I’m sure you know what a multi-bit screwdriver looks like, but just in case, let’s start off with a good example – the new Wiha multi-bit drivers.
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There are many other sizes and shapes of multi-bit screwdrivers, but there’s one major commonality – built-in bit storage.
As long as it has multiple bit sizes and styles, it’s a multi-bit screwdriver.
Some interchangeable bit screwdrivers also have ratcheting mechanism.
But the point is this – on one hand, we have multi-bit screwdrivers that deliver x-in-1 functionality.
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And on the other side of things, we have screwdriver sets, individually-sized screwdrivers, and other one-tool-fits-one-size screwdrivers.
The “You Have to Pick!” part of the title is unfair, I know, but it’s a good exercise in sorting out one’s preferences and needs.
I love using multi-bit screwdrivers, but could give them up if I had to. Individually-sized screwdrivers, on the other hand – those would be tough to replace.
There are also bit sets, which can sometimes make up for the shortcomings of multi-bit screwdrivers, but they also don’t quite have all the benefits of individual screwdrivers.
Some bit sets have hex shanks, others have a proprietary connection. There’s also the option of pairing a bit holder with standard 1/4″ hex insert or power bits, but that’s usually just a multi-bit screwdriver without internal storage.
The Big Question – Which Would You Pick and Why?
Multi-bit screwdrivers excel in giving you x-number of screwdriver sizes and styles in a compact package.
Individual screwdrivers give you tip-specific handle shapes and sizes, and also shafts as narrow as they need to be. You can always find the ideal screwdriver size and shape for an application.
Can multi-bit screwdrivers replace individual drivers in ALL scenarios? No. Can individual screwdrivers replace multi-bit drivers in ALL scenarios? Possibly – things get complicated when you think about ratcheting mechanisms and special scenarios.
There’s no right answer to this question.
For me, I prefer and benefit from having both types of screwdrivers at my disposal. I need individual screwdriver styles for certain applications, and I also like the variety available to me.
But you also can’t pocket an entire screwdriver set in the same way you can a multi-bit screwdriver.
If I had to pick one, it would be individual screwdrivers. If a multi-bit shaft is too wide, or its bits too short, they won’t fit all of the types of fastening tasks I come across.
The reason for this post is because I’ve seeing a lot of polarized opinions. “Multi-bit screwdrivers are the ONLY choice.” Why?
Overwhelming preferences are okay, and I’d like to hear more about everyone’s choices and preferences.
Multi-bit screwdrivers or individual sizes, which would you choose, and which could you give up?
Stephen
For me there have been many times that a multibit screwdriver’s shaft is too large to fit inside a recessed screwhole which an individual screwdriver slips right in.
Also, multibit can get dislodged when pulling off some screwheads.
I like both but tend to lean toward individual screwdrivers.
Jim
I agreed for the longest time, and then I found this:
Klein Tools 32559 Multi-bit Screwdriver / Nut Driver, Extended Reach 6-in-1 Tool with Nut Driver, Phillips and Slotted Bits https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005FQDHDG
The bits are extended, and I can confirm they reach into IP10 terminals of a NEMA contactor, for instance. Since I found it it’s become my most-used screw driver by far.
Mike
If I were starting out from nothing today, I’d be buying individual screwdrivers. You can make them work in almost every situation vs a x-in-1 or ratcheting screwdriver which may not work. The drawback is size, and one might argue overall cost as well, to having a bunch of different screwdrivers. If I did go with a multi-bit/ratcheting deal it would probably be a Wera Kraftform Turbo set. Seems to be the thinnest of them all that I’ve seen.
Rog
INDIVIDUAL SCREWDRIVERS ONLY PLEASE (I’m that adamant…)
HushHouse254
With you on that. Bit drivers are a pain. The bits get stuck, fall out, lost, wear out. Not for me.
Hon Cho
In my view, when I work on a bench in a more or less fixed location on a specific type(s) of equipment, individual screwdrivers have more immediate utility. However, in recent years, I’m on the go and multi-bit and insert bit screwdrivers are a godsend. Yes, I still need individual screwdrivers for some things and nothing like a fixed blade screwdriver to misuse as a pry bar or punch.
I suppose I could give up most fixed blade screwdrivers but it would require a commensurate expansion of the range of insert bit screwdrivers and associated bits of varying lengths and diameters that I keep on-hand. For my work, I don’t see much gain by choosing one exclusive type.
