Let me start off by saying that I didn’t seek out to put together a DIYer screwdriver buying guide.
You see, I was scouting out Labor Day tool deals, which usually involves my snapping a few pics of floor displays for further research at home.
I came across a Craftsman screwdriver set at Lowe’s – your typical multi-piece set aimed at DIYers and casual users – and it struck me as particularly bad value.
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I felt that this Craftsman screwdriver set deserves some words, but not in a good way, and so it seemed like a better idea to springboard into a buy this, not that type of discussion.
Lowe’s has a Kobalt screwdriver set that I would absolutely buy over the Craftsman one, but it seemed inadequate to stop there. So, I added in a couple of more recommendations.
Towards the end, I realized that my “here’s what I recommend instead” post had broadened well beyond its original scope, naturally evolving into an impromptu DIYer screwdriver set buying guide.
Because of that, this post reads more linearly than the typical list of recommendations you might be used to. I hope you’re okay with this, and if not, let me know and stay tuned for the update.
Craftsman 12pc Screwdriver Set – What NOT to Get
With the Craftsman deal, you get a 12pc bi-material screwdriver set for $34.98, saving you a whopping $3 off its crossed-out “was” price of $37.98.
That’s… not a good bargain, to put it lightly.
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You get 6 standard full-size screwdrivers, 2 miniature screwdrivers, 2 stubby-style screwdrivers, a double-ended offset screwdriver, and a screwdriver magnetizer and demagnetizer accessory.
I know that “inflation” and all, but $35 seems like a lot for this.
If you look closely, the large price sticker is covering up what looks to be $27.98, which seems a bit better.
Looking online, this same set is $24.98 with free shipping on $45+ orders.
Readers have recently reported having difficulty getting Lowe’s stores to match online pricing, but one could always try that.
$24.98 is a little better than $27.98 and a lot better than $34.98. Did this set ever sell for $37.98?
I have purchased similar Craftsman screwdrivers before, for review purposes, and the handle is fairly comfortable.
But this configuration? I’d rather spend half as much for just the 6pc set. Or maybe $20 for an 8pc set of full-size drivers.
Stubby-style screwdrivers can come in handy.
Okay – I’d find it appealing if the 6pc full-size and 2pc stubby screwdrivers were together in an 8pc set for $20 or less. Bingo – they have this for $21.98.
If you’re spending $22, another $3 gets you 2 mini drivers of questionable quality, an offset screwdriver that might come in handy one time if you don’t lose it, and a magnetizer/demagnetizer tool that might be good to have if it’s well-made.
But, the Craftsman 12pc set isn’t $25 in stores, it’s only that price online right now. If you’re at the store, which is how I impulse-buy most of my hand tools from Lowe’s or Home Depot stores, it’s $34.98 right now.
Maybe next week it will be $27.98, as seen behind the sticker? But that’s still far away enough from $21.98 for the 8pc set, and I wouldn’t consider it a great deal. It’s an okay upsell, but not a better bargain, if that makes sense.
I think this is an example of what not to get.
Craftsman Model CMHT65071
Item No. 1071663
Would anyone of you choose this Lowe’s-exclusive Craftsman set? I’m worried that maybe my feelings about the set are colored by my reaction to Lowe’s promotional (or pre-promotional?) pricing.
It’s amazing how much pricing can skew one’s opinions. If this Craftsman set had a $20 sticker price, my take on it would be completely different.
I bought a smaller Craftsman set on impulse one year (for testing and editorial exploration purposes), and have nothing against their handle style, or the tip quality for the money.
So, if you can snag it for less, it might be a good buy. But given the pricing I’m seeing, I feel there are better ways to spend the same money today.
Kobalt 20pc Screwdriver Set – Getting Better
Alright, so what would I buy instead? If only shopping at Lowe’s, where the aforementioned Craftsman set is an exclusive, they have this Kobalt 20pc screwdriver set for $24.98 online.
Kobalt is a Lowe’s brand, and so you can only find their tools exclusively at Lowe’s. Craftsman is not a Lowe’s brand, but the set discussed above is specifically labeled as an exclusive.
This Kobalt set comes with 11 full-size screwdrivers, 6 mini screwdrivers, 2 offset screwdrivers, and a bottle opener. All of the handles look to have bi-material cushion grips.
What are the sizes? Lowe’s website doesn’t say, they only specify: “Sets feature popular sizes to satisfy wide range of fastening needs.”
From the product images, it looks like you get typical Phillips and slotted screwdriver sizes, plus maybe 2 Torx drivers.
This would be a decent starting-out screwdriver set, at least as far as what you can find at Lowe’s.
I’ve used many Kobalt screwdrivers before – probably with this handle style, I don’t recall – and they’ve always been decent.
You get more for the money here, not just with respect to quantity, but the sizes and type of screwdrivers you get in the set.
Researching just a little more, this set was $20 last year for Black Friday.
Kobalt Model 67248
Item No. 1411251
Wera 6pc Kraftform Screwdriver Set – My Premium Choice
If we’re taking the Craftsman’s in-store price of $35 into consideration, I would instead buy this Wera Kraftform Plus 6pc screwdriver set.
