toss out all the screwdrivers?

[396foxRN]

Finally getting the new garage laid out and set up. I had an awesome toolbox/workbench out of old industrial Hamilton blueprint cabinets, an old VERY heavy steel library card catalog, and a 2 drawer file cabinet, with a stainless steel countertop repurposed from a commercial kitchen countertop. Now, I am going through and cleaning and re-evaluating all my tools before I start putting them in this setup.
I spent considerable time going through and wire-wheeling all the rust/paint/silicone off the Craftsman screwdriver shafts, and a thought occurred to me. I'm not terribly fond of Craftsman screwdrivers as I've broken/chipped/worn out a LOT of them over the years, and it just takes up a lot of room to have multiple lengths of screwdrivers for each fastener drive type. I thought, what about getting rid of them, and replacing them with a quality set of interchangeable bits, both short and long, then invest in a few nice handles?
Most of my tools are Craftsman, as that was my brand of choice for years due to cost, quality, availability, and warranty ease. Once they stopped making them here, I quit buying them. I'm not too well informed on quality of other brands out there these days, there seems to be a lot of junk to wade through. I don't plan to use them in an impact, but rather to be able to cut down on size while being able to swap back and forth between hand driver and drill/driver.
I really want a set that organizes them neatly into a case for organizational purposes. I am looking for inputs from others who did this or are considering it. I'd probably not get rid of the old screwdrivers, but instead toss them back into the back of the very deep blueprint cabinet drawers where they're out of the way unless I need one for a specific purpose.
Sunex has some sets in cases that look appealing. I do have a short/long Sunex 1/2" impact set in a plastic blowmold portable case and have been please with them. They've been used hard many times in the junkyard with no complaints, and the portable case seals the deal. Anyone have opinions on this brand? Anyone have counter-recommendations? Whats out there mainstream that should be avoided, and why?
Thanks!!


Doug

 

[seanb02]

Screwdrivers are a touchy subject, as you need to know what feels good in your hand rather than just what fits the fastener well. You won't get a good answer on that since everybody is different. As far as sets strictly in cases go I honestly don't know, but I do think that you should not limit your search to those in particular. You do need to find what works well for you, then you can quite easily design a case or other storage solution for them at that point.

 

[JimNC]

I have a drawer of screwdrivers and a drawer of bits and bit drivers and a drawer for gunsmithing screwdrivers and bits. I really prefer the screwdrivers at the bench except when I need ratcheting, but travel with bits and drivers to save weight.

I need a better storage solution for bits, currently using plastic 100 round 9mm ammo boxes.

 

[Chucktin]

I have both screwdrivers and ratcheting bit sets. Never though of limiting myself to 9ne over the other. Mostly it's a matter of torque to undo a fastener or the handle length I need to reach it. Last screwdrivers I bought we're 12" and 18" Philips #2 simply because I was working to remove some old deep shelves where the screws had been painted over. I could have gotten a long 1/4" extension shaft (if I could find one) never crossed my mind. But I'm a tool junquie.

 

[Provincial]

30 to 40 years ago I was buying tools building up my set. I bought Craftsman screwdrivers for two reasons: first, they were affordable without being junk, and second, there was a good warranty. Most of my screwdrivers were Craftsman for these reasons.

However, I soon learned that quality was important when using screwdrivers, and from then on, any screwdriver that I was using for critical purposes had to meet a higher standard. My solution was to buy Snap-On screwdrivers for those applications, especially Phillips.

Since the advent of insert bits, there has been a little change. A high-quality bit in a less expensive driver is unlikely to damage the screw slot. However, the handle becomes the main factor, with comfort and ability to apply torque being the important items. When I have a difficult fastener, I break out the insert-bit screwdriver because it is less likely to damage the fastener. I only use standard screwdrivers if access won't allow use of the insert driver.

As Craftsman withered away, other brands became more competitive. At this point, I have bought Pittsburg Professional screwdrivers that outperform my old Craftsmans, and are arguably equal to my old SSD- Snap-On's. I don't have the need for better conventional screwdrivers at this point. If I did, I would be looking at many options, including Wiha and others like them.

 

[Ole Slewfoot]

Bit drives in many situations are not even a workable substitute for an actual screwdriver.
Having some fresh nice screwdrivers available is best practice, and they stay that way longer if you have some less nice ones for less precision jobs.

 

[matt_i]

You probably don't want to drop the insert into an electrical panel.

