Sockets & Bits
What are Sockets & Bits?
Sockets and bits cover the tools and accessories used to drive screws and hex fasteners with drills, impact drivers, and hand tools. This category includes driver bits, magnetic and locking bit holders, nutsetters, socket adapters and extensions that speed fastening while protecting fasteners from damage.
What types of sockets and bits are available?
- Bit holders, magnetic or locking sleeve, in common lengths for fast swaps and positive retention.
- Driver bits and sets in S2 steel, Phillips, Pozidriv, star drive, security star, square, hex, slotted, in insert and power lengths.
- Nutsetters for hex washer head fasteners, often magnetic, sized in inch and metric.
- Socket adapters and extensions to convert 1/4" hex to square drive sockets and to add reach or wobble.
How to choose the right bits and holders
- Match the tool to the accessory. Use impact rated bits and holders with impact drivers.
- Pick the profile and size that matches the fastener, PH, PZ, star drive, security star, square, hex, slotted.
- Choose the length. 1" insert bits for compact work, 2–3" power bits for reach, 6–12" holders for deep cavities.
- Select features. Magnetic for quick loading, locking sleeve for overhead or awkward angles.
- Decide on a set vs singles. Sets cover multiple profiles, sizes, and lengths, singles top up frequently used sizes.
Specifications that matter
| Spec | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Shank and drive | 1/4" hex quick change for bits and holders, 1/4", 3/8", 1/2" square drive for sockets and adapters |
| Material | S2 steel bits for strength and toughness, chrome vanadium or similar for sockets and adapters |
| Finish | Black oxide or phosphate on bits for grip and corrosion resistance, polished or satin on sockets |
| Retention | Magnetic tips, locking sleeves, detent ball or pin hole on square drives |
| Lengths | Insert 1", power 2–3", long 6", holders 2–12", extensions as needed |
Driver bit profiles and best uses
- Phillips for general assembly and woodworking.
- Pozidriv where specified on hardware and European standards.
- Star drive for higher torque transfer and reduced cam out, common in equipment and machinery.
- Security star for tamper resistant screws in enclosures and devices.
- Square for cabinetry and construction screws with positive engagement.
- Hex for socket head fasteners and set screws.
- Slotted for legacy hardware and adjustments.
Nutsetters, adapters, and extensions
- Nutsetters in 1/4", 5/16", 3/8", 7/16", 1/2", magnetic options hold hex head fasteners securely.
- Hex to square adapters convert 1/4" hex chucks to 1/4", 3/8", 1/2" square drive sockets, note torque limits.
- Extensions and wobble help reach recessed or offset fasteners without removing nearby parts.
Installation tips and best practices
- Use impact rated accessories with impact tools to reduce tip breakage.
- Keep the bit fully seated and inline with the fastener to prevent cam out.
- Start at lower speed, increase as the bit bites, stop when threads seat.
- Replace worn tips promptly to protect fasteners and improve productivity.
- Store sets in labeled cases or rails to speed size selection.
Troubleshooting and quick fixes
- Bit slipping, select the correct profile and size, apply steady axial pressure.
- Tips breaking, switch to impact rated bits, reduce speed, avoid side load.
- Fastener heads rounding, use 6 point sockets on high torque hex fasteners, keep alignment straight.
- Screws magnet not holding, use a magnetic holder or switch to a locking sleeve holder overhead.
Good, better, best set options
- Good, compact 32 piece S2 bit set with magnetic holder for everyday repairs.
- Better, impact rated 45 piece set with power length bits, nutsetters, torsion holder for drivers.
- Best, 100 piece master kit with security star, long bits, multiple holders, hex to socket adapters.
Sockets & Bits FAQ
They are available on many sets and singles. Pair impact tools with impact rated bits and holders.
Insert bits are about 1 inch and used with a holder. Power bits are 2 to 3 inches and can fit the chuck directly for added reach.
Use magnetic for fast swaps and everyday driving. Use locking sleeves when working overhead or where you need positive retention.
Yes, security star, security hex, spanner and other anti tamper profiles are available in sets and singles.
Yes, match the nutsetter size to the hex head, for example 5/16 inch for many hex washer head screws.
Yes within reason. Choose the correct square drive size and let the socket seat fully. Avoid binding to protect the adapter.
Use the exact profile and size, keep the tool perpendicular, apply steady pressure, and replace worn tips.
Wipe clean, store dry in cases or rails, and apply a light oil film to deter rust. Replace any rounded bits or cracked sockets.