Torx vs robertson. And that difference is significant in practice.
Torx vs robertson And no, Torx and Torx Plus drivers are not compatibleespecially obvious in larger sizes. Robertson is better than torx for wood screws. Feb 10, 2020 · Cruisers & Sailing Forums > Scuttlebutt > Flotsam & Sailing Miscellany Robertson vs Phillips headed screws « Need advise | Semitransparent Organic Solar Cells » As the Torx name suggests, the absence of tapered side walls and a much larger contact surface on the Torx bit allowed machines to torque fasteners up to their mechanical limits without slipping or camming out. General » General Discussion Site Notices 12% Off Handgun Parts w/Code HANDGUN12 [ARCHIVED THREAD] - Torx vs. drive are about equally liked with Torx maybe a hair more so. However, the opposite, using a Torx Plus driver on a Torx screw, doesn’t work. What Is A Robertson Screw? (For Non-Canadians) EthAnswers Why is Robertson screw the best? feel the difference - how TORX® t tap®makes screw driving more easy. Jun 7, 2025 · This guide will equip you with the ability to identify and use some of the most common screw drives: Philips, PoziDriv, slotted, hex, Torx, and more. Mar 20, 2020 · I made a video comparing Torx, Robertson and Phillips screws to see which could go the furthest in a four by four before stripping. Just need to treat them as what they are. ALL sheet metal installers I know use robertsons or hex head screws which you would normally use a nut driver for if doing by hand. What makes Robertson square screws better than other square screws and so on. Jun 13, 2024 · Slot configuration: The most common are flathead, Phillips, Robertson, Torx and hex-head. Learn which bits to use for Phillips, Torx, Robertson, and more by Rack-A-Tiers. Robertson (square) drive screws We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Robertson (Page 2 of 3) ARCHIVED Previous Page Page 1 2 3 / 3 Next Page Aug 3, 2024 · The most common types of screwdrivers are flathead, Phillips, Robertson, Torx, and hex-head. In my mind, in terms of cheap and good nothing comes close to Robertson. Jun 4, 2025 · Know the Difference Between Philips and Robertson Screw? You Really Should Overshadowed by the Philips screw, the Robertson one actually offers certain advantages. Explore different screw drive types including Phillips, Torx, hex and more. Torx bit in Torx Plus screw (right). Reply reply 420_Braze_it • Feb 3, 2021 · I’m going to address each of the features above, but the primary argument as to why Torx is superior to Robertson is about torque and cam-out. By selecting the right match and fit you will prevent stripped screws, damaged bits, and spoiled work surfaces. May 15, 2023 · Torx-headed screws are sometimes seen at the job site but are generally more specialized. WoodSpur Torx Head Premium Wood Screw Trade Pack When I started woodwork many years ago, like many others, I used the traditional steel and brass countersunk slotted screws, which are excellent when driven by hand using a screwdriver where the blade Jun 1, 2025 · Efficiency-Driven Screw Head Design Drive Type Selection: Certain screw head types and drive styles, like Torx (star) and Robertson (square), are designed to transfer higher torque with less slippage. Reply reply MotorExample7928 • Apr 1, 2024 · Ford pulled his contract with Robertson in Canada as well, which led Robertson to decide that he would abandon expansion and focus his efforts on making his screw the most popular in his own country. May 6, 2025 · Torx screws are often used in automotive, motorcycle, and computer systems, where reliable torque transfer is crucial. Finally, a note on sizing and nomenclature: One of the beauties of Torx sizes is that they are universal, meaning there is not an SAE vs Metric version. Robertson is just a less torque carrying allen and vary rarely found on bolts most often used on (timber) screws. Something that is often over looked is the 6 point design over the 4 point of the Robertson. Was running drywall screws today and had a handful of Robertson drives but I tossed them because I didn't want to take the time to dig out a bit. May 30, 2025 · In contrast, Robertson (square) and Torx screw drives have shapes that provide better grip and torque resistance, reducing the likelihood of cam-out. Firearm Discussion and Resources from AR-15, AK-47, Handguns and more! Buy, Sell, and Trade your Firearms and Gear. Jan 19, 2025 · The Robertson vs. MechEng Apr 12, 2013 · You guys have a preference between square drive and Torx drive for construction screws? I'm getting a little tired of Phillips. Every bolt I find everywhere and is a torx is immediately replace with a good quality allen. Almost all Canadian screws are