When assembling furniture, performing automobile maintenance and tackling many other DIY projects, you're likely to find yourself tightening and loosening nuts and bolts. Having nut drivers in your toolbox can help ensure you're ready to get the job done, and Ace Hardware carries a wide range of nut driver tools to meet your needs.
Metric vs. SAE Nut Driver Tools
One of the first things to consider when shopping for nut drivers is whether you need metric or SAE tools. Manufacturers typically make nuts in standard sizes, but the systems of measurements vary. In the U.S., hardware usually features SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) units based on the inch, while international hardware typically uses the metric system sized in millimeters.
To determine whether a metric or SAE nut driver is right for you, consider your project. If you’ll be working on something that’s American-made, SAE nut drivers may be the ideal choice, while foreign cars, appliances and electronics may require a metric nut driver.
How to Select Nut Drivers
Once you've determined whether you prefer a metric or SAE nut driver, you can compare other features of the available tools, such as:
- Drive size and type: Nut drivers come in many sizes, so choose the one that is the right fit for the nuts you'll be working with. Most nut driver tools are designed for hex nuts, but you can also find universal drivers that are compatible with hex, star and standard screws.
- Shaft type: A hollow shaft nut driver can slip down over long threaded screws to access nuts that might otherwise be hard to reach. Standard shaft nut drivers feature solid shafts for extra stability and strength.
- Tip type: Some nut drivers feature magnetic tips, which help keep nuts steady for easier tightening and loosening.
- Handle type: Nut drivers with comfort grip handles may reduce slippage and minimize fatigue when you're working for long periods.
Tackle More Projects with Nut Driver Sets
For some projects, you may need nut drivers in various sizes. While you can buy multiple nut driver tools individually, purchasing a nut driver set may be easier and more cost-effective. Similar to screwdriver sets and plier sets, nut driver sets give you two or more nut drivers. Usually, the tools have the same shaft and handle type but differ in size.
Shop Nut Drivers Near You at Ace
Ace makes buying a new nut driver or nut driver set quick and easy, whether you prefer to shop online or in stores. Shop nut drivers near you at your neighborhood Ace store, one of our knowledgeable associates can introduce you to the latest nut driver models and sets from brands like Milwaukee, Craftsman and Irwin.
While you're there, you can stock up on other hand tools that you need for your project or find a new hand multi-tool that is suitable for many tasks. When shopping for nut drivers online, the filter menu on the left side of the page lets you browse by drive type, shaft type, grip type and more, so you can focus on the best tools for your needs and make your buying decision fast.
