Sooner or later, the owners of the house are faced with such a need as the use of a screwdriver. It is necessary when you need to assemble furniture, replace a lock, hang a picture, fix drywall or plinth, install a door, and in many other everyday situations. Those who find it a bad habit to borrow an instrument from friends or neighbors are more likely to go out and buy their own. But what about a person who knows little about screwdrivers? And the front of work at home with this equipment is considerable? How not to make a mistake with the necessary parameters and which screwdriver should be chosen for the home - this will be discussed later.
There are two types of screwdrivers: cordless and corded.
We determine in what works the device will participate most often?
If you turn to any power tool store, it becomes clear that choosing a screwdriver without knowing absolutely nothing about this type of tool is not an easy task. Because the offer is huge. There are many manufacturers of such equipment competing with each other and positioning their product as the best. An ignorant person's eyes will diverge from the diversity of this proposal.
Therefore, the most fundamental criterion when choosing this tool is the expediency of its use.
If the instrument is to be used for occasional repair work around the house, then you should choose an inexpensive model with minimum set functions.
If the equipment is planned to be used in a home workshop and it will often have to be used for certain highly professional tasks, for example, drilling metal, then its set of functions should be quite wide.
Which technical specifications should pay attention in the first place and which screwdriver to buy?
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Battery or mains?
Keep in mind that the models are both battery-powered and powered by electricity. What is the best screwdriver to buy in the house? Rechargeable batteries are easy to use due to their mobility, they are not tied to the network, they can be carried with you anywhere. No need to think about the length of the wire, the availability of sockets, extension cords, and so on. But for uninterrupted operation such a tool, they need to be recharged, which will take time. The mains power tool is indispensable when working with metals.
If the choice is made in favor of a cordless screwdriver, then the type of battery should also be selected. There are three varieties of them: lithium-ion and nickel-cadmium, metal-hybrid. Here they are presented in descending order of reliability, price and time to recharge the battery.
Lithium-ion batteries are considered the most practical. They cost more than their counterparts, but stand out for their capacity, the possibility of long-term use between recharging and low weight. Their working condition is 3-4 years, after which they become unusable. They are easy to use and require regular maintenance.
Battery power (9.6 - 24 volts) is an equally important factor in choosing a screwdriver. High power - the ability to operate the device for a long time without recharging, as well as to screw self-tapping screws into the most problem areas. High power is a sign of a heavy device.
Torque also deserves to be taken into account when buying. Household work can be done at 10-15 Nm. It will be sufficient to buy a screwdriver with 40-40 Nm. Although some of its types can reach 130 Nm.
The rotational speed is another important point in order to choose a screwdriver and buy the one you need. The drilling speed will depend on this value. Therefore, in order to drill harder materials, a tool with a high torque must be selected. To tighten the self-tapping screw on the farm, 400 rpm is enough. For professionals, this value will not be enough. They will need from 1200 and more rpm.
When buying, consider the moment how comfortable it is to hold the device in your hand. Conveniently? So he is yours.
When choosing a screwdriver, the consumer immediately faces the question - which is better: mains or cordless? Consider the option of purchasing a network tool and its advantages over its standalone counterpart.
What is the difference between a cordless and cordless screwdriver
The main advantage of a cordless screwdriver is the presence of an independent power source, which provides mobility and maneuverability to the operator. You can work in remote places, in areas where there is no connection to the mains.
But these tools have their drawbacks.
Autonomous power supplies in them are quite heavy, especially nickel-cadmium ones. Due to their presence, the dimensions and weight of the device are significantly increased, which makes volumetric work with the device at a height not very convenient.
Batteries need to be changed and recharged periodically. This takes time and requires an electrical connection. So long-term operation at a distance from a constant source of electricity is limited by the capacity of the battery.
The most powerful ones, which are not cheap, are designed for continuous operation only up to 2-3 hours. Batteries often take longer to recharge.
Batteries have a limited lifespan and long-term storage reduces their charge. After a certain time, you will have to spend money on new power sources.
The price of stand-alone screwdrivers, especially those with higher power batteries, is higher than corded tools.
Nickel-cadmium sources, the most powerful in terms of the number of charges (up to 1000) and therefore used more actively than others, emit harmful substances.
The mains supply for the screwdriver ensures higher productivity and greater continuity of work. And at home, the autonomy of a screwdriver is sometimes not decisive.
Uninterrupted power means that the device will not lose power during continuous operation throughout the day.
Lightweight design allows you to perform significant amounts of work, including at height.
A corded screwdriver will work without problems in the cold.
And finally, the price. A good corded screwdriver is significantly cheaper than a cordless counterpart.