Robertson (square), but once you've gone Torx you'll want it for all your worx. So, why all the confusion? Why all the damaged screw heads and drivers? Why is this screw and driver thing so awkward? Read on and be amazed while I unravel the mystery Feb 6, 2005 · I would agree that compared to cross recess, that Robertson is better, but like the others have said, if you are trying to get high torque levels, then you want Torx or Torx Plus. I'm thinking about getting some wood screws that are a little more high tech. Oct 1, 2015 · Ever-increasing internal and external drive styles give design engineers more ways to effectively transfer torque from tool to fastener. The "Red Robbie", as it is commonly known, is probably the most common size that you would encounter in woodworking. So, is it practical, or a "Hail Mary" joke? Explore different screw drive types including Phillips, Torx, hex and more. Torx VS Robertson. Robertson invented the Robertson screw and screwdriver in 1908 and received patents in 1909 (Canada) and 1911 (U. Six-sided hex and Torx screws are even more superior, as these types of screwdrivers have additional grip and leverage for minimum slippage and maximum driving power. Feb 3, 2021 · I’m going to get straight to the point and say that it’s time for Robertson screws to be retired and supplanted by Torx. Torx is good but dirt can get in the head and then it does not work well. We’ll explore the key differences, pros and cons of each, proper bit selection, and techniques to get the job done right. I'd like to submit my entry into the best fastener head that I've ever used. Torx screw drives (2021) (pedriana. Sep 4, 2023 · Is Robertson better than Torx? Torx screws handle more torque, with less cam-out, than Robertson, especially at smaller sizes. ELI5: flat head screws. This reduces tool wear, prevents stripping, and speeds up installation, making the process more efficient. I have a hardened Wiha drive on order and will see if that solves some of the rounding problem I've had. This design minimises cam-out and allows for more efficient driving, making Torx screws popular in automotive and electronic applications. square and Torx vs. Robertson (Page 1 of 3) Previous Page Page / 3 Dec 31, 2020 · Robertson screws were invented by a Canadian which explains their popularity in that country. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features NFL Sunday Ticket © 2024 Google LLC Aug 19, 2021 · Torx (star) bits come in various styles and sizes. See why the plus design is better than regular Torx. In Robertson, 4 placesTorx, 6. How do they stack up? As far as design goes, they offer the same function as Robertson screws: Fight the enemy that is cam out and get more torque (if the name wasn’t clear on that point). Anyone who has used a star-shaped bit knows that they lock into place and seldom strip. Are you sure that's a true robertson and not square drive? Use robertson all day as a Canadian and that happens maybe 1/100 or less and you can just reverse one knock with the impact and it's loose. A Robertson screw, also known as a square screw[1] or Scrulox, [2] is a type of screw with a square -shaped socket in the screw head and a corresponding square protrusion on the tool. Robertson will do. This lets you drive "one handed". The Red Robertson is used to drive #8 and #10 sized screws. Robbies are omnipresent in Canada. Dec 20, 2024 · The Torx drive, also known as hexalobular or star drive, features a six-pointed star shape that offers superior torque transfer compared to Phillips screws. Torx Plus is a further optimization on Torxeven better transfer. Robertson has the advantage that there is one common size while there are a lot of different Torx sizes. You try screwing in a 3" torx screw above your head, with one hand, using a drill/impact. Here are the most common Torx bit sizes for both internal and external star bits Torx bit in Torx screw (left) vs. It's the reason it was named “Torx” in the first place. to/3xMICF8 Mar 15, 2025 · However, considering torque requirements and potential risks of damaging hardware, alternatives like Pozidriv, Torx, or Robertson offer superior performance where needed. Learn about the different sizes, their applications, and how to choose the right one for your project. Robertson heads are extremely popular in Canada but less common in other regions. Leupold went from hex to torx for rifle scope mounts because you can apply better torque and don't need locktight. The square drive offers a unique style as it must fit perfectly into the drive recess to drive properly. May 15, 2023 · Robertson Screws allow for more torque before cam out and the screw head design means they stay solidly on your driver without a magnet. 