Screwdrivers

No matter what you drive, parts of your vehicle will inevitably be held together with a variety of screws and fasteners. Shop the wide range of quality screwdrivers from Milwaukee, Wera and Repco at your nearest Repco store and quickly and accurately tighten and undo any screw or fastener. Available in a variety of types, sizes, and designs, Repco stock screwdrivers suited to any specific application and job.

Types of Screwdrivers

There are several types of screwdrivers, each designed to fit different screw heads. The most common types include the flathead, Phillips, Pozidriv, Torx, and hex screwdrivers. Flat head screwdrivers, also known as slotted screw drivers, have a single flat blade that fits into straight screw slots. These are often used for simple tasks but can slip easily if not aligned properly.

Phillips head screwdrivers, on the other hand, feature a cross-shaped tip that provides better grip and torque. A phillips head screwdriver is widely used in construction, electronics, and furniture assembly. Pozidriv screwdrivers are similar to Phillips but have additional grooves for more secure engagement. Torx screwdrivers, with their star-shaped tips, are commonly used in automotive and electronic industries. Lastly, hex screwdrivers, or Allen keys, are ideal for screws with hexagonal recesses, often found in flat-pack furniture and bicycles.

Materials and Build Quality

The materials used in a screwdriver's construction significantly impact its durability and performance. High-quality screwdrivers are typically made from hardened steel, such as chromium-vanadium or stainless steel, which resists wear and corrosion. The handles are often crafted from plastic, rubber, or wood, providing grip and comfort during use.

Some screwdrivers also feature magnetic tips, which can hold screws in place, making them easier to manoeuvre. This is especially useful when working in tight or awkward spaces. Additionally, insulated screwdrivers are available for electrical work, offering protection against electric shocks.

Choosing the Right Screwdriver

Selecting the correct screwdriver depends on the type of screw and the task at hand. Using the wrong screwdriver can damage the screw head or make the job unnecessarily difficult. For instance, a flathead screwdriver should not be used on a Phillips screw, as it won't provide the necessary grip.

It’s also important to consider the size of the screwdriver. A tip that is too small or too large for the screw can cause slippage or stripping. Many screwdriver sets include a range of sizes and types, making them a practical choice for general use.

Proper Use and Maintenance

To use a screwdriver effectively, ensure the tip is properly seated in the screw head before applying pressure. Turn the screwdriver with steady, controlled force to avoid damaging the screw or the tool. For stubborn screws, consider using a lubricant or a screwdriver with a ratcheting mechanism for added torque.

Maintaining your screwdrivers is straightforward. Keep them clean and dry to prevent rust, and store them in a designated toolbox or organiser to avoid damage. Inspect the tips regularly for wear, as a worn tip can slip and damage screws. Also, don't be using them to open paint cans, as there are special tools designed for such a purpose!.

Repco stock more than just quality screwdrivers

Having a range of screwdrivers in your tool box helps, but it won't let you accomplish all the tasks you want to undertake on your vehicle. This is where Repco's extensive range of tools & equipment help to make any job a breeze. Whether looking for the best in power tools through to durable garage equipment you will find all these and more at Repco.