Snap on labeling

[Blanco_25]

Just wanted to say I've been a fan of the forum and had to join quickly. I just wanted to know how to tell if a screwdriver or other hand tools (older ) are official snap on . I've found some at garage sales that feel and look like some but no markings .

 

[gdocktor3]

Search google images to see if they match up. Unfortunately, the markings are only on the handles and they do eventually wear off. I have a few "nameless" screwdrivers that I thought could be Snap On too. One thing is for sure, the shafts definitely won't have any peeling, fading or cracking in the chrome finish.

 

[lazer50]

Snap on screwdrivers are not flawless i have 2 complete sets 1 from the late 90 s 1 from around 2003.they are not prone to flake etc but it happens.

 

[rlitman]

...There are many junk screwdrivers with handles that look just like the old Snap-on ones so if there is no identification they are probably junk branded screwdrivers.

That's usually the case. There are a LOT of lookalikes with the four sided handles. The three sided legit Snap On screwdrivers always confuse me when I first see them.
The white SnapOn lettering wears out, but the impression left behind in the handles tends to last a long time.

I've got a story about a screwdriver that Snap On once warrantied for me. Something chemically attacked the plastic in the handle until it turned to the crumbly consistency of stale bread, and was littered with cracks and crazing. The white bit compartment cap on the handle had morphed into something more closely resembling a smear of molten marshmallow than anything recognizable. Yet you could still make out "nap On" on the side of the handle.

 

[Blanco_25]

Thanks for the quick replies , I've gone to a few pawn shops and lucked out but there are some that have the extra part to attach a wrench for extra torque with no markings. thats where I start getting confused if it may be snap on or a junk brand.

 

[ken w.]

The fake ones usually have a shinier handle and the tip is usually chrome as the SO is a tad greyer. The SO driver is stamped on the shaft in the handle so you wouldn't see it unless you take the handle off.

 

[joel63]

If you can't make out the name and have to guess, pass on them.

 

[jt777]

Screwdrivers can be tough but like it's been said the impression from the lettering lasts a long time

 

[T45]

On the modernd shapes, the plastic is relatively heavy, feels quite solid and they are pretty bombproof. if the driver is out of balance, or the handle feels too light definitely think twice and check the markings. Instinct obviously is never hard to tell apart, but the classic handles should feel reassurngly solid and not brittle or like they are going to either shatter or fail with a small amount of abuse.