The handles are comfortable, and the tips have a fantastic “Lasertip” anti-cam-out texture.
These Wera screwdrivers are fantastic. I own many, and love them as general purpose screwdrivers. They’re pricey, but worth it.
I have more premium-priced screwdrivers at my disposal, but these Wera’s are a reliable workhorse that will likely always be a part of my kit.
Don’t Forget a Mini Screwdriver!
I would also budget $2-3 to get this Stanley 4-in-1 pocket screwdriver, which covers smaller sizes.
At the time of this posting, it’s $2.28 at Home Depot with free shipping.
Husky 6pc Diamond-Tip Magnetic Screwdriver Set – Great for Under $20
If I need to stick to a $25 total budget, I’d get the Stanley 4-in-1 pen driver (here are other pocket and technician screwdriver suggestions), and probably this Husky 6pc screwdriver set from Home Depot.
I really like this Husky 6pc diamond-tip magnetic screwdriver set, and I’ve posted about it before.
See Also: 5 Must-Have Tools for New Parents
Husky is a ToolGuyd sponsor, and so I tried to avoid the brand for this discussion, but I like this screwdriver set too much to forcibly exclude it.
At the time of this posting, this 6pc set is just under $19.
With this set, you get spend a little more than on less expensive assortments, but the grippy diamond grit-coated tips and comfortable handles are worth the added expense.
You also don’t get anything extra you might not need, which means more money goes into the tools you might use more frequently.
20 screwdrivers for $25 seems like a good value, until you realize that just 6 will cover at least 95% of your fastening tasks. If you come across screw styles or sizes that a 6pc screwdriver set cannot handle, you’ll need something else. But will that 20pc set include that “something else,” or will you have to spend more money anyway?
Husky has plenty of other screwdriver set options, many of which I’ve purchased or received for testing, and I’ve had good experiences.
These are far from being my favorite screwdrivers, but they’re good quality and the set offers a great value within its price range.
If You Need More Tip Styles and Sizes
Perhaps consider a good 1/4″ hex bit handle and an assortment of insert bits.
That’s beyond the scope of this post, but I’ll include a single recommendation to get you started in the right direction:
Also Consider: New Tekton Portable Screwdriver Bit Set – I’m Sold on its Features
Additional Discussion
If you want the most bang for your buck, Kobalt and Husky have very competitive options for $20 or less – get whichever. Will they be long-lasting high-precision professional-grade tools? Not really, but they’re as good or better than what you can expect for $20.
And if you’re not happy, take it back to the store within your return period, get your money back, increase your budget by a few dollars, and try something else.
So, that said, I’d recommend the Husky set, the Stanley 4-in-1 “pen driver”, and then maybe consider putting a few dollars towards a magnetizer (via Amazon). Add an offset screwdriver (via Amazon) to your shopping list after the first time you really wish you had one.
The Craftsman set though… $25 seems okay for what you get – but certainly not $35. Although, I’m not very impressed with what you get. It’s a standard 6pc screwdriver with 6 more “a little of this and that” tools to help convince DIYer to spend more.
If I sound a bit cranky about this, it’s because I have fallen for such tool sets before. These days, I’d rather spend $20 on 6 tools I need, rather than 6 I need and 6 minor tools or accessories I might someday need.
Also, those-add-on tools will often be duplicated when – not if – you need to buy additional tools down the line.
2 mini screwdrivers or 1 offset screwdriver isn’t enough. When it’s time to buy more sizes, a set will likely be most economical, and then you’re basically spending money on duplicate sizing or functionality.
This happens with a lot of assortments. For instance, when you start working a lot with Torx fasteners, will the 2 sizes included in the Kobalt set be enough? Probably not, and so you’ll eventually need a separate Torx set.
Although, there is benefit in having a tool-at-hand before you know you need it.
Still, this is why I like the Husky and other 6pc sets. You can easily add to them without necessarily duplicating the functionality of what you have.
Coming back to the Wera set – that 6pc set cost nearly double as much as the Husky, but the quality is fantastic, especially the anti-cam-out tips. Most people love the handle shape, but some people don’t – so make sure to try them within your chosen retailer’s return period.
What About Multi-Bit Screwdrivers?
Some of might be thinking that an all-in-one multi-bit screwdriver might be a better choice.
Yes, and no.
I keep both around. Multi-bit screwdrivers are convenient, standalone screwdrivers are often more comfortable and can better fit within recessed handles.
Additionally, more complex projects might require multiple screwdriver sizes. It’s easier to pick up different drivers than to change a multi-bit driver’s configuration back and forth.
Wiha 6-in-1 Multi-Bit Screwdriver
I’m not so excited about Wiha tools anymore, but their multi-bit screwdrivers are solid recommendations. I bought these for review last year and continue to use them regularly with good experiences.
The 6-in-1 is just $13 right now, which seems like a good bargain. I paid $16 for mine in January 2021.
