The History of the Screwdriver

The origins of the screwdriver can be traced back to the late Middle Ages, around the 15th century, when screws first appeared in European woodworking and metalworking. Initially, screws were made from wood and primarily used in the production of wine and olive oil presses, where they applied pressure to extract liquids. The screwdriver was developed as a simple tool to drive and remove these screws, evolving over time to accommodate various screw designs and applications.

One of the first documented uses of the screwdriver dates back to the 16th century, where armorers used it to assemble and disassemble suits of armor. Early flathead screwdrivers, or "turnscrews" as they were called, featured wooden handles and steel flat blades designed to fit into the linear grooves of flathead screws.

During the 18th century, the Industrial Revolution brought significant advancements in metalworking and manufacturing, enabling the mass production of screws and screwdrivers. As screws became more widespread, so did the need for screwdrivers, leading to the creation of various types of screwdrivers to match the growing diversity of screw designs.

Key Innovations in Screwdriver History

• Phillips Screwdriver (1930s): Invented by Henry F. Phillips, the cross-shaped blade allowed for better torque and reduced slippage. This design gained quick popularity, particularly in the automotive industry for assembly lines.
• Allen (Hex) Screwdriver (1910): Introduced by William G. Allen, this screwdriver was designed for hexagonal socket head screws or Allen screws, commonly used in machinery and bicycles.
• Torx Screwdriver (1960s): Invented by Camcar Textron, this star-shaped design provided better torque and tamper resistance, making it ideal for electronics and security screws.

Today, a wide variety of screwdrivers exist, including manual, electric, and cordless models, to suit the needs of different industries and applications. Whether in woodworking, electronics, automotive work, or construction, the screwdriver remains a crucial tool in countless trades and projects.

Common Uses for a Screwdriver

• Assembly: Driving screws for furniture, appliances, and more.
• Maintenance & Repair: Removing and reinserting screws for various tasks.
• Construction: Securing materials during projects like woodworking and drywall.
• DIY Projects: Hanging shelves, assembling flat-pack furniture, or installing fixtures.

And of course, I consider my butter knife a go-to flathead screwdriver in a pinch!

Frequently Asked Questions About Screwdrivers

1. What is a screwdriver used for?

Answer: A screwdriver is a fundamental hand tool used for driving screws into materials or removing them. It is commonly used in assembly, maintenance and repair, construction, and various DIY projects.

2. What are the different types of screwdrivers?

Answer: The most common types of screwdrivers are flathead, Phillips, Torx, and Allen (hex) screwdrivers. Each type is designed to fit specific screw head shapes and sizes.

3. How do I choose the right screwdriver for my task?

Answer: To choose the right screwdriver, match the type and size of the screwdriver blade to the screw head you are working with. Using the correct screwdriver will ensure a proper fit and prevent damage to the screw or the tool.

4. Can I use a screwdriver for prying or as a lever?

Answer: Using a screwdriver for prying or as a lever can damage the tool and may result in injury. It is recommended to use a dedicated pry bar or lever tool for such tasks. That being said, I have yet to meet a DIY'er who hasn't done this. Just be careful!

5. Are there any versatile or multi-bit screwdrivers available?

Answer: Yes, multi-bit or interchangeable screwdrivers are available, allowing users to switch between various types and sizes of screwdriver blades. These tools can be convenient for those who need to work with multiple screw types and sizes.

6. How can I maintain and care for my screwdrivers?

Answer: To maintain and care for your screwdrivers, clean the blades and handles regularly with a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt and debris. Store them in a dry, cool place to prevent rust and damage. Check the blades for wear and replace them if necessary.

7. What are the most common screwdriver bit sizes and types?

Answer:

• Flat/Slotted: Standard: 1/16, 3/32, 1/8, 5/32, 3/16, 1/4, 5/16, 3/8 inch | Metric: 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 mm
• Phillips: Standard: #0000, #000, #00, #0, #1, #2, #3, #4 | Metric: PH0000, PH000, PH00, PH0, PH1, PH2, PH3, PH4
• Pozidriv: Standard: #0, #1, #2, #3, #4 | Metric: PZ0, PZ1, PZ2, PZ3, PZ4
• Torx: Standard: T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8, T9, T10, T15, T20, T25, T27, T30, T40, T45, T50, T55, T60, T70, T80, T90, T100 | Metric: Equivalent to standard sizes
• Hex/Allen: Standard: 0.028, 0.035, 0.050, 1/16, 5/64, 3/32, 7/64, 1/8, 9/64, 5/32, 3/16, 7/32, 1/4, 5/16, 3/8 inch | Metric: 0.7, 0.9, 1.3, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12 mm
• Robertson/Square: Standard: #00, #0, #1, #2, #3, #4 | Metric: S00, S0, S1, S2, S3, S4
• Tri-wing: Standard: #1, #2, #3, #4 | Metric: Y1, Y2, Y3, Y4
• Spanner: Standard: #4, #6, #8, #10, #12 | Metric: SP4, SP6, SP8, SP10, SP12
• Torq-set: Standard: #1, #2, #3, #4, #6, #8, #10 | Metric: TS1, TS2, TS3, TS4, TS6, TS8, TS10

8. Can I use a screwdriver on electrical components?

Answer: When working with electrical components, it is important to use an insulated screwdriver specifically designed for electrical work. These screwdrivers have insulated handles to protect the user from electric shocks.

9. How do I determine the size of a screwdriver?

Answer: Screwdriver size typically refers to the width and length of the blade. To determine the size, measure the width of the screw head's groove or recess and choose a screwdriver with a blade width that closely matches it. The length of the screwdriver can be chosen based on personal preference and the accessibility of the screws in your project.

10. Is there a specific technique for using a screwdriver effectively?

Answer: To use a screwdriver effectively, ensure the blade fits snugly into the screw head, apply downward pressure to maintain contact, and turn the screwdriver clockwise to drive the screw or counterclockwise to remove it. Maintain a firm grip on the handle and use your wrist and forearm to apply torque. In my experience, the key is to get a screwdriver head that matches up with the screw size. If the screwdriver head is smaller and not snug, you risk stripping the screw.