Screwdrivers & Hex Keys

Screwdrivers and hex keys drive fasteners that need a specific tip fit. Using the wrong size rounds the fastener head, and a rounded fastener is much harder to remove than a tight one.

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Buying guide: Screwdrivers & Hex Keys

Screwdriver tip type must match the fastener. Phillips has a cross recess that cams out under torque by design. Pozidriv looks similar but has additional cross marks and does not cam out — using a Phillips driver in a Pozidriv screw damages both. Slotted (flat) tips come in different widths and thicknesses and must match the slot. Torx and hex (Allen) have six-point engagement and tolerate higher torque without cam-out.

Tip fit is the specification that matters most. A tip that is too small for the fastener will round the recess; one that is too large will not seat. Precision-ground tips fit better than cold-formed ones.

Hex keys are sized in fractional inch or metric and the two are close enough to be confused — a 5 mm key is a loose fit in a 3/16 in socket. Ball-end keys allow access at an angle but transmit less torque. T-handle and folding sets are convenient for repeated work.

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