Tekton 6-in-1 Multi-Bit Screwdriver
I also like Tekton’s 6-in-1 multi-bit screwdrivers, priced at just $10 each.
It’s available with black or red handles, and you can choose from a couple of different bit configurations aside from the usual Phillips and slotted loadouts.
Candidly speaking, there is no shortage of multi-bit screwdrivers in the $8 to $20 price range.
Although it’s in need of an update, I have some other recommendations here, and I would also recommend the Klein 11-in-1 (via Amazon).
These would all be in addition to – and not instead of – a 6pc or greater screwdriver set.
What Do You Recommend?
I tried to exclude Husky at first, given the potential conflict of interest (I try my best to avoid making comparisons between sponsor and non-sponsor brands in any circumstances), but it’s my top sub-$20 choice with no reasonable second choices quickly coming to mind.
Irwin, another Stanley Black & Decker brand, used to have some great screwdrivers, but I can’t find them at decent prices today.
Gearwrench also makes great screwdrivers, but their pricing is beyond the scope of this post.
There’s also Felo Ergonic, if you can catch them on sale.
What would you recommend? I’m curious to see what readers’ thoughts are, but please keep the relative price range of $15 to $25 in mind.
Mike (the other one)
If you like the Craftsman handle, then just get the magnetic bit driver for around $5, and a good set of bits.
The classic acetate drivers are not as comfortable, but they seem to be well made.
If you are in Lowe’s and want a good screwdriver, go over to the electrical section and have a look at the Ideal drivers, which are made in USA. Not as cheap, but the handles are very comfortable.
Mopar4wd
Yeah the Ideal or the Klien at HD both in electrical are very good drviers for the buck.
mizzourob
I have gifted a number of Felo screwdriver sets to family for me to use when at their house. They have a wide selection of options (Phillips, slotted, torx, bit holder, pozideive, mag mount, insulated, hex ball head, etc.) And dollar for dollar I don’t think they can be beat. The starter set is part 715750174 and is just under $50.
G New
I purchased my brother a set of the Felo 500 series, same set you are talking about (6 drivers, I paid 31$ in 2018, currently 50$). He does a lot of garage mechanical work, does a bunch of small motor repair for a side hustle. Says the Felo drivers are the best drivers he has used. Still rants and raves about them when I visit.
Jared
The Wera 6pc is an excellent choice – it’s what I was thinking of until I read on and saw you mention it too.
Felo has that nice 6pc wood handle set for about the same money. I’ve seen it dip around $30 Canadian so I presume it might get to ~$25USD on promotion (and I presume it’s only fair to compare promotional prices since this started out with a “sale” price on Craftsman.
My personal favorite: Vessel No.220w-3. It’s a multi-blade screwdriver set. Three double-ended blades for 6 sizes. The handle is awesome, the screwdriver tips are great and it’s a mere $22CAD.
Eric
I picked up that Felo wooden set from Menards for under $20 a year or two ago (free shipping too!) and I haven’t been very impressed by them. The Phillips heads don’t fit nearly as nicely as my Weras (or Kleins, Tekton, or Wiha, for that matter), and the thru-tang comes up almost 1/8″ short from sticking out the leather end of the handle. The grips are very comfortable, and the flat head drivers are very stout (I’d much rather pry with these than my Weras), but I’d rate the overall screw-driving capability on par with Chinese Craftsman acetate-handle drivers, which are average at best.
Jake
I have a set of these and I love them. However, I’m not enough of a screwdriver maven to really counter any of your points. I think we can both agree that it’s a handsome looking set and feels very nice in the hand.
The other Jake
I have these too. I think they are great for the money(under $20). They look and feel great, and perform pretty well.
David A.
I love the Felo wooden handle set as well, but I lightly sanded the handles to remove the slippery poly-coating (while being careful not to sand off the Felo logo) and that improved the hand-feel quite a bit.
PW
I broadly agree – although my complaint is that the Phillips tips are too soft and have gotten very deformed under what I would classify as very milk DIY use.
It’s frustrating because I love the handle design and many thoughtful features, but properly designing and hardening the tip is the most important part!!
TomD
I find the Milwaukee-style multibit to be a “bit” nicer (the ones with the long bits that store in the handle, example 48-22-2131 (which has ECX which is awesome if you’re doing receptacle/switch work) because the bits easily go into a power tool.
Honestly the “one billion screwdriver” packs have never really done anything for me, as I end up using only one or two and never touch the rest. I’d instead look at getting a good demo driver in standard, a good #2 Phillips, and maybe a really long one also to start.
Mopar4wd
I still have lots of old Stanley and craftsman screwdrivers (80’s 90s both cheap and industrial versions) and I like them, but over the last few years I have worn them out and started buying different brands. I have a few Whia and Wera but they get expensive if I was using them everyday I would invest in more (I got mine used at flea markets).
For less expensive I have a few I like.
For a cheap junk drawer screwdriver I have the mini stanley you mention plus this one
https://www.amazon.com/Stanley-Multi-BIT-6-Way-SD/dp/B08JWJFC5H I think I payed 3 bucks at HD for it. much better then the HF one it replaced.
