Nut Drivers

About Nut Drivers

Nut drivers, also known as nut setters, are essential accessories that enable hexagonal fasteners to be driven quickly and efficiently with power tools. Featuring a 1/4" hex shank design, these versatile tools can be used with drill chucks, the hex chucks of electric screwdrivers, and impact drivers. Impact-rated nut drivers are specifically engineered to withstand the high-torque rotational forces of impact modes, making them ideal for demanding applications where standard accessories would fail. Beyond power tool use, nut drivers can also be installed into hand tools such as bit-holding screwdrivers or ratchet handles, providing flexibility across different fastening tasks.

Tooled-Up.com stocks an extensive selection of nut drivers from leading manufacturers including Bosch Professional, Makita, DeWalt, Milwaukee, Wera, and Bahco. Available in both metric and imperial sizes, these accessories cater to a wide range of applications from light assembly work to heavy-duty construction and maintenance tasks. Many modern nut drivers incorporate magnetic tips to hold fasteners securely, reducing the risk of dropped nuts and bolts, particularly when working in awkward positions or at height.

Professional tradespeople often invest in comprehensive nut driver sets that include multiple sizes and lengths, ensuring they have the right tool for every situation. Long-reach nut drivers are particularly useful for accessing recessed fasteners, while short versions provide better control in confined spaces. The range at Tooled-Up includes individual nut drivers, multi-piece sets, and combination kits that pair nut drivers with socket adaptors and screwdriver bits, offering excellent value for those building or replenishing their tool collection.

Jargon Buster

• Hex Shank: The 1/4" hexagonal drive end that fits into power tool chucks and bit holders. This six-sided design prevents slipping during use and allows for quick bit changes.
• Impact Rated: Accessories specifically designed and tested to withstand the intense rotational impacts generated by impact drivers and impact wrenches. These feature reinforced construction and heat-treated materials for extended durability.
• Magnetic Tip: A magnetised socket end that holds metal fasteners in place, preventing them from falling during installation or removal, particularly useful when working overhead or in tight spaces.
• S2 Steel: A high-grade alloy steel commonly used in quality nut drivers, offering excellent hardness and shock resistance whilst maintaining flexibility to prevent shattering under stress.
• Nut Setter: An alternative term for nut driver, particularly common in North American markets but increasingly used in UK trade circles to describe these hex-socket accessories.
• Socket Adaptor: A conversion tool that allows standard square-drive sockets to be used with hex-shank power tools, effectively turning any socket set into power tool accessories.

Who Uses Nut Drivers?

Nut drivers are indispensable tools across numerous trades and industries:

• Electricians and Sparkies: For securing cable trays, mounting electrical enclosures, and installing switchgear with hex-head bolts and nuts
• Automotive Mechanics: Assembly and disassembly of vehicle components, particularly in bodywork and trim installation
• HVAC Engineers: Fixing ductwork, mounting air conditioning units, and assembling ventilation systems
• Shopfitters and Joiners: Installing fixtures, fittings, and display units using hex fasteners
• Maintenance Engineers: Servicing industrial equipment and machinery that uses hex-head fasteners
• General Builders: Various site applications including steel frame assembly and fixings
• Furniture Assemblers: Flat-pack furniture construction and bespoke joinery work
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home improvement projects, shelving installation, and general repairs
• Manufacturing Operatives: Production line assembly work requiring rapid fastening operations
• Aerospace and Engineering Technicians: Precision assembly work with calibrated torque requirements

How to Choose the Right Nut Drivers

Selecting appropriate nut drivers depends on several key factors:

Size Requirements: Identify whether you need metric sizes (5mm, 6mm, 7mm, 8mm, 10mm, etc.) or imperial sizes (1/4", 5/16", 3/8", 7/16", 1/2", etc.). Consider purchasing a comprehensive set if you regularly work with various fastener sizes. Mixed sets covering both measurement systems offer maximum versatility for tradespeople working across different equipment types.

Impact Rating: If you intend to use nut drivers with impact drivers or impact wrenches, ensure they're impact-rated. Standard accessories can shatter or fail when subjected to impact forces, posing safety risks. Impact-rated versions feature torsion zones and reinforced construction to absorb shock loads safely.

Length Considerations: Standard-length nut drivers suit most applications, but long-reach versions (typically 100mm-150mm) are essential for accessing recessed fasteners or working in deep cavities. Conversely, short stubby versions provide better control in confined spaces where standard lengths won't fit.

Magnetic vs Non-Magnetic: Magnetic nut drivers offer significant convenience by holding fasteners securely, reducing dropped nuts and improving one-handed operation. However, non-magnetic versions may be preferable when working near sensitive electronic equipment or in environments where magnetic fields could cause issues.