Wayne R.
My sense of things too, though I’d easily forgo insert bits for power bits. Carrying around several sets of handles when ultimately they’re not needed (replaced by power bits & a couple of handles), is an easy trade.
In the field, the only motivator for full-handles (carried vertically in a Veto bag or belt-pouch) would be good, clear, durable handle-end markings of the business-end type. Klein’s good at that, but too many others just skip it; that’s a big mistake to me.
blocky
Spot on, both of you.
The number of times a multibit has saved me from the odd fastener in the field is 20x the number of times I’ve run into an access problem related to shaft diameter– and for me, that’s usually a PH2 with a narrow head. For the type of install I typically do (mostly art-hanging and fixtures), I’ve only once encountered a recess that was both too narrow and too deep for my Swisstool Spirit. In response, I carried a 4″ narrow ph2 power bit for the next 6 years. I never used it that way again.
Of course, I have dedicated handles at my bench and in task-specific kits.
Dean in Des Moines
In the shop – individuals.
In the house or travelling – multibit
I don’t have to choose, I have both. If I have to pick from the multibit drives, I like Piquic. They take standard 2″, chuckable bits. If I want I can put 12″ bits in the same handle.
Jared
My preferences are in line with Dean. I use individual drivers in my shop, but often multi-bit in the house or my tool bag.
While I prefer using regular screwdrivers, multi-bits can be incredibly handy.
My Felo magnetic bit holding screwdriver comes to mind – it’s a high-quality, comfortable bit holder. Not quite aligned with the subject multi-bits of this post, but I’ve taken to carrying it in my tool bag along with a “master” bit collection.
That has saved me the effort of running back to the shop numerous times – or the hassle of carrying a massive amount of dedicated screwdrivers just in case. Imagine how much larger my tool bag would need to be to carry 3-4 flat blades, 4 phillips, a pozi or two, a half dozen each of Torx and hex, etc.
Wayne R.
I’m reminded of those guys who’re always running back to the truck for one more tool, gotta save the effort of carrying in an actually usable set. Not the kind of guy I enjoy working with…
MM
First off let me preface this by saying that if a cordless power tool is appropriate for the job that’s what I’m going to grab first.
I always prefer to use individual drivers. The blade is generally more slender to reach into tight spots, there’s no hassle with swapping bits or having bits fall out, and there is never any wobble between the bit and the holder. I also like how the handle size is usually appropriate for the size of fastener. A #3 philips standalone driver usually has a big fat handle while a 4mm wide slotted driver has a small handle. With an all-in-one driver you’re compromising on handle size in one way or another.
That said, it’s impractical to own, or carry, a huge assortment of individual drivers. So there are situations where I use the multi-bit drivers. If I need to do some small project around the house like repace an outlet or fix the doorbell or whatever then I’m going to grab a mult-bit driver since it’s easy and it’s almost certain to contain the bit I need for a basic job. When I used to have to travel around to service lab equipment I had multi-bit drivers to save space. Currently I have standlone drivers for typical slotted/philips sizes, a #2 pozi, JIS, standard & metric nutdrivers and T-handle allens, and Torx. I use bits for everything else like square/robertson, security bits, tri-wing, etc. For those fasteners I just don’t use them enough to justify buying dedicated tools. I also have a Snap-on ratcheting screwdriver for tight places and it has its own set of extra-extra-short tips.
My precision bench is 100% individual screwdrivers.
My gunsmithing bench is all multi-bit. I mainly work on antiques and since the screws were handmade there is zero standardization. I have more than 80 slotted tips in a variety of widths and thicknesses and that’s still not enough, I still find myself having to grind tips to fit. Clearly it’s impractical to keep that many individual drivers, especially when each one gets used so infrequently.
Brandon B.
Multi-bit basically all of the time. If I need quick access to more than one size (usually Ph2 + 3/16 slotted) then I’ll run two multi-bit drivers at the same time. I just can’t go back to non-ratcheting screwdrivers unless absolutely necessary for access.
MoogleMan3
My ideal driver:
– Ratcheting is an absolute must!
– Locking bit holder is an absolute must!
– Uses standard driver bits.
