Magnetic Nut Drivers

Magnetic nut drivers are tools that have a hexagonal socket on the tip that fits over a nut or a bolt and a magnetic base that helps secure the nut or bolt in place. They allow the user to drive or remove nuts and bolts with a power tool or a hand tool instead of a wrench. Magnetic nut drivers can have different sizes and lengths and can be used for various applications, such as furniture assembly, appliance repair, or electrical work. Magnetic nut drivers can also be attached to a drill or an impact driver with a 1/4-inch hex shank.

There are different types of magnetic nut drivers based on their shank type, size, length, and bolt clearance. Some of the common types are:

 
• Hex shank: These are nut drivers that have a hexagonal shank that fits into a hand driver or a bit adapter in a power tool. They are also known as insert bits and are used for low-torque applications1.
• Quick-change hex shank: These are nut drivers that have a hexagonal shank with a groove that fits directly into a power tool without an adapter. They offer more reach for recessed holes and less wobble compared to a hex shank bit used with an adapter. They are also known as power bits and are used for high-torque applications.
• Pass-through: These are nut drivers that have a shaft and handle that are drilled all the way through, enabling the turning of nuts on any length of threaded rod. They have a cushion-grip handle for comfort and some slip resistance.
• Individual/Set: These are nut drivers that can be purchased individually or in sets of different sizes and types. Sets offer more versatility and convenience for various projects.

The size of a magnetic nut driver is measured by the width of the socket across the flats in inches or millimeters. The length of a magnetic nut driver is measured by the overall length of the shaft length. The bolt clearance of a magnetic nut driver is the maximum length of the threaded portion of the bolt that can fit inside the socket.

 
• Select the appropriate magnetic nut driver for your project. Make sure it matches the size and shape of the nut or bolt and has a compatible shank type for your power tool or hand tool.
• Insert the magnetic nut driver into your power tool or hand tool. If you are using a power tool, make sure it has a 1/4-inch hex chuck or an adapter that fits the shank of the nut driver. If you are using a hand tool, make sure it has a hex socket that fits the shank of the nut driver.
• Place the magnetic nut driver over the nut or bolt. The magnet in the tip will hold the nut or bolt in place and prevent it from falling out. Make sure the nut or bolt is aligned and centered with the socket of the nut driver.
• Turn on your power tool or rotate your hand tool to drive or remove the nut or bolt. Apply steady pressure and avoid over-tightening or stripping the nut or bolt. If you are using a cleanable magnetic nut driver, you can easily remove any metal shavings from the magnet by pulling back the collar.