Material Quality: Professional-grade nut drivers manufactured from S2 steel or chrome vanadium alloy offer superior durability compared to budget alternatives. Look for brands like Bosch Professional, Wera, Wiha, and Milwaukee for tools that will withstand daily professional use without rounding or cracking.

Individual vs Sets: Individual nut drivers suit specific needs, but sets typically offer better value. Multi-piece sets from manufacturers at Tooled-Up provide organised storage cases and ensure you have the right size to hand, reducing downtime on site.

Popular Accessories

Complement your nut drivers with these useful accessories:

• Socket Adaptors: Square drive adaptors (1/4", 3/8", 1/2") that allow standard socket sets to be used with hex-shank power tools
• Extension Bars: Hex-shank extensions for reaching deeply recessed fasteners whilst maintaining tool alignment
• Magnetic Bit Holders: Quick-change holders that provide additional magnetic retention for nut drivers
• Impact Driver Bits: Complementary screwdriver bits for complete fastening solutions
• Ratchet Handles: Hand-operated ratchets with hex bit holders for manual operation when power tools aren't suitable
• Bit Storage Cases: Organised storage solutions for keeping multiple nut driver sizes accessible and protected
• Universal Joint Adaptors: Flexible joints that allow angled access in restricted spaces
• Torque Limiters: Attachments that prevent over-tightening and fastener damage in precision applications

Safety Information

When using nut drivers, observe these important safety practices:

Personal Protective Equipment: Always wear appropriate safety glasses or goggles to protect against flying debris, particularly when working with impact drivers. Safety gloves provide grip and hand protection, though ensure they don't compromise tool control.

Tool Inspection: Regularly inspect nut drivers for signs of wear, cracking, or rounding at the socket end. Damaged accessories should be replaced immediately as they can slip off fasteners under load, potentially causing injury or workpiece damage. Check that hex shanks aren't worn, which could result in the bit ejecting from the chuck during operation.

Correct Application: Only use impact-rated nut drivers with impact tools. Standard accessories aren't designed for impact loads and can shatter catastrophically. Ensure the nut driver size matches the fastener precisely – using oversized drivers will round off nuts and bolts.

Power Tool Operation: When using nut drivers with 240v power tools, ensure equipment is properly earthed and inspect cables for damage before use. Battery-powered tools should be removed from chargers before accessory changes. Never hold the workpiece in your hand whilst using power-driven nut drivers – always secure materials properly.

Work Area Safety: Maintain good lighting and a clear workspace. Ensure fasteners are fully engaged before applying power to prevent slippage. When working at height, use tethered tools where possible and secure loose fasteners to prevent dropped objects hazards in accordance with HSE guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a nut driver and a socket?

Whilst both grip hexagonal fasteners, nut drivers feature a 1/4" hex shank designed for power tools and bit holders, whereas traditional sockets have square drive openings (1/4", 3/8", 1/2") for ratchets and breaker bars. Nut drivers are typically more compact and suited to lighter-duty applications, though impact-rated versions handle considerable torque. Socket adaptors bridge the gap, allowing square-drive sockets to be used with hex-shank power tools.

Can I use standard nut drivers with an impact driver?

No – only use impact-rated nut drivers with impact drivers or impact wrenches. Standard nut drivers lack the hardening and torsion design to withstand repeated impact forces and can shatter dangerously. Impact-rated accessories are clearly marked and constructed from materials specifically engineered for high-torque applications. The additional cost of impact-rated tools is worthwhile for safety and longevity.

Do magnetic nut drivers lose their magnetism over time?

Quality magnetic nut drivers from reputable manufacturers use permanent magnets that maintain their strength indefinitely under normal use. However, extreme heat (above 80°C), strong external magnetic fields, or physical shock can reduce magnetic performance. Impact use gradually weakens magnetism in some lower-quality products, so professional users should choose impact-rated magnetic nut drivers from established brands for reliable long-term performance.

What sizes of nut drivers do I need for general maintenance work?

For general UK maintenance work, a metric set covering 5mm, 6mm, 7mm, 8mm, 10mm, and 13mm handles most common applications. If working with equipment manufactured to imperial standards, add 1/4", 5/16", 3/8", and 7/16" sizes. Many combination sets available from Tooled-Up include both measurement systems, providing comprehensive coverage for diverse fastening situations without purchasing separate sets.

Can nut drivers be used with a cordless drill?

Yes, nut drivers work excellently with cordless drills fitted with keyless chucks that accept 1/4" hex shanks. Modern drills with dedicated hex chucks provide even better retention. Set the drill's torque clutch appropriately to prevent over-tightening fasteners. For higher-torque applications, impact drivers or impact wrenches paired with impact-rated nut drivers deliver superior performance, though standard drills suit lighter assembly work perfectly well.