That narrows it down quite a bit, but the wera 816 RA ratcheting driver handle ticks all my boxes. I can use 1″ bits with it in tight spaces, or 6″ bits if I need reach. Most often I’m using 2″ bits.
That driver plus a set of bits could pretty much replace all of my fixed blade drivers, and I’d lose no sleep over it. It’s what I use 98% of the time anyway.
Garrett
For any kind of work where I’m snaking my arms through a mechanical or wiring maze, I need screwdrivers that are one-piece/monolithic. I hate it when I retract the tool and the bit is missing. This happens occasionally with bits that lock on, as well. My travel bag is set up for auto, electrical and general work, so I do have 2 regular slotted drivers as well as a number 1,2 and 3 Phillips. To complement these, I carry a Wera bit handle and bit set containing torx, Robertson, hex, etc.
So for me, individual drivers = always.
Multi-bit = convenience, portability or flexibility.
Flotsam
i kind of still prefer dedicated screwdrivers for a lot of tasks. But if i’m putting together something like a piece of knock down furniture i have a electric screwdriver that i prefer. BTW they don’t make it anymore but i have the Ryobi TEK4 & a lot of extra batteries. Loads of torque, great tool
Yes ratcheting screwdrivers are fine and i have quite a few. But i tend to keep them in places where i don’t want to have a lot of tools stored (like in a car)
fwcc
tek 4 is great forsmall stuff
fred
I certainly have more fixed blade screwdrivers than I do multi-bit styles of hand drivers. When I work on a planned project involving hand screwdriving (e.g. brass hinges) – I choose the best-fitting fixed blade drivers. But the truth is that I probably use multi-bit drivers and driver bits much more often. That’s because I have multi-bit drivers scattered about (kitchens, desks, cars, garages, sheds and travel kits) – and can grab one faster than going down to my shop – even when I’m at my primary residence. I also naturally use driver bits when using a cordless power tool as the driver – as I would on most any house/garden construction project.
For some it may be a practical matter of cost. If you want or need to cover the plethora of styles of drive types – buying the AtoZ (BNAE to Xeno in this case) assortment of insert bits and a handled bit holder – is certainly cheaper and more space-saving than buying individual drivers.
In a prior post I was talking about Gunsmith’s – and here is an example of cost for buying individual drivers versus a multi-bit set:
https://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-tools-supplies/general-gunsmith-tools/screwdrivers-sets/fixed-blade-sets/fixed-blade-screwdriver-master-sets-prod78280.aspx
https://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-tools-supplies/general-gunsmith-tools/screwdrivers-sets/magna-tip-sets/professional-gunsmith-screwdriver-set-prod136516.aspx
JoeM
As long as it’s not those stupid double-end bits that drive me crazy, then multi-bit me to the grave. The only exception being demolition-class drivers where you’re meant to strike it with a hammer to remove or wedge stuff.
At least if you have a multi-bit driver, you can align a screw properly in a pinch, and swap out for a power tool to finish it off.
Might be handy to have a full set (FULL Set!) of individual drivers for more delicate applications, or disassembly. But those would sit in a box, in a corner or drawer, until such a need arose. 90% of the time it’s Bits. Yeah, consumable, disposable, replaceable… but the cost to replace those is a couple bucks at most for really high end quality *Cough*Wiha*Cough* instead of $8-40 each for a full screwdriver.
Plus… if you’re ever maintaining a multi-tool (Leatherman or the like… Oscillating Tools don’t qualify as Multi-Tools… that’s a poor misuse of the same word for two vastly different tools.) sometimes you need the same bit on two sides of the tool… That’s easier in a small space when a Bit is clamped down, and the tool is being pinned to it by another bit that you’re driving. Bits can be very versatile when improvising a jig for a job.
Steve
I prefer individual screwdrivers.
Side note:
Why can’t anyone make a bit driver set in assorted lengths? Like 2″/stubby, 4″, 6″, and 8″?
