What are Nutsetters?
Nutsetters are hex-shank driver accessories that spin hex-head screws and small nuts with a drill or impact driver. They slip over the fastener head like a shallow socket for positive engagement and controlled driving. Options include magnetic and non-magnetic retention, deep-well and thin-wall profiles, sleeve-guard (non-marring) collars, and impact-rated constructions for heavy-duty use.
What You’ll Find
- Impact-Rated Nutsetters – Hardened S2 or Cr-Mo steel bodies with torsion features to handle the shock of impact drivers.
- Magnetic & Non-Magnetic – Magnet holds screws for one-hand starts; non-magnetic is preferred around chips, filings, or stainless hardware.
- Thin-Wall / Sleeve-Guard – Fits tight clearances; some models include non-marring sleeves to protect coated or painted fasteners.
- Standard & Deep – Standard depth for most screws; deep-well for washer-head screws, studs, or recessed access.
- Quick-Change 1/4" Hex Shank – Compatible with drills, impact drivers, and 1/4" bit holders and extensions.
Common Sizes
| SAE | Typical Use | Metric | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/4" | Small hex washer-head screws | 8 mm | Sheet-metal & framing screws |
| 5/16" | Most roofing & siding screws | 10 mm | Machine screws & bolts |
| 3/8" | Larger lag & structural screws | 12 mm | Anchors, heavy hardware |
How to Choose
- Match the head size of the fastener (e.g., 5/16" for many roofing/self-drilling screws).
- Match the tool: use impact-rated nutsetters with impact drivers; standard is fine for drill/drivers.
- Pick magnetic or non-magnetic: magnetic for one-hand starts; non-magnetic for stainless applications or when metal chips are present.
- Select the profile: thin-wall for tight clearances; deep-well for washer-head screws, grommets, or studs.
- Protect finishes: choose sleeve-guard styles to avoid scuffing painted or coated hardware.
Use & Care Tips
- Seat the nutsetter fully on the hex head before pulling the trigger to prevent cam-out and rounding.
- Let the tool do the work, use controlled speed with self-drilling screws to avoid over-driving.
- Keep magnets clear of metal filings; wipe occasionally so screws seat flush.
- Don’t use nutsetters as sockets on high-torque bolts; switch to a socket/ratchet when needed.
- Inspect for wear or cracking and replace to protect fasteners and tools.
Popular Applications
- Roofing, metal building, and HVAC sheet-metal installs
- Framing hardware, brackets, and general fabrication
- Electrical/mechanical assembly using hex washer-head screws
Related Bits & Accessories
- Bit holders & quick-change extensions
- Driver bits (Phillips, Square, star drive, Hex) for mixed fastener kits
- Socket adapters and magnetic bit organizers
Nutsetters FAQ
Are your nutsetters compatible with impact drivers?
Yes, choose the impact-rated versions for impact drivers. Standard nutsetters are best for drill/drivers.
Magnetic vs. non-magnetic, when should I use each?
Magnetic nutsetters hold the screw for one-hand starts and overhead work. Non-magnetic is preferred around stainless hardware or where metal chips and filings are an issue.
What length should I use, standard or deep?
Standard depth works for most screws. Use deep-well nutsetters for washer-head screws, studs, or recessed fasteners.
What’s the most common roofing size?
5/16" is common for many roofing and self-drilling screws. Always confirm the head size for your fastener.
Do sleeve-guard nutsetters prevent scratches?
Yes. Non-marring sleeves help protect painted or powder-coated surfaces when driving fasteners.