Slotted/ flat screwdrivers for clocks

[RichardHarris123]

I require some larger flat screwdrivers for working on clocks. I have some for general work but would like a dedicated set. Any recommendations, I want good quality.

[Neverenoughwatches]

Depends how much you want to spend ,Snap on and Knipex are good quality. Snap on mechanic's gear, Knipex is usually electrical stuff.  I have some old Draper drivers from when I started work, they're still in good condition .

I use mostly Wera now, good quality at a fair price. I can get quite abusive with drivers , and this brand stands up to me.

[RichardHarris123]

No abuse, I have other screwdrivers for that. hehe. That's why I want a dedicated set, a nice case would be good. 

[AndyGSi]

I use WIha, Good quality at a reasonable price.

[nickelsilver]

My favorite is PB Swiss, they aren't cheap, but hold up well, and have a parallel blade at the tip. Their hex keys are also the best I've used. I have Snap-On from my mechanic days, also good, but I find the blades are too thick for a given head diameter on European stuff.

 

 

[Neverenoughwatches]

Wera make non electrical drivers, A German brand made in Eastern Block countries now. A set comprises of drivers in the region of 5 - 6 quid each, nice big grippy handles with tough blades. Probably too big for some small clocks so their electrical types might be better.

Edited March 25 by Neverenoughwatches

[tomh207]

If you’re wanting something a bit more craftsman like have a look for gunsmith drivers. @RichardHarris123

https://www.brownells.co.uk/7-PIECE-WOOD-SCREWDRIVER-SET-GRACE-USA-354000035

https://www.brownells.co.uk/PISTOLSMITH-SCREWDRIVER-SET-GRACE-USA-354107000

 

Tom

Edited March 25 by tomh207
Added another link

[RichardHarris123]

I love online shopping, so convenient but I would really like to hold the screwdrivers to see how they feel. 

I looked at the gun ones Tom, with apologies to all the good people of the USA, I  can't currently bring myself to buy any of their products. 

Probably go for the PB Swiss, just need to know what sizes I need. 

[tomh207]

You could always make your own Richard, handles are available and square bar, o1 tool steel would probably work. You’ll need to harden and temper them though. The best screwdrivers I have ever owned and used were gunsmith ones. Maybe look for a local shooting supplier/gun dealer? Shotgun sizes should be common and be in the range for clocks I would think.

Maybe these guys can help and are local for you @RichardHarris123

https://www.henrykrank.com/finely-made-miniature-rosewood-handle-gunsmiths-turnscrews-1306p/

Tom

Edited March 25 by tomh207
Added link

[RichardHarris123]

I like those Tom, I wanted something different to my general purpose ones.  Something to think about. 

[oldhippy]

I still have my screwdrivers that I used for clocks very handy to have these when it comes to screwing the movements back into there cases, they were flat blade and philips type.

Edited March 25 by oldhippy

[RichardHarris123]

What would you choose @oldhippy?

[oldhippy]

Get what are called screw holding screwdrivers, they grip the screw. 

Edited March 25 by oldhippy