Screwdrivers Help

[Old Moss]

  Okay Gents,

This may seem like a dumb question but I bet there are more of us out there with the same frustration than not!!! 

I need a good Gunsmithing set of Screwdivers or at least better bits!  I have so many that break bend or just do not fit!!!  AAArrrrgh 

I have used three brand names multiple none brand names, plus no one seems to make universal replacement bits in all sizes!!! 

I would really like to know what is a good set and are they truths or myths when it comes to they need to be a specific hardness?   

Almost all of them are either to soft and bend or to brittle and break, I know about breaking the screw heads off - no I do not want that but, for the most part I use torque wrenches when needed and after 40 years I have tightened a screw or two.

It just seams like there are no good tough quality drivers/bits out there made for gunsmithing?   

Help Please!      Thanks Old Moss P.S. or am I just being whinney 

[STUMPJMPR]

I noticed the cheaper sets will do exactly what you describe.  I've been making my own lately.  I buy cheap hardware store screw drivers and grind them to fit the slot.  They seam to work pretty well if you take your time and match them close.

[gunnut69]

There isn't a universal answer I don't believe.. I find the Brownells line to be most universal as to sizes and thicknesses but still end up fitting to some of the oddball screws. I use some of the Black&Decker bits for power d rivers.. Some have file like teeth on the business ends to help lock them into the screw slot or philips detent. They are a bit harsh for some applications but slippage is rare..there are even long shank versions for working thru a recoil pad..properly lubed of course! Arthritis has pretty badly damaged my hands so leverage has become an issue. I found and bought several drivers that use replaceable bits that had handles that pivoted to the side giving great leverage, combined with Craftsman quality they are perfect. If all holds true with my luck they probably have been discontinued but should have been picked up by someone.. Wkile the power driver bits are hard the screws can and will break, be careful and use heat and lubricant..Kroil..