Every economic person will definitely have an “first aid kit” at hand. This set of tools for all occasions certainly includes a set of screwdrivers. Whether it is necessary to disassemble a mobile phone, a toy, a set-top box, a computer system unit - this is very difficult to do without a special tool. A slotted screwdriver will allow you to securely screw in or, conversely, quickly unscrew the fasteners.
The indispensable spatula
"Shovel", or "sting", call this type of tool for good reason. The flat, as if flattened tip really resembles the latter. This design allows you to work with fasteners in which the head has a straight recess (slot).
Slotted screwdriver is available in several versions. And the difference lies not only in the size of the tool. Depending on the nature of the work, you may need a reinforced construction, or a product with an insulated handle, or withspecial notches that improve friction between the tip and the fastener slot.
According to standards
Despite all this diversity, there are strict standards that any slotted screwdriver sold must meet. GOST regulates the size of the working part of the tool and its shape.
So, in the line of five-millimeter "blades" there are products with a tip length of 200, 150 or 125 millimeters. There are also shorties of 75 millimeters. The 6mm screwdriver range starts at 100mm.
Besides the most popular width of 5 or 6 millimeters, there are tools with a tip width of just 1 millimeter. The upper (maximum) limit corresponds to 10 millimeters.
The concept of "universal tool" does not apply to this category of devices. Screwdrivers must be selected in each case individually. Otherwise, you will simply knock down the fastener slot. Or break the tip. Ideally, if the working part is slightly smaller than the size of the slot. The tip then enters the slot freely, but does not rotate during operation.
And if you are not inclined to complete your box with tools carefully and for a long time, then you should purchase a ready-made set of slotted screwdrivers. As a rule, the most popular devices appear in it.
Ergonomics and safety
Standards also regulate the shape of the tool handle. Manufacturers strive to provide a comfortable grip and a secure stop. Therefore, a slotted screwdriver has a handle,which mimics the anatomy of the human hand. In some models there is even a notch for the thumb. Handles made of combined materials are very comfortable. Softer grips prevent chafing, and the ribbed surface prevents fingers from slipping.
The so-called percussion instruments are supplied with a reinforced handle. These are screwdrivers that are used to unscrew rusted fasteners, when in the process you have to additionally walk along the handle with a hammer. In this case, the plastic may simply crumble, so it is better to have a metal handle.
So that the slotted screwdriver does not fail during operation, pay attention to what steel its shaft is made of. The most reliable products are made of hardened steel.
Remember that a quality tool is your safety.
