What are the sizes of a flathead screwdriver?

A screwdriver is a truly universal tool that is simply irreplaceable in the household and other areas where it is necessary to work with threaded fasteners. There are a huge number of varieties of screwdrivers, but the most common options are flat and Phillips. Today we will talk about the first option: we will analyze the main characteristics of a flat-head screwdriver and learn how to choose the right size.

This is interesting! The flat screwdriver is the first type of this tool. It appeared back in the 15th century. The variety has survived to this day with minor changes.

Characteristics of flat screwdrivers

The flathead screwdriver is distinguished by its versatility. It can be used for various types of fasteners, including self-tapping screws, screws, etc. The flat-head screwdriver fits perfectly into the groove of the head. With this tool you can create good torque without any problems or difficulties. It also has a number of distinctive features and characteristics. These include:

• in addition to standard applications, it is used in tuning electronic circuits;
• it allows you to open locks that have slotted grooves;
• Various tools are equipped with a flat slot, for example, an ordinary kitchen knife, plates, etc. - this means that if the screw is not tightened too tightly, you can unscrew it using the listed tools.

Also, using a flat screwdriver, you can pry off removable panels, scrape off dirt from the grooves, and separate stuck linings. In addition, it can be a good alternative for a chisel or chisel.

However, non-standard use accelerates tool wear, which means it may require repair or restoration. These include sharpening. It is important to know that you need to sharpen a flathead screwdriver correctly. The sharpening principle is the same as for skates. After this, the slot needs to be magnetized. To do this, you can leave the tool next to a powerful magnet for a long time, for example, a day or two.

Reference. Today you can find the required screwdriver in almost any store. However, if you don’t have the necessary tool at hand, you can make it yourself. To do this, you need to take a large nail and grind its sharp end into a flat slot, and bend the other end so that the handle comes out. If you have bits, you can make a portable tool. To do this you will need several washers and bolts.

How to choose the right screwdriver size

To make it convenient and comfortable for you to perform work on unscrewing and tightening fasteners, in addition to the shape of the tip, you need to pay attention to a number of other factors. First of all, it is the size of the sting.

Ideally, a certain tip size should be used for a certain slot size. However, in practice, things are a little different - many ignore this rule, or more correctly, instruction, and believe that almost any tip is universal (especially when it comes to a Phillips screwdriver). If you choose the wrong tip size, you can break the tool shaft or simply cut off the slot.

To choose the right screwdriver, you need to know its markings. Flat ones are marked with the English letters SL.

After the letters there are numbers that indicate the width of the slot. This parameter can vary from 2 to 18 millimeters. The wider the tip, the thicker the rod itself. The sizes most often used on the farm are SL3.5 and 8.

Important! When choosing the desired thickness of the tip, do not forget that it must be hard so as not to break under loads and fit well into the slot. A high-quality slotted screwdriver has a special coating that creates roughness, thereby simplifying the process of working with fasteners.

When choosing this tool, do not neglect the length and thickness of the rod. If the fastener is set deep, then a short rod may simply not be enough. If the rod is very thick, then it simply will not fit into the recess with the screw.

On top of that, don't forget about the strength of the rod. If it is too soft, it may bend or crack under high loads. Give preference to screwdrivers made of chrome vanadium alloy. They are characterized by high strength and wear resistance.

The most common rod length varies from 10 to 20 centimeters. If you need to work in a cramped space, then choose a tool with a short shaft.

The last thing you should pay attention to when choosing a screwdriver is the handle. The silicone handle fits best in your hand. It does not slip during rotation, thereby ensuring complete safety.

If you need to work in cramped conditions, then give preference to a short handle. Some modern screwdrivers have a special metal plate at the end of the handle.Such a handle can be struck with a hammer, which is especially necessary in cases where the fasteners are rusty or painted over.