15 Essential Types of Wrenches Every Homeowner Should Know Sep 18, 2023 · Learn about the different types of screwdriver heads you need to know, from slotted to Phillips to Torx, in our comprehensive guide. It’s the reason it was named “Torx” in the first place. Hex bit vs Torx: Torx bits have a higher surface area for torque application, as well as a 15º drive angle compared to the hex’s 60º When a Phillips Is Not a Phillips!: Cross-head, Cross-Point, Cruciform, Square Drive Screws and Drivers These screw types have a "+" shaped recess on the head and are driven by a cross-head screwdriver, designed originally for use with mass-production mechanical screwing machines. com) 216 points by nkurz on July 4, 2022 | hide | past | favorite | 208 comments Mar 25, 2019 · When considering a myriad of high torque projects, considering either Torx fastener is an improvement over Slotted, Robertson, Phillips, Pozidrive, and Hex. drive bits. Feb 27, 2014 · Looks like Torx and/or Sq. L. Jun 1, 2017 · A standard Torx driver will fit into a Torx Plus screw, but a Torx Plus will not work in a standard so be sure to know which one you will be working with. L. The rivalry traces back to industrial decisions and innovations, shaping a century-old tool debate. The Torx Plus driver is just too fat to go into the older Torx-shaped hole. Sep 19, 2016 · The square-headed Robertson Screw predated the Philips screwdriver by about 30 years, and for decades it was more common than the Philips in the U. Choosing the right bit type can make a significant difference in how effectively you complete your tasks. Nov 29, 2024 · Robertson Screw Heads The Robertson screw drive was patented in 1908 in Canada by P. I’m a convert and no, I haven’t given up the drink and gone teetotal, rather I’ve switched allegiance from Pozidrive to Torx headed screws. Applications: Both are made for high torque applications, such as industrial/mechanical equipment, construction, and auto. Patented in the 1930’s, these were a vast improvement over the antique “slotted” screw, which tended to cam-out easily and were difficult to drive with power drivers. Too bad the Robertson Sq drives aren't as readily available in the US. I think both Robertson and Torx screws are superior to all others and a matter of personal choice depending on the project. Torx VS Robertson NOTE: there is a second video at the bottom of this web page. Find out the pros and cons and history about some of the shapes and screw drive type. The bad rep in regards to hex/allen just comes from people messing up metric with imperial and using crap quality tools. I’d like to see those aggressive self-tapping threads on a Robertson screw. There was some testing done driving screws to about 75% of proof and Torx Plus lasted something like 10 times longer than Robertson drive. S. Robertson. May 20, 2025 · Torx and Square (Robertson) drives offer better resistance to cam-out and can handle higher torque, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications. For manual applications, Torx screws are quickly becoming the most popular choice. Jan 24, 2020 · The six most common types of screw drives are phillips-head, flat head, hex, double hex and robertson. Apr 9, 2025 · Learn the difference between Robertson vs. Dec 30, 2024 · The design of Torx security screws is similar to standard Torx screws, with a crucial addition—an internal pin in the center of the drive that requires a specialized tool to operate. This magic happens because the screw head and driver tip have a taper. star screw heads and see which Megapro multi-bit screwdrivers are best to use for each one. This alternative drive recess features the shape of a six-point star. Jan 4, 2009 · When a Phillips is not a Phillips! was an interesting reading. T… Q: What’s the difference between Phillips, Pozidrive and Robertson (square) screws? A: Philips drive screws are the screws that have cross-slots that look like an X, stamped into the head. Nov 11, 2019 · However, torx, which is actually the star drive, is the standard here and should be standard everywhere. Whether you prefer Phillips, PoziDriv, Robertson or for some reason Hex, it's a very personal more Types of Screwdriver Bits There are several types of screwdriver bits, each designed for specific screw types and applications. What I want to know is, what advantages does square or Robertson drives have over torx. My question is: Why so many? They all basically accomplish the same thing (attaching components to one another). General » General Discussion [ARCHIVED THREAD] - Torx vs. These were made by a Canadian company (like Robertson) for We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Robertson/square. I