Need help choosing the right tool

[Enfield47]

I've discovered that as I've added more European guns to my collection, my standard screwdriver set is not designed for working on them. I have used my Swiss Army knife's screwdriver blade with some success because it fits nicely into the screw head groove. I need a set of screwdrivers with thin blades designed to fit the narrow screw head grooves. After buggering the head of a screw on my P14 I decided it was time to act.

I've been researching some and it looks like the hollow ground are the type I need. However, I've read that the hollow ground tips aren't as strong as a standard screwdriver and can break if too much force is used trying to break free a stuck screw.

I found this set at Brownells http://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-to...prod44342.aspx. Has anyone used them, or would you recommend a different set? Is there a better design than the hollow ground?

[gunboat]

I am sure if brownells sell them they are good quality -
But, if you notice in the descrption -- "grinding" --
I just save the expense and grind my own --

[knucklehead0202]

what I've noticed in messing around with my euro guns, especially carcanos, is that my cheap little "gunsmith" screwdriver set never seems to be the right size, but my 6-in-1 screwdriver usually fits very well. someday i'll invest in a really good set, but I've gotten by so far.

[Father Ted]

I grind mine as well.

[Milsurp Collector]

A set of hollow-ground gunsmith screwdrivers is ESSENTIAL for working on firearms. I use one of these sets from Chapman

http://www.midwayusa.com/find?sortby=1&itemsperpage=24&dimensionids=4294845778&newcategorydimensionid=1178&searchscope=all

What is great about the Chapman screwdriver sets besides the price and the fact that they are Made in USA is it includes a ratchet handle that slips over the screwdriver shaft. It allows you to apply downforce (by pressing the screwdriver into the screw) while applying a lot of torque (with the ratchet handle) at the same time. It works great for loosening tight screws without buggering up the screw slot.




The bits are designed to break before they bugger up the screw head. Replacement bits are very inexpensive, I order several in the smaller more delicate sizes.

[SVT-40]

I would get one of the "super" sets as they include many of the "thin" bit blades...

I have a "Super" set as well as both the thick and thin sets... and a Chapman set....

One part you should consider getting is the Mauser cross bolt "bit" with replacement pins... If you need to take a cross bolt out of a stock this is the tool to have.

Yes they are expensive, but when you need the right tool they are well worth the investment...And they are a true investment!!!

A few pics of my screwdriver sets.

[TRAP55]

Chapman or the Lyman, whatever fits the budget.

http://www.opticsplanet.com/lyman-gunsmith-31-piece-tool-kit-03047.html

[Milsurp Collector]

One part you should consider getting is the Mauser cross bolt "bit" with replacement pins... If you need to take a cross bolt out of a stock this is the tool to have.

I went ahead and bought a dedicated wrench for removing the cross bolt nut http://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-to...h-prod416.aspx



As SVT-40 said, you really have to have the right tools if you want to work on firearms, unless your name is Bubba.

[SVT-40]

I had... one of those dedicated cross bolt tools... just can't find it... The cross bolt "bit" works well enough..

So far (knock on wood) I have not broken one of the pins... I do have replacements though if I do...

Having proper tools like having good books about specific firearms is a real necessary thing....

Money well spent!

Someone mentioned breaking the tips off the bit's... I've never broken one of the Brownells tips... I have broken at least two of the Chapman tips...

Maybe because with the Chapman you can over torque them with the supplied wrench..

[Enfield47]

Thanks guys. Does the Mauser cross bolt tool work for several types of guns, or is it basically for just the Mauser rifles?

[Milsurp Collector]

Thanks guys. Does the Mauser cross bolt tool work for several types of guns, or is it basically for just the Mauser rifles?

I have only used it on Mausers, but that's pretty much the only type of rifle that I needed to use it on.