For most uses I like the Husky like these
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-Screwdriver-Set-10-Piece-246340100/204364644
But the oldest one I have (about 4 years old ) do seem to be getting a little sticky on the grip.
My favorite Husky driver is the 99671 multi bit driver with reversing ratchet and long bits. But I don;t think they stock it anymore.
For a DIY I think some of the best value might be the Quinn screw drivers at HF. The regular pittsburgh ones aren’t very good and I have had handles slip on some when trying to loosen a screw. The Quinn ones seem to fit well and provide real value. If you want to try them they sell a 2 piece (phillips and slotted) for 5 bucks.
MM
Those old Stanleys weren’t very good screwdrivers in my opinion, especially regarding the fit on the Philips tips. But at least they were very reasonably priced, and they weren’t total garbage. They were a good deal for the average homeowner or beginner DIYer. The Harbor Freights are honestly not that bad either. Years ago I managed a university lab and for a while had a lot of trouble with tools disappearing from where they were supposed to be kept. I started buying HF screwdrivers to save money, and with the theory that durability wasn’t a concern given the tool was likely to be lost long long before it would be worn out. They also had neon orange handles which made it easy to keep an eye on them. I was pleasantly surprised, many of those screwdrivers got a lot of use for several years and were still OK when I left.
Mopar4wd
Yeah the regular home owner stripped Stanley drivers I destroyed years ago. The ones that lasted were Stanley workmasters I had bought used. and the 100+ I think they still sell on their industrial side which honestly I probably bought used too.
Harbor freight is weird I had some of the old orange handle ones too and I agree they were pretty good (I think I still have some) but the newest Pittsburgh ones are cheaper maybe to make room for their good better best concept with multiple brands. The Quinn ones seem a good value and I don’t want to spend money to try the ICON.
Franck B.
Yeah, Stanley sells (sold?) drivers that were USA-made and basically identical to Klein/Ideal. I’ve appropriated some somewhere and I trust them as much as Kleins.
Jack D
The cheap HF screwdrivers we’re always good for throwing into a “junk drawer” or even a tool kit for the trunk in the event of some unforeseen need, but I never used them over a long haul. Haven’t had the need to upgrade my drivers yet–i seem to have too many everywhere as it is, and my Craftsman are holding up just fine–but I did recently purchase a set of Doyle screwdrivers at HF, $15 for three insulated drivers, but the reason I bought them was the ecx tip on one. I’ve only used them a few times so far, but it was nice to find that set in hand. Try finding an ecx tip at HD or Lowe’s…
Franck B.
I agree with you on the orange/green HF screwdrivers from long ago, the ones with the acid-dipped or sandblasted tips (or however they roughed them up). After some disappeared from my shop (their intended destiny), I tried replacing them and the newer ones had shinier chrome, shinier plastic, and were all-around a crappy screwdriver. That and they also did not have the Snap-On clone black ones anymore became my final regular purchases at HF.
Davethetool
I still have a set of the Snap On clones screwdriver set from HFT I purchased over a decade ago. I abuse them and they just keep kicking!
MM
The old Acetate-handled Craftsman screwdriver sets used to be a great deal back in the day. This set? Crazy overpriced. Insane.
I completely agree with Stuart here, if you’re willing to spend that kind of money on a screwdriver set then get the Wera 6-pc set, and if you’re not, grab that Husky set or one of the many N-in-one drivers out there.
Stuart mentioned not being so excited about Wiha tools anymore. I can understand why: they’ve already made what is perhaps the greatest general-purpose screwdriver set ever, No. 53398. Once you set the bar that high you’re never jumping over it a second time.
Franck B.
Wiha drivers (the Soft Finish and no-longer-in-USA 3K series) seem to have a little more spring in their tool steel. In my experience this prevents tip breakage in many situations where other tools would fail. A lot of German cars seem to have insanely tight T20 and T27 screws and I’ve seen a lot of bits and drivers break on them. Even Wiha ProTurn (low cost) seems to have cheaper steel and breaks.
So these are still my ultimate drivers.
Stuart
I like the Wiha Soft Finish, and have a 12pc set I splurged on a long time ago.
But in a lot of categories, main screwdrivers included, there are better options today. There are much fewer times I could say “I’d go with Wiha.”
MM
The Soft Finish are alright. I have used them in the past and I still have three or four. In my opinion they’re well suited to precision work–mine are at my electronics workbench. That said, I don’t think they’re all that great for any sort of heavy duty or dirty work. The rubber grips do not stand up to hard use well, and they get slippery if your hands are wet or covered with oil, grease, etc. I would find it hard to recommend them too. Like you said, there are just so better choices out there. But the “microfinish” is not the same thing as “soft finish” and the two should not be confused. The microfinish tools have hard handles with what feels like a sandblasted sort of texture. It is amazing how well they can be gripped even with dirty hands, they are a completely different beast than Soft Finish.
