In the power tool segment, screwdrivers occupy one of the leading places in terms of sales. This assistant is in demand in construction, in production and in the household, that is, wherever work with screws, screws and screws is required. In addition, no popular line is complete without modifications with the drill function, which also expands the scope of the tool. The following review of screwdrivers will help determine the choice of a specific model for the entire range of technical and operational capabilities and design features.
Key Features
Operating parameters do not always determine the operational potential of screwdrivers, but at least indicate boundaries for the targets. This is especially true of models from eminent manufacturers that indicate characteristics that correspond to actual data. Conversely, when buying a tool from little-known and secondary companies, there is a risk of getting a poor-quality or simply not matching the stated performance indicators. So, when choosing, the following set of technical characteristics of a screwdriver should be considered:
- Power. The reference value, on which the ability of the tool to cope with tasks of varying degrees of complexity will ultimately depend. In the case of network devices, the average range is 750-2000 W, and for models with battery power, the power potential is determined by voltage - from 12 to 24 V on average.
- Torque. The efficiency of the apparatus in terms of traction value will depend on this indicator. Low-power screwdrivers with a torque of up to 25 Nm are suitable for small hardware, and large and problematic screws can only be pulled out by 40-50 Nm tools.
- Rotation frequency. In other words, the torsion speed of the spindle. This feature is more important for screwdrivers with a drill function. On average, the range is 0-3500 rpm, but not even the maximum values are important, but the ability to control speed modes (from 1 to 3). The more steps, the wider the range of tasks that a specific model can effectively solve.
- Weight. It would seem that from the point of view of working capacity this is a completely insignificant characteristic. But lightweight screwdriver models, like the Patriot BR 111Li and Makita TD0101F weighing up to 1 kg, put less strain on the arm, which increases working intervals. On the other hand, heavy vehicles weighing more than 4-5 kg compares favorably with high power and structural additions.
Electric screwdrivers as an entry level screwdriver
Even in professional construction, the power of a screwdriver is not always in the foreground. Small serial operations to tighten fasteners in facing events rather require the convenience of a tool. Electric ergonomics, maneuverability and comfort in physical handling are oriented on electric screwdrivers.
What distinguishes this tool from a full-fledged screwdriver? Firstly, the absence of a cam lock - this in principle eliminates the possibility of using a drill. Secondly, the presence of one speed, but in the basic range, you can change the tension force by changing the pressure on the power button. This is another ergonomic advantage, which is manifested during frequent and small operations on the twisting and twisting of hardware.
Of course, when buying such a tool, one must also prepare for serious performance limitations. A modest weight of the order of 0.4-0.6 kg determines the maximum torque of up to 22 Nm at a power of 7.2 V in battery devices. By the way, this segment practically does not offer network models. Which screwdriver to choose for working with small-format fasteners? If we are talking about installing electricians and simple installation operations on a regular basis, it makes sense to opt for the Einhell BT-SD 3.6 / 1 Li and Ryobi CSD4107BG options. Hitachi DB3DL2 and Zubr Transformer-M screwdrivers are more suitable for infrequent domestic work.
Screwdriver with drill function - pros and cons
In the future, categories will be considered in which there are multifunctional drill / drivers, so it is worth initially deciding how useful such a tool can be.
So, in its pure form, a screwdriver resembles the electric screwdriver described above - its characteristics are sharpened to perform fast, maneuvering and serial operations without any hitches and stops. Obviously, a heavy apparatus with several operating modes and a cam mechanism for fixing the drill is unlikely to be effective in this format of operation. How to choose a screwdriver with a drill function so that it meets the widest possible range of tasks?
You should immediately abandon the concept of high power with an optimized lightweight design. The strength of the drill / driver is its versatility in terms of operating modes and regulatory capabilities. Such models flexibly adapt to difficult working conditions with multi-format fasteners. To do this, consider the presence of a keyless chuck or hexagonal shank.
Much of the nature of the operation of a power tool determines the type of power supply. It has already been said that there are network and battery models. The screwdriver reviews below will reveal their features, pros and cons.
How to choose battery models?
Mobility and non-volatility (conditional) are the main advantages of representatives of this category. The presence of an integrated power element, of course, does not relieve the user of the need to periodically refer to a 220 V outlet, however, work operations can be performed anywhere away from the network. How to choose a cordless screwdriver? In this case, you need to evaluate the type of battery and its characteristics.
