Modern technologies, equipment and tools have greatly simplified some construction operations. This is especially true for those processes where brute human force was used. For example, screwing/unscrewing screws or bolts. Today the problem is that screwdrivers have appeared. Let's figure out how to choose a screwdriver, what characteristics you need to pay attention to.
How to choose a screwdriver Source www.vesinstrument.by
Classification of screwdrivers
In principle, there is no classification as such. It’s just that many people confuse some screwdriver-like tools with it. For example, electric screwdrivers and impact wrenches. They differ from each other only in that they perform highly specialized work. Using the first one you can tighten/unscrew screws, screws and self-tapping screws. Using the second, nuts and bolts, that is, fasteners with hex heads.
A screwdriver differs from the two tools in that it is a universal device. It can be used to tighten or unscrew any type of threaded fastener. To do this, you just need to change the nozzle.
But it should also be noted that both electric screwdrivers and impact wrenches are quite popular today. For example, the first one. This is a small tool that has proven itself in hard-to-reach places. And also in places where it is inconvenient to use a large tool. These screwdrivers are used in the assembly of household appliances, small furniture and in other industries.
An electric screwdriver is similar to a screwdriver Source m1.repka.com.ua
Many builders give preference to them when the task is to build a suspended ceiling. Screwdrivers are a lightweight, convenient tool, so your hands raised up don’t get tired of them.
As for the varieties, there are two of them on the market:
- pistol type;
- cylindrical, which in its design has a hinge that allows the cylinder to bend at the required angle.
Small size and light weight are achieved through the use of batteries in the tool. Hence the low rotation speed - from 150 to 250 rpm. But it is enough to tighten any threaded fastener with a tightening of up to 10 Nm. Of course, there are also relatively powerful models on the market with rotation speeds of up to 600 rpm.
If you don’t have a screwdriver in your arsenal of household construction tools, you have a drill. That's why you can buy an electric screwdriver for it. It surpasses a screwdriver in its responsibilities, but is much inferior in functionality. Typically, the package includes several bits with hex shanks.
As for the impact wrench, this tool is rarely used in construction. It can be seen on assembly production lines or in automobile repair shops. This is where he comes in handy. This tool is available in pistol shape, cylindrical and angular.
We must pay tribute to the power of the impact wrenches; this characteristic varies from 350 to 1300 W. The rotation speed of the tool is low, but this is what makes it possible to increase the torque, which allows you to tighten the fastener up to 300 Nm.
Network-type impact wrench Source ozon-st.cdn.ngenix.net
What is the value of the device
Screwdrivers are sold with a set of additional accessories. These are various attachments and cartridges. And the devices themselves have several modes.
Thanks to this functionality, it is possible to perform a variety of operations:
- tighten screws and bolts, connect wooden and metal structures;
- disassemble structures, unscrewing screws and removing fastenings;
- effectively secure dowels and anchors;
- Using special nozzles, drill holes or form threads.
Portable and lightweight, the tool allows you to quickly carry out these operations without applying significant effort and without the risk of injury.
About screwdrivers
Choosing a screwdriver is not an easy process. Because there is a huge assortment of this tool on the market. Firstly, it should be noted that it has a basic pistol configuration. And this is the only criterion that is the same for all models. Accordingly, the filling of the instrument is the same. The housing is made either from impact-resistant plastic or in the form of an all-metal mold.
There is one more mandatory element in every screwdriver - this is a ratchet, also known as a torque limiting mechanism. That is, if the load limit on the tool has exceeded the required parameters, a characteristic sound is produced, indicating that work must be stopped.
So, what should you pay attention to when choosing a screwdriver for your home?
