The humble screwdriver would have to be one of the common tools in use today. Widely used and sometimes abused, I have seen them used as scrapers, levers, pry bars, paint stirrers and tent pegs.
Many years ago, I was a trainee technician with the P.M.G’s Department (now Telstra). One of the many topics covered was hand tools and their uses. I can recall our instructor lecturing us on the importance of selecting the correct screwdriver for the job. Of course, back then, it was so much simpler. In fact, our initial issue of tools had three screwdrivers, all of the flat blade type. These days, the choice is broader (e.g. Phillips, Allen, Pozidriv and Torx ).
Sooner or later, the ownership of a firearm will entail disassembly for maintenance purposes. Newer types of firearms, such as the Smith & Wesson Victory semi-auto pistol, use Allen head screws. However, most of the screws encountered on firearms are the familiar flat blade type. Using the wrong size screwdriver can damage the screw head or put a scratch in the pristine bluing finish on your favourite gun.
Flat blade gunsmith screwdrivers usually differ from conventional screwdrivers in that the tips are hollow ground. This means that when the screwdriver blade goes into the screw slot, more of the blade surface is parallel with the sides of the screw slot. This means that the screwdriver blade makes more contact with the screw slot, meaning that the screwdriver is less likely to burr the screw head or jump out of the slot.
The screwdriver set under review is made by Grace Tools in the USA. The 7 piece set is listed in their catalogue as a Pistolsmith set. The screwdrivers range in size from P7 (5.7mm tip) down to P1 (2.3mm tip). The shafts are square, allowing a spanner to be used for extra leverage if required. Handles are made of hardwood, and have a square profile, meaning they are less likely to roll away when placed on the workbench.
(L-R) Sizes P7 to P1
The screwdrivers were tried out on a Winchester Model 1894 carbine, a Smith & Wesson Model 586 revolver, and a Lithgow 1A single shot .22 rifle. I was able to find a perfect fit for all of the screws encountered on these firearms. The wooden handles are a nice touch, and make life easy if your hands are oily. All in all, they feel like a quality product, and are definitely a great addition to my workbench.
Until next time, have a safe and happy shoot!