In your quest to find the best tools, you’ll inevitably find that are different types of screwdrivers you can get your hands on depending on your needs.
For the fiddliest of tasks, you’re going to need a quality precision screwdriver. A precision screwdriver is a simple tool but infinitely practical for working on small devices like toys and watches. A precision screwdriver differed from a regular screwdriver by having easily interchangeable bit heads and a thinner body for easy versatility. They also often feature a freely rotating head so you can use the palm of your hand to steady the screwdriver.
There are so many unbranded precision screwdriver sets available from online retailers that simply won’t cut the mustard. These no-name brands may look the piece, but will prove to be a waste of cash. But people get sucked into buying them because they are super cheap. Cheap tools being rubbish? Go figure.
Draper 31 Piece Precision Screwdriver Set
Price: £11.37 | VIEW OFFER
Draper
Draper is one of the big and established UK names in tools that’s been around for about a century. It produces a massive range of hand and power tools for DIYers and professional tradespeople alike.
Draper has a well-cemented reputation for balancing quality and value and we hope this stands true with its 31 Piece Precision Screwdriver & Bit Set.
How we tested it
We used the Draper set for tinkering with the RC rock crawlers we have on test. In terms of car-related applications, this is a very important one for precision screwdrivers. Rock crawler bodies sometimes have screws in funny places that test the reach and magnetic strength of the handle.
The test
Magnetic bit holder: This was a simple case of inserting the bits into the handle and seeing if the magnetic hold kept them in place and without jiggling around. We’re pleased to report the kit passed with flying colours. The bits are held firmly into the handle but are easy to remove.
The handle: Without any bits, the handle is 11.7cm long, which is a good size for adult hands. The grooves and shape are comfortable to hold too, and as an excellent touch, the black sections are rubberised for grip.
Bits: Maths fans will have worked out that given this is a 31-piece set, there are 30 bits:
6 x plain slot bits: 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0mm
4 x cross slot bits: No.00, No.0, No.1, No.2
8 x Draper TX-STAR bits: T4, T5, T6, T7. T8, T10, T15, T20
7 x hex bits: 1.0, 1.3, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 4.0mm
1 x star bit: 2mm
1 x round bit: 1mm diameter
1 x triangle bit: 3mm
1 x tri-wing security bit: No.3
1 x spanner security bit: 2.6mm
The bits are made from chrome vanadium steel. Like the handle, they’re very well-made and perform very well. They don’t have any defects and grip fasteners firmly.
We commend the inclusion of the two security bits, the tri-winged bit especially which will come in very handy in fixing consumer electronics the manufacturer deliberately tries to discourage.
Verdict
Having the single handle and interchangeable bits is certainly the way to go for a precision screwdriver set (and regular size, casual-use screwdrivers) because it’s more compact and easier to find the right bit.
Draper’s staple traits of value and quality are evident in this set. The only things that seem like they might not last are the plastic clips on the case. Other than that, everything will go the distance.
This set includes all the essential bits and a couple of extras without going overboard and offering 100 different bits. It’s not necessary because the No. 00 cross slot, for example will work on smaller sizes too.
This is the ideal precision screwdriver set for any relevant project such as adjusting car models to replacing wristwatch batteries.
Draper 31 Piece Precision Screwdriver Set
Price: £11.37 | VIEW OFFER
Pros:
• All the bits you need, none you don’t
• Good build quality
• Strong magnet
Cons:
• Flimsy case clips
More items to consider
Draper 44-Piece Screwdriver Set And Stand, £18.97
Stanley 57-Piece Screwdriver Set, £17.99
Wera 12-Piece Precision Screwdriver Set, £36.46
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