Rating of household screwdrivers
To choose a screwdriver wisely, it is not enough to focus only on the criteria for reliable operation. An objective rating and user reviews can provide a more complete picture of the advantages of a particular model.
| Manufacturer country | Model | Battery type | voltage , V | Battery capacity | Max torque , Nm | Number of speeds | Weight, kg | price, rub. | Comments |
| Japan | Hitachi (DS12DVF3) | Ni-Cd | 12 | 1,5 | 26 | 2 | 1,5 | 3019 |
|
| Germany | Bosch (GSR 1440 Li) | Li-ion | 14,4 | 1,5 | 30 | 2 | 1,3 | 4049 |
|
| Japan | Makita (6271 DWAE) | NiCd | 12 | 1,3 | 30 | 2 | 1,5 | 3750 |
|
| Germany | AEG (12C2 Li-KIT2B) | Li-ion | 12 | 1,5 | 34 | 2 | 1,2 | 4863 |
|
| USA, China | DeWALT (DW907K2) | NiCd | 12 | 1,5 | 20 | 2 | 1,6 | 3221 |
|
| Russia, China | "Interskol" (DA-14.4-ER) | NiCd | 14,4 | 1,5 | 15 | 2 | 1,9 | 2620 |
|
| Japan | Hitachi DS14DVF3 | NiCd | 14,4 | 1,4 | 34 | 2 | 1,8 | 6717 |
|
| Germany, China | Bort BAB-12-P | NiCk | 12 | 1,1 | 11 | 1 | 1,28 | 1760 |
|
Video: TOP 10 screwdrivers
Photo gallery: models from the rating
Hitachi DS12DVF3 screwdriver
Screwdriver Bosch GSR 1440 Li
Screwdriver Makita 6271 DWAE
Screwdriver AEG 12C2 Li-KIT2B
Screwdriver DeWALT DW907K2
Screwdriver "Interskol" DA-14.4-ER
Hitachi DS14DVF3 screwdriver
Screwdriver Bort BAB-12-P
Tool selection criteria and characteristics
If you are faced with exactly this question, then you must first decide for yourself - for what operations are you going to purchase this power tool. Plus, what will be the intensity of its operation. And this is precisely what can be considered the basic points from which you will have to build when choosing a screwdriver for your home.
Choosing the right screwdriver Source postroika.biz
Batteries
Whatever the experts say, you need to start your choice with power supplies, which in terms of price are half the cost of a screwdriver. And if the device is still in decent technical condition, but the batteries are “dead,” then you have a big problem. Because manufacturers try not to sell batteries separately. The reason is clear.
There are two characteristics of rechargeable batteries that form the basis for their selection. These are capacitance and voltage.
What depends on the voltage is the power of the tool and its torque. Accordingly, these two parameters determine the functionality of the screwdriver. Today, manufacturers offer power tools with voltages of 9.6 V, 12, 14.4, and 18. These are household-class models, while professional ones have characteristics up to 36 V.
Battery for a screwdriver Source psk-remont.ru
Which screwdriver to choose based on voltage from the range offered. The first one is very low-power. They can screw a self-tapping screw into drywall - nothing more. The last one is expensive. Therefore, we recommend a 14.4 V screwdriver.
Attention! In the model range of each manufacturer there are devices with almost the same characteristics. But their batteries have different voltages. Please note that power supplies cannot be replaced in this case. Because the electric motor of the tool is designed for a certain voltage.
Now, what is capacity, which is indicated in amp-hours - Ah or Ah. This parameter shows how long the tool can work without recharging the batteries. For household appliances, this characteristic does not exceed 2 hours.
So, two characteristics of power supplies. What else to pay attention to when choosing them. There are three types of batteries.
Screwdriver, batteries and charger Source i.ebayimg.com/
Ni-Cd – nickel-cadmium
These batteries are the cheapest, so manufacturers often use them in mid-range screwdrivers. So to speak, in mass use, although they have long been replaced by more modern models.
Their advantages include:
- low price;
- good tolerance to low temperatures;
- These devices are not afraid of full discharge, which greatly distinguishes them from other modifications.
However, it should be noted that Ni-Cd batteries have significantly more disadvantages:
- low capacity – no more than 2 hours;
- “lifetime” is minimal – no more than 1000 discharges/charges;
- self-discharging is a common thing, that is, if the screwdriver has been lying idle for a long time, then it will have to be charged;
- charging can only be carried out when the capacity is reduced to zero, without this it is useless to charge the tool, it will still be “0”;
- Batteries of this type are subject to special disposal because they can harm the environment.
