Need recommendations for gunsmithing screwdrivers

[Jack Straw from Wichita]

I'm thinking about getting a set of hollow-ground screwdrivers. These would be for personal use (I'm not a professional gunsmith).

I took a look at the Wheeler screwdriver set (http://www.amazon.com/Wheeler-89-Pie...crewdriver+set) but the customer reviews varied widely.

Also looking at Forster screwdrivers: http://www.midwayusa.com/product/751...set?cm_vc=S014 Reviews on the Forster seemed mostly positive, but some customers complained that they break too easily.

I'm more than willing to consider other brands.

Question for the gunsmiths on this forum: which screwdrivers would you recommend? Thanks.

[Dutch Henry]

I have two Chapman gun screwdriver sets; one for my workbench and one for my field repair kit. Have used them for over 30 years. If you break any of the tips, they are replaceable at very low cost. Best bang for the buck IMO.

Check them out: http://www.chapmanmfg.com/HK8900.html

[isplice]

2nd the Chapman recommendation! Have also had mine for 30+ years

[adamsreeftank]

I bought the Wheeler because it has the biggest variety, but I've already broken one of the bits.

[kcstott]

Forester or Brownell's

[Twystd1]

Forester or Brownell's

I am with KC on this.

The MASTER set is the one to get.

T

[ar15barrels]

I have the mid-size Brownells magna-tip set.
Very nice quality tools.

[kendog4570]

Brownells Magna Tip. Had my set since 1985. Throw the new bits in the lead pot for an hour and they will be much less prone to breaking. When they do, they are available individually for cheap.

[Rust]

Go to the local flea market/swap meet buy a fist full of cheap old screwdrivers. When you need one to fit a particular screw just grind it to fit. That way you will always have one in exactly the right size and shape for the job you're trying to do. And there's no need to worry about regrinding them over and over as new projects come up. Rather than hoping that #xyz bit from your set fits well enough not to slip out and gouge whatever you're working on.
If you don't have a grinder or are set on a kit I have Chapman, and Grace, both of which have been fine, and would recommend either.

[-hanko]

Grace and Forster will definitely work.

My choice was / is Brownells...tools made in USA and great customer service.

I bought the complete Wheeler set when it was introduced for around $80. It is handy occasionally to have a weird bit available, like a sight adjustment tool.

Turns out I've broken 3-4 of the straight bits with normal force, haven't busted a Brownells bit yet.

No country of origin on the Midway set I can see, so I'm assuming PRC.

Also a little bit hokey that Larry Porterfield, Pres/Owner of Midway/Wheeler, wrote an online review for his own product.

hth

-hanko

[tpuig]

For only basic tasks, the Wheeler set has proved very handy. I use it all the time.