What Is a Screwdriver Bit Set?
Screwdriver bit sets are tool sets that contain a combination of different types and sizes of bits used in electric screwdrivers and impact drivers for tightening screws.
The bits are mainly for Phillips or flat head screws, square hole screws, hexagon socket head screws, and Torx screws. These bits are set in multiple sizes, and in some cases, different types of bits are combined in a set, such as “for hexagon socket head cap screws + torx screws.
Some products have bits that can be used as tools at both ends and can be reversed to accommodate different sizes and types, while others have short or long bits to accommodate screws in tight spaces or deep locations. There are also long bits with short or long bits to accommodate screws in tight working spaces or deep locations.
Applications of Screwdriver Bit Sets
Screwdriver bit sets are used in a wide range of applications, from equipment maintenance in factories and auto repair shops to DIY at home. There are many different combinations of screwdriver bit sets, from pre-packaged sets with several different types of bits inserted into holders to plastic or metal cases, so it is important to choose the right set for the frequency of use and the intended application.
Screwdriver bit sets are mainly used by inserting the bits into the screwdriver grip and attaching them to hand wrenches, electric screwdrivers, electric drill drivers, and electric impact drivers. Bits for electric impact drivers, which can apply particularly high torques, are specially designed bits made of high-strength materials, so care should be taken when purchasing them. The advantage is that multiple bits are included in a set, so there is no need to have many tools.
Principle of Screwdriver Bit Sets
The following is an explanation of the size of the various bits sold as a set. Since multiple bits are sold in a set, the set often includes bits of the most frequently used sizes that are generally widely used.
The most frequently used sizes in general are as follows
- For Phillips screws: No. 1, No. 2, No. 3
- For flat head screws: 5 to 10 mm
- For hexagon socket head cap screws: H1.5, H2, H3, H4, H5, H6, H8
- For Torx screws: T25, T30, T40, T45, T50
Especially for torx screws, some products are available in smaller sizes, so it is necessary to check the size compatibility with the intended use before purchasing. In addition to the bit itself, screwdriver bit sets often include a special holder for the bit so that the bits can be stored together.
By using the included holders, the bits are arranged in order of size and stored in an organized manner, preventing wrong-size bits from being lost or misplaced during work.
How to Select Screwdriver Bit Sets
The following points should be considered in selecting screwdriver bit sets.
1. Type of Tip Shape
It is important to check in advance whether the set has a combination of bits with the appropriate tip shape, size, and length for the screw holes to be used. The basic tip shapes are plus/minus, square, hexagonal, and torx.
2. Shaft Shape
There are two types of bit shaft shapes: round and hexagonal. The round shaft can be used for drill drivers, while the hexagonal shaft can be used for both drill drivers and impact drivers.
3. Insertion Dimensions
There are two types of bit insertion dimension standards: A and B.
- Type A
The length from the tip of the bit to the groove of the shaft is 13 mm and is mainly used for screwdrivers made by domestic manufacturers. - Type B
The groove from the tip of the bit to the shaft is 9mm or 9.5mm and is used for electric screwdrivers and air tools made by overseas manufacturers.
4. Convenient Functions
Bits with the following convenient functions are also available and should be selected based on whether they are included in the set or not.
- Magnetic Bits
The tip of the bit is magnetized so that the screw sticks to the bit. They can be tightened and removed without dropping the screws during operation. - Anti-come-Out Bits
These bits are designed to reduce cam-out (the lifting of the bit from the screw hole) during operation. - Torsion Bits
The center portion of the bit is thinned to release force when high torque is applied with an impact driver.