Adam Savage's Favorite Screwdriver Design!

[@SeanHodgins]

Sounds like Stanley tools needs to do a "Savage" line of screwdrivers and recreate that old style! I would buy a set.

[@brianbumble]

Savage Drivers.

[@AzarelHoward]

🙋‍♂️ count me in

[@pietervanbaekel]

Duuuude!!! Yes

[@oddjobkia]

Stanley Savage Screwdriver Set.

[@AlasdairGR]

Savage x Stanley Drivers. I’d happily buy a set.

[@330FoeSho]

My wife was watching this with me. She was interested in the part about collecting them off eBay. Well I recently rounded out my snap on screwdriver collection much to her disapproval. I said "see" as you were explaining finding the right ones that aren't made anymore. She immediately responded, "all I heard was 'you really only need 3 sizes'" -- devastated, I had no rebuttal..... Edit: please note, we were just joking with each other. We have a really awesome marriage. I didn't realize this would cut so deep with some people.

[@seanclark8452]

And all the lengths! For the same reason you need shallow sockets and such - the exact right one can save hours. (assuming auto - #1,2,3 for Phillips) For other work though... those Phillips looking screws on electronics are *not* Phillips - so you need JIS just as an example.

[@antraxxslingshots]

So, how many pairs of shoes does she own? Or handbags? That is usually my leverage....and those are worth s..t after you bought them...not like "our" stuff.

[@cavemanvi]

Imagine sharing your life with someone that disapproves of you collecting something that brings you happiness.

[@cavemanvi]

@@antraxxslingshots on the same subject: video games are hated but binge watching Netflix is FINE

[@AlexthePanda]

@@cavemanvi my classmate asked how long after the wedding she should tell her husband the video games have to go... I said his second wife won't have a problem with the video games. 🤣

[@PamdaDev]

I love how pretty much all of Adams videos comes with a life story. Thanks for all the work

[@MaryAnnNytowl]

Tools always come with at least one life story, each. That's just the way it is. 😄😉

[@lockman004]

In the 1980's I began my locksmithing career and started acquiring my first tool set. These Stanley work masters became my go to screwdriver brand. I still have a complete set and the screwdrivers that the blades wore out on, I heated the shafts until I could pull the shafts out of the undamaged handles. Then I'd use my drill press to drill out the hole in the handles and turned them into file handles and I repurposed them for other home made specialty tools by epoxying the new tools into the handle. Now I have a large collection of work master screwdrivers and other specialty tools all with these cool black and yellow handles.

[@stuartstephens]

My favorites as well. The yellow handle Professional screwdrivers came out after the Workmaster line was discontinued, they date generally from the 1980s or early 1990s. As far as I can tell they were of equal quality. I sent you an email - I have a number of spares and duplicates, and may be able to provide some of the ones you're missing.

[@JoshandErik]

While Adam was aware of the dangers of making this info public, I think we now know exactly why he made a video about this in the end. Man knows his audience.

[@wweeks]

@@JoshandErik "Send me a Workmaster Screwdriver" was too click-baitey

[@ARTofTY-TV]

Three cheers for Stuart!

[@andrewdescant]

I've got a couple of the clear yellow handled ones that came in a toolbox gift when I was about 7 in the early 90's.

[@anthonymc76]

I reckon everyone should send in any Workmaster screwdriver they can find to Adam, so that he can complete his set. After a couple of months he should have thousands of them.

[@LojikPrie5t]

When I was younger, I would have never thought that I would be interested in seeing, or hearing about somebody's favorite screwdriver design. People definitely change with age. Lol. Thank you for all of your content Mr Savage. I've been a huge fan since MythBusters 1.1

[@jantzenburke4460]

I know the feeling, I spent about 3 hours watching KZbin videos about which pressure washer is the best for the cost lol. That’s when I realized i had officially become a dad.

[@socialghost4400]

Me personally, I perfer the "tang-thru" or "Chisel screwdrivers", where you have the screwdriver rod go all the way through the handle and a metal cap on top of the handle as well as a place to attach a wrench for extra torque. They are excellent for taking stubborn and rusty things apart, and are usually made of a stronger metal than regular screwdrivers

[@smartACE42]

As with every tool you need the right one for the right job. My favorite screwdriver is a "all in one" kit where you swap out the whole rod and not just the tip. perfect for my workflow and job. Brings me tremendous joy every time i whip em out wich is almost daily.

[@Savagedownsouth]

Speaking of attaching a wrench for extra torque, you can always use a 1/4 wrench on a hex-shaft screwdriver extension. You can even use a pass-through ratcheting wrench. Then you apply torque with the wrench, and the screwdriver handle is just for holding the bit straight. Really good trick for rusty screws, or odd jobs in odd spots. Or you can just take skip the middleman and buy a Chapman screwdriver set.

[@bengibson6113]

The Klien Demolition Screwdriver is exactly this. I love that thing.

[@keldon_champion]

I personally really like klien screwdrivers however I feel like everyone needs a beater flat head to use for prying and the other jobs you don't want to use your good screwdrivers for.