Main technical characteristics of corded screwdrivers
The technical characteristics of a screwdriver determine it functionality. How long and reliably it will work, what operations it can perform, how convenient it will be in operation, etc.
Power
This is the main indicator that affects the performance of the tool, as well as other tool parameters, such as speed and torque. To carry out long-term and varied in complexity work, you need a more powerful device. For home conditions, a 400-watt engine is enough.
If you also need a drilling function, then you need a tool with a power of 550-600 watts. Devices with higher power are larger and consume more electricity.
Torque
It is measured in newton meters (Nm). Indicates the force with which the device will act on the screws being screwed in. This indicator determines what diameter and length of screws the screwdriver will handle.
So, with a value of up to 30 Nm, they can screw a screw into a tree to a depth of up to 70 mm. For longer fasteners, the torque must be 40 Nm or a hole must be drilled first.
For screwdrivers this characteristic is the main one and is always specified. In addition, reliable manufacturers in the descriptions indicate the maximum allowable diameter of fasteners for specific materials.
Turnover speed
In household tools, this figure is 400 rpm. To perform the functions of a drill, higher revolutions (1300-1700 rpm) will be required. High speed is especially needed when working with iron.
Speed change is carried out on different models either by pressing the power button, or by adjusting the wheel located on the button. In drills, screwdrivers, a toggle switch for changing the speed mode is installed.
Reverse
Must be present on all screwdrivers. Provides a change in the direction of rotation of the spindle and, accordingly, the function of unscrewing the screws. Switching modes of rotation is performed by a button, which is often located next to the start key. A less reliable option is the plastic lever at the top above the key, which can easily break off.
Locking the start button
It can be useful only in drills-screwdrivers.
Hull shape
The body can be made in the form of:
Pistol. Typical for budget models. With such a body it is convenient to press on the self-tapping screw while screwing in, which has to be done due to the weak engine power.
T-shaped. In this case, the handle is offset to the center of the body. According to manufacturers, this configuration does not strain the hand during operation.
Traditional drill. This indicates the presence of a gearbox in the apparatus, other metal parts, which is inherent in powerful professional tools and drills, screwdrivers. Such devices often have to be supported with the second hand, since their weight approaches 3 kg.
Types of network screwdrivers
As we have already found out, corded screwdrivers are divided into devices only with the function of screwing in and out of screws and devices endowed with a drill function. On the second, you can set the drill mode at a higher speed - up to 1500 rpm.
These devices also differ in the type of cartridge in which nozzles and bits are attached. According to their design, chuck clamps are divided into the following types:
A toothed or keyed chuck in which the shank of the bit is fixed and finally fixed with a special key. Such a mount is considered more reliable;
Keyless chuck (BZP), in which the attachment of the nozzle is carried out by manually rotating the clamping sleeve. The change of nozzle is carried out in a matter of seconds.
Magnetic hexagon chuck. The bit is simply inserted into it, nothing needs to be twisted. As a consequence, the disadvantage this mount is a light backlash bits.
Among the main characteristics of cartridges is their diameter. The larger one allows you to use more powerful attachments. For household tools a maximum Ø of up to 20 mm is sufficient.
If the screwdriver chuck is not suitable for specific operations, you can use adapters. Their cost is low, there is always a sufficient assortment on sale.
To decide which screwdriver to choose, decide on the range of tasks to be performed. For fixing self-tapping screws wooden structures a low power network device with a keyless chuck is suitable. A drill driver is useful for drilling in small volumes. For more serious drilling work, especially metal, it is better to purchase a separate drill.
Photo of a network screwdriver
The power tool market offers big choice various models screwdrivers from many famous companies, as well as little-known manufacturers. Almost all tools are identical in design, and the difference in their performance can only be determined during their operation.
To choose the best quality screwdriver from the mass of tools on the market, you need to familiarize yourself with their technical specifications. Cordless screwdrivers, in some circumstances, have more productivity than cordless screwdrivers, since no time is wasted on recharging them.
The device and properties of corded screwdrivers
These tools are equipped with an electric motor direct current powered by a 220 V mains supply. They have a reverse button, with which the motor polarity is changed, so that it can rotate in the opposite direction. That is, due to a change in the direction of the engine torque, the tool can screw in the screws or, conversely, unscrew them.
When installing a two-speed reducer, the networker acquires some additional functions. For example, a corded two-speed screwdriver, whose speed is 450 rpm, does a good job of tightening / unscrewing screws and self-tapping screws. And at speeds within 1400 rpm. quickly drills holes in metal and other materials.
Tool Benefits
Corded screwdrivers, compared to cordless tools, have smaller dimensions and light weight, since they do not have a bulky battery.