have a drawer full of old slightly rounded #1 and #2 sq. Torx is my preference. In this video, we're settling the age-old debate between Torx and Phillips screws once and for all. Before doing that I thought we best have a quick chat about screw drive types. Apr 21, 2013 · The internal-wrenching square socket drive for screws (as well as the corresponding triangular socket drive) was conceived several decades before the Canadian P. And of course, all red-handled Robertson are also the same size - #2 Robertson. Some Brief Phillips Screw History Fast forward a few years and the US was still looking for a better screw head system for mass production. Square (Robertson) Screw Heads Square screw heads, also known as Robertson screw heads, feature a square recess. These screws provide excellent resistance to cam-out and are widely used in woodworking applications. Jan 24, 2023 · - Forums - Register/Sign Up - Reply - Search - Statistics - Small Cabin Forum / Off Topic / Fasteners - torx vs triple square vs… Feb 1, 2023 · An in-depth comparison of Torx and Torx Plus drives & compatibility explained with pics. The Torx screw’s opening is narrower, and the Torx Plus bit’s broader lobes simply can’t insert fully. The taper improves torque transfer capability significantly. Nov 14, 2018 · Screwdrivers come in all shapes and sizes. Phillips screwdriver debate reflects a cultural and historical clash. Both the tool and socket have a slight taper. Next, assess the ease of use and the tools you have available. It features a square recess with a slight taper so the driver will wedge tightly into place when inserted. The most common of these are a combination of a slotted/Phillips head. In fact, Torx is one of the best screw head types to use for stress- and cam out-free driving. Feb 23, 2023 · #lisletools #rbrt #torx Lisle 61980 Strip Screw Extract, 10 Piece , Black https://amzn. We'll break down the key differences, advantages, and disadvantages of each type to determine 20 Fancy Restaurants From The 1970s, That No Longer Exist! Why the world HATES American table saws (Are they wrong?) Torx screws vs Robertson screws -- First Impressions (WnW #53) Apr 1, 2024 · Ford pulled his contract with Robertson in Canada as well, which led Robertson to decide that he would abandon expansion and focus his efforts on making his screw the most popular in his own country. Is there some distinct advantage of one type of screw over Robertson vs. Torx Plus Torx Plus is an improved version of Torx that extends tool life even further and permits greater torque transfer compared to Torx. A recent thread (and probably several others over the years) brought up the advantages of Robertson (square) drive bits and associated screws. Dec 17, 2024 · What are Robertson screws? Your article “Choose the Right Screw for Today’s Job” praised the square-drive screw as a modern replacement for slip-prone slotted- and Phillips-head screws. An External Torx version exists, where the screw head has the shape of a Torx screwdriver bit, and a Torx socket is used to drive it. The main problem with Torx screws is finding the right bit. With six individual lines, it allows for a superior level of torque than most other drive recesses. The contemporary square drive screw has all but replaced the Robertson screw proper and is commonly referred to as a Robertson because it has practically identical Jan 20, 2020 · Other types of screws – like hex, square (Robertson as they are known in Canada), and Torx – are less prone to cam out than Phillips bits as well. Sep 15, 2024 · Get a complete understanding of Robertson head screw sizes. Patent 1,003,657). We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Torx, Allen, and Robertson have the advantage they stay on the screwdriver which saves a lot of cut fingers. to/3ItBJ0q Lisle 62900 Extractor Set https://amzn. , which eventually won out not due to a more I've noticed that some devices use philips screws, while others use the flat-head kind. And that difference is significant in practice. All black-handled Robertson screwdrivers are the same size - #3 Robertson. Cost is the biggest factor for general use IMO, and torx is significantly more than Robertson. . Oct 6, 2018 · Although the terms "square drive" and "Robertson" are often treated as the same in catalogs, the difference (as I understand it) is that Robertson tools and screws have a slight taper to the square Mar 1, 2024 · Anyone here have hands-on experience using Torx or Robertson screwdriver bits as screw extractors? Lots of online videos demonstrating the idea, and I've heard anecdotally that it works, but haven't tried it myself. wordpress. Mar 17, 2025 · Phillips and Robertson screws have four contact