the makers of c-man pro and Husky pro too?
tonydanzah
Well-known member
another vote for the wittes
Solid Lifters
Well-known member
1. Wiha
2. Wera
3. Felo
2. Wera
3. Felo
They're very comfortable, and the tips are top-notch. And the cost isn't bad at all, compared to their competitors like Wera, Snap On, etc.
But my real reason in replying, to be honest, is to find out what sizes you're looking for? I have more than a "handful" of PB Swiss drivers, and I by no means own their entire line of drivers.
Bolster
Well-known member
For me it's:
1. PB Swiss
2. Williams (same or similar to SO)
3. FeloWihaWera
I actually don't own any SO soft or hard dedicated drivers (just ratcheting drivers that take bits) so I really can't say if the SO soft/hard are better, worse, or equal to Williams...?
1. PB Swiss
2. Williams (same or similar to SO)
3. FeloWihaWera
I actually don't own any SO soft or hard dedicated drivers (just ratcheting drivers that take bits) so I really can't say if the SO soft/hard are better, worse, or equal to Williams...?
woody 73
Well-known member
I like the williams screwdrivers.
Speed-Racer
Well-known member
- Joined
- Aug 25, 2008
- Messages
- 731
For me it's
1. Snap-On (better warranty + customer service)
2. Williams USA stuff
3. Wiha
1. Snap-On (better warranty + customer service)
2. Williams USA stuff
3. Wiha
rayzor32
Well-known member
1. Wiha
2. Snap-on
3. HF or Craftsman for beating and prying on
2. Snap-on
3. HF or Craftsman for beating and prying on
Deskmechanic
Well-known member
PB swiss at amazon prices is a good deal - PB swiss at 'count on tools' prices is a terrible deal. More expensive than Snap-on!
Half the price of Snap-on for the equivalent individual screwdrivers and close to those of other premium brands.
Deskmechanic
Well-known member
PB swiss hex bolster swissgrip P2
Item # PB 8193/3-150, Screwdrivers for Phillips Screws
$20.22
Snap-on instinct soft handle P2
Screwdriver, Phillips ACR, Instinct Soft Handle, #2, Red
Stock#: SGDP42IRBR
$19.45
Item # PB 8193/3-150, Screwdrivers for Phillips Screws
$20.22
Snap-on instinct soft handle P2
Screwdriver, Phillips ACR, Instinct Soft Handle, #2, Red
Stock#: SGDP42IRBR
$19.45
They're very comfortable, and the tips are top-notch. And the cost isn't bad at all, compared to their competitors like Wera, Snap On, etc.
But my real reason in replying, to be honest, is to find out what sizes you're looking for? I have more than a "handful" of PB Swiss drivers, and I by no means own their entire line of drivers.
I guess i should of been more specific, i was referring to the swiss grip that everyone raves over. Not many sizes and very little availability. Plus they're expensive [$5-$10 per driver in the sets]. Like i said i prefer brands that offer large sets. If i'm going to invest into screw drivers, i like more than just one or two lengths/tip sizes.
I think Snap-Ons MSRP are a joke on just about everything they make so i can only shrug at that.
Bolster
Well-known member
Yeah, but try buying new SO for less. Not easy! It's a joke price you have to pay!
Scout Driver
Well-known member
I always tell everybody those are my favorite and they just laugh at me
Don't feel bad. I like the Stanley screwdrivers too. The ones with the yellow and red clear handles. Wish I could find a set of nut-drivers like them.
Scott
rayzor32
Well-known member
the stanleys are pretty good I like the black handled ones
I think PB has a good selection of screwdrivers. Different handles - something for everybody , and for example 24 different PH drivers with "Swiss Grip" handle. That should be enough
Price can´t be the cheapest since they´re made in switzerland with german steel + american plastic. UNLIMITED GUARANTEE too.
Price can´t be the cheapest since they´re made in switzerland with german steel + american plastic. UNLIMITED GUARANTEE too.
caper
Well-known member
Aren't PB Swiss the drivers that smell really bad?I seem to remember some one emailing customer service about the smell and PB Swiss replying that it was a known issue.
Stuart in MN
Well-known member
I don't know if they make them any more, but Stanley used to sell screwdrivers with a triangular handle. Originally, they were black plastic and then later on changed to translucent yellow. They seemed to be very good quality, and the handles were very comfortable.
I'm really not trying to be adversarial, I'm just trying to understand...
I would still like to know what sizes you're looking for? I have the SwissGrips and I've always found the size selection more than adequate. I do agree they don't offer large pre-packaged sets (I think the biggest might be 6 drivers) but you can piece together your own set. Below you will see part of my PB Swiss collection...no duplicates are shown, and I don't have every possible tip and length combination.
RonM3
Well-known member
I'm not sure who made them but when I was in The USMC we had a set of nut drivers that smelled like puke. I think they were made by Ideal. Good nut drivers but they smelled awful!