With so many screwdriver shapes and sizes available on today’s market, it can be hard to choose the right tool for the job. It’s a real problem because attempting to loosen or tighten a bolt or nut with the wrong screwdriver will make the task significantly harder.
This article will discuss the different screwdriver types, lengths, and sizes, helping you make the right choice for your next job.
Screwdriver bit types
As you’re likely aware, there are several different types of screwdriver bits. The popularity of specific bit types depends on the country you live in and your industry.
In Australia, the most popular screw bit types are:
- Phillips, the #1 type in the country,
- Flathead or slotted, previously the most common type,
- Pozidrive, an improved version of the Phillips bit,
- Torx, a six-sided star-shaped bit,
- Hex, like an Allen key,
- Robertson or square recess bits.
There are additional types like drywall, Torq, spanner, and tri-wing bits, but these varieties are highly specialised and uncommon for everyday use.
For standard construction work, a Phillips screwdriver should do the job. Pozidrive bits are a better option for reducing cam-out and increasing torque. Torx bits are common for consumer electronics and automotive manufacturing, while hex bits are popular for furniture assembly.
Typical screwdriver sizes and lengths
Now, each of these types come in a range of ISO standard gauge sizes. These standards differ from country to country.
Here’s a quick rundown for Australia.
| Screwdriver Type | Size Availability |
| Phillips | #000 | #00 | #0 | #1 | #2 | #3 |
| Pozidrive | PZ1 | PZ2 | PZ3 | PZ4 | PZ5 |
| Flathead or Slotted | 0.4mm x 2-2.5mm | 0.5mm x 3mm | 0.6mm x 3-3.5mm | 0.8mm x 4mm (up to 2.5mm x 14mm) |
| Robertson/Square recess | #0 | #1 | #2 | #3 |
| Torx | T2 | T3 | T4 | T5 | T10 | T15 | T20 | T25 | T30 | T40 |
The thickness and width of a screwdriver will typically determine the amount of torque you can apply when using it. Hence, for higher torque applications, you’ll need a larger screwdriver.
In terms of length, screwdriver bits typically range from 50mm (1.97 inches) to 200 mm (7.9 inches). However, lengths of up to 325mm (12.8 inches) are available for specialised applications, such as accessing tight, awkward, or otherwise hard-to-reach spaces.
Choosing the right configuration for your needs
Here are some tips to follow to ensure you choose the perfect screwdriver type, size, and length for your next job. While you might feel tempted to pick a tool that’s almost right, keep in mind that an improper fit can lead to damaged work surfaces, stripped screws, and broken bits.
The best way to ensure you’re using the right size is to check if your screw bit fits snugly into the screw’s head. It should slot perfectly into the divot and sit steadily without slipping or wobbling.
Additionally, if you’re using a flathead screwdriver, you’ll need to consider the blade’s width. If it isn’t wide enough for the screw head, it might damage the screw.
Conclusion
With your new information about screwdriver types and their different lengths and sizes, you’ll easily select the perfect tool for getting your next job done well and fast.
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