Types of Screwdrivers

by the Professional Power Tool Guide

Although the hammer is probably considered the most essential tool to have in your home or professional tool box, there are just some things that a hammer cannot do. If you are hoping to construct something using screws instead of nails, you will only be able to get the job done if you understand the best types of screwdrivers for the job. There are many different varieties of screwdrivers, and they are all specifically designed to complete a certain task in an easy and efficient manner. Knowing which are the most essential to have will depend on the types of tasks you want to complete.

The most common screws for construction and home use are called flat head screws. You can tell that you are working with this type of screw because you will see a single slash through the head where the screwdriver is supposed to be inserted. If these are the screws you will be working with, the types of screwdrivers that you need will be called flat blat screwdrivers. These will have a chiseled head that will fit right into the groove on the screw, allowing you to turn and tighten it.

The next most popular type of screw is known as the Phillips head screw. This is not only common in construction and repair projects, but it is also very commonly the screws that will be holding together your child’s favorite toy or your new electronic device. Phillips head screws come in many different sizes, so you have to have the types of screwdrivers that will work with them in any situation. Phillips head screwdrivers can be identified by the X shape on the end of their heads. This will allow them to fit into the corresponding X on the head of the screw.

Another one of the most common types of screwdrivers that you should be familiar with is the Allen key or Hex key. These kinds of tools are also known as Allen wrenches or Hex wrenches because they are not used in the typical twisting motion that a common hand screwdriver is used. These tools are usually shaped like an L, and they are meant to tighten screws that you can only reach from a right angle. If you every put together a pre fabricated desk or book shelf, you will probably have to use an Allen wrench to tighten the screws that will hold it together.