[@williamnaman3570]

In a past episode, I think he covered a wooden handle set of screwdrivers made to be wrenched.

[@marvelicious8911]

Those are excellent screwdrivers without a doubt. I owe AvE for recommending something I actually like better. The wood handled Felo screwdrivers are my absolute favorite. They come coated with what feels like a poly finish, and it takes a quick buff with scotch brite to take away the slick feeling. Once you do that they grip perfectly and I love the shape. As a bonus, they're in current production and decently priced.

[@martijnpeters]

For people still looking for a decent screwdriver: I love my Wera lasertip screwdrivers! It has a laser etched tip that helps prefenting slipping out of a screw.

[@oambrosia]

Agreed those are excellent. My only quibble is I believe they stopped making them in Germany. I have a set purchased 5-6 years ago and more recently when I needed to replace one I thought I had lost I could only find ones made in CZ. Yes, a minor quibble but the price was the same.

[@johnalexander2349]

Wera is crap for posers. No offence. Wiha is the good shit.

[@hw2508]

@@oambrosia They produce all their stuff in CZ. No problem regarding quality.

[@oambrosia]

@@hw2508 Yes, but again it is the principle...same cost for "offshore" manufacturing.

[@oambrosia]

@@johnalexander2349 I've since switched to Wiha but they now have an American factory too...

[@noroadz3251]

I inherited several of these from my Dad recently and had no idea until this tool tip that they were so desirable. But after hearing Adam talk about the way that they handle I can say that I agree. There’s something about the way the handle sticks to your hand that means you can torque on it harder than any other tool I’ve ever used. I might have tried to sell them but now it seems like a nice memento and tribute to my Dad. Thanks for sharing.

[@gaussianvector2093]

Same, I just have one, kept because the Stanley antivibe is the best hammer ever (seriously, cuts your hits on half). I like it, but I'm messy; so I usually just grab the nearest #2 handy. So, while I like it; not being worthy of a few steps to my tool box tells me it doesn't offer near the advantage their hammers do.

[@Cary_Glenn]

As a Canadian I have to comment that you are missing the best screwdriver design, the Robertson screwdriver. The only time I purposefully choose a Phillips head is for drywall. Flat heads are next to useless, if I want a pry bar I use a pry bar. Robertson FTW.

[@JamieTec]

Ill second this

[@firelizard2]

I was waiting for the "... and three sizes of Robertson" that never came.

[@dproudfoot]

I was coming on to say this.

[@k..............1622]

Torx is best

[@robertpearson8798]

I use Robertson, primarily the #2 size, more often than all of the others combined.

[@josephrogers9701]

In my youth, I worked in a hardware store. The display for the Workmaster screwdrivers emphasized the excellent grip power the handles provided. I still have a single flat blade I bought when I worked there.

[@DanielBillman]

Love the AvE jab! I still remember my first video from him... Never had I thought I'd watch a guy review an angle grinder (and all of its components components) for +60 minutes in two parts, and wanting more.

[@stopthephilosophicalzombie9017]

It wasn't a jab, it was a call out.

[@csimet]

For me, I really like the Klein cushion-grip handles for my normal needs and the Wiha soft-finish insulated screwdrivers (when I do electrical work). Like most things, you get what you pay for and I steer clear of cheap tools, including screwdrivers.

[@biekgiek]

I have yet to use a Wiha. But as he was Adam was talking about how the handle felt, I started thinking about how much I like my Kleins.

[@shawnhuk]

I too enjoy the Klein handles - I just wish their quality didn’t tank in recent years. I have Kleins from 15 years ago that are still sharp and solid, and newer ones I continue to have to replace because they wear out or snap…

[@csimet]

@@shawnhuk Agreed. It is hit or miss. I just got some 32900 7-in-1 nut drivers that are really good and a 32305 ratcheting driver that had a bit defect. At least Klein customer support was responsive and replaced the bad bit within a week.

[@volundrfrey896]

Nah, that cheap bargain basket kit is great for prying, poking, and hammering. You know all the stuff that you shouldn't do with screwdrivers and don't want to do with your good set.

[@biekgiek]

@@volundrfrey896 indeed!

[@Sigseg_V]

Two things: The clear yellow plastic on some of those becomes incredibly brittle when stored in a shed in southern Arizona, to the point that it can shatter during normal use. We have one of those screw-bottom all-in-ones, and it also smells absolutely foul. I suspect it's something to do with the plastic breaking down with age.

