I should have bought this years ago!
Adrian Kingsley Hughes/ZDNET
Important points of ZDNET
The first is the Makita Impact XPS Mag Boost. This is a complete game changer for tackling complex and hard-to-reach screw tightening tasks.
Wera screw gripper attachments are designed to fit the shaft of an insulated screwdriver, but these attachments also work very well with long screwdriver bits.
Both devices are very affordable, with the Makita selling for just $5.
Imagine the scene. You are squeezed into a small and uncomfortable space. Maybe it’s tucked under the dining table or in a cupboard under the sink. It’s dark and uncomfortable, and there’s a strange smell coming from somewhere. Hold a screwdriver in one hand. The other side contains several screws. Grip the flashlight between your teeth, shining a dim light that just barely reaches your work area.
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What is your mission? Fixing some of the fasteners is frustratingly far away and requires a lot of reach and patience. This is the difficult (and often funny) reality of tackling DIY projects in less than ideal conditions.
In this tight space, it’s tempting to rely on the magnets built into modern screwdrivers and bits, which under normal circumstances stay firmly in place. But when conditions are far from ideal, such as in a cupboard under a sink, these magnets are often insufficient. This is when your DIY mettle is tested, and having the right tools can make the difference between getting the job done and throwing the tools out the window.
1. Makita Impact XPS Mag Boost
There are two accessories that come in handy at such times. The first is the Makita Impact XPS Mag Boost. This is a complete game changer for tackling complex and hard-to-reach screw tightening tasks.
Makita Impact XPS Mag Boost in action.
Adrian Kingsley Hughes/ZDNET
Features a magnetic collar with two powerful rare earth magnets. This innovative tool fits snugly onto the shaft of the bit and greatly enhances its magnetic capabilities. The best part is that you can put it on and take it off as needed.
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Unlike standard magnetized screwdriver bits, which provide basic holding power, the Impact XPS Mag Boost locks fasteners more securely. This added magnetic force ensures that the screw is firmly secured to the bit, reducing the frustration of drops and misalignment, especially in awkward or cramped working conditions.
2. Wera screw gripper attachment
Magnetic tools like the Makita Impact XPS Mag Boost don’t always work well when working with non-magnetic materials such as stainless steel. This is where my second go-to tool comes into play. Wera screw gripper attachments are designed to fit the shaft of an insulated screwdriver, but these attachments also work very well with long screwdriver bits.
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The Wera screw gripper employs a mechanical gripper rather than relying on magnetism. These grippers grip fasteners and provide a secure hold regardless of the magnetic properties of the material. Therefore, it is very convenient for working with stainless steel screws, which are less susceptible to magnetism.
Wera screw gripper.
Adrian Kingsley Hughes/ZDNET
When it comes to screwdriver bits, we recommend purchasing a set of long screwdriver bits like this 5-pack of Milwaukee Power Bits. This is because not only does it work better with screw grippers, but it also provides easier access to even those finicky screwdrivers. Reach the spot.
In case you’re wondering, the electric screwdriver I’m using here is a great HOTO screwdriver set, a tool that has given me perfect service for over a year.