Robert
Like many others, I started with craftsman screwdrivers when you were proud to tell your buddies you bought at Sears. I upgraded to a beefy Milwaukee set. But I still got cam out, which drove me crazy. So I love the Were set I got last year, except mine has four philips and two slotted. I’m a hobbiest, so I baby my tools. Therefore, the price differential isn’t a factor as I will have the Weras a long time.
One question, how do the Husky diamond tips compare to the laser tips of the Weras? Is the intended function the same, to prevent cam-out, or something else?
Franck B.
I am taking a guess that the Husky diamond tip drivers are provided to HD by Apex, who I believe also supplied the same diamond tip type drivers to Sears as some of their final Craftsman tools. I bought a few of the CM ones when they were on blowout and I thought they were pretty good at the right price. However, they seem to be not very long wearing. The diamond coating eventually gives way being basically glued on, and the steel was not very corrosion resistant.
The Wera tips are cut into the base material, so the etching durability will depend on the hardness of the fasteners you drive. Eventually it will wear out.
(A common misconception is that a softer substance cannot mark/wear a harder substance… you’ll often hear things in wristwatch forums of how “only a diamond can scratch the sapphire crystal”, which is ridiculous. Tell that to the Grand Canyon.)
Raycr
My Craftsman diamond coated do wear out pretty quickly so I used to only use them when really needed.
Charles_A
Good Meat & Potatoes article – much appreciated.
I’m a fan of Husky brand items; they’ve always performed for me.
Steve
I picked this set up at Lowes a few years ago for my car tool bag, it was a great value… when it was $15.
If it goes back to$20 for the holidays that’s a decent buy too, but these current prices are insane.
Nathan
If I had to buy a set in a store that moment I’d probably consider those others you mentioned. I don’t even look at craftsman handtools at the moment. Not paying a premium for not USA made. When I can get the same from Autozone, or any other store for less. Seriously the autozone tools are fairly good tools for the price point and often made in Taiwan.
Otherwise my first choice for a set would be the Tekton High torque model set. and my second choice for a premium set would be something EU based I suppose. (stahlwhile, hazet, etc)
Tom
I’ve never found a use for stubby drivers. I would almost always just throw a bit holder in a ratchet to get more leverage if clearance is an issue.
Wera for the win though. I can’t say enough about the Wera lasertips. They are so worth an extra $10. I am at the point where I would rather have fewer high quality tools than a bunch of junky stuff.
I did just buy some Tekton torx drivers and are really impressed.
Tim B.
The one I don’t hesitate to recommend for anyone (whether it’s for the tool bag or kitchen utility drawer) is one of the MegaPro multi drivers. Those things are wonderful, very well built, and won’t break the bank. I often give them as housewarming gifts, etc.
For my actual workbench, I am most definitely a fan of the Wera handles and design… though honestly, my old beater sets of decades-old craftsman drivers are still very much alive and well.
ben
My advice to avid DIYers is to just splurge on the Wera set. The handle material and shape are amazing. They allow your hand to be positioned in different ways to either maximize torque or speed.
The only caveat is that if you are working mostly on automotives you might want to look into a set that has acetate handles as all the grease and grime can make rubber type handles pretty gross
Kilroy
For quality DIY options that will cover most situations, I’d agree. A Wera set or Wera screwdriver with interchangeable bits works well, as does a PicQuic screwdriver with storage for 6+1 bits.
Given that 6ish bits will cover “most” things (if they don’t, buy the screwdriver or bit you need then), something like that is also good to give to most “non-tool people” (or those who aren’t very handy) to keep in their glove box or car trunk.
Jake
For multi-bit drivers I really like Picquic’s offering. They are made in Canada (semi-domestic?) and are built really well. The Dash 7 is the perfect size for a portable driver and is my favorite of their offerings.
http://picquic.ca/
I think they have their stuff on Amazon as well, which is at least convenient.
Jared
I like Picquic as an inexpensive multi-bit driver too. The bits are imported, the handles made-in-Canada. Both are good quality though.
Another Canadian option that’s worth a mention is Rolgear – if a person were looking for a ratcheting screwdriver.
JoeM
Makes you wonder what would happen if one of us Northerners brought Stuart up to see Canadian Tire, Home Hardware, and Princess Auto… See what he thinks of our brands up here. Plus, we could take him to Ottawa to see the HQ of Lee Valley.
We’d have to get a new URL going like ToolGuyd.eh.ca right?
Stuart
I’d say see ya and just head to Lee Valley.
JoeM
Well, that would be the main attraction, really. Nothing wrong with that. I’m sure you’d love shopping at Lee Valley stores, and seeing their main HQ.
As to the other places… Honestly? It’d just be to show you the difference in the stores, operating much smaller than you’re used to. I have no delusions of you wanting to buy anything to take home. You surpassed the need for our house brands long ago!
Kilroy
I tried PicQuic after seeing them mentioned on this site. They aren’t fancy, but for the money, the PicQuic Dash 7 is tough to beat, especially if one really customizes it to include bits for a specific task/room/vehicle/purpose.
Great stocking stuffers as well.
David A.
