How to choose a screwdriver?

Design features of models

According to the type of construction, screwdrivers are distinguished:

Pistol. The most common type of twisting units, characterized by a perpendicularly connected handle and electronics housing. For most types of work, for example, for assembling furniture, installing windows, drywall profiles and others, pistol devices are great. Some models can be additionally equipped with corner nozzles for working in hard-to-reach places. It is worth noting that pistol-type models are best suited for drilling with impact; for frequent drilling work in concrete and brick, it is worth taking them.

Pistol Screwdrivers

Angular. The device consists of a rubberized handle, smoothly turning into a compartment with a gearbox and a cartridge. The cartridge is mounted on a hinged ratchet that can change position (from 2 to 8 positions, depending on the models). Corner models are convenient for screwing in self-tapping screws in places where a conventional screwdriver cannot crawl, for example, when installing radiator heating with a floor bracket or installing curtain rods under curtains . Also a plus is their low weight on average up to 1.5 kg, while pistol battery models of similar power weigh up to 2.5 kg.

Corner adjustable model

Direct. These are light and small devices designed for screwing in bolts and self-tapping screws only at a right angle. Unlike the angle model, here the rotation of the shaft to which the cartridge is attached occurs directly from the gearbox without an additional connecting unit (gears), due to which direct-type screwdrivers are capable of developing up to 9000 (three times more than angle and pistol) revolutions per minute , which is very convenient for working with soft materials. So, straight screwdrivers are perfect for plasterboarding an apartment - self-tapping screws are quickly screwed in, soft gypsum does not deteriorate due to a small torque, and hands do not get tired during prolonged work. However, the low torque does not allow you to comfortably work with metals (you have to press hard).

Direct type model

Features worth paying attention to

Before buying a screwdriver, decide on the following:

Nutrition. For domestic needs in an apartment or house, network models operating from 230 V are quite suitable. However, in many places (for example, under the ceiling), the cable length is simply not enough, so you will have to additionally use an extension cord or surge protector (for information on how to choose a reliable surge protector, we wrote here). Cordless models will allow you to work in rooms without power. If you need to work for several hours continuously, then pay attention to the offers of stores where a spare battery is included so that you do not have to buy it separately. There are also pneumatic models powered by a compressor. Such screwdrivers are applicable in workshops and boxes where there are combustible fumes and there is a risk of their flashing, for example, at service stations. However, the disadvantage is the actual presence of a compressor, which you just can’t sip around the apartment, so it’s not applicable in domestic conditions. It also has a rather small torque, so drilling is beyond its control, and screwing bolts only into finished holes or soft materials.
Reverse. Although this function seems absolutely logical for screwdrivers, it is still missing in some models. Without it, it is impossible to unscrew the screws, so pay attention to the corresponding inscription in the description of the characteristics for a particular model.
Cartridge. The vast majority of devices are equipped with chucks for hex shank bits. However, some can work with keyless chucks (three jaws and a locking collar) that can easily accept both bits and drills. Basically, such models are contained in the drill-screwdrivers section, and are a hybrid version of impact drills.

Keyless chuck

Engine type. Devices equipped with brushless motors are more productive and durable than their brushed counterparts (the latter have to be changed regularly carbon brushes), so for constant repairs it is worth taking them. Brush models are suitable for home and irregular "covens", but it is better to take them with quick access to these parts so that you can replace them without contacting the workshop.
Torque. Often, in the description for a screwdriver, power is not written in watts that we are used to, but is indicated in the form of torque in Nm. For household models of a shockless type with a head, a torque of 20 to 40 Nm is enough. If you need a device for frequent drilling of bricks or tiles, then you should pay attention to impact models with a torque of up to 100 Nm. Units with KM over 100 Nm are mainly used for tightening nuts and are an alternative to professional nutrunners.

Additional features that may be useful for certain types of work

Screwdrivers can have the following functions:

Adjustable speed and torque. These functions are especially useful when you have to work with materials of different density. For example, when working with soft plaster or foam, it is recommended to reduce the torque to a minimum, and, on the contrary, increase the speed so that when screwing in, you do not “gouge” a large hole and spoil the surface. Depending on the model, screwdrivers can have an adjusting clutch from 20 to 25 positions.
Impact mode. Devices equipped with an impact drilling mode can replace a drill in some types of work. Such screwdrivers are able to drill brick, tile and even some types of concrete. However, remember that they can only be used for one-time work (hang a cornice or attach a shelf), and for permanent chiselling of bricks, it is better to look at perforators.

Torque Adjustable Screwdrivers

Backlight. This element makes it easier to work in poor lighting conditions, and also illuminates the workplace in dark corners where room light does not reach. Some models are equipped with adjustable backlight, and their maximum aperture can reach 600 lumens. If you often have to work in low light, then these devices are for you.
Engine brake. This blocker is installed directly in the housing with the engine, and stops it when the start button is released (the engine stops abruptly, and does not spin idle). This prevents damage to the work material and the operator's hands.
Engine protection. This function shuts down the engine in case of severe overloads, thereby increasing its lifespan. Often, it is equipped with professional models that will be used daily. Therefore, for construction teams, it is best to purchase screwdrivers with engine protection.

conclusions

For domestic purposes and infrequent “covens”, network or battery models with a torque of up to 50 Nm are suitable. If you have frequent drilling of bricks or tiles, then pay attention to impact models with a torque of 80 Nm or more. For construction crews for regular work, brushless models with an increased motor resource are suitable. In boxes and repair stations where there is a possibility of evaporation of combustible gases, it is best to use compressor screwdrivers or wrenches.

Design features of models

Features worth paying attention to

Additional features that may be useful for certain types of work

conclusions

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