Battery capacity is directly responsible for the period of an independent working session. The higher this value, the longer the operator will be able to use the tool. And the capacity indicator on average varies from 1 to 3-4 A * h. But it should also be understood that a solid potential will require more time to charge, for example, the difference can be 7-10 hours. It is equally important to choose the right type of battery. At the moment, lithium-ion cells (Li-Ion) dominate due to their compactness, high energy efficiency and the ability to recharge at any flow rate. The most popular competitor of this battery is the nickel-cadmium battery (Ni-Cd), which is appreciated for the fast charging process, the highest current output and stability at low temperatures of about -20 ° C.
Cordless modifications almost captured the market for power tools, which can complicate the choice of a particular device. Which is better to buy a screwdriver in this niche? If you need a home assistant without any claims to power, you should give preference to the modest and inexpensive offer of Russian designers "Caliber DA-12-2A" with a voltage of 12 V and a battery capacity of 1.2 A * h (by the way, the Ni-Cd element is used ) But for responsible work, it is worth watching one of the versions of the new DeWALT line - XR FLEXVOLT. The company offers convertible devices with voltage from 18 to 54 V. For comparison, not so long ago, batteries for 24-36 V. were considered record-breaking even for shock models.
Top Network Screwdrivers
Unlike a cordless tool, traditional network models work only with reference to a power outlet, which has its own strengths and weaknesses. Firstly, disposal of the battery in the construction has a positive effect on the weight and environmental safety of the device. Secondly, you can count on non-stop operation, not paying attention to the battery charge indicator. In addition, the power of network models, as a rule, is higher with the same initial data.
Which is better to buy a screwdriver from this segment? One of the most affordable low-power models is the Special BSHE-350. The power potential is only 350 watts, and the torque is 20 Nm. But on the other hand, a rotation speed of up to 800 rpm and drilling support make this device optimal for standard household tasks. In the middle class, you should prefer a solid Makita TD0101F percussion instrument. At low power, the Japanese screwdriver produces a torque of 100 Nm and a speed of up to 3600 rpm. It is also worth noting the presence of backlight and shock function.
The best option for the professional
This group of tools is characterized by technical endurance, reliability of the element base and a powerful electric motor. Which professional screwdriver is better? It is advisable to immediately focus on large manufacturers such as Bosh, Makita, etc. For example, in the family of the German manufacturer, the cases of professional devices are blue - these are models of the GSR and GSB families. A universal solution is the GSR 12V-15 FC version, which is suitable for work in hard-to-reach and simply uncomfortable places. The kit provides 5 options for accessories from the FlexiClick family - including bits for fasteners, angle heads for drilling, etc.
But what is better to buy a screwdriver if the bet is not on functionality, but on productivity. Complex repair, installation and production tasks are effectively solved by Makita DDF454RFE. The advantages of this "professional" owners include a torque of 80 Nm, a metal gearbox and a four-pole engine. Together, this power tool allows you to perform operations in solid-state materials at high speed.
In what cases do you need a tape screwdriver?
This tool is also called a store tool and is classified as a specialized category of professional screwdrivers. To understand the specifics of the tasks solved by such devices, it is worth recalling electric screwdrivers. They are designed for quick service of small hardware in line mode. Tape models, in turn, are also used for serial work with a heavy load, but already with large fasteners. For example, it can be the sheathing of internal walls or the fixation of massive wooden structures to facade surfaces.
The most pronounced difference between store screwdrivers can be called the automatic supply of hardware. Consumables can be ribbons with screws and screws with a capacity of up to 50 pcs. How to choose a good screwdriver from this group? Two models can be cited as an example:
- Metabo SE 4000. The device is recognized by experts as the best tape screwdriver. Using it, you can serially and non-stop tighten up to 50 screws up to 55 mm long and a rod diameter of about 5 mm.
- Bosch GSR 6-45 TE. A specialized tool specifically for working with drywall. The advantages of this model include electronic speed control, reverse function and ergonomic design.
Which screwdriver is suitable for home?
For homework, compact, maneuverable and ergonomic models with protective functions are usually chosen. One of the simplest representatives of this class from a large company is DeWALT DCD790D2. The device does not shine with performance, but it fits well in your hand, has an automatic LED-backlight and comes with a universal charger.
If there are higher requirements, then the choice of a screwdriver for the house can be made in favor of the domestic modification "Interskol DA-18ER". This is an average unit in terms of power, providing speeds up to 1100 rpm at 16 Nm. As for operational capabilities, the model allows you to drill steel sheets up to 10 mm thick and wood materials at 18 mm. Moreover, the manufacturer also focused on the possibility of remote work in the country or in the garage without access to the network. For this, a battery was used, charging no more than 1 hour, and its interchangeable analogue was provided in the kit.