JoeM
…Where’s the “Amen” button? I’d settle for a “Hell yes!” button if not possible…
fred
how about the Klein adjustable length multi-bit handles (regular and stubby):
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Klein-Tools-14-in-1-Multi-Bit-Adjustable-Length-Screwdriver-32303/314975057
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Klein-Tools-8-in-1-Multi-Bit-Adjustable-Length-Stubby-Screwdriver-32308/314975056
Stacey Jones
How about just popping a few extensions in the toolbag? Something like these will give you childhood lego joy all over again!
https://www.ebay.com/itm/3pc-Magnetic-Drill-Bit-Extension-Holder-Set-3-4-6-Quick-Change-1-4-Hex-Shank-/390502676050
MM
I keep those in my toolbag and even in my small case of most-frequently-used impact driver accessories. They are extremely handy.
fred
For longer lengths Wood Owl (makers of some really good auger bits in Japan) make what they call “sword drivers” – extendable bit holders:
https://www.amazon.com/WoodOwl-05318-Swordriver-Multi-Length-Extension/dp/B01BK96O86/ref=pd_lpo_1?pd_rd_i=B01BK96O86&psc=1
2 holders cover lengths from 8 to 24 inches.
Stacey Jones
Thanks Fred, that’s now on my list of tools I don’t neef but want.😉
Matt the Hoople
Individual screwdrivers. There are limitations with multi bit. Standard screwdrivers come in lengths from stubby to a few feet long. Shafts are sized appropriately to fit down into the proper sized recessed hole for a screw. They multitask better into roles intended for other tools. They make better pry bars, chisels, hammers, punches, pokers, pushovers, scribes, etc. Yeah, yeah, right tool for the job I know. However, everyone has had a situation where they didn’t have the right tool at hand and needed to improvise.
Yadda
In the shop, individuals, in the house usually a multibit.
William
I think you basically answered the question, certain tasks are tough to accomplish with a multi but driver, but having a huge stay of big options, especially considering how portable and affordable they can be is a huge benefit. I find myself more and more grabbing a multi bit driver.
MT
House and car: multibit
Shop and electronics bench: individuals
Dennis Thurman
Multiple screws, multi bit screwdriver, but most of time individual screwdriver.
More stable, delivers more torque. With the battery drivers, we are seeing
Less use of hand tools. In some instances ,sad.
Steve
I always reach for individual screw drivers as my first choice. Just prefer the solidness. There is a simple pleasure in using a straightforward tool that fits just right even for something as mundane as a screw. I also have tons of multibits for security screws, drivers, tool boxes, stubby spots, etc. I use them where I need them.
Leo B.
I tend to reach for a multibit driver first, simply because they’re usually handy. If it’s a recessed screw, or somewhat corroded, I usually reach for a fixed tip driver. I wouldn’t carry multiple individual drivers in my tool belt; an 11-in-1 is simply more practical. If I need to get to a recessed screw, I always have my tool bag nearby, which has a longer shaft multibit driver as well as a slotted and Phillips fixed tip driver. Ratcheting is definitely a plus anywhere!
Daniel The Lion
Most of the reason I keep regular dedicated screwdrivers close to augment my small picquic driver in my tool belt is once or twice I couldn’t reach a recessed screw. I love the idea of a longer bladed multi-bit, which model do you like?
John Blair
If I could only have one style it would be individual screw drivers. Turns out on my tool belt/tote I end up using the same 5 screwdrivers over and over again.
I keep thinking I will love Multi Bit Products and I’ve bought too many over the years. The only one that sticks is the Wera Kompakt 25. Ratcheting just hasn’t helped enough to make it worth carrying anything longer. The Rapi-Driv does any low torque thing I would use a ratcheting screw driver for and for higher torque I always use a 12v drill driver.
John
I keep a multi-bit readily accessible in my home. It is great to grab for a quick task (opening a battery door, tightening a handle, etc). If I am doing a larger project that requires going to my tool area and picking out tools and materials for a task, I will grab the appropriate individual driver(s). I’ll also throw in a multi-bit as insurance against a trip back downstairs/inside/etc to get a driver I forgot.
Koko The Talking Ape
Multi-bit all the way, but only if it uses standard 1/4 insert bits.
Why? You mention two reasons
– More compact than a set of individual screwdrivers.
– Ratcheting.
But there are more advantages you don’t mention:
– You can use accessories such as shaft extensions and flex shafts.
– Adding new bit types is cheaper than buying new screwdrivers.
– The bits are always sharp and clean. If they begin to wear, you can just replace it easily.
That last one is the big one for me. Screwdrivers all wear out eventually. With bit-holding screwdrivers, the tip is disposable, so it’s always perfect.
The disadvantages of multi-bit:
– It’s hard to find a ratcheting, LOCKING bit driver with bit storage. I’ve found only one, a combination of a few Wera components, but it’s pricy.