[@arbutuswatcher]

I too have noticed that foul smell, but coming from brand new Craftsman & Xcelite, clear & colored handled tools with either a plastic or resin-based handle. They've been stored in an temperature-controlled environmental, out of any direct sunlight, yet they develop a repugnant odor. In the case of the Xcelite tools, a white paste-like substance also forms on the handles, & takes considerable effort to remove. Since the smell started, we've taken extra steps to regularly clean the handles of the tools, with non-abrasive cleaners, that are known to be plastic 'friendly', unfortunately to no avail. We've even put dryer sheets in the tool boxes, to help mitigate the foul odor emanating from the tools. We suspect it's some sort of out-gassing from the plastic or resin, as a result of a chemical reaction - perhaps a flaw in the fabrication process. Plastics, like glass has a finishing process, and if not done correctly, can lead to problems. This smell is evidence of it. Sadly, the smell/odor would just not go away, and we've had to change-out our hand tools with other brands, that don't seem to have the odor or white paste issue. Unfortunately, this was a rather costly lesson for us. Ironically, I have ran across this odor before, but it was on very old plastics, that were breaking down, due to prolonged exposure to UV. It most cases this was from either sunlight or fluorescent light, which had been shining directly on the plastic, for a very long time. Since this wasn't the situation for our original tools, I'm at a loss for the cause of their smell. Perhaps a plastic or resin expert could explain what's going on, and what can be done, if anything, to stop this foul odor once & for all.

[@alexlail7481]

For decades Craftzman (and likely many other) better quality USA made screw drivers used a form of Cellulose acetate (possibly triacetate). And at different times even advertised on packaging non- petroleum based handles / handles with renewable cellulose. Along with different reasons for its selection like high dielectric strength, broad chemical resistance, impact resistance and long term stability. It's natural color usually a light crystal blue when new aging out to a plae yellow over and a not unpleasant slightly sweet smell. In the later years when production moved to Asia I'm sure they chose the cheapest substitute possible. If any develope a vinegar smell beware they could be cellulose nitrate which is known to be highly flammable and chemically and stable long-term.... but I'm sure no manufacturer will ever place profits before safety 🤔 ... it also likely the base stock used wasn't as pure as it should be been and ended up as an unintentional co-polymer composite

[@Jolamprex]

My father has several clear resin handled tools he’d had since the ‘70s and they all smell foul. I don’t know if they react to something or if its just part of the aging process.

[@irsever]

the brittle plastic combined with people whacking screwdrivers with hammers is why you can't find them anymore

[@v12tommy]

I can relate to that. My grandfather was a Snap-On tool salesman when my dad was a kid. He died before I was born, but i remember getting to use his tools when I was a kid helping my dad, and look forward to inheriting them someday. My dad, uncle, and other grandpa were all mechanics, so it's cool to use old tools, as i feel a connection to the past.

[@JJLandscaping]

Adam I completely understand what you are saying about being just right in your hand. When my dad passed I got all his tools and he has a lot of the stanley screwdrivers you love so much. Let you know if I have any doubbles.

[@gupspad401]

Assembled my set of Stanley Workmaster screwdrivers via ebay, so glad I did, love these drivers!

[@StodaGryph]

I have a few of those screwdrivers, and I absolutely agree - they have the best hand feel and grip. Illustrating it's possible to have an attractive shape AND be exceptionally functional.

[@AlasdairGR]

I was just trying to help my grandma with something at her house today and went out to the garage to get a screwdriver in my late grandpa’s old tool cart. Lo and behold my surprise when I saw the 66-801 (with the superior threaded cap no less!) just sitting in the screwdriver drawer. I would have never given it a second thought and known what it was before this video, so thanks for sharing your love of these! If my grandpa’s tools ever get distributed amongst my family in the future, I hope at least this one will find a place in my tool collection and be a functional tool as well as a sentimental object.

[@randynovick7972]

Once I discovered the heavy duty Wiha screwdrivers, and the wooden-handled Felo screwdrivers (and the quality of Wera and Wiha drivers in general) I decided that I would only buy German drivers from that point onward. Best decision I have ever made... hardened tooltips, precise sizing and grinds, caps for hammering, square points for wrenching on. Your stanleys are all chewed up and manky-looking. What good is a nice handle if the tips are mangled?

[@j.r.millstone]

I love my wood handled Felo screwdrivers, too.

[@xoxo2008oxox]

Felo, Wiha, Wera, Gedore, ... many German drivers that are superb and many we've never used because of Stanley and Craftsman were all we had access too. I have Milwaukee for hi-voltage work, and Wera for nutdrivers, and Wiha for computer work. Most of all, I prefer a handle that is not acetate (smelly decomposer) and has a flat side to not roll away such as working under a prop or vehicle. I also would suggest you laser-engrave "Stolen From Adam Savage" on your precious tools...as That is what I do (replace his name with yours, ofcourse). Just remember, screwdrivers are not chisels.

[@RogueCylon]

I grew up with Stanley, and they were solid back in the day. Do like wera though.

[@Basement_CNC]

as a austrian (country next to germany ) its real easy to buy german tools less expensive and you arr right best tools come from germany 😍👌 but vessel are also great since for bikes you need jis and german brands dont have thoose flipside is i may a lot for american stuff (150€ for a leatherman wave for example )🤯

[@CaptainN80]

I love my Wera Kraftform Plus screwdrivers. They have a very good grip and are very pleasant to use.

[@flecom5309]

my grandfather had a set of these, I vividly remember using them as a kid... they were excellent screwdrivers

[@HandToolRescue]

Should I be offended by this?