 

[Tonyuk]

They both have their uses.

I like Wera for screwdrivers and their 1/4"bits, good fit to the fasteners and their lasertips work well.

Sometimes the screw you need to get at is down in a recess no thicker than the screws head, in a place like that you'll need a proper screwdriver.

 

[f121]

I wouldn't switch to just bit drives, the weight and feel is usually wrong compared to a regular screwdriver (possibly that's conditioning after years of regular screwdriver use), it's annoying when the bit bits just too well and stays in the fastener, you can't lever with them at all and I've cracked a few bit holders over the years.

Screwdrivers are one of the few places Im very pro snapon, their instinct soft grip handles let you put a lot more torque on the fastener and they're super comfy. I use an organiser foam so they're quick to hand:

(yes I know these are hard handle, I bought the wrong ones, at some point theyll get swapped out).

 

[Hagatronics]

I have a drawer with a nice selection on Snap On screw drivers and ratcheting bit drivers. Not nuts, one each size and a few longer shafts.

I'd reach for a proper screwdriver 99 times before the bit bit driver. They don't have the bulk near the tip, just feel better to use.

Not having a set of standard screwdrivers is a mistake. So many nice ones. Check out PB Swiss too.

 

[Kermit007]

I got a good set of Williams (made in USA) screwdrivers a couple of years ago. Black hard handles, similar to the old Snap On’s and I highly recommend them. I threw out or put my old Craftsman screwdrivers in Toledo pouches for my cars.


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[pepi]

If some of these guys did that, the freight train tools boxes would be empty.

 

[Zewnten]

I've used a harbor freight bit insert for several years now, with no issues. The ratcheting handle is junk but the bits are about 3" long and have a tapered shaft on the smaller sizes so they can reach into pocket holes. But I still reach for my Snap On screwdrivers to break the screw free or too start the screw and use an insert in my driver to finish it.

 

[Mr Ratchet]

They both have their uses.

Sometimes the screw you need to get at is down in a recess no thicker than the screws head, in a place like that you'll need a proper screwdriver.

Yep, well said and the reason none of my regular shafted screwdrivers are going anywhere. I have and use both styles. Most of the odd ones are the bit style in my box though.

 

[gtsgarage]

Bit drives in many situations are not even a workable substitute for an actual screwdriver.
Having some fresh nice screwdrivers available is best practice, and they stay that way longer if you have some less nice ones for less precision jobs.

This is my view as well.

I recently got a new set of Williams screwdrivers. They seem great for the money.

I keep a Klein 10 in 1 in the house for all kinds of things. It’s great if you aren’t prying on things with it. I have one in the garage as well and it’s usually the first thing I grab.

 

[woody 73]

I found somewhat of a deal although still expensive for 20 used screwdrivers from Germany that I would like to try them out and report back my findings on the GJ.

Not that I would just toss those old craftsman screwdrivers away just yet like the op, the small bit drive sizes do come in handy sometimes. Just this week I had to remove one of those special screws and I was lucky enough to have just that security bit in the box so yes they do come in handy.

I like that saying from one of the GJ members; "This is the GJ who has just one set of screwdrivers when 10 sets are even better" or something along those lines...

 

[seber]

I have a full set of Snap-on screwdrivers that just get dusty. All I ever reach for is the insert bit driver. I have a set of six inch long bits I can pull out for those tight holes. Insert bits are harder and tend to be more precise than regular screwdrivers. They don't wear but they do break. For the price, who cares.

 

[MarvinBerry]

Not a big fan of bit drivers. I have some & do use em buts it's for the convenience more then anything or because I need something like a torx bit & it's the only choice in the box on hand.

I have a bunch of 90s craftsman too but the first reach is a set of Milwaukee. Magnetic, nice handles, not cheap HF junk but weren't crazy money either.

 

[PFSard]

I have lots of screwdrivers. The ones I use most frequently are in one drawer packed tightly together so they don't roll. The others don't take up much room; not stored in tool box. Bits store easily. There are advantages to both.

 

[ScottsGT]

Couple years back I bought a set of Kobalt green handles that came in the foam tray from Lowe's. After many tries of different brands (other than high dollar Snap On) I fell in love with these.
I misplaced one for a few days a couple weeks back. My **** retentive OCD ideas about keeping a collection complete kicked in and I went nuts thinking what the hell would I do now with an incomplete set with no replacements available?? Finally found it under the hood of my Mustang. It had probably traveled about 1000 miles hanging out there, but it's back home now in its foam bed.

