Why the right driver matters more than it looks
An insert has to go in straight, and it has to stop at the right depth. Both are harder than they sound with an improvised tool. A hex key held by hand wanders off axis in a deep hole, so the insert enters at an angle and the bolt that goes into it afterwards will never sit square. A bolt and jam nut used as a makeshift driver works until the insert meets resistance in hardwood, at which point the nut slips and you have rounded something. A dedicated drive tool holds the insert on axis, gives you a proper handle to apply torque through, and releases cleanly when the insert is seated. For a single repair you may get away with improvising. Across a production run you will not.
What we stock
- E-Z Lok hex drive tools for #8-32 inserts
- For #10-24 and #10-32 inserts, one tool covering both
- For 1/4-20 and M6 inserts, covering inch and metric in one tool
- For 5/16-18 and M8 inserts
- For 3/8-16 inserts
Tools by insert type
- Hex drive wood inserts need a hex driver matched to the socket size, which is what these tools provide
- Slotted brass wood inserts take a flat blade driver or a purpose made slotted tool
- Wire coil inserts need an STI tap to cut the hole plus a mandrel tool to drive the coil by its tang
- Solid metal inserts tap with a standard tap and often install with a driver or a bolt and jam nut
- Rivet nuts need a dedicated rivet nut tool with a mandrel matched to the thread size
These tools pair with our hex drive inserts for wood in flange and flush styles. For wire coil repairs you will also need the correct STI tap, and our thread repair kits bundle the tap, drill, and inserts together by size.
Related Categories
Installation Tool FAQs
Can I install inserts without a tool?
Sometimes, but it is a false economy in hardwood. A hex key in the socket will start most inserts, and a bolt with a jam nut works on some solid inserts. Both struggle when resistance climbs, and both make it harder to keep the insert square. For anything beyond a single repair, use the correct driver.
Does one tool cover multiple insert sizes?
Some do. Our tools are sized to the insert socket, so a single tool covers #10-24 and #10-32 since they share a socket size, and another covers 1/4-20 and M6. Check the tool description against the insert you are installing.
Do I need a different tool for metric inserts?
Only if the socket size differs. Because the tool matches the hex socket rather than the thread, some metric inserts share a tool with their nearest inch equivalent, which is why our 1/4-20 tool also covers M6.
What tool does a Helicoil need?
A mandrel style installation tool that engages the tang at the base of the coil, plus an STI tap to cut the hole to the correct oversize. A standard tap will not work. Repair kits bundle both with the inserts for a given thread size.
Can I use a power drill with these?
At low speed, yes, though hand driving gives better control over depth and squareness. Flush inserts in particular are easier to finish by hand, since the difference between level and too deep is often under half a turn.
What if my insert size is not covered?
Contact us with the insert type, thread size, and socket dimension. We can advise on tool availability or on whether an existing tool covers your size.