Choosing the right screwdriver

No home or workplace should be without an assortment of screwdrivers – a minimum of three types – such as the stubby, to work in close quarters, the commonly used standard blade type and the Phillips.

Of course, there are many others such as the hex socket, bristo, torx, and clutch head. Generally speaking, the most commonly used is the standard screwdriver used on screws with slotted heads. These screwdrivers are usually classified according to tip width, thickness and blade length.

With few exceptions, the longer the blade length, the wider the tip. The tip determines the size of the screw that the screwdriver will drive without damaging the screw slot.

With regard to torque or turning power, this is usually determined by the diameter of the handle; the larger the handle diameter, the greater the torque power.

For heavy-duty jobs, screwdrivers are also available with square shanks so that a wrench can be used on the shank for extra turning power.

Manufacturing plays a central role in the economic growth of our nation, primarily through a unique, interdependent system of innovation that affects all sectors of the economy. By nurturing innovations from concepts through to full-fledged improvements in products and processes, American manufacturing is responsible for providing the basis for more jobs, improved productivity, prosperity and a higher quality of life. Support American Manufacturing.