[@SimonHollandfilms]

Vw Haslet screwdrivers were my dads favorite... they all disappeared so i have been replacing them as a happy memory of working with my dad....his very favorite was the double, philips and flat tool.....mine too.

[@ALWhiteAuthor]

That standard hexagonal handle is made to fit perfectly into the 12 point box end of a wrench. I don't remember the exact size but that was where that handle shape originally came from. That way you can have considerably more turning power and have the rounded end of the handle to maintain pressure with the palm of your hand without fear of injury. I think it's a 1 inch? Not sure.

[@ionstorm66]

I much prefer the round shaft with a nut right before the handle. Putting a massive socket over the hand seems really bulky. I won't buy non though shaft screwdrivers though, because a couple of taps of a screw is amazing at breaking them loose.

[@apeacebone6499]

Adam's genuine excitement and joy in every single one of his videos is not only obvious, but rejuvenating to me. It just makes me happy that he's happy. We should all be so lucky!

[@BROON71]

Fortunately, I noticed in some of Tested's earlier videos Adam using these Stanley Workmaster screwdrivers. He had also talked about his love of the yellow-handled Stanley Professional screwdriver that he was using in his shop door repair video. So, after scooping a few of those screwdrivers on eBay, I figured that I would go back and look for these translucent grey models. Once I found them, I immediately scooped up a couple of auction lots of them. And yes, they feel just as awesome in hand as Adam has talked about.. 👍

[@Hyce777]

The demerit badges... lol! Love them. Last one I earned was smacking my thumb with a 4 lb hammer trying to get an old bushing out of a control arm.... ouch.

[@danc.5859]

Speaking as a Canadian, the one glaring omission to necessary and useful screwdrivers are those with Robertson ends :-)

[@stopthephilosophicalzombie9017]

I wish those would catch on here in the U.S. Vastly superior to philips. For some reason torx seems to be gaining ground.

[@BazippysVideos]

I live near the Stanley tools factory in Sheffield England. Stanley started in America but moved to Sheffield England in 1937. So a few years ago we let ourselves into the factory and did our run down factory tour, the orignal items where there in a dilapidated state. Original papers and left over remains of tool making equipment. I took some lovely shots of the building, im amazed how well stanley tools still is and the quality they produced back in the day. thanks adam a great video on a little hidden gem no one knows about.

[@ASilentS]

I've got a Staley 66-401 4-way driver with that handle style. Definitely my go-to for most odd jobs around the house. Love it!

[@1pcfred]

I have one of those Stanley 4 way screwdrivers but it is so worn I can't read anything on the handle now. I found it in the trunk of a car I bought.

[@tbedgood]

66-204 here....yes it was my Dad's screwdriver and yes it has always been my favorite of all my screwdrivers...nice to see someone like you appreciates this same thing! I've had it for some 40 years and it's pretty beat up, but still my favorite! Thanks for the vid!

[@hoshiadam]

With the lathe and rotary head for the mill, you could give a taper to the hexagon shapes and change them to a triangular / 3 prong shape. Or, as temporary measure to fill in your set, machine that handle shape in delrin and affix the shaft/head from other screwdrivers to it.

[@aserta]

I did this. Had the shafts milled to spec at a CNC shop and then made a mould out of aluminium for a hard resin handle that was a custom fit for my personal ergonomic desires. After 18 years of screwing around with cheap and expensive sets, i realized that there's no substitute for making your own.

[@alwayscensored6871]

@@aserta And it has never been easier to learn how to make your own.

[@Savagedownsouth]

@@aserta I'm a machinist, and I've had factory jobs where I used a screwdriver so much I got blisters every day. My personal solution is different than yours, but still pretty involved. I find large old wooden-handled screwdrivers with messed up heads. Pull the shafts out by sticking the shaft in a vice, use pry-bars bars to pry the handle up and off of it, and replace the shaft by pressing and/or epoxying a new shaft in place. Then I can shape the screwdriver handle however I want, to get rid of hot-spots. It's just wood, and I'm in a machine shop. I thought about making a mold for a plastic handle, but untreated wood is much better for my work. I get really oily, and plastic handles get slippery. What kind of shape did you end up going with? I might want to try it sometime.

[@wmvosburgh]

Have had my dad's workmaster screwdrivers for years. Glad to hear someone else loves em too.

[@danielwarzecha2007]

Hey Adam, you have all ways been role model of mine. Thanks for influencing me in my younger years to think outside the box and have fun with science rather than being limited between the notebook lines.

[@jennymckenzie5304]

This is actually just Adam reselling his extras now and driving the price up. Evil genius. Also Adam as a super villain would be great!

[@chrisgraham2904]

I have a set of nine Stanley Workmaster (black & yellow) screw drivers I bought in early 70's. They are indestructible, but no Canadian screw driver set is complete without the Robertson (square head) drives, #2 and #3. The tools I inherited from my Dad are greatly valued and I would hate to loose even one. Even the 1920's, perfectly balanced, hickory handled claw hammer, knowing that the aged patina of the hickory handle is stained with Dad's blood, sweat and tears (DNA).