The Rolgear is a great ratcheting screwdriver! I really like the bit storage in the handle, and the gearless ratcheting mechanism is silky-smooth (I don’t know how they make that mechanism unless they’re using teflon coated mithril). The only problem with the design is the bit-holder sheath needs to be extended about 3/16″ to better hold the bits in place while in use.
Gary
I would probably wait until January for the new Milwaukee Made-In-USA screwdrivers.
Jared
I think you’ll still be waiting come January if you expect a 6c set for under $25. 😉
Robert
Can you do a review of this YouTuber’s $70 screwdriver?
Stuart
To be honest, I don’t see the appeal.
Why buy that over existing Megapro options?
Tonya Lillie
Did you watch the video? They actually worked with MegaPro to make this screwdriver. And they go into depth about why and how they made it the way they did. I have no opinion on it as I haven’t seen it in person, just saying the video might answer your question.
Rich
This is easy. Stay away from the Home Depot/Lowes/Amazon specials like Kobalt, Craftsman, Wera, and Tekton. Go grab this set from Williams…
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JP0NDQY/
You get a fully US-made set of tools from Snap-on Inc for a little bit more than the Wera. You buy this set and then you never buy another set of screwdrivers again.
MM
I like that style of Williams/Snap-On screwdrivers a lot and I think they’re a great recommendation. I’m annoyed that Snap-On has been moving to rubberized grips which I personally don’t like anywhere near as much as the classic Williams hard handles. The same applies to their pry bars. But I’d honestly rather have the Weras over those. The handles are more ergonomic and the tips are more precise. And I’d certainly rather have Wiha Microfinish for the same reasons, especially the heavy duty models with the hammer cap on the end of the handle. Those also have the advantage of having a subtle texture which works great when your hands are covered with oil, grease, sweat, etc.
Rich
I’m with you on the SO rubberized grips. They’re just not good. These Williams use the older, harder SO grips, which I think have been fantastic for decades. All of my Wera drivers are great as well and I do enjoy using them for smaller tasks, but those handles aren’t as comfortable for me, which I know is a personal preference for everyone. The Williams, though, I feel confident hulking them around using right after dropping them in motor oil. I just don’t have that kind of confidence with my Weras. $6/Wera vs $6.86/Williams, so I find them comparable in price. I will say that I’ve had to claim warranty on both of them at times. Dealing with SO was a lot easier than dealing with Wera and I put a lot of value into support, so that’s easily worth the extra $0.86 per tool, IMO. I don’t think you can go wrong with either, though.
Travis
I agree with this! I have two sets of these drivers and use them constantly. Love the old school handles and they are darned tough.
Jim Felt
“”Wera 6pc Kraftform Screwdriver Set – My Premium Choice…”
Funny you should mention this set. I ordered yet another one yesterday. I like the hard handles, the laser tips and even the color.
My countless Klein’s are showing their age by the black plastic grips becoming faded and it’s starting to bother the heck of me and don’t get me started on the smell of my now ancient plastic Craftsman handle driver’s. Though I still like their physical grip.
Funda
Are there any sets with Pozidriv drivers included or do those have to be purchased separately? My son just bought a house and I want to give him a set where he does not have to use PH2 when what he really needs is PZ2 (Ikea, Euro cabinet hinges etc)
Stuart
You have to look really hard to find sets that include Pozidriv. I have a European set from Facom that came with Phillips and Pozidriv screwdrivers.
Wera’s is pricy, but reliable. https://toolguyd.com/wera-pozidriv-screwdriver-perfect-for-assembling-ikea-furniture/
Or you can find a PZ bit tip with 1/4″ hex shank for use with a standard bit screwdriver.
Jared
The Vessel set I mentioned above has two PZ sizes – and it’s $14.27 on Amazon.com
https://www.amazon.com/VESSEL-BALL-Interchangeable-Screwdriver-220W3J1/dp/B00E55DL4I/
Vards Uzvards
This is a very nice screwdriver set indeed! JIS and PoziDriv (PZ)
Funda
Thanks, Jared! The JIS bits are a bonus.
Funda
One of the Amazon reviewers says he thinks the cross bits are Philips and not JIS and has posted photos doing a comparison
Vards Uzvards
There are two different SKUs, and maybe one contains JIS, and another has true Philips bits. I have one of the two, but not where I am right now, so can’t make a real comparison. But I do have, and use, both Philips and true JIS screwdrivers, and the aforementioned driver set I got, it _feels_ very much like a JIS driver, much superior to Philips, on certain screws.
Funda
There are indeed 2 SKUs viz 220W3 and 220W3J1 and I bought the latter one
Funda
Bought the 220W3J1, received the 220W3.
There is no 220W3J1 on Vessel’s Japan website so either they mean JIS when they say Philips or there is no JIS version
Nathan
to go back a moment. I will say doing it all over again I would have a bit holder and just use bits. which I do alot anyway to be fair.
However there are times you do need a regular blade driver device – it is fairly rare however. The days of a homeowner only needed a few philps and flats is gone.