points, making them less likely to strip than a slot screw. The size of a screwdriver is determined by the width of the slot or the diameter of the head. Torx screws vs Robertson screws -- First Impressions (WnW #53) - YouTube Torx are slightly better but for most usages it doesn't matter. Specifically, the fact that a Robertson screw "sticks" to the end of the Robertson driver bit. With Robertson and even Phillips widely available, why in the world are flat head screws still being produced? : r/explainlikeimfive Go to explainlikeimfive r/explainlikeimfive r/explainlikeimfive We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Aug 31, 2025 · Woodworking Torx vs Robertson: The Shocking Reason One Screw is Vastly Superior Edited by Rupom August 31, 2025 There is a universal moment of frustration that every builder, DIY enthusiast, and professional contractor knows all too well: the sickening slip and grind of a stripping screw head. I burn through Torx, but Robertson - I always have to look for a bit. Still, I freely admit that these torx screws are pretty good, probably equivalent to my beloved Robertson. Reply reply BuzzINGUS • Choosing the wrong screwdriver bit for your screw head can mean the difference between success and distress. Find the best screw drive for your project's needs with our comprehensive guide. We show the Pros and Cons of which types of screwdriver bits work best. Why is this? For the star-shaped bits, the multiple points of contact lead to a very strip-resistant screw head. Here's we've put together screwdriver sizes charts for the 6 most common screw head shapes. Torx screws went through the furthest, Robertson screws were second and Phillips screws were last (stripped the earliest). This posting is t. Robertson (Page 3 of 3) ARCHIVED Previous Page Page 1 2 3 / 3 Next Page Posted: 12/1/2019 11:07:36 AM EDT [#1] Quote History Quoted: $98 Eh, when I built my deck a couple years ago (in the US), it seemed about half and half on the availability of torx vs. Additionally, factors such as using an incorrect driver bit size, applying excessive torque, improper alignment, and worn screwdriver tips can exacerbate cam-out. This allows better transfer of power and reduces damage to the fastener. I switched over for most projects years ago to robertson or torx, but since I already had such a stockpile and will still come across them in the future as salvage I still use PH screws for more disposable projects. Mar 19, 2021 · Manufacturers make screwdrivers to fit a variety of screw bit types. Dick I don’t buy phillips unless I absolutely have to. Torx screws handle more torque, with less cam-out, than Robertson, especially at smaller sizes. Sep 22, 2020 · Torx While not as common as the aforementioned drive recesses, some fasteners use a Torx drive recess. Slot size: There are only three or four common sizes for Phillips and Robertson screwdrivers, but there are many more for flat-head, Torx and hex-head. Sep 11, 2014 · Robertson gives you tons of torque and is very hard to strip the screw head. The post about Robertson vs Torx screws really got a bit rowdy. To understand the torque handling differences The material, thread, head shape and tool used to drive the screw can be mixed in different ways to create dozens of types of screws. I gotta put a lot of downward pressure on the screw or the bit will slip out. That’s because of higher transmission efficiency of torque they have. Canadians praise Robertson screws for their ease and grip, while Americans favor Phillips, despite its flaws. Other combinations include a Phillips and Robertson, a Robertson and a slotted, a Torx and a slotted, and a triple-drive screw that can take a slotted, Phillips, or a Robertson. I also noted that a lot of other ones use allen based screws, while others use torx. ROBERTSON The Robertson, or square, drive is quite common especially throughout Europe. Screw designs have to do with history. Torx spreads the tightening torque load over a larger area. This means that it is always easier to line up a Torx bit with a screw head than it is with a Robertson or a Phillips because at any given position, you don't have to move as far to line it up. Nov 26, 2022 · In general, the Torx and the Roberts (Star and square-shaped) bits are known to be two of the strongest screw heads. Aren’t those the same Robertson screws? Apr 22, 2025 · A guide for electricians on screw head types and driver bits. Robertson for life, although I like the grip of torx on the screwdriver more. Oct 21, 2024 · Combination screw heads are screws that can accommodate more than one type of driver. ejoojyzg tbwckww dugv crmzndztt kaoby riyxp jsqljf ywwymd rsemr ukamtu rkc ebyjnny kosst bjam snvsbu