Choosing The Right Adjustable Torque Screwdriver

What is an adjustable torque screwdriver? This tool comes in handy for much smaller jobs, when a bulky hydraulic or air torque wrench is just too big.

They are small and compact and can fit into just about any tool chest or drawer, ready to go when you need one. They usually come with a comfort grip handle, are available in preset torques as well as adjustable settings, and are really quite inexpensive. You just never know when you may need one of these screwdrivers, whether it is securing the screws on a clock, or for tightening a bolt or screw on a wood working project, these tools can make tightening a breeze. Because most models have adjustable settings, you don't have to worry about applying too much force.

With so many adjustable torque screwdriver choices, it's important to pick the right one for your needs. The first place to really start is what your budget limitations are, as well as what your needs are. There are manual screwdriver types, as well as cordless and corded electric. You also have your pneumatic screwdriver models as well powered by air compression. Manual drivers are going to be the lowest cost option.

One good manual adjustable torque screwdriver is from CDI torque products. There are four different preset models to choose from. There are many great features on these screwdrivers. They have a cap on the end that requires a special key to adjust the torque, making them tamper resistant. They have a cam-over design, that is simple, and yet prevents damage to delicate components, and these are very well suited for high volume assembly operations. CDI's Pre-Set Series has available preset settings from 6" ounces of torque, all the way up to forty inch pounds.

Then you have your electric adjustable torque screwdriver models. You can get these in a corded, as well as cordless models. These too can cost a great deal of money, depending on the brand and model you choose. Your cheapest brand is going to be the Delta Regis ESL Electric corded screwdriver. This brand has a torque range from .2" pounds, all the way up to 41. The nice feature of this brand is that their screwdriver products include an ergonomically designed housing, so it will be comfortable even if you are using it for repeated applications. They have fan cooled motors, and a great shut off mechanism. The offer better comfort, as well as superior torque repetition.

Delta also has a series of brushless adjustable torque screwdriver models to choose from, the 600 series. These screwdrivers are also ergonomically designed, but also feature brushless DC motors, which eliminates the dust created by brush motors. Because it has a DC motor, it takes less energy to run, and runs much cooler that traditional motors, and is exceptionally quiet. Some of the other features of the 600 series include precise control with a lower torque reaction. A super compact design with a comfort grip, for more maneuverability, and less strain. A higher duty cycle, as well as lower maintenance. These models also come with a three year warranty on the motor. Delta offers these torque screwdrivers in models from .2" pounds of torque up to 16.5, with prices in the low four hundred dollar range.

While significantly more expensive than manual or corded electric precision torque driver models, cordless tools are becoming increasingly popular. One of the brands that seems to always stand out above the rest when it comes to consistent and reliable cordless power is Makita, and they also have a torque screwdriver line. The Makita BFT series is the top of the line when it comes to cordless tools. These products feature reduced operation costs, extreme energy savings, and less consumption than many other cordless products on the market. This series is available in both 9.6, as well as 12 volt style, with pistol grip handles. They provide much more freedom, and have features like external access to the brushes for quick and easy replacement, and a thicker shaft for heavy duty operations. You have the choices from 4.4" pounds of torque to 106," with costs in the upper $600 range.