[@djsomeguy]

Need #1 as well for electrical.

[@dericriopel]

My grandfather has the multibit one, thanks to your video I actually know what one I need to search for! Thank you!

[@jhtnpa]

I inherited that same Stanley Phillips screwdriver from my father and it's also my go-to #2 - sadly one of the 4 flutes broke but I can't seem to toss the thing for sentimental reasons. Never knew they were called "workmaster" ! Thanks and I hope you find a good full set one day. Love your videos...Cheers!

[@Seeyatellite]

Thanks again, Adam. I understand wanting to find the perfect tool. Some of the tools inherited from my uncle feel so much better in the hands than many newer "efficient" tools. Stanley, Huskey and Craftsman were my father's go-to brands. While I became somewhat familiar with brand loyalty, I always loved hexagonal and indendent cylinder handles. I also find it feels more natural working with multiple screwdrivers rather than a single shaft and bit set. It's nice to feel the weight and size differences from each and every one in order to familiarize yourself with individual projects... understanding the delicacy and effort to exert on each screw kinda fits along with each different screwdriver.

[@mikefochtman7164]

"A Husky handle... A great pry bar!!!" LOL My pet peeve is those hard plastic hex/oct fluted handles. They've actually given me blisters. I much prefer the softer 3-4 sided. Some folks don't give the handle the focus it deserves.

[@ranger178]

someone had a video showing you can actually put a box end wrench on those hexagonal screwdrivers to get leverage i never tried it since a lot of mine have a spot to put a wrench below handle or a place to plug in a 3/8 drive ratchet into back of handle the new Klein rubber handles feel good to me now over a lot of my old hew head Stanley 100 plus models

[@kevinwhite1683]

My favorite screwdrivers are the Felo wood handle screwdrivers from Germany, they are fantastic quality and the wood handles can be roughed up with 100 grit sandpaper to provide amazing traction even when your hands are covered in oil. Another great product that I discovered from AVEs youtube channel.

[@lucdesnoyers645]

As a Canadian, a screwdriver sets needs all 4 size of Robertsons

[@scottstewart3884]

As a fellow Canuck, I was just going to comment on his lack of Robertsons.. Not even a mention of them.....

[@IvanMacKenzie]

If you're in Canada, you need to add 3 sizes of Robertson (square drive) screwdrivers: green, red, and black.

[@theenginehousegarage1485]

Yes! I had one of these from my Dad it was a regular old #2 Philips, but there was just something about it that made it a favorite. I would love to find it, or one just like it! Long Live the Stanley Workmaster!

[@Virtus925]

I definitely understand the connection to tools, I have some of my grandfather’s tools that bring back memories of going to work with my grandfather as a kid who was a handyman during the summer. Some of my best memories of my grandfather are from back then.

[@adamsdrives]

I've got a Stanley Workmaster flathead I inherited as well. One of my favorites! Admittedly, I left if in a car engine bay one-time and the handle kind of melted on the exhaust manifold. You know what? Stills great tool!!

[@gussnarp]

This video is truly after my own heart. I could go on forever about screwdrivers. My favorites are a snap-on set my dad bought me for my high school graduation. They're square, not triangular, but have what I expect is a similar grip feel to yours. I have to say, as soon as I saw that handle I thought I would love them, but I promised not to bid against you, I can't justify buying more screwdrivers than I already have. My other favorite is one I found with a clear green handle and a slightly bent shaft that has steel all the way through the handle. I call it my "not a prybar or chisel", because that's exactly what I use it for!

[@alexmoll8372]

Those are cool screwdrivers! I like my Wera screwdrivers a lot, but my favorites are PB Swiss (with the "Swiss grip" handles.) I also like Vessel and Nepros for their JIS "cross type" tips.

[@Philsky007]

robertson screwdriver.... a part of my set since my young age...yes I am in Canada ☺

[@aussiebloke609]

5:26 I think that was a challenge - now AvE has to work out what sort of resin they used in the handle. Let's see if he takes up the gauntlet! :-D

[@caodesignworks2407]

Probably won't. I get the feeling he's not the biggest Savage fan. He lowkey roasted Savage when he made the video about the McMaster-Carr catalogue. It's very possible he was just poking some fun, but it had such a bitter tone to it.

[@OJungell]

@@caodesignworks2407 nah, he said Adam is a point of inspiration or something to that affect in another video so I doubt it

[@spiffz99]

I can relate to the loss of a sentimental tool. My dad had a Diamond wire cutter that he always had and were his go to my entire time growing up. Eventually they wound up in my tool box and became my go to. When I was about 25 I had them in the back of my car when it got stolen. The car was recovered, but not the toolbox.

[@jonpierce8342]

Those a comfortable screwdrivers... I have two of them in my collection... Both large flatheads... By the way the hexagonal handle design on most screwdrivers is so your can put a wrench on it.

[@benjaminratliff5546]

I think my dad has some of those laying around he ended up with from his father’s workshop. Never knew they were anything special until now!