I say that in that most appliance and flat pack furniture and etc requires something else. IE a torx 25 or a 4mm hex etc. and while a flat pack might come with a disposable tool – sometimes it’s nice to have that actual quality driver.
I used to also love a ratcheting bit holder – it was a huge bonus in the tool bag circa 1997. Today, not so much as I’m probably going to reach for a power implement. but I’ll always need a non ratcheting bit holder. Or I think I will. I keep 3 right now. one long handle, one ratcheting and one stuby. OH and I also say a person might as well also have a bit holder socket for their 1/4 drive set.
and . . . . . . .
Tansley7
I know the one tool I wish I’d never bought!
The 6 in 1 Craftsman screwdriver. It’s bits / how it changes bits are different than every other 6-1 I’ve had in my life. The round handle guarantees it will roll away from you just when you set it down for a split second.
I have bought 3-4 Husky branded 6in1 tools to keep all around the house / car / etc.
Wayne R.
My general default driver choice has always been Klein. But I have to add, I’ve recently gotten a Vessel ratcheting ball driver (with PH2 end) that also functions as a stubby ratcheting bit holder.
This thing’s a revelation. Hold the ball and speed-twist the shaft, and use the ball to add torque. The whole thing easily sits in my hand without concern no matter at what angle it’s being used. Completely changed my opinion about ratcheting drivers.
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61lQKR9RGnL._AC_SL1500_.jpg
jason
I’m still an old-school Acetate handle fan, so most of mine are old USA craftsman with some newer knockoffs mixed in as I break them
I refuse to buy nice screwdrivers due to most of my usage being non-approved screwdriver activities – tight space pry bar, paint can opening, gunk scraping, smashing on the end as a chisel, etc.
Kids seem to permanently “borrow” a screwdriver here and there, then they are lost in the yard forever…
Nathan
So another post – but of screwdriver sets. I have my grandfathers wood handled set and they are so old I don’t know what name they were/are
but I’ve seen a handful around and just for the pretty factor I’d say get a set. Someone (felo I think) makes an egro style wood handle set.
Odd – yes, useful – yes, better than other options – maybe? It’s greener right?
SamR
Tekton high torque screwdriver set is the way to go for me!
Marcin
My favorite are the Craftsman Extreme Grip diamond plated line. No slipping, and solid hold.
https://m.sears.com/craftsman-extreme-grip-14-piece-diamond-tip-screwdriver/p-00950844000P
Stacey Jones
I like dedicated slotted screwdrivers if I have space for them. I’m not picky. I have a bunch of freebies I got from Harbor Freight. I prefer bit drivers for everything else. I’ve got way more than I need but these three are some of the best bang for the buck.
1) This Wiha holds bits like a pit bull and stores 26 good quality double-sided bits in the handle:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01J92O38E/
2) $15 on Amazon right now gets you a nice mix of bits that includes some precision too, plus an adapter:
Amartisan 22 IN 1 Ratchet Screwdriver Set
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097HP18TN/
3) This flex-head bit driver should get to anything hard to reach and is really compact:
https://www.harborfreight.com/locking-flex-head-ratchet-and-bit-set-35-piece-58074.html
I’ve got a name brand version that cost more, but this is cheaper and the same thing.
Raycr
I have Wera, old Craftsman and diamond coated Craftsman.
But I reach for my H.F. Quinn square shaft magnetic screwdrivers most of all.
I have several 5 dollars sets of two screwdrivers everywhere.
They flawlessly remove Phillip screws withou caming. and I like the magnetic tips. I don’t think twice about abusing them and they still hold up
One day I will buy the set of 15
Raycr
As I’ve gotten older I like the comfort of the Quinn handles better than the Wera handles. But I do own 24Wera insulated screwdrivers since I trust their insulation more.
Pete
Over the years I have bought more crappy screwdrivers than I am willing to admit. A few years ago I decided that enough is enough and I forked out some cash getting a good set of Wera and some specialties from Wiha, Felo and PB Swiss. My insulated are Knipex.
Very happy since then. Wera is mostly my go to set. Comfortable but with two drawbacks. The rubbery part on the handles is susceptible to absorb oil if you work on cars and eventually discolours. The second drawback is a couple of broken tips when trying to turn stubborn screws. Both times Wera sent me free replacements asking for just a picture of the broken screwdriver.
Personally I am done with screwdriver sets of lesser quality no mater how low the price is. However, I see the value for someone with occasional use in the house or light use on car maintenance.
VindalooDiesel
Megapro should be in any conversation about multibit screwdrivers.
Im also very happy with my milwaukee stubby ratcheting driver
Matt+C.
As others have mentioned…. The Tekton hi-torque screwdrivers are great. The grip fits in the hand and reduces slipping. They’re also made in the USA! Just bought an 8 piece set for $30.
Matt C.
As others have mentioned…. The Tekton hi-torque screwdrivers are great. The grip fits in the hand and reduces slipping. They’re also made in the USA! Just bought an 8 piece set for $30.