– The shaft is somewhat thicker, maybe only at the tip. But that’s been issue for me only once or twice, when I was disassembling some old CRT monitors for example, and the screws were at the bottom of a narrow, deep hole. So I bought a single cheap individual screwdriver (and never used it again.)
Maybe if I did much repair or disassembly work, I’d feel differently. Or if I had money or space for dozens of individual screwdrivers.
You do say “Individual screwdrivers give you tip-specific handle shapes and sizes, and also shafts as narrow as they need to be. You can always find the ideal screwdriver size and shape for an application.” I see the point about the narrow shaft (as I said.) But I don’t see what you mean about handle shapes and sizes. A good handle is a good handle, regardless of the tip. You’re saying that a smaller handle is somehow better when the tip is smaller? I don’t see how. Precision screwdrivers might need narrow handles, but I have a separate multi-bit precision set that takes standard 4mm bits.
So multi-bit screwdrivers have several advantages and a few minor disadvantages (as long as they take standard 1/4″ bits.)
MM
In my opinion you technically can use nearly any size handle with any size tip but often times the ergonomics are poor. For example, suppose we have a big fat handle, like one might expect on a #3 philips or a large slotted screwdriver, but we have a small tip on it, like a 3/32nds hex or a 2mm wide slotted tip. With such a tool it would be extremely easy to overtorque the fastener, strip out the head, or damage the tip. The large handle may limit where the screwdriver can be used. I often encounter narrow deep holes or objects blocking access with insert tip drivers. On the other hand, say we have a #3 philips bit mounted in a compact-size handle. Sure its usable, but a fastener with a #3 head is probably rather large and therefore takes a lot of torque to drive…that’s not very comfortable with a narrow handle. Having the handle size matched to the expected amount of torque to be applied is a major improvement in ergonomics.
I’ll be the first to admit that this is becoming less and less important since we have a variety of excellent cordless tools these days, but there are some things that are best done by hand.
I think another disadvantage to multi-bit tools is that it takes time to assemble them, which is sometimes no big deal but often times a hassle if your job requires multiple bits but you only have one handle so you’re constantly swapping back-and-forth.
An advantage that some multi-bit tools have is that they are extensible. I had a set like that back in my lab days, it was nice to keep the screwdriver short for most tasks but to be able to extend it for longer reach. Obviously that doesn’t work with short bits, but it is possible with long ones. Another massive benefit of multi-bit tools that take 1/4″ hex bits is they can be adapted to square drive for sockets, and now there are more things that can be done with them. (Or you could keep a dedicated hex handle in your toolbox)
Hey Stuart, while we’re on the subject of screwdriver optimization, what’s the chance you’ll review these babies:
https://www.wihatools.com/screwdrivers/microfinish-non-slip-grip/heavy-duty/microfinish-extra-heavy-duty-slotted-phillips-8pc-set
Koko The Talking Ape
All your points are good, MM. I should’ve thought of them myself.
Except this one: “With such a tool it would be extremely easy to overtorque the fastener, strip out the head, or damage the tip.”
I’ve driven many hundreds of small, soft machine screws into threaded sheet metal (assembling and disassembling computer equipment), using all kinds of drivers: big, small, everything. I’ve never overtorqued or damaged a screw or a driver. Nor have I stripped out a threaded hole.
A fat handle makes it POSSIBLE to apply more torque, but it doesn’t mean you WILL apply more torque.
Actually I liked the fatter handles, because it gave me finer control. Often I just held the handle in my fingertips. There the ratchet function was really helpful, because you could advance the screw a click or two, rotate back, drive a little more, all without having to reposition your fingers. An electric driver would’ve been faster, but I’d have to trust the clutch a lot before I used one. Also, dropping one into a computer could nick the motherboard or something.
MM
You’re 100% right that it’s a possibility, not a guarantee, that someone will over-torque something with an excessively large handle. But I think it is a factor to some degree. When I first started my machine shop I kept full-size Torx and Hex drivers around at every machine station since these are very commonly used for changing the carbide inserts on both lathe and mill tooling. These are usually quite small sizes, T5, T7, 3/32nds allen, etc. I quite soon had an epidemic of screws getting broken and heads stripped out. Some of the workers were careful, but not all. And even a careful worker can slip up and accidentally gorilla something after getting tired towards the end of the day. I got rid of the full-size screwdriver handles and bought sets of Wiha flag-handle keys instead. The problem disappeared overnight.
