Nut Drivers

A nut driver is a compact hand tool used to tighten and loosen nuts and bolts with precision. Shaped much like a screwdriver, it features a handle, a straight shaft and an integrated socket at the tip. Unlike screwdrivers, which grip only the head of a screw, a nut driver’s socket fits entirely over a nut, making the process smoother and more efficient.

From general household tasks to professional engineering projects, this simple yet essential tool has a wide scale of uses.

How Does a Nut Driver Work?

Nut drivers work much like other drivers. The hexagonal socket opening fits over the nut or bolt and is then turned clockwise or anti-clockwise by hand. As hand tools that use torque to tighten or loosen, nut drivers are essentially designed for light work.

If more torque is required, there are optional T-handle nut drivers which can be operated by both hands to generate more force. If even greater torque is required, you may need to upgrade to a spanner with a longer handle or use a torque wrench.

Types of Nut Drivers

Different projects demand different tools, which is why RS offers a wide variety of nut drivers to suit professional and domestic needs. These include:

Hex Nut Drivers

The most common type is the hex nut driver. Designed with a hexagonal-shaped socket, it grips hex nuts and bolts securely. A hexagon nut driver is indispensable in mechanical, electrical, and assembly tasks.

Deep Nut Drivers

A deep nut driver has an extended shaft, allowing users to reach recessed nuts or work in confined spaces. It’s especially useful in automotive and industrial equipment maintenance.

Hollow Nut Drivers

A hollow nut driver features a shaft that allows long bolts or threaded rods to pass through. This makes it highly versatile for tightening nuts on extended fasteners.

Solid Shaft Nut Drivers

Solid shaft versions offer durability when fastening standard nuts and bolts without the need for a through-hole.

Flex or Swivel Nut Drivers

Flex or swivel nut drivers provide flexibility when working in tight or awkward angles. The swivel function makes them ideal for hard-to-reach applications.

T-Handle Nut Drivers

The T-handle nut driver delivers more torque thanks to its two-handed operation. It’s perfect when extra force is required to secure or release stubborn fasteners.

Ratcheting Nut Drivers

Ratcheting designs speed up repetitive fastening tasks by allowing continuous turns without lifting the driver from the nut.

Magnetic Nut Drivers

A magnetic nut driver holds nuts securely, preventing them from falling during work. This is especially valuable in electrical and overhead applications.

Electric Nut Drivers

For electricians, insulated electric nut drivers protect against live currents up to 1000 V. They are designed with safety and compliance in mind.

What is Included in a Nut Driver Set?

A nut driver set typically includes several drivers of different sizes ranging from 3 to 8 pieces. Each tool has its own handle and shaft, offering versatility for various tasks. Most sets are neatly packed in cases, tool wraps, or trays, ensuring easy portability and organisation.

Features you might expect in a hex nut driver set include:

• A mix of both metric and imperial sizes
• Durable construction, often from alloy steel for strength and longevity
• Options such as insulated, ratcheting, or magnetic drivers
• Compatibility with common fasteners like a hex bolt driver or hex nut set

With a complete set, you’re always prepared for anything from delicate electronics to heavy-duty industrial work.

Industrial Applications of Nut Drivers

A nut driver is a versatile addition to toolkits across industries, including:

Automotive Engineering

Mechanics frequently use hex bolt drivers and deep nut drivers to access recessed nuts in engines and vehicle assemblies.

Electrical Industry

Electricians rely on insulated electric nut drivers and nut spinners for safety and efficiency when working with live components.

Plumbing and HVAC

For pipe fittings, valves, and unit assemblies, a nut tightener tool ensures leak-free connections and secure fastening.

Manufacturing and Assembly

Factory lines often use ratcheting nut drivers and magnetic nut drivers to speed up repetitive fastening tasks in mass production.

DIY and Household Maintenance

At home, a hex bolt tightener or simple nut spinner is invaluable for tasks such as bicycle repair, flat-pack furniture assembly and garden equipment upkeep.

Buy Nut Drivers Online from RS

Ordering nut drivers from RS is quick and reliable. In our online shop, you will find products from many trusted brands, including Facom, Wera and SAM. Our sets are available in both imperial and metric sizes. Browse our range today and find the right 5mm nut driver, hollow nut driver or hex bolt driver for your application. If you’re looking to purchase nut splitters, socket sets and torque wrenches, we’ve got you covered as well.

For more information about our delivery options and fees, please visit our Delivery page.