06-08-2017, 06:59 PM
Hey all,
I've always been a huge fan of the old "Perfect Handle" style screwdrivers (including knockoffs from that era). I think they look awesome, are built like tanks, and feel good in the hand. I've managed to pick up a small collection of them through the years in different lengths/sizes/conditions. However, due to the major downfall of them only being made in flathead (and the rarity with which I use flatheads), they mostly collect dust.
Well, I decided to change that. I picked the one in the worst condition (very rusted/pitted with decaying scales) to experiment with and used a wire wheel to get the rust off. I started by cutting the flathead end off. I really had to talk myself into that, as I hate irreversibly damaging a tool. Then I MIG welded on a Wera magnetic bit holder, filed the weld smooth, and added desert ironwood scales. I tried to keep as much of the patina and pitting as possible as a nod to the age of the screwdriver, which is distinctly different from the new bit holder.
I haven't had a chance to use it much yet, but it feels amazing in my hands and I'm really happy with the finished product. Hopefully I can honor this tool with many more years of solid use instead of banishing it to a drawer. Obviously, no hammering on the butt of this one.
Only thing I wish I could have done differently is add a ratcheting mechanism, but those tend to add too much bulk (in terms of diameter) for what I wanted.
Tyler
I've always been a huge fan of the old "Perfect Handle" style screwdrivers (including knockoffs from that era). I think they look awesome, are built like tanks, and feel good in the hand. I've managed to pick up a small collection of them through the years in different lengths/sizes/conditions. However, due to the major downfall of them only being made in flathead (and the rarity with which I use flatheads), they mostly collect dust.
Well, I decided to change that. I picked the one in the worst condition (very rusted/pitted with decaying scales) to experiment with and used a wire wheel to get the rust off. I started by cutting the flathead end off. I really had to talk myself into that, as I hate irreversibly damaging a tool. Then I MIG welded on a Wera magnetic bit holder, filed the weld smooth, and added desert ironwood scales. I tried to keep as much of the patina and pitting as possible as a nod to the age of the screwdriver, which is distinctly different from the new bit holder.
I haven't had a chance to use it much yet, but it feels amazing in my hands and I'm really happy with the finished product. Hopefully I can honor this tool with many more years of solid use instead of banishing it to a drawer. Obviously, no hammering on the butt of this one.
Only thing I wish I could have done differently is add a ratcheting mechanism, but those tend to add too much bulk (in terms of diameter) for what I wanted.
Tyler
