How to choose special accessories for screwdriving tools: the criterion

If you need to drive a screw somewhere your driver cannot reach, you need a right-angle attachment or an angle chuck. If you have to change bits all the time, a magnetic bit holder with quick release. If you are fitting hundreds of identical screws, a collated screw magazine. In every case the first thing to check is the drive: in the collection the most common size is the 1/4" hex, followed by SDS plus and 1/2" and 1" square drives.

The types

• Magnetic bit holders. They keep the bit in line and hold it with a magnet; some have quick release so you can change bits with one hand.
• Complete Flip&Drive systems. Kits that bring together a bit holder and bits for driving screws in sequence. Like the Flip&Drive N°6 system DeWalt DT70786-QZ, they come in several numbers (N°6, N°8, N°10): read the product sheet to see what the number refers to before choosing.
• Angle chucks and right-angle attachments. They bend the working axis to get into tight spaces. There are versions with a flexible shaft, such as the 1/4" angle chuck DT20501, and angle heads with built-in LED light.
• Interchangeable keyless chucks. They fit onto the driver so that you can use straight-shank drill bits; there are models dedicated to individual ranges, such as those for the Milwaukee M12 BDDX.
• Collated screw magazines. A feed mechanism and a strip-holder bar supply the screws one after another, without picking them up by hand.
• Adapters and sockets. They are used to convert one drive to another, for example to use a tool with a different drive from the one on the machine.

How to choose by job

On site, for repetitive work, the collated screw magazine pays for itself sooner than the other accessories; in the workshop, speed of bit change matters more.

The features to look at

• Drive. In most cases it is the 1/4" hex (sometimes written 1/4'', ¼″ or "magnetic"). You also find SDS plus for plugs and the 1/2" square drive for large sockets. The accessory must fit the machine's chuck without adapters: every extra adapter adds play.
• Length. In the collection it ranges from a few centimetres (33 and 50 mm) to over 300 mm. A short accessory is stiffer and centres the screw better; a long one is used to reach in deep, but it flexes and should be used at reduced torque.
• Material. Steel prevails, in particular chrome-vanadium, which resists torsion; there is also stainless steel where the environment is damp.
• Pack size. It goes from a single piece to packs of 2, 3, 5, 10 and 35 pieces: for bits that wear out, the large pack is better value.
• Range compatibility. Some accessories are for specific models (for example the Milwaukee M12 range): check the code in the title.

Common mistakes

• Buying without looking at the drive. A 1/4" bit holder does not fit into an SDS plus chuck, and vice versa.
• Using full torque with right-angle attachments and extensions. Right-angle attachments and extensions increase play: work at reduced speed and torque and keep the accessory in line with the screw.
• Choosing the longest extension "to be on the safe side". The longer it is, the more it flexes and the more the screw goes in crooked.
• Fitting the accessory with the battery in. Fit it and check that it locks with the battery removed or the plug disconnected.
• Forgetting maintenance. The gears of right-angle attachments and the guides of magazines need to be cleaned and lubricated every so often, otherwise they jam.

Frequently asked questions

Does a right-angle attachment suit any driver?

It depends on the drive and, for some models, on the machine range. Attachments with a 1/4" hex drive fit universal chucks; those for specific ranges, such as the Milwaukee M12 BDDX chucks, must only be used on that system.

Is the magnetic bit holder really necessary?

Yes when you are driving overhead, vertically or in places where you cannot hold the screw with your hand: the magnet holds it on the bit. With non-magnetic screws, such as some stainless ones, the effect is smaller.

Is a flexible shaft better than a rigid right-angle attachment?

The flexible shaft reaches more awkward spots but transmits less torque. The rigid attachment withstands load better and is more precise, provided there is room for its bulk.

Can I use these accessories with a drill?

Yes, if the drive matches and the chuck grips it firmly. Always check that the accessory stays put before starting.

You will find all the models in the special accessories for power screwdriving tools collection: if you are not sure about the drive or compatibility, request a quote or ask the AMES technicians for advice.