Screwdrivers and Bits

Interchangeable bit sets dominate for versatility and compact transport, particularly our Makita 88-piece and Vega 79-piece cases which cover 95% of industrial applications in a suitcase format.

Interchangeable system advantages:

• 70% reduction in transport volume
• Cost per bit reduced by 60%
• Unit replacement of worn parts
• Compatible with electric drivers

Individual screwdrivers excel for:

• Maximum manual torque (up to 50 Nm)
• Restricted access requiring specific shafts
• High voltage insulated applications
• Extreme durability in single daily use

For a complete workshop, the winning formula combines 5-6 premium individual screwdrivers for recurring tasks plus a 50+ bit case for diversity.

Complete professional equipment requires $350-800 depending on the level of specialization.

Basic configuration ($350-450):

• 6 standard individual screwdrivers (Phillips + Robertson + Torx)
• 40-piece varied impact bit case
• Professional magnetic bit holder

Advanced configuration ($600-800):

• 12 specialized screwdrivers including 1000V insulated
• 88-piece premium Makita/Dewalt bit case
• Organized wall storage system
• High rotation replacement bits

The investment pays for itself in 6-8 months through reduced intervention times and elimination of damaged screws from slipping. Free delivery on $150+ at Équipement Polar allows you to consolidate purchases to reach this threshold economically.

Professional quality magnetic bits retain 85-90% of their strength after 5 years of intensive use thanks to permanent neodymium magnets.

Degradation factors:

• Violent impacts exceeding 400G
• Prolonged exposure to 80°C+
• Accidental demagnetization by industrial electromagnetic fields

Our Irwin and Milwaukee bits use encapsulated magnets resistant up to 150°C, well beyond normal workshop temperatures. Magnetization can be restored with a professional magnetizer (available in store) which regenerates 95% of the original strength in 3 seconds.

Simple test: a functional bit must hold a #10 screw in horizontal position. If the bit fails this test, replacement recommended rather than remagnetization.

Impact bits survive 10-15x longer under percussion than standard bits, justifying their 40-60% higher cost.

Technical comparison:

Standard: Continuous low-speed driving, 500-1000 cycles, rupture by torsional fatigue, incompatible percussion

Impact: Percussion driver/impact wrench, 5000-15000 cycles, flexible zone absorption, resistance 3600 impacts/minute

Dewalt Extreme and Milwaukee Shockwave bits integrate Flex Torque geometry which bends 15 degrees under extreme load then returns to position, dissipating the energy that fractures rigid bits. This technology becomes indispensable for self-drilling screws in steel and hardwood construction applications.

For manual use or standard driver (<1800 RPM), conventional bits suffice. Percussion and impact absolutely require the impact category.

A quarterly maintenance protocol triples the longevity of professional screwdrivers.

Essential maintenance:

Cleaning: 90 PSI compressed air to eliminate chips and dust from bits after each shift. Monthly degreasing solvent for ratchet mechanisms.

Lubrication: WD-40 or light oil on pivots and ratchets every 3 months. Avoid on magnetic bits (attracts particles).

Inspection: Semi-annual verification under 10x magnification of wear zones - bit edges, shaft cracks, handle degradation.

Storage: Vertical storage in wall supports rather than horizontal stacking which accelerates tip wear through friction.

Klein Tools and Wera screwdrivers include limited warranties covering manufacturing defects but excluding normal wear. Photographic documentation of initial condition recommended for future claims.

Preventive replacement: bits showing 20% visible wear, screwdrivers with play in the handle, cracked electrical insulation.

Warranties vary by manufacturer and are detailed on each product page of our site equipementpolar.com.

Typical coverage by brand:

• Makita/Dewalt: Limited warranty 1-3 years parts and labor
• Milwaukee/Klein Tools: Limited lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects
• Wera/Wiha: 10-year warranty hand tools
• Vega/Jet: 1-2 year warranty commercial use

Important: Warranties exclude normal wear, misuse (excessive torque, unsuitable bit), and accidental damage. Invoice retention mandatory for any claim.

Équipement Polar facilitates warranty returns by coordinating directly with manufacturers. Processing times: 10-15 business days for evaluation and replacement or repair.

For specific questions about coverage and procedures, contact our after-sales service which will verify eligibility according to the exact model and purchase date.