Brian Collins
Koko,
Can you let us know what Wera components you put together to make a bit locking ratcheting screwdriver?
Thanks,
Brian Collins
Koko The Talking Ape
IIRC, it was a Wera Kraftform Kompact (that has bit storage), and then a separate ratcheting and locking chuck, which I’m having trouble finding right now. Maybe they discontinued it, sorry.
There are other Kompacts with ratcheting, locking chucks but they don’t have bit storage. Which I think is weird, but oh well.
Stacey Jones
I’d argue that a good flex head bit ratchet with a few extensions will do anything a dedicated screwdriver will do. I much prefer carrying/finding the right bits than carrying/finding the right screwdriver. Less weight.
A dedicated screwdriver might be more convenient for repeatedly working with the same screw though. I do find it easier to keep engaged on slotted heads. The lack of ratcheting feature sucks.
Stacey Jones
I have a lot more bit drivers and ratchets than I really need, but if forced to throw all but one out, this would be the lone survivor, but I would add a couple more extensions. I paid a bit less for mine.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Wurth-29-Piece-Flexible-Head-Ratcheting-Bit-Wrench-with-Bit-Set-5988061420-/265180310375
Koko The Talking Ape
I’d agree. You also get more torque with less effort. You can also use a flex extension if you want. Also the bits are easily replaced, and always sharp. Etc. 🙂
Daniel The Lion
I also like to have both options available for different applications. Used to default to older Craftsman screwdrivers, however newer versions (several years ago) phillips and even flat blades would wear and distort quickly. Left bad a bad taste and I’ve replaced all except older versions for automotive use.
Multi-Bit –
Picquic Dash 7 – really handy compact size, dedicated carry in my tool belt (trim
carpentry). Bonus. bits work great in drill/impact driver
Lenox Multi-bit – dedicated for around the house (quick grab if not sure what I’ll
encounter)
Dedicated Screwdrivers
Klein Set – Great screwdrivers (I found newer craftsman drivers soft and would
distort quickly), carry these in a tool bag for cabinet installs. Also, sometimes
the thicker shaft of multi-bit drivers don’t allow the bit to reach down in
recesses and need a regular screwdriver. I find the rubber grip has some flex
that allows better grip and feels like may help torque down with more force.
Assorted older Craftsman and Snap-On for automotive use – for automotive I
find precision to be less necessary, typically pry things apart and pop open
plastic connectors more than actual driving of fasteners. Also, I’ve found the
handles still worked well when inevitably greasy and in the case of craftsman,
used to be easy to replace at local Sears if broken.
Rob
Full drivers in the shop. Bits and bit drivers on the go. I use the PB Swiss ratchet (I honestly never use the Snap-On one but it’s pretty good too) and the Wiha with the “Centrofix”. Every so often I use the Wiha 4mm bits. 1/4” bits for handwork are all PB Swiss. 6-in-1 and 11-in-1 style are pretty useless in the modern era with 70 million different possibilities to run into. Keep the demo drivers with chisels and prybars for when I need to do the boom boom.
Chris
I’m going to say individual screwdrivers. However only under the circumstance that they’re organized easily accessible.
Not practical for on the go applications in my opinion. Full sets take up lots of space and I’d say for most jobs, a bit screwdriver would work well. But I always find myself going to the individual screwdriver I need 95% of the time.
John
Another vote for individual screwdrivers. I have several multi drivers but except in certain scenarios having the correct size screwdriver works out better instead of looking for the correct bit.
Kevin
If you can afford it, I say always go for high quality individual. Maybe it’s just me but I feel like the tool transmits how much torque you’re applying when they’re positively affixed together, as opposed to multi bit drivers where there’s some slop b/w connecting points. Also they will always handle tight clearances better. The only exception I’m my case is precision screwdrivers. If I’m working on something small, I like that the package of tooling is also small. I don’t need to have a tool rig that’s 10X larger than what I’m working on. Also I’ve never had a problem with clearances yet I’m this department. It’s very rare that the acre will be recessed farther than the precision bit protrudes, and even then, the driver shaft is thinner than your a non-precision screwdriver.