At long work the networker does not lose its power, while the cordless screwdriver gradually loses it in the process of discharging the battery. Sometimes due to the peculiarities of some models batteries during charging, the entire workflow may stop. And with a drill-driver powered by a 220 V network, such a situation is not even expected.
The cost of a networker is much lower than his fellow cordless screwdriver.
Overview of chucks
Drills-screwdrivers may differ in the mechanisms for holding nozzles (bits), of which there are three types:
- Toothed chuck (key). A fairly reliable holding mechanism in which the bit is clamped using a special gear key.
- Keyless chuck. Very handy when changing bits or drill bits quickly. The cartridge can be single-case - one rotating clamping ring, or double-case - with two clamping rings.
- Chuck exclusively for bits. This holding mechanism, compared to the cartridges described, which can also be used on conventional drills, designed for screwdrivers only.
Cartridges, in addition to clamping mechanisms, also differ in the diameter of the nozzles inserted into them. For household tools, cartridges are usually used, the diameter of the nozzles of which does not exceed 20 mm.
Criteria for choosing a drill driver
The main function of a drill driver is to drill holes in various materials. But she also has additional function, which allows you to tighten / loosen screws, screws and other threaded connections. That is, this tool is almost universal with a wide range of specific features.
If we analyze these devices in terms of their performance, then we can identify the leading manufacturers of drill drivers as for professional use as well as for household needs.
Among the reliable drilling tools, the following stand out: household models domestic production such as: Interskol, Enkor DE-450ER / 10, Zubr, as well as Gardenlux CD14−22 and FIT-80014. All of them differ from ordinary models in the presence of two speeds:
- For tightening fasteners (screws, etc.), the speed is up to 400 rpm.
- For drilling, a range of 400-1300 rpm is used.
The difference is also possible in the design of the electric motor, which may or may not have graphite brushes. The advantage of a motor without graphite brushes is operation without extra noise and special service for their replacement.
Specifications
When choosing a drilling power tool, you should first of all pay attention to such points as:
Additional functions
- Cartridge brake. To increase the safety of a person working with a screwdriver, the tool is equipped with a brake, which, when the start button is released, instantly stops the rotation of the chuck.
- Backlight. Some models for the convenience of working in a poorly lit room are equipped with light bulbs that illuminate the work area.
- Design and ergonomics. Modern models screwdrivers are made in such a way that during operation it is convenient to hold them in the hand, and all controls are within the reach of the hand that holds it. For instance, forefinger is always on the start button, and thumb you can easily switch reverse or speed.
On some models, there are special sockets for spare bits right on the tool body, which is quite convenient, especially when working on a roof. Many professional tools have special mounts that allow you to mount them on a mounting belt.
Rating of cordless screwdrivers
It is unlikely that for household needs should be purchased professional model screwdriver. Firstly, they are quite expensive, and secondly, it may not be needed so often in everyday life, and throw away a large amount money for a tool that most time will just lie on the shelf, completely irrational. For domestic purposes, it is better to purchase a tool of small or medium power. For example, the following reliable and quite popular models:
Security measures
When working with power tools, the following safety precautions must be observed:
- Before turning on the power tool, you need to visually check the tool for any defects in the body, power cable and rotating parts of the drill.
- Changing the nozzle, if it is a toothed chuck, should be done only with a key intended for this. When doing this, make sure that the nozzle is firmly fixed.
- Near working area there should be no foreign objects.
- During operation, it is forbidden to touch the rotating elements of the drill.
- Do not try to stop the chuck with your hands.
- Keep an eye on clothing, do not start working with loosely hanging clothing or long flowing hair. All this can be wound on a rotating drill chuck.
- Do not leave the power tool switched on unattended, unplug it immediately after finishing work.
If you take corded screwdrivers into account and compare them with battery-powered models, then corded tools can be more productive, allowing you to work in continuous mode. Choosing a corded screwdriver is a responsible matter, therefore, in order not to make a mistake in choosing the right tool, use the material that we have prepared for you.
When choosing a power screwdriver, you should carefully evaluate it operating parameters. The most important of them are:
- Power parameter. This criterion is intended to determine the basic performance of the tool and its physical weight. As a rule, for home use, a rated power of 450-650 W is enough.
- torque setting. The indicator serves as a direct guide to the performance of the tool, characterizing its possible force with a running bit. In addition, the amount of torque indicates possible material that the device can handle and determines the diameter and length of the fastener.
- Reverse mechanism support. The presence of this technology on board the unit makes it possible to use the tool as an “extractor” of fasteners.
- The criterion for the number of revolutions and their adjustment allows you to effectively use the tool everywhere.
