How to choose a screwdriver: tip, size and when you need an insulated one

You choose a screwdriver by the screw recess: slotted, Phillips cross, Torx or hexagonal, and then the size. If the tip does not fit properly, you damage the screw and lose grip. For switchboards and electrical systems, use only certified insulated screwdrivers. For everyday work, choose a model with a coated handle, which is easier to hold and tires the hand less. In the collection the lengths range from about 50 to 375 mm.

Types

• Slotted (flat): for screws with a single slot. The tip must fill the whole width of the slot.
• Phillips (cross): the most common type. In the collection you will find many screwdrivers from the Stanley FatMax series with a Phillips blade, such as the FatMax with Phillips blade (0-65-204).
• Torx: a six-lobe star recess, used on a great many machines and appliances. The name appears among the models in the collection.
• Hexagonal: hexagonal-section blade for Allen-key screws.
• For instrument and electrical work: slim, precise blade, such as the FatMax Instrument/Electrician blade (0-65-094).
• FatMax Nano line: the same FatMax family in the Nano version, such as the FatMax Nano with Phillips blade (0-65-406).
• Sets and series: several screwdrivers in a blister pack, on a card or in a box. The collection has packs of 3 to 12 pieces.
• Insulated screwdrivers: for working on electrical systems.

How to choose by job

The features to look at

• Tip type and size: these are the most important criterion. The size must match the screw.
• Length: from 50 to 375 mm in the data. A long screwdriver reaches the bottom and gives more leverage; a short one is for tight spaces.
• Blade material: steel, CRV (chrome-vanadium) or other treated steels. It is an alloy steel widely used for hand tools.
• Handle: coated, for grip and comfort.
• Insulation: if you work with live current, look for the certification marking on the product (the reference standards for insulated tools are IEC 60900, for voltages up to 1000 V AC).
• Pack: single or set. Sets range from 3 to 12 pieces, in blister packs, hanging cards or boxes: the blister is handy to keep in the toolbox, the box suits the warehouse.

Common mistakes

• Using a tip that is too small or too large: the screw head rounds off and can no longer be undone.
• Mixing up Phillips and Pozidriv: they look similar, but they are not the same. The wrong tip slips and ruins the screw.
• Using the screwdriver as a lever or chisel: the blade bends or chips.
• Using an ordinary screwdriver on an electrical system: only certified insulated models are permitted.
• Keeping a worn blade: if the tip is rounded, replace the screwdriver.
• Buying a large set when you need two sizes: you use two or three and the rest stays in the drawer.

Frequently asked questions

Are "giravite" and "cacciavite" the same thing?

Yes, they are two names for the same tool. You will find both terms in the catalogue.

When do I need an insulated screwdriver?

Whenever you work near live parts: switchboards, sockets, terminals. Check that it is certified for electrical use.

Is a set better than a single screwdriver?

A set is fine if you work on different screws; a single one if you always use the same size. For a team, it pays to have sets and spare singles in the most-used sizes.

How do I recognise the right size?

The tip must go fully into the recess with no play. Try inserting it without turning: if it wobbles, it is too small.

You can see all the models in the screwdrivers collection: to choose sets or insulated models, request a quote or advice from the AMES technicians.