[@nicoeckerstorfer5893]

In my opinion theres no better screwdriver than the Wera Shockproof (Schlagfest) meaning the yellow handle with the metal cap on the top. At most companies around here (Austria) you only see the Wera Screwdrivers (just like we only have Knipex Pliers and Pipe Wrenches). Wihas are Also very nice.

[@nolanhitchens]

The disadvantage of the shockproof version is that it doesn't show the size on the back, like the regular Wera's do, and which make them so easily identifiable. So I only bought a large flathead in shockproof version. That's the only one I'd bang with a hammer, like a chisel. All the others, Pozidriv and Torx mostly, are more practical in the regular version in my opinion 🙂

[@Makatea]

@@nolanhitchens Well, sometimes you need to hammer the screwdriver into dirty or damaged screws and it's nice that the back of the handle takes a beating gracefully ;-) I keep them sorted on a first-order-retrievability tool-wall, so the missing marking on the back is not an issue for me. The other big advantage is the hexagonal transition between driver and handle: You can use a ring spanner to convince stubborn screws with more force to get out (or break).

[@nolanhitchens]

@@Makatea True, but the regular Wera's also have that hexagonal feature. I like easily seeing if it's a TX15 or a TX20 I'm about to pick up. That's harder to see with the shockproof ones. For damaged or dirty screws I'd use my electric impact driver with the appropriate bit. 🙂

[@seangannon193]

Hi Adam im in the UK and i love Draper screwdrivers and tools, i like the fact there shaft is square so you can use a spanner for extra leverage and the shaft goes right to the end of the handle and shaped to handle meaning you can hammer the screwdriver as hard as you want as its steel on steel

[@maxpat82]

I have stanley workmaster like those from my dad too and yes they are great. But recently got a set of Wera and totally love them. The Snap-On older hard shell Square design is great too. Don't like much the newer 3 lobe rubber type one..and they are bulky :|

[@michaelnewell9662]

the square snap-ons last forever, but are too slippery, i prefer the 3-lobe ones. however i agree that the handle sizes are a bit off - too much variation between the biggest & smallest

[@TheMeta6]

Wera are both great and affordable. I used to have snapon but almost all of my screwdrivers are wera now.

[@ulwur]

Yes. Wera has the best screwdrivers, the laser pattering in the blades are brilliant!

[@adamreddick9036]

So I just stumbled upon this video yesterday and found one of these in my tool chest today. Adam if it is one you are missing I would be more than happy to send it to you. It’s the least I could do for all of the knowledge I’ve gained from you over the years.

[@nathanfell8993]

ADAM! You have enough clout in the Maker community to put some kind and loving pressure in the Stanley tool company to reissue the WorkMaster series. Maker nerds unite! Gather your EVA foam pitchforks and 3D printed torches and storm the Stanley castle!!! I say WORK, you say Master! WORK MASTER! WORK MASTER!

[@ipissed]

Stanley is an emergency buy from Wal-Mart, not cause for a revolution.

[@flowerpt]

Didn't Stanley leave Connecticut for China a decade ago? The patents are all expired - no reason anybody stateside couldn't make these (or even Rigid or whatever). Ideal would be to find a small American tool company that wants to expand its sales with a Tested line and have Adam describe why they're built to improve the worklife of makers.

[@ipissed]

@@flowerpt That's some pretty good good weed.

[@josebatista5188]

I enjoy that Adam is such a nice and personable guy that he enjoys sharing his craft without regard to market or economic pressures, and he will even tell you when someone else is more technical than him. Whether he is maximum techie or not, who else is going to show you the inside of Hollywood prop-making, and with their authentic personality, out of a love of the craft?

[@ListerDavid]

I remember my dad having a bunch of the yellow Stanley screwdrivers, I used to love holding them up to a light and looking at the colours.

[@maxthrust976]

My favourite screwdriver is a Veritas handle made of torrified maple that holds hex shank bits. It’s just so lovely to hold, it’s one that never gets leant to anyone, even for a minute. It also doesn’t live with my other tools, it lives on a shelf in my bedroom. It’s one that is definitely best suited for fine woodwork, not to be used with greasy hands or on greasy parts.

[@wakamiwailer]

I have some of my grandfathers old Stanley screwdrivers from when he worked for Bell Telephone. They were a gift from Bell and they're my favorite though I don't actually use them that often. Instead, I bought a bunch of Harbor Freight 4in1 drivers because I was tired of having to go find a screwdriver all the time. Now I keep one in the junk drawer, a couple in the basement, a few in the garage, one lives in my tool belt, at least one in every tool box, I think there's one in my night stand, etc. Same with tape measures

[@daveharwood2843]

I have a number 1 and 2 Phillips, from my Dad. I remember him exclaiming how they had the best grip, must comfortable, less cramping. Well, I own them now, and I even have the shallow shelf he made, filled with holes for his screwdrivers, that was mounted above his toolmakers tool chest. BTW, I'm sure I'm not going to be the only person to suggest that hex handles are designed for wrenches, to add leverage. ;)

[@jimnaden5594]

I can understand the connection tools handed down can have. When we are working on something together my son gets a satisfaction when he gets to use hand tools that were my Dad’s as my son was born a year after my Dad passed.