- The ergonomic factor characterizes a comfortable grip, compact weight of the device and other characteristics that are designed to provide a comfortable option for using the tool.
The best corded electric tools have all of these characteristics. As numerous experience shows, having a tool with a base power of 300 W, you can work with thin metal surfaces by screwing in self-tapping screws. The most critical operations are best performed using a unit whose base power exceeds 650 watts. Here it is already appropriate to talk about the professional category, where you can often find modifications with a power of up to 850 watts.
Which screwdriver is better - mains electric or cordless? The answer to this question depends on the goals that the master sets for himself - if the working conditions do not imply the presence electrical network, then the battery pack will be better; if the power of the device is important in the work, the network unit will always give odds to the battery one.
What types of network screwdrivers are relevant? + (Video)
First of all, the difference in network units is due to typical device chuck and bit holding mechanism.
- The tool chuck may have a toothed structure, which, in the form of a nozzle, is fixed to the fixtures of the device with a key. It is noteworthy that although this process has to spend some time and effort, but it is this mounting option that is characterized by absolute reliability.
- A tool equipped with a keyless chuck is quite convenient to use, since the mechanism itself is quite light. Nozzle change is as fast as possible. However, if you have to work with hard materials, then the reliability of the nozzle can be doubted. Therefore, it is most rational to use the unit in this configuration with one- or two-sleeve cartridges in everyday life.
- Special cartridges for bits. Such snap-ins are intended exclusively for special devices, but in the classification professional tool there are modifications, for example, a drill driver is widely used.
Considering modern assortment network units under the prism of other differences, you can see that the devices also differ in the diameter of the cartridges. Therefore, the choice of nozzle power for the corresponding tool will also be classified. If this is a non-professional tool, then a cartridge with a diameter of 0-20 mm is considered the standard.
Regarding the presence on board the device functional feature in the form of a drill, it is important to note that in this configuration, the models have two basic speed controllers:
- from 0 to 400 revolutions (for working with a fastener);
- 400 to 1300 rpm (using drilling mode).
An important criterion for a modern screwdriver is the type of engine, which can be equipped with or without brushes. The second option is more expensive. The engine runs with less noise, starts smoothly and is not demanding in terms of maintenance. But a motor with brushes may require additional care, for example, to replace them. However, if you purchase a tool from the manufacturer, then there will certainly be an additional set of brushes in the kit.
What models of corded screwdrivers deserve attention? + (Video)
Choosing the best cordless screwdriver To make a choice of a high-quality and inexpensive network unit for home use or professional needs, then take a look at our small power tool rating that deserves attention.
- Interskol DSh-10. A relatively inexpensive screwdriver equipped with a 260-watt motor with a non-impact mechanism. The weight of the device is only 1.4 kg. Due to the anti-slip coating, the tool lies very securely in the hand. The keyless chuck is securely fixed at the base of the engine, the torque of which is guaranteed by a maximum value of 25 Nm. As an additional functionality, there is a two-position speed control.
- Bosch GBM 6 RE. A very good network tool, which is equipped with a 350-watt shockless mechanism, but with functional support for the “drill” mode. The reversible chuck has a quick lock and is equipped with electronic speed control. The maximum weight of the device is only 1.2 kg. The product is made of reinforced plastic. The torque criterion is equal to the value of 12.3 N * m, when the maximum speed threshold is set to 4000.
- Energomash DU-21500. Another not expensive option for a network device, which can be attributed to the semi-professional segment. The model has a drill function and has a power of 500 watts. The rotational threshold is fixed when it reaches 2600 rpm. Included with the device is a set of additional brushes.
What are the rules for using a corded screwdriver?
An electric screwdriver requires the owner of certain skills to use. It is important to take note of a certain set of rules in order to safely use the device at home and at work.
- Insofar as we are talking about the network version of the screwdriver, it is important not to forget that this electrical appliance which is connected to the power supply. Therefore, there should be no options for interacting with moisture. It is quite likely that there is a risk of a short circuit or damage to the individual modules of the device, leading to a breakdown of the tool.
- Properly observe your own safety precautions, for example when changing attachments. Make sure that the tool is de-energized before changing the attachments. There is a risk of hand injury. In addition, with a high degree of probability, the fastening mechanism itself can be damaged.
- Select the operating mode of the tool should be based on the required tasks. Mandatory before new job check desired settings RPM and related power.
- And, of course, whichever unit you choose, make sure that it does not have wire damage, dangerous kinks or bends.
We hope that the material of the article was useful for you and you were able to learn how to choose a corded screwdriver, which cordless screwdriver is considered the best and how to use a corded tool correctly.