This category covers hand screwdrivers, screwdriver sets and ratchets for household jobs, electrical installation and workshop use. Our range includes tools from WERA, HAZET, WIHA and GEDORE, plus a few items from XIAOMI and BLACK+DECKER.
They suit home DIYers and professionals who need an accurate hand tool for everyday work.
How to choose a hand screwdriver or ratchet
Tip profile and size. Start by working out which screw heads you will meet: Phillips (PH), Pozidriv (PZ), slotted, Torx or hex. A wrong size chews up the screw head, so a set with several sizes is often more practical than a single screwdriver.
Handle. It should sit comfortably in the palm and not slip when your hands are sweaty or greasy. A thicker handle transfers more turning force, while a slim shaft and narrower handle are easier for fine work such as electronics.
Insulation for electrical work. For work on electrical installations you need VDE-insulated screwdrivers rated up to 1000 V AC. An ordinary screwdriver is not suitable for this, and the power must always be switched off before you start.
Ratchet drive and mechanism. Ratchet drives usually come in 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2 inch. The 1/4 inch is meant for small fasteners in tight spaces, 3/8 inch is the all-rounder, and 1/2 inch handles larger nuts and higher torque. The more teeth in the mechanism, the smaller the swing needed to advance the ratchet, which matters where there is little room for your hand.
Brands in our range
- WERA: German manufacturer known for its Kraftform ergonomic handles and Zyklop ratchets.
- HAZET: German manufacturer whose tools are widely used in vehicle workshops.
- WIHA: German manufacturer known for insulated VDE screwdrivers and sets for electricians.
- GEDORE: German hand tool manufacturer whose products are used in workshops and industry.
Also in our range: XIAOMI, BLACK+DECKER, ARCTIC and NEO TOOLS.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between PH and PZ screwdrivers?
PZ (Pozidriv) heads have extra small marks between the arms of the cross, while PH (Phillips) heads do not. The wrong tip slips and damages the screw head, so match both the profile and the size to the screw. If you are unsure, look at the head: a PZ screw shows those small marks.
Do electricians need a VDE screwdriver?
For work on electrical installations, VDE-insulated screwdrivers rated up to 1000 V are the recommended safety tool. They protect you if you accidentally touch a live part. You should still switch off the supply first and check that no voltage is present.
Which ratchet drive size should I choose?
A 3/8 inch ratchet is the most versatile and covers many household and car repair jobs. Choose 1/4 inch for small fasteners and tight spaces, and 1/2 inch for large nuts. Many people buy a set that includes several drive sizes.
Can I tighten bolts to the final torque with a ratchet?
A ratchet is designed for quickly turning and loosening fasteners, not for precise final tightening. When the manufacturer specifies a torque, for example on wheel bolts or engine parts, use a torque wrench. The ratchet can only be used to snug the fastener up to that stage.