[@eggsarny]

I love that they have a sort of black/brown opaque handle. They give me big Vegemite vibes and if I was super duper into hand tools I'd want a small collection of these

[@KiwiHelpgeek]

I have large hands and love the feel of the Stanley triangular handle shape. My uncle had arthritis and he used them and introduced me to them.

[@timan2039]

I had a set and Adam is right about the handles. Stanley had a advertising campaign built around them and their very real advantage. I miss those tools.

[@jonathonhigham2793]

Adam giving AvE a shout out made my day!

[@laurelrunlaurelrun]

I got a big box of screwdrivers from a family member recently. I was so pleased to find a couple of these in there. They do indeed, rock. The smelly handles are very common in old craftsman and had to do with the plastic they used not being completely stable.

[@antilaw9911]

My new favorite is the $10 hart set from Walmart. Walked past these a million times before i decided to buy and try. Wow what a surprise! The grip!!! No crooked blades or burrs and material quality is impeccable! $10 bucks cant be beat!

[@wd4187]

Wera 812/1 with the strong permanent magnet (not locking ring) is my personal favorite for a bit holding screwdriver. Used every day for the last 4 years, now I really struggle to use anything else. The magnet is really great for getting screws down into places where you can't get your fingers into. Funny timing, was explaining my favorite screwdriver today too.

[@gr81matt]

We had this style when I was a kid, and they are my favorite as well. I often look around to see if anyone is making a modern set of them whenever I am at a hardware store.

[@afaella3]

As implausible as it is, I really hope someone sees this video, says "hey, that weird screwdriver I saw at the local pawn shop has some odd blue markings..." And you're reunited with that piece of history

[@ClayHales]

Just found a lot of these on ebay. There literally weren't any bids between the auction start on Jan 5 and today Jan 11. Today there have been 12 bids taking it from $30 to $71.

[@DStek42]

Those were the same screwdrivers my dad had. Crazy the things we remember. I recall really liking the grip of that handle.

[@absolutjackal]

My father had at least one of these; as soon as I saw them on the table I immediately knew what they were (Stanley..not necessarily the model) but more importantly I can close my eyes and feel that screwdriver in my hand. And it’s been probably 25 years since I’ve held it. Crazy how that is.

[@rds9872]

My great grandfather’s toolbox had a Stanley screwdriver in it that looked about like those. He or my grandfather used it a lot. Good tools.

[@jeffrussell5076]

I was on the Sears Craftsman buying team for screwdrivers in the early 2000's, and we had a screwdriver & plier line called Comfort Fit intended for seniors or people who may not have as much strength in their hands. They had a nice cushion grip and were really comfortable to use. We found out that they also happened to have greater torque than our better screwdriver sets. The handles are grey and worth consideration in your workshop. Currently there is a Craftsman "Extreme Grip" series that may be related, but I can't be certain. The Comfort Fit plier set was sku 45220 and can be found on Google.

[@randomjunk1977]

When I first moved out on my own my dad bought me a tool kit that was Popular Mechanics (like the magazine) branded. I don't know a model number or anything and this was 20 years ago-ish so probably not available, but the set of screwdrivers in that kit is the best I've ever had and still my go to. They're basically triangular shaped handles with rounded edges and a textured rubberized coating on the flat parts. The shaft and hardened tips are excellent quality as well. Phillips are blue handled, flat are red handled, and it has torx heads that are yellow. I've tried to find them online just as a recommendation and never had any luck but they're excellent if you ever run across them. Separately the kit has a set of end wrenches, standard and metric sockets, a crescent wrench and three different pliers in a fairly small package. They're all great if you find one in the wild at a pawn shop or something.

[@flowerpt]

I have these and use them for anything that needs a solid grip. For finger-tightening the traditional type can be a little better - I have some old Craftsman Professional drivers with aggressively deep ridges and very hard metal. The Popular Mechanics type shows up occasionally under different brands, same design.

[@FearsomeWarrior]

I enjoy the Picquic Super 8 and Marine. The handle and the steel finish are my favorite. Ideal and Klein with the rubber handle for work. Enjoy the tri-lobed Crescent brand marketed as diamond tips too.

[@tyeck5502]

Thanks Adam. I've been focusing on collecting German and Japanese tools recently but now I want to focus on vintage tools and you inspired me to start with this. I went on an eBay spree and the first of these just arrived and it is marvelous. So I'm excited for the others to arrive. I can't help but think how crazy it is that never in your father's wildest dreams when he bought his Stanley Workmaster, would he have known that many decades later, some stranger from halfway across the world, would end up buying one because of his purchase. And I've already passed the story on to my son who will now appreciate why this is in my collection, and maybe someday he will pass it on to his son, and who knows what they may create with their Workmasters, or how long the legacy will be passed down?