And yet, nickel-cadmium batteries are considered workhorses, so to speak. If used correctly, they will more than pay for themselves.
Nickel-cadmium batteries inside the power supply of a screwdriver Source rusinstrument.com
Ni-MH – nickel metal hydride
This type of battery is an attempt to get rid of the shortcomings of the previous model. True, not everything worked out. Therefore, the advantages:
- harmless production and disposal;
- high capacity – up to 3 hours;
- compact dimensions;
- The memory is not so strong in terms of forced discharge to zero before charging.
Minuses:
- high cost compared to the previous power source;
- Recharge cycle has been reduced to 500;
- high self-discharge;
- do not work well in the cold;
- Batteries should not be stored in a completely discharged state.
Such a difference in price and low performance made these batteries unclaimed. So you won’t find screwdrivers with them.
Nickel-metal hydride batteries for screwdrivers Source elektroznatok.ru
Li-Ion – lithium-ion
We can say that this variety is the most modern and advanced batteries for power tools. And if you are faced with the task of choosing a cordless screwdriver, then choose one that includes this type of power supply.
Their advantages:
- you can recharge at any time, even when partially discharged;
- charging speed is high;
- high capacity;
- low self-discharge, if the device lies for a year without use, then it will discharge by 20%, no more;
- can be operated at low temperatures;
- recharge cycle – up to 3000.
Not without its drawbacks:
- high price;
- do not charge at low temperatures;
- You cannot discharge it to zero, because the batteries will not charge.
Manufacturers solved the last drawback simply. They insert a protective circuit into the electrical circuit of the screwdriver, which prevents the batteries from being completely discharged. And this circuit must include an indicator that shows the degree of charge. Conveniently, you can visually control charging.
Lithium-ion battery for a screwdriver Source postroika.biz
So, how to choose a cordless screwdriver for your home based on the type of battery installed. It is clear that many manufacturers, reducing the cost of tools, install nickel-cadmium models. They fully justify their price. But if you need a screwdriver that will work for a long time and not create problems in this regard, then choose expensive ones with lithium-ion batteries.
Advice! Choose a screwdriver that comes with two batteries. You work with one, keep the second on charge.
Which drill battery is the best?
Since in this article we provide a rating of cordless screwdrivers, before we begin comparisons and reviews of power tools, we will clarify what types of batteries there are, as well as their positive and negative sides.
Types of batteries:
- Nickel-cadmium. Such batteries are large in size, which is not always good from the point of view of compactness of equipment. The advantage of NiCd is its low cost and uninterrupted operation. They are not afraid of temperature changes. They can be charged many times. But the memory effect present here can play a cruel joke, to prevent which such a battery is sent for storage discharged to zero. It needs to be charged only when the battery is completely empty.
- Nickel metal hydride. "NiMH" are absolutely environmentally friendly and very light. Another significant advantage is the ability to function for quite a long time without the need to recharge. Such batteries have a memory effect, but not to such an obvious extent as their nickel-cadmium counterpart. Disadvantages: inability to withstand low temperatures. Even at -2, such a battery discharges itself. So storing the tool in an unheated room or in the trunk of a car is not permissible.
- Lithium-ion. Li-Ion batteries were developed relatively recently in 1991 by the Japanese corporation Sony. They do not have a memory effect; such batteries have a high capacity and long charge retention. Weigh 40% less than the models described above. Such batteries are often used in the design of professional, reliable screwdrivers.
Electromechanical characteristics
Here it is necessary to take into account the capabilities of two components: the electric motor and the gearbox. Let's start with the first one.
Today, some manufacturers still install drives with commutators and brushes in power tools. It's cheaper. A reliable design, but not without its shortcomings. The main disadvantage is the friction force between the brushes and the commutator. And friction is the release of thermal energy. Therefore, such devices heat up quickly. Often such an electric motor began to spark if work was carried out in damp rooms.
