What Is a Phillips Bit?
A Phillips bit is a part that is inserted into the tip of an electric screwdriver and used to tighten Phillips screws. Since they are used for a longer period than manual screwdrivers, they are consumable parts that may chip or break off after a while of use.
Since there are various types of tip shapes and thicknesses, the bit to be used must be selected according to the uses of the screwdriver. Using a Phillips bit that does not fit the screw can cause the bit to break quickly or damage the screw or screw hole.
Uses of Phillips Bits
Phillips bits, which are attached to electric drills and used to tighten Phillips screws, are used in a great variety of situations, such as assembling electrical appliances and furniture and working on construction sites. They are also frequently used for DIY and repair work at home, as even beginners can easily handle them.
Standard Phillips bits are used for screws and fasteners of general sizes for DIY and furniture repair, while those with thin tips and shafts are used for detailed work, such as disassembly of electronic equipment. More durable Phillips bits are used when tightening long screws or screws made of hard materials.
How to Select Phillips Bits
Here are some points to consider when selecting Phillips bits:
- Tip Size
There are three main types of Phillips bits: No. 1, No. 2, and No. 3, each with a different tip shape.The No. 1 Phillips bit has the sharpest tip. It is suitable for tightening and removing screws with small heads. The No. 1 Phillips bits are also suitable for handling thinner screws, called slender bits.
The No. 2 Phillips bit is the most standard Phillips bit. The No. 2 Phillips bits are used to handle common course threads and screws. In most cases, the No. 2 Phillips bits will do the job.
The No. 3 Phillips bits are the Phillips bits with the thickest tip and are used in fewer situations than No. 1 and No. 2. They are used when handling special items such as screws with shallow holes.
- Shape of the Tip
There are various types of Phillips bits. The following is a list of typical ones:Double-Headed Bits
Double-headed bits have Phillips bits on both ends and are the most common shape. They can be inserted into an electric screwdriver from either end. They are inexpensive per bit and have excellent cost performance because even if one end breaks off, the other can still be used.Stepped Bits
A stepped bit has a Phillips bit on only one end and is characterized by a step in the middle of the bit. The bit twists to absorb impact, making the tip more durable. Since the shaft is cylindrical, it does not damage materials and is suitable for handling furniture.Torsion Bits
Like stepped bits, these bits have a highly durable tip but have the disadvantage of being slow to tighten.