Matty D
If I wanted a new set and wanted the best value for the $$, I would wait for Black Friday and then look around…
If I could not wait and needed a set right now, I would get a Vessel Ball grip and buy a bunch of bits. Cool factor 10 and I would feel like Im treating myself to something special. I see that they have a ratcheting version too. Japanese.
If I wanted a set without bits, I would get the classic Craftsman clear arcrylic handle set. Although the handles are not comfortable as others, My set has held up nicely for my DIY homeowner use and holds some nostalgic value carried over from the Sears days.
I also have a set of Craftsman Extreme Grip Diamond Coated Tip drivers from Sears – from about 4-5 years ago. I got them at a super deal when they had Sears points . They then came out with extra drivers, it was fun collecting the rest. I have a full collection and they are not available anywhere anymore.
MikeIt
If you are looking for inexpensive screwdrivers I like the Lowe’s Craftsman acetate handled set. They look rather nice, better than I remember the Sears version ever did. They’re made in Taiwan so that’s a plus in my book. The Husky acetate handled set (Model# 20210015), also made in Taiwan look pretty good too. The handle shape is more rounded compared to the Craftsman and might be more comfortable. If COO is something you care about, check out the Kobalt acetate handled set, they are made in USA by Great Neck. For a little bit more money, you can get the Williams made in USA 5 piece mixed set from Amazon for about $45-ish. I prefer the hard handles because they make for easy clean up but I wish I could get them in red. That’s a minor preference and not a deal breaker. They are nice and I don’t why know I took to so long to get them after reading many positive comments about them here. If you want to spend even more money, I also like the Snap On Instinct handles because they have a “tri-lobe” design that seems to fit in my hand very well. I got mine on Craigslist and eBay, don’t pay full price for them. Wilde tools has a similar “tri-lobe” made in USA set but I think they’ve become unavailable due to -well you know. I never tried them but I’d like to check out a set one day. I also have the Felo 206 set with striker caps. I like their tips and construction very much. I put them above my workbench so they are the first screwdrivers I reach for now. The only thing is that I think the handles might be a bit small but then again I wear XL gloves so maybe its just me. For working on cars, my new favorites are the OEM Tools screwdriver set (part 23999). They are tri-lobe, hard handled, bright green, hex shafts with bolsters and they have a nice satin finish. I like the bright green color so I can easily spot them in an engine bay. I got them through Autozone because they had a better price than Amazon ($65 vs $80), and when they arrived Great Neck threw in a free orange handled set (GreatNeck 73772). There was buy one get one free promotion I was not aware of. They look like Craftsman copies but in orange with satin blades. They’re perfect for my truck tool bag set.
Josh
To me a painted tip on a screwdriver looks very cheap and is a huge turn off along with flash on a screwdriver handle. I have not used the new craftsman myself but the old hard handle ones were a great value back in the day and I believe they are still around. As for the 6 in 1 screwdriver I have several because they are fantastic!! My go to is an old stanley that’s probably 15+ years old with a black rubber over a yellow handle. The tekton is probably my 2nd favorite one bit I wish I would have gotten it in red so it wouldn’t blend in until a car hood or the inside of my junkyard box.
Bonnie
Honestly, I avoid multi-sets entirely. Especially the large ones that start throwing in a dozen useless add-ons just to bulk up their sales pitch. If I was starting from scratch and had to go with a multi-set, I don’t want anything more than: a regular PH2, a skinny PH3, a large slotted, a narrow slotted, a slotted big enough to serve as a crowbar, and a Robertson #2 (I know I’m weird). Maybe add a 1/4″ bit driver for completeness sake, but they’re almost never the best tool for the job.
Far better if you’re a DIY’er to buy the specific tool you need when you need it and build out your kit organically. You’re probably going to be taking a couple trips to the hardware store anyways (double that for plumbing jobs).
That said, I have one of that same Craftsman line (Robertson #2), and it’s just fine. The patterned handle does get kind of uncomfortable after a lot of use or if you’re really torqueing down on something. I also have an 8″ Husky PH2 (with the rubber handle) which has some of the best “bite” on screws I’ve yet found on a phillips.
Ball_bearing
If you happen to suffer from wrist and hand pains I have found that the Vessel Ball grip screwdrivers are quite helpful. Their Prokon 220W Is a really good option for a compact set. The included bits/shafts are really strong and the fit is great. Just get a bitholder for when you need to use insert bits with the 220W, cause without one, the short 1 inch bits will just disappear inside the handle.
Vards Uzvards
Craftsman 12pc Screwdriver Set and Kobalt 20pc Screwdriver Set – saw both sets in the local store today, $24.98 each (yellow price tags).
Eddie the Hook
For me, its the classic Craftsman acetate handles ever since the first screw that i tightened/loosened. And that was a looong time ago.
Joe E.
Craftsman once represented quality tools at a great value, regardless of where they were made. Sears constantly ran sales and deals on their tools, weekly.
Craftsman at Lowe’s…. Meh. They’re overpriced for what they are what few sales they do have are not intriguing enough to get me into their door.
But, people are supposedly buying the stuff at Lowe’s. I think with a few changes, Craftsman could sell even more product – but who am I, right?