Today, brushless devices with electronic control have replaced the old model. Firstly, the absence of friction led to an increase in the screwdriver's power and, accordingly, productivity. Secondly, it became possible not to use the electric drive housing. That is, the parts are simply installed into the body of the tool itself. And this means weight reduction, plus ease of use.
As for the gearbox, when choosing, it is necessary to clarify what materials it is made of. The thing is that the gearbox experiences significant loads. And if it is made of low quality materials, then its lifespan is greatly reduced. For example, plastic gears will fail faster than metal ones.
Brush electric drive of a screwdriver Source ad-cd.net
And other characteristics that answer the question of which screwdriver is better:
- The rotation speed of the working body, or rather the spindle. There is no point in chasing high performance here, because 500 rpm is enough to screw in fasteners. If the screwdriver is also used for drilling, then 1500 rpm is also considered sufficient.
- Typically, the rotation speed changes when the trigger is pulled. The deeper, the higher the speed. There are models where there is a separate switch located on top of the case. This option is more convenient.
- Torque. Unit of measurement – Nm. An important characteristic on which the screwing force of the fastener depends. For example, 10 Nm is suitable for small fasteners. For large ones 25 Nm. It all depends on what hopes you have for the instrument.
Please note that a ring located near the spindle is used to change the torque. There is a scale on it. The numbers are simply a sequential number of torque increases, not a fastener diameter size.
Probably all screwdrivers have a function for switching the direction of spindle rotation. Without it, the instrument loses all its meaning.
Forced stop of spindle rotation. That is, as soon as the finger is removed from the trigger, the rotation should stop. All modern models have this function. But if you come across an old design of a tool, then it is better to abandon it.
Torque adjustment ring Source dominstrumenta.com.ua
Models with brushless motor
Tools of this type are more economical, but also more expensive. The consumption of electrical energy is directed only to ensuring the rotation of the working part of the unit and the equipment fixed in it. No energy is lost on the brushes, and the windings of the screwdriver motor do not heat up.
The brushless screwdriver has the following parameters:
- the presence of built-in electronics;
- reduced noise level;
- high indicator of working resource;
- uniformity of rotation;
- optimally selected dimensions;
- safety in operation;
- cooling system with air supply from below;
- hermetically sealed protection of the electrical part of the unit.
Types of cartridges
A review of screwdrivers shows that today almost all models are equipped with so-called quick-release chucks. It is with their help that you can quickly replace a drill or bit. This element is available on the market in two varieties: single- or double-clutch.
The first ones are easy to use. Installed with one hand. However, the spindle should not rotate. Therefore, many models have a locking function. It can be automatic, that is, as soon as the rotation has stopped, the spindle is blocked. And forced using a button.
Double-clutch chuck for screwdriver Source cdn.vseinstrumenti.ru
The latter are more difficult to operate. To replace the working tool in them, you need to hold the lower coupling with one hand, and release or tighten the upper coupling with the other hand.
There are also screwdrivers on the market with old jaw chucks, which require a special key. The latter always disappears somewhere, so replacing the working tool becomes a problem. But we must pay tribute that many masters keep the cam variety in reserve. With their help, you can bring the screwing to maximum parameters.
If your goal is how to choose a screwdriver for your home, that is, you will be doing small jobs using this tool, then we recommend purchasing a tool without a chuck. An adapter for a ¼-inch hexagon is installed at the end of the spindle.
Cordless drill device
When using a cordless screwdriver, it will be useful to understand how it works.
Any model has:
- body;
- DC electric motor;
- planetary gearbox;
- speed mode setting key;
- reverse button;
- quick-release chuck;
- load limiter;
- battery.
The electric motor in such a tool is considered a key component. The motor is made according to the standard standard and consists of a winding, an armature and graphite brushes. The voltage to the engine passes through the brushes. The direction of rotation of the motor is directly dependent on the polarity, which changes when the reverse key is pressed.
The presence of a planetary gearbox also cannot be underestimated. This element consists of ring and sun gears, a carrier and satellites. They usually fail when the drill is used, especially if all the gear parts are plastic, as in inexpensive tools.