How to choose a screwdriver for functionality?
The general optional additions that will be appropriate in any power tool include reverse, soft start, the aforementioned backlight, safety systems (from overheating and overvoltage) and accidental blockers.
Especially for twisting and twisting operations, it is recommended to take into account the presence of a torque coupling. This is a structural addition, thanks to which the user gets the opportunity to fine-tune the torque. It is this function that will provide the adjustment of the tension force, which will allow you to work effectively with hardware of various formats. Another question is important here - which is better to buy a screwdriver in order to minimize the risk of damage to the working material? For example, if you plan to tighten a long screw at a certain level, where the wiring begins. In such situations, a special depth gauge will help, which will stop at a given distance.
What consumables will be required for a screwdriver?
The efficiency and quality of work operations will depend on how well the equipment was chosen. For screwdrivers as such, bits are used predominantly. With the help of such a nozzle, the hardware is twisted and twisted. Bits differ in the material of manufacture, shape and size - the choice should be made with reference to a specific self-tapping screw, screw or screw. A universal solution will be to purchase a kit with nozzles of various formats, covering the full range of popular fasteners.
In addition, a good screwdriver is rich in equipment in terms of the availability of protective accessories. Since this is a power tool, glasses, earplugs and work clothing are mandatory. Of course, for one-time domestic operations this is not so important, but in regular production operations, the conditions should be as safe as possible.
Which company to buy a screwdriver?
Belonging to one or another manufacturer will also say a lot about the tool. Even with equal technical parameters and a set of functions, operating practices can leave different impressions. The difference is manifested both in small ergonomic details and in the durability of the element base.
For professional and responsible work, of course, you should contact Bosch, Metabo, DeWALT, etc. Under these brands, models with reliable electric motors, electronic protective systems and the presence of insulators under the case are produced. The main disadvantage of premium devices is the cost - from 5-7 to 20 thousand rubles. But for domestic use in this class, you can find the best solutions in terms of price and quality. For example, which Makita screwdriver is best for irregular repair work at home? In total for 5 thousand rubles. the Japanese offer a compact and productive modification TD0101. The case of this screwdriver can be kept on weight for a long time, screwing the same casing during the repair process.
The budget segment is mainly represented by Russian companies - Caliber, Zubr, Interskol, Enkor, etc. What are these products good for? First of all, of course, at a price. Balanced by characteristics, screwdrivers for most typical tasks in this segment can be purchased for 2-3 thousand rubles. We are not talking about a high work resource, but the nature of irregular household operation does not impose such requirements.
What else to look for when buying?
When the target model is determined, the last but no less crucial stage of the choice remains. It is necessary to assess the state of a particular instance by checking its performance. But first you need to unpack the tool, conduct a revision of the configuration and connect the equipment to the network. In the case of the battery version, the condition of electrical accessories is separately checked - from the power supply to the charger. After switching on, the operation of the spindle, backlight and other functions that are activated during operation are evaluated. Particular attention is paid to the mechanism of bit capture. The keyless chuck must securely fix the snap and easily release it when performing the appropriate manipulations.
In case of detection of malfunctions or breakdowns, already in the course of work, you should think over the maintenance scheme in advance. Where can I buy a screwdriver with the ability to access the services of the manufacturer?As a rule, these are dealerships or chain stores of a building tool, which together with the goods provide certificates of conformity and a warranty card. By the way, the warranty for screwdrivers is on average 1-3 years. This nuance should also be considered before choosing a supplier company.
Conclusion
As practice shows, a modern power tool gradually dispels the myth that having a wide range of functions and capabilities reduces the quality of work. At the very least, segment leaders are releasing models that seamlessly combine structural reliability, performance and rich optional equipment. It remains only a matter of price and ergonomics. Can one of the representatives of the premium class be able to combine these qualities in itself - the Bosch screwdriver? What is the best option for the combination of qualities? As a universal solution, GSR 12V-15 FC can be recommended at a cost of about 10 thousand rubles. This model will have many close analogues from the Makita or Hitachi family, but it makes sense for home masters to appreciate the advantages of the budget version with similar characteristics of Stavr DA-18 / 2LK. This screwdriver just shows an example of the implementation of modern capabilities in an inexpensive design. But on the other hand, it is important not to forget about the working life of the tool and its technical reliability.