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The Daily Insight

What can I use instead of a Phillips screwdriver?

Author

Michael Gray

Updated on April 02, 2026

6 Household Substitutes for a Phillips Head Screwdriver

  • Flathead Screwdriver. Order a cheap Phillips head screwdriver on Amazon.
  • Metal Vegetable Peeler. Whenever you find yourself without a Phillips screwdriver, you may want to look in your kitchen drawers.
  • Butter Knife.
  • Loose Coins.
  • Washers.

What is the difference between a Phillips and a screwdriver?

At first glance, the main difference between a flathead screwdriver, or more properly called a slotted or flat blade screwdriver, and a Phillips screwdriver should be patently obvious. A flathead has a single blade, and a Phillips has two blades in the shape of a cross.

How do I know what size my Phillips screwdriver is?

Screwdriver Technique While screw size is shrouded in mystery, there are four basic sizes of Phillips screwdriver — from #0 to #4 — #0 being the smallest. The most common sizes are #2 and #1, #2 for standard screw sizes, #1 for “miniature”. Then there are the jeweler-size screws.

What is a #2 Phillips screwdriver?

The #2 is a 1/4″ shaft, perfect for derailleur adjustment screws. It is the most common cross tip (“Phillips”) required.

What is the point of a Phillips head screwdriver?

Phillips screw heads allow a tighter fit than a flat head screw, which is why most factories and handymen use them. The screws tend to be lightweight and relatively small. The trick is to match your screwdriver to the type and size of screws you’re using.

What is the purpose of a Phillips screwdriver?

A Phillips screwdriver is a tool that has a cross shape and features the ability to self center. These characteristics allow for greater control and stability.

What are the uses of Phillips head screw driver?

The Phillips screwdriver has become the standard in many different countries. Phillips drives have become a very popular drive when it comes to precision work, that’s why it is used in electronics and laptops. Phillips screwdrivers can be used on many different cruciform screws.

How did a Phillips screwdriver gets its name?

It’s a common misconception that the Phillips screwdriver was named after its inventor. But the truth is that the screwdriver is really named after Henry F. Phillips, the owner of the company which purchased the design from its inventor John P. Thompson. John P. Thompson invented a crosshead screw design in 1932.

What is the use of a Philips screwdriver?

Do not use a screwdriver as a punch,wedge,pinch bar or pry.

  • Keep the tip clean and sharp to permit a solid grip on the tip of the screw.
  • Keep the handle of the screwdriver clean and intact to allow for a solid grip.
  • Never hold the piece you are working on in your hand.