The speed controller is a wide-pulse controller and switch made on the basis of a field-effect transistor. Control occurs through a variable resistor, while the speed of rotational movements of the cartridge is determined by the force of pressing the button.
Without a battery, of course, even the best screwdriver will not work, since it is the battery that provides constant voltage to the electric motor. With the development of technology, batteries have become more capacious and at the same time small in size. The battery includes several batteries located in one housing.
Other selection criteria
What other additional functions will help you choose a cordless screwdriver:
- If there is a shock function, then this is a big plus. It is clear that you cannot drill through concrete walls with a screwdriver, but it can handle brick or gas silicate without any problems.
- The removable side handle is also a plus when drilling. It emphasizes effort.
- Pulse work will make it possible to deal with rusted threaded connections. Electric impact wrenches have this feature by default.
- Built-in lighting located under the chuck or at the bottom of the handle. The latter option is preferable, because, as practice has shown, some cartridges block the LED beam.
- Product weight. The smaller it is, the more convenient it will be to work, especially at heights.
- Contents of delivery. The more additional elements, the better. For example, a flashlight, a charger, an additional battery, cases or belts into which the tool is inserted while working. Let's add a set of bits and drills, an adapter, a chuck, and an eccentric. The latter is used when it is necessary to transmit rotation to the working tool with an offset relative to the spindle axis.
Let’s make a reservation: the wider the equipment, the more expensive the instrument.
Belt for carrying a screwdriver Source i.ebayimg.com
Equipment
Like the types of screwdrivers, the equipment included with the tool can be different. In particular, the cost of a screwdriver also depends on this.
But it’s better to stick with the maximum configuration option. A replaceable battery will allow you not to be “idled” when the battery runs out at the most inopportune moment.
A variety of Phillips and regular bits will come in handy in a variety of situations.
What to pay attention to when purchasing
Each tool in the instructions has its own special performance indicators, which clearly demonstrate what this or that device is capable of. However, not everyone understands the nuances. We found out what details you should pay special attention to when buying a screwdriver:
• Torque and rotation speed - the stronger the torque, the more complex and difficult work the tool can do. Accordingly, the price of the product will increase depending on the power. In the description of the instruments, this indicator is measured in newton meters. For example, 5 Nm is the standard pressure of a person on a screwdriver, 10 Nm is already twice as much, because this is the force a person uses when tightening a self-tapping screw. If you need to screw something into a plastic surface or plasterboard, then you will need 20-25 Nm, and to work with metal products and screw screws into solid wood you will need a force of 30-40 Nm. As for the rotation speed, ideally there should be three of them up to 15,000 rpm. Such a tool will help you in any area of work that you find at home;
• Power - if we talk about devices operating from the network, then first of all you need to look at the number of revolutions, and only then at the power of the motor itself. For furniture and drywall, 5000 rpm is quite enough. With cordless screwdrivers, everything is a little more complicated, since it is important to take into account the voltage of the battery itself. 1.2 V is the minimum value comparable to a screwdriver, 10-15 V will be quite enough for driving self-tapping screws and screws, and for working with hard surfaces it is better to take models with 36 V - this is the maximum value.
Additional functions
In screwdrivers, as in other equipment, the more functions, the better and more comfortable it is to work with the device. In addition, the result of the work very often depends on additional functions. Therefore, you should pay special attention to them. Let's list some of the most important ones:
• impulse - this function is used if it is necessary to remove an old screw or self-tapping screw from wood that is already very rusty. Regular scrolling does not help in such cases, and the impulse unscrews the unwanted screws with strong jerks;
• impact - used in light finishing work, so, of course, a full-fledged hammer drill cannot be replaced here. But with foam concrete or red brick, a tool with this function will cope with a bang;
• number of speeds - if there is only one speed, then the range of work is significantly narrowed. But two speeds allow you not only to screw in screws, but also to drill holes with ease;
• reverse - in other words, counterclockwise torsion, which allows you to unscrew a screw or other fastener;
• lighting - people can work without it. However, after trying a backlit tool once, everyone understands how convenient it is.
