Screw drivers- Is it better to get individual screw drivers with different tips or one screw driver that has a changeable tip?

Victor screw driver ,,,

To me if you are in easy fits for all it is always handy when you are mobile and need the tools when the time comes (made me somehow thing about condom)

Anyway for the full fledge individual screw driver it is always welcome when you have your own garage where you can proudly hang all those shiny tools on each of the four walls of your garage . (Now I am thinking about a hanging a deer on the wall )

I would only get one with changeable tips if portability and/or space was a factor (ex., if I had to carry it in my briefcase or keep it in a desk drawer).

Also, there might be a time when you need two screwdrivers at the same time. Then what?

I like Sears when it comes to tools.

I’ve got both types. I prefer to use professional grade single shaft screwdrivers, although it means I have a rack of them on my garage wall and more in my tool box. The biggest problem I have with interchangeable bits is, they get stuck in the screw heads and pop out. However, for a power screwdriver, it’s the only option you’ve got. I use the power drivers for rough work, like decking, but for mechanical and finishing work, fixed screwdrivers are the only way to go.

I like Stanley and Craftsman (Sears) hand tools. Professional grade, like I said.

Space isn’t really an issue. I am gradually buying my boys good quality tools, so that when they are older they will each have a nice set of tools. (Think ‘guy’s hope chest’...lol) So I am looking for basic tools that will still be useful and good quality 20 years from now.

definitely fixed. i worked at a place where we had interchangeable bits and they were always getting lost or mixed up and it was really annoying. fixed are so much better and will last longer

Well if your goal is to get them a NICE set of tools, then why not include BOTH types?

@Mr M, you make a good point, I guess I was thinking it would be redundant (or does that term only apply to words?).

IMO, interchangeable bits in manual screwdrivers are pointless; you lose all your quick portability. You’re doing a real toolbox. Get real tools.

Even more important than the tools, though, is the toolbox! Make sure you don’t skimp.

Andrew, can you recommend a tool box? I want something that will last and will hold a good number of tools.

It’s all about the “set”-I use both fixed and bit-end screwdrivers.

Also, remember that it’s not just the bits/ends of the screwdriver that is important, it’s the build quality, and also, the length and girth) of the driver “rod”. Some situations call for a thicker driver shaft or longer to deliver higher torque to the screw. Also, handles are a big deal-the scrawny, resin handles that hurt in the hand are really counter-productive. Sometimes you need a shorter driver to get into tight spaces…

Also, some sets with bits come with a ratchet head and guide shafts; this can help when you can’t use two hands to hold the screw in-place. They sell these bits in hardware sections at the Depot.

Lastly, a good pivot-head cordless screwdriver/drill set, will help make the set more versatile. There are some situations where thin machine-type metal screws have very thin threads-a pain in the wrist if you have to assemble these without a ratchet or machine. Sometimes I start them off with a manual screwdriver, then finish with the powered screwdriver.

@marissa, I got my tool box at Sears. I’ve had it for at least 20 years, and the drawers still work smoothly. Get metal, not plastic. I have a few plastic tool boxes that I use for specialty tools, but they don’t stand up to abuse.

I still use my grandfather’s metal tool box from when he used to work for the Union Pacific in the 1920’s. It wieghs a ton but it works great.

I have many kinds of screwdrivers, all depending on what job I am doing, including ones with interchangeable bits for when I am doing lots of little jobs that involve all different types of screws, cordless and power screwdrivers for big or repetitive jobs, specialty screwdrivers such as the “star” bits Chevy used on my van, tiny ones for computer and electronics repairs, big ones, and so on.

The handle has to feel good in my hand if I am going to use a manual screwdriver for any length of time. I also buy the best tools I can afford (and then hide my set from my son in hopes he will stick to using his tools).

Craftsman tools from Sears are still decent quality and I understand that they still honor the lifetime warranty on their old tools that have broken. I don’t know if they still offer it today.