The Southwire 8-piece screwdriver set includes eight different drivers. There are three slotted “cabinet” screwdrivers, two keystone slotted screwdrivers, two #2 Philips drivers, and a square (“Roberts” style) driver. While screwdrivers may not seem like an exciting tool to review (and indeed, for the most part they aren’t) there are some things to know about a tool you’re going to spend an awful lot of time using if you’re an electrician or do other MRO work.
Southwire 8-piece Screwdriver Set Features
Of those things you want to pay attention to is the comfort of the handle. The Southwire 8-piece screwdriver set is made up of drivers with a cushioned grip that lets you hold the driver firmly, apply all the torque you need, and not fatigue your hand in the process. A hexagonal bolster on the shaft allows you to use a wrench or pliers to apply additional torque as needed to break away tough fasteners.
The shaft of these drivers (all eight) are made with chrome-plated stainless steel that resists twisting. The ends of the handles are marked for easy identification of both the tip type and size. The tips of the screwdrivers are machined with a black phosphate tip to increase friction and reduce slip.
Southwire Drivers included
- Slotted 3/16″ x 4″ (SD3/16C4)
- Slotted 3/16″ x 6″ (SD3/16C6)
- Slotted 1/4″ x 4″ (SD1/4K4HD)
- Keystone 1/4″ x 4″ (SD1/4C4)
- Keystone 5/16″ x 6″ (SD5/16K6HD)
- Phillips #1 x 3″ (SD1P3)
- Phillips #2 x 4″ (SD2P4HD)
- Square Tip #2 x 4″ (SDQ2P4)
Keystone vs. Slotted Flat Screwdrivers
While you may think all slotted screwdrivers are the same, there are actually a couple variations. The chief variation involves the shape of the blade profile. The keystone slotted screwdriver is the most common variety and features a tip that flares slightly into a tapered end. It gives you additional torque when driving. The other type is a straight slotted screwdriver which lacks any sort of taper from the shaft to the end of the blade.
I used the new Southwire 8-piece screwdriver set in a variety of applications, from simple outlet replacement to installing some new breakers into a 200-amp service panel. I found it easy to torque down hard on the drivers, but I was equally impressed with the non-slip tips and how they stayed put when doing more delicate tasks like removing switch plate covers and tightening the screws for latch sets and deadbolts.
Conclusion
These screwdrivers have a lot of the features I look for in a good quality hand tool. You’ve got everything from easy tip identification to a comfortable grip and the ability to apply torque as needed. This is a great all-around set of drivers that can cover a variety of applications.
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