But this is the problem with Kobalt tools in general. They never keep a product line in stock that stays the same.

Once had a Snap On ratcheting screwdriver. Apparently it was a pretty rare collectable one too. It was the red handle with the white ends. Took it in to work and the old man that was the maintenance guy picked it up and took it somewhere and lost it for me. I still miss that old Snap On, but as infrequent as I would go to it now I just cannot bring myself to spending $70+ to replace it. When I was an autobody tech, it was an extension of my right hand.

 

[tonyciambrone]

I use a 1000V Wiha bit driver for electrical work. It stores 6 or 7 insert bits in the handle and retains the bits very well.

In practically all other cases screwdrivers are so much better. the shaft width of a bit handle just makes it impractical many times for me. Not to mention the play introduced if you run a long shaft bit in a driver handle.

I regret only buying 2 Kobalt screwdriver sets..best $30 ever

 

[Wamsutta]

By all means yes. Toss out all the junky screwdrivers and start over.

Make sure the replacements are all one brand.

 

[zktk01]

I like bit drivers, but sometimes they block access to tight spots that you can only fit a screwdriver into. Keep that in mind.

 

[Professional Tool User]

If they are nasty, then get rid of them, though I wouldn't get rid of all the Craftsman ones. Keep the flat heads for prying. As for bit drivers, they'll work most of the time, but there are times when clearance becomes an issue. I use my impact driver far more than my screwdrivers/bit driver, so I wouldn't spend too much money on either but would get something halfway decent like Wera. For impact sockets, it really doesn't matter what brand you buy. They all eventually wear out before they break.

 

[n8n]

I use a Snap-On SSDMR8 for most fastener turning duties, but I would not throw out the screwdrivers, there are times when you need to turn a screw down at the bottom of a recessed hole and a bit holder won't fit. But you can put the screwdrivers in a less accessible location and save space in your prime drawers if you move to a bit holder.

 

[Jazz1]

I have never bought a set of screwdrivers. Most are Craftsman, a few Fuller which I think is under rated as well as SnapOn I pick up at second hand stores.
Dang that screwdriver drawer at Restore stinks! It was on this site I learned about stinky screwdrivers.

 

[bwringer]

Treat yourself to a nice new set of screwdrivers once in a while. They wear out, and it sneaks up on you.

Take the old ones that are still usable to Habitat Restore and toss the chowdered ones.

I will only use a bit driver when I do not have an actual dedicated screwdriver for the fastener. I hate that extra bit of wobble, and that fat bit at the end is often in the way.

High-quality bit drivers are nice -- I like Wera and Felo; they seem to have the strongest magnets and the slimmest tips.

 

[PugetDude]

Buy a complete set of SnapOn screwdrivers.

You won't have enough money left to afford any more tools for the rest of your life.

 

[RoundedNut]

I use thin, long shaft, small size screwdrivers occasionally for electronics. Other than that, I find regular screwdrivers rather limited in application and very bulky to have.

For actually driving fasteners, I use bits with a large selection of adapters, extensions, manual and powered drivers.

I prefer 1" insert bits where/when I can since I can cheaply replace them as soon as they show noticeable wear. But I have plenty of 2" to 6" power bits for recessed holes, or where dropping a bit would be a problem.

 

[LNKMK8]

I just bought some Craftsman screwdrivers from ACE and they are still made in USA (Western Forge), but I guess that may not last much longer. I don't believe Sunex ever were made in USA, so I'm a bit confused by the OP's comments on that.

I've had mostly just Craftsman for the past 20 years, and they are ok. Cheap enough, made in USA, and easy (or at least used to be) to replace as needed. Depending on your use, Klein are nice, but the handles may not hold up to heavy mechanic use.

If you want to bulk up your USA Craftsman while they are still USA, through the 24th ACE has a basic 5 piece set for standard and phillips on sale for $3 with rewards card:

https://www.acehardware.com/departments/tools/hand-tools/screwdriver-sets/2295814
https://www.acehardware.com/departments/tools/hand-tools/screwdriver-sets/2295806

 

[woody 73]

Funny in that we never heard back from the op ? So for shits and giggles I will leave you with the following tidbit...