[@nicoletierney5385]

The black/yellow handle screwdrivers brings be back to the tool box in hour hall closet growing up. We had a couple of those in there. Not sure what ever happened to them after my Dad passed. Thanks for sharing.

[@vanquestgear]

I was literally researching screwdrivers the last couple days to upgrade. This was perfect timing!

[@MetalGuyReacts]

Just stumbled across two at a garage sale! So solid! A 66-206 and a 66-801.

[@taggerinc2652]

Sometimes you just want what you want. And sometimes that little difference actually does make it better / easier to use.

[@espowari]

I was looking for a ratcheting screwdriver for datacenter work, which had to be fairly small, but strong, and have some bits, and I landed on a pretty nice DeWalt. It has a tapered handle and the extension comes off so it fits in the side pocket of my bag. I also need some very specific Torx bits for CPU removal from DELL servers that I occasionally service. All this leads to the fun of creating your OWN kit. Great video!

[@CanadianCuttingEdge]

We Canadians get to have the Standard (flat), Philips, and Robertson drivers (3 main sizes). 50% more screwdrivers than American's need. Unless you are a knife nut like me, then you need several Torx as well. In fact, I wish torx would become much more common because I prefer them for the stuff I make. Most Canadian makers like to talk about how much better Robertson screws are than Philips or Standard, and I agree, they are better, and Torx is another big step better too. But to the main point: I am a big fan of the Mastercraft (Canadian Tire house brand) 3 sided handles that came out quite recently. 3 sided handles are indeed a LOT better in hand than the hex shaped handles of old.

[@RobertShaverOfAustin]

When I was a kid (in the '60s) I worked for a TV repairman after school. That was the first time I encountered nut-drivers and I thought they were so cool. FIY a nut-driver is like a screwdriver except it fits over (usually) small nuts found in electronics. I was issued a set when I became an avionics repairman in the USAF (late '60s). Now, of course, I have a nice set of seven Wiha SoftFinish hollow shaft inch size. Metric might be useful but I haven't run into that need. (Be sure to get the hollow shaft type.)

[@piedrve]

Wow. Those are same I grew up with. I totally understand how those feel in your hand, and you're right - I have never owned a screwdriver of my own that matched those. Next time I'm visiting my parents in Houston, I dig around and see which ones they still have. I don't think they're as sentimental about them as you and are, and I could probably replace them and they wouldn't mind. I'll let you know.

[@jonas2431]

I've git a set of mini screwdriver bits with a ratchet handle. Found at lows for like 11 bucks. It's perfect

[@williamparadis3058]

I have a favorite that I often gift to maker friends and family - the Garrett & Wade heavy duty screwdriver set with wooden handles. They're beautiful, rugged, and have oval wooden handles - oval handles don't roll as easily. One other thing I look for is a square shaft, so you can use a wrench to get more torque without marring the handle. The Garret & Wade lack that feature, which is another reason why you should have multiple styles.

[@RobHaag71]

It’s funny when the moment arrives that makes you take a deep dive into something that has been a part of your life for a very long time without putting much thought into it. When that moment does come you learn so much about the tool and even more about yourself. I need lots of screwdrivers. Slotted/Common screwdrivers: I have hollow ground, i have regular everyday use drivers of various quality levels that also determines where they live (my wood handle Felo set stays indoors), i have impact drivers, very long drivers and like Adam I have some that are pry bars. Of course there is the wide array of watch maker and tiny drivers for electronics too. I also have stubby and right angle and surely a few I forgot to list but value there availability just as much. I have a need for and use all of them at some time or another. Phillips drivers are a whole other list and just as important to me and I’m not even getting into other bit styles.

[@iambucketdotcom_official]

My dad had some of these when I was a kid. He had the black handle with yellow rings. Unfortunately, I was not a careful child and lost many that I took from his toolbox for my own endeavors/adventures. They were the best. Now you have me wanting to collect a set.

[@Mark_LaCroix]

My dad had that exact Husky "prybar" screwdriver, and I remember it growing up because it was comically large and as kids we sometimes used it as a prop sword. He lost it years ago, only for it to turn up last month just sitting underneath my dishwasher, where he left it in 2003 when he helped me install it.

[@garyryman4947]

I have a complete set of the clear yellow hanging on the pegboard at my workbench. Could not agree more about the great feel in the hand.

[@jameshaggard5966]

This was an absolutely great video. I would love to meet Adam Savage. He has been an inspiration for me to have an upbeat and positive attitude in my in my own life.

[@robertm2226]

I have tools from my father that I'm sure I have better new ones but the memories from using it is what I like. I have an old razor scraper that doesn't work as well as my new one but I use it because it reminds me of my dad.

[@Hesston4860s]

Snap-on classic handle screwdrivers are just the best ever, nothing else even comes close !.

[@fb341]

Adam, those Stanleys are great screwdrivers! The unique handle design is definitely the most comfortable that I've ever used. I bought a small set of them when I started in my vocational high school back in 1979 and still have them. Thanks for the vid!