Koko The Talking Ape
Well, the slop won’t affect transmitted torque. The amount of slop is tiny, and once it’s taken up, 100% of the torque is transmitted to the screw.
Now, if the slop had FRICTION, then you would lose efficiency (minutely), because taking up the slop would be work that didn’t translate into turning the fastener. But there’s virtually no friction there.
But less slop just FEELS better, and I’ll grant you that. 🙂
MFC
Individual for most things. Multi for that one random screw.
Ball_bearing
My dream is to have a bench with multiple sets of fixed blade screwdrivers. ESD, VDE, Precision, Demolition, in all available tip profiles.
If I was looking for an ultra portable set, a good compromise would be a power bit set with a bit-holding screwdriver handle.
Bits can be densely packed/stored, and the length of the power bits could approximate the feel of a fixed blade Screwdriver.
It is also easier to find a security power bit set than it is to find a full set of security/specialty fixed blade screwdrivers.
Peter Fox
I prefer a compromise between fixed blade and insert bit drivers.
6mm double ended hex blade drivers such as the Wera 05002901001 Vario Ratcheting Screwdriver or the Wiha Drive Loc VI system. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004VMWXDK
https://www.amazon.com/Wiha-28199-Drive-Loc-Interchangeable-Durable/dp/B000T9SBNK
You get most of the access and rigidity of fixed blade drivers with most of the compactness of insert bit drivers. One handle and a assortment of blades can cover almost anything. I have the Wera in my tool belt that I use everyday and it is great.
Jerry
I’m gonna be a rebel and say both. Doing a field repair 90%+ of the time something like the Mega pro you pictured will do the job, and do it with only one screwdriver instead of a set. I only get ones that have holders for each individual bit, the ones where you dump the bits in a hollow are not for me. Lost too many bits that way.
Right now I have 2 favorites, the Megapro with lots of bits in the handle, each held in its own little clip, and the Wera Rapidaptor with the extendable, removable, locking bit holder. I REALLY like the locking bit holder, and if someone makes one like the Megapro with a locking g holder, I’d buy it in an instant. Which one I grab depends on if I feel need the locking bit holder, or could run screws with a drill, I grab the Wera. If I have no clue what I’m running into and want a bit for every situation, I grab the Megapro.
For worming in the shop, though, it is a good set of individual drivers held in an organizer in an easy to reach spot.
W00dy
As most people say, both!
I really like individual drivers for being faster then changing bits. And the longer shafts with less thickness for reaching down tight spots.
I have several tip style sets available at home. I really like the Hultafors handle and have some Irazola made Bahco hex drivers. A Torx set by Wera (don’t like the handle that much but they work great) etc.. etc..
I have serveral multibit sets with handle and or ratchet Wera Toolcheck Plus and Wiha System 6 (downside to the Wiha is a proprietary blade type) those blades you can set to different lengths! And they save my back(weight) and enable me to do most things ‘in the field’
I almost never use Phillips bits here in Europe, but working on toys or electronics I always grab a Philips 1 driver to take with me.
bobad
I do unspeakable things with my regular screwdrivers that a multi-bit can’t do, so regular it is.
Nathan
if I was starting over today, and had nothing.
I would get a quality bit holder in magnetic and it doesn’t have to have bit storage in the handle. nice but not a hard requirement.
I would get a stubby bit holder in magnetic – same other comments.
I would then add to that a ratcheting handle of some sort – probably not a double drive but I love my gear less.
Then I would buy quality bits in both 1 inch variety and power 2 inch variety.
Now other things not discussed – I would have a bit holding socket (I have 2 1/4 and 3/8) and I would have power tools. I say this to point out that over 80% of my screw drive is done with power today and the hand work is minimal. Unless putting together delicate electronics or putting in brass screws into wood.
Now I keep 2 multi bit jobs in the house – for incidental work. but I don’t like double end bits normally – so in the garage or in the work bag is usually bit holders for the various items and at least one handle. I do still have a set of individual drivers but they get rare use these days.
colin smith
i use trend snappy bits
Alan Terrill
My preference is for fixed blade ratchet screwdrivers and yet I’ve not been able to find a single one currently being sold. I’ve got three sizes of posidriv ratchet screwdrivers which cover all my needs, but they’re getting quite old now. Why are all ratchet screwdrivers multi bit sets?