Back in 1976, the 100 Millionth Craftsman Screwdriver rolls off the assembly line...That's a boat load of screwdrivers.

http://s3.amazonaws.com/contemporar...raftsman-by-Sears-at-Kmart_Press-Release1.pdf

They gave the company an 8ft screwdriver Wow! wonder what ever happened to that big boy?

 

[rick carpenter]

Please post pics of your cabinets and bench system, especially the card catalog file. Thanks.

If you're dead set on a bit drive system with the 1" bits, try to find a bit holder that uses a metal spring for retention. It may not be easy to remove bits from it but that's what you want for maximum confidence in bit retention.

That being said, I hate bit drive screwdrivers.... yet I have two by Klein that I won't get rid of. I have the 5-n-1 where the bits swap ends in various ways so there's no need to carry a separate bit set. It's good for keeping tools to a minimum in a small pouch. One of its drawbacks is that finding replacement bits isn't easy. I also have a Klein Switch Drive. This is a handle that any 1/4" hex power bit longer than 1" fits into. The bit/blade retention is almost as solid as a dedicated driver. However, jamming it into a pouch depresses the collar that loosens the blade. The good thing about the Switch Drive is that any mfr's power bit, as long as it's over 1", will fit. The bad thing is it's no longer being made so you'll have to find one online. My Switch Drive lives in my impact driver bag with my regular impact bits for when I need hand control of torque vs the impact driver. Of the three, though, I'd recommend the Switch Drive if you want a close to universal non-insulated interchangeable system.

Sounds like I'm just bitching, right? Sorry, but I don't like bit drive screwdrivers. A couple people have recommended dedicated Williams hard handle screwdrivers. I have about 12, they are very good quality and the prices are decent. But as I've gotten older I've found my grip weakening. This summer the skinny handles of the small drivers just spun in my hands when they were slightly sweaty. In a few days I'll have a set of dedicated Milwaukee cushion grip screwdrivers.

 

[finn]

I have drawer in my top cabinet filled with flat screwdrivers and a second filled with Phillips, mixed brands but predominantly Craftsman. Torx are in a overflow drawer.

Also have a half dozen bit drivers, which I want to like but can’t seem to adapt to. Seems that whenever I go to use the bit driver, the wrong bit is installed, and changing the bit, although it only takes seconds, is an unnecessary wasted motion.

Not rational, but distracting nevertheless.

Plus, when my wife uses an expensive screwdriver to open a paint can, I wince.

I personally see no value in expensive screwdrivers for my hobby use, except that they are pretty, and i’m not into the eye candy thing. I’m not going to jump a Ford firewall mounted starter relay with a Snapon screwdriver that cost more than tonight’s dinner.

 

[Jacksonsman]

The klein your talking about, sounds a lot like the Vessel 220W. Comes with 3-3inch double ended bits that are VERY nice, but is able to take and power bits over 1 inch in length. No locking collar or magnet but seems to use an internal spring clip to retain the bits.

Since buying it, I hardly reach for anything else.

Sent from my SM-G950U1 using Tapatalk

 

[jeffmoss26]

throw away screwdrivers?! the horror!

 

[Fialaja]

We are tool hoarders, we never throw tools away! Those s are the screwdrivers you use in the junkyard, to hammer on, to modify and bend, convert into picks and hooks, or loan to the neighbors who don’t always remember to return them!

 

[ScottsGT]

I threw out all of my old Craftsman that started smelling like nasty old ****. My son saw them in the trash and flipped out over me tossing them, took them out and put them in his car to take home. He called me halfway through his 125 ride to ask me if I put the cat litter clean out in his car.
He watched me prank his brothers friend years earlier by doing this with his Jeep.

I told him to grab one of those screwdrivers I threw away and give it a big sniff.

 

[rharman]

Buy a complete set of SnapOn screwdrivers.

You won't have enough money left to afford any more tools for the rest of your life.

That was my first thought also.

 

[ChrisLS8]

I have a set of Williams hard handles and Tekton USA that get used rarely. 99% of the time I'm using my M12 fuel impact driver and my Right angle adapter when space is limited.

 

[kctyphoon]

You might consider just tossing all the craftsman in a drawer, (I’d never get rid of screwdrivers cause you never know when you might need an extra, or one to just beat on) and getting a smaller set of something good that you use as the go-to set.. i really like my Milwaukee’s. They are great for the money, not expensive and easy to get. The demolition drivers are a must have.

Don’t just get a driver with interchangable bits.. you’ll regret that decision.