Are you keen to learn more about screwdriver bits? 

Screwdrivers are a primary tool in any labour work. Selecting the right tools designed with the right features can make your DIY project experience far more manageable. You’ll be able to drive screws into a range of surfaces without any problem. But for any screwdriver to work, you need the right screwdriver bits. 

Screwdriver bit sets are incredibly convenient to get simple jobs done with minimum trouble and strain by you physically. You can assemble and maintain objects, tackle construction jobs, and much more.

Screwdriver bits are key items if you want to keep your toolbox equipped with quality tools, components, and attachments. Here is everything you need to know about these interchangeable components for more accessible home renovations. 

What are screwdriver bits?

A screwdriver bit is a tool for driving screws into a surface. It is a detachable and interchangeable component that can fit almost all drilling power tools. The screwdriver bit has a tip that perfectly fits the head of the proper screw, allowing the screw to rotate correctly. 

Screwdriver bits are manufactured to drive and extract screws. They come in a range of designs to fit the many screw types and come with features to suit specific applications. 

A screwdriver bit set is one product with several bits, of various shapes, sizes, and accessories. Overall, screwdriver bits are the key to transforming any task requiring screws into a straightforward job, no matter your experience level. 

There’s no denying a technique is required to drive screws the right way, but the bottom line is to select the proper screwdriver bit for the screw type. Screwdriver bits come in different categories, with popular products including Phillips, Torx, and slotted. 

With the wrong bit for the fastener type, you could end up with many issues, including split timbers, damage to work surfaces and tools, and an overall messy job. 

How do screwdriver bits work?

Most screwdriver bit sets are designed to fit drilling power tools. All screws have a unique head that enables the tip of a screwdriver to sit in place and torque easily. Torque tools force the screw to rotate and drive into the desired surface. 

Whatever tool you are using, the bit must securely attach to the chuck of the driver or bit holder to work correctly. When ready, you can insert the driver tip into the drive head of an appropriately chosen screw. The screwdriver then provides the force that twists the screw into place fast and efficiently. 

The screwdriver bit must match the drive head of the screw. With the right tools, you save time, and the items will deliver results with the minimum physical effort required by you. 

Now you understand what it is and how it works, you can assess screwdriver bits more appropriately as you shop.

5 Common screwdriver bit types

You’ll find all sorts of screwdriver bits on the market, both in store and online. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a trading professional, there are some common bit types that you will come across. Here we discuss 5 recognisable screwdriver bits available today.

1.  Phillips 

Phillips, also known as PH, is perhaps the most recognisable screwdriver in Australia. Phillips drives are easily identified by their cross-shaped tip, which matches the popular cruciform screws. They are available in several sizes depending on the task at hand. 

While most people want to avoid cam-out (the process in which the screwdriver slips from the screw head when the torque becomes too much), Phillips bits are created explicitly to cam out. Camming out prevents any overtightening from damaging the fastener and the workpiece.

2.  Torx

Torx screwdriver bits are shaped like a star and are sometimes referred to as star drives. They are used in numerous applications as they provide a secure grip. Due to their unique design, Torx bits are less inclined to cam out of the screw head. A wide range of sizes is available in today’s market. 

3.  Slotted

Although used regularly in the past, slotted tool bits are less common in the modern community as they are generally unsuitable for power tools. When the device gains speed, the driver bit has a tendency to twist out from the screw head, causing potential damage to the workspace. 

They are still available to shop in hardware stores should you need this particular screwdriver bit. 

4.  Pozidriv

The Pozidriv drill bit features a design similar to the Phillips bit. You can think of them as an upgrade. They feature a cross-shaped tip but differ from the Phillips drive in terms of how they work. The unique design supplies a better grip mitigates the likelihood of camming out, and reduces wear and tear. 

If you are shopping for screwdriver bits, make sure you can differentiate between Phillips and Pozidriv products.

5.  Tamperproof Torx

Tamperproof Torx bits are like Torx bits as they also feature a star-shaped tip. The main difference lies with the hole in the centre, which allows security screws to be inserted and stops the traditional Torx driver from being used.

Many select this screwdriver bit for better security measures, like restricting access. As the name suggests, they are difficult to tamper with.

Other screwdriver bits include internal hex bits, square recess bits, and nut setters. 

Top tips for using screwdriver bits 

When it’s time to replace, upgrade or buy your first-bit set, there is much information to contend with. To make it as simple as possible, here are 3 top tips to keep in mind when you’re looking at the many items in the store.

1.  Select good quality tools

A good quality drill paired with good screwdriver bits will ensure they fit correctly and perform the best possible job. When thinking about quality, consider the material you’re going to drill into. You want the job to be as clean as possible, without causing any damage to the surrounding area due to faulty tools.

2.  Make sure they match

The screwdriver bit must match the screw head and size you are working with. Failing to check the components accordingly can result in sheared and stripped screws, surface damage, uneven holes, and damage to your tool. 

With so many options regularly available, it is easy enough to avoid the mistake of using the wrong tools and accessories.

3.  Adjust your speed

With your power drill, it’s tempting to drive a screw into a surface at full speed. However, you should take care and adjust the speed setting where necessary to prevent damage to the screw head. It will also help protect the surface you are drilling into and promote accuracy when making the hole.

Overall, give a little thought to the task before jumping straight in.

Final word

To summarise the information in this article, screwdriver bits are essential components in any work project requiring fasteners. Whether using a power drill or a cordless screwdriver, the chosen bit must sit securely in the bit holder.

For the best experience during your home updates, use items that work correctly with each other. Take care, and await the great results. For more information on screwdriver bit sets, visit our contact page and chat with a member of our team.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a screwdriver bit?

A screwdriver bit is a component that drives screws into a surface. Most screwdriver bits are designed to fit drilling power tools, allowing the screw to twist into place with little physical motion required by the user. 

What are the most common screwdriver bits? 

Many screwdriver bits are invented for different purposes, but the most common designs include Phillips, Pozidriv, Torx, and slotted. Each has different shapes and comes in several sizes, so selecting the correct screwdriver bit set is essential. 

How do I choose a screwdriver bit?

You should choose screwdriver bits to fit the chuck end of screwdrivers and match the screw head and size you will drill. Consider the material you are drilling into, and select the best screwdriver bit for the job to avoid surface damage, tool damage, and a stripped screw.