Stop Stripping Screws: Why Robertson Drive Makes Workshop Jobs Easier

There are few things more frustrating in the workshop than a screw head stripping halfway into a job.

You’ve lined everything up, started driving the screw, and suddenly the driver starts slipping. Before long, the screw head is damaged and you’re reaching for the pliers trying to get it back out.

It’s one of the reasons we’re such big fans of Robertson® square-drive screws at Screw it Screws.

Why Do Screw Heads Strip?

A screw head usually strips when the driver bit slips or “cams out” of the recess while the screw is being driven.

This can happen when:

• The wrong size driver bit is used
• The driver isn’t sitting properly in the screw
• Too much speed or pressure is applied
• The screw meets resistance in harder timber
• The drive design simply doesn’t provide enough positive engagement

Once the recess is damaged, getting the screw fully in—or back out—can become a much bigger job than it should be.

The Robertson® Difference

Robertson screws use a square-shaped recess that allows the matching driver bit to sit securely inside the screw head.

That positive engagement is one of the big advantages of the Robertson system.

Compared with drive styles that are more prone to slipping, the square drive helps keep the driver centred and gives you excellent control when driving the screw.

For woodworkers, cabinetmakers, DIYers and tradies, that can mean fewer damaged screw heads and considerably less frustration.

Great for One-Handed Work

One of our favourite features of Robertson screws is something you really appreciate once you start using them regularly.

A correctly sized Robertson screw can sit firmly on the driver bit.

That makes it much easier when you need to hold your workpiece with one hand while positioning the screw with the other. Whether you're assembling furniture, working underneath a bench or reaching into an awkward spot, it's a small feature that can make a big difference.

Choose the Correct Driver

Getting the best performance from a Robertson screw starts with using the correct driver size.

The driver should fit snugly into the square recess without excessive movement. A loose-fitting or incorrect bit can still damage the screw and won't give you the full benefit of the square-drive system.

And don't forget to check your driver bits occasionally. Even a good bit eventually wears out.

Perfect for Winter Workshop Projects

August is a great time to get some workshop projects finished before the warmer weather arrives.

You might be:

• Building new workshop shelving
• Making cabinets or furniture
• Repairing outdoor furniture
• Getting started on a spring decking project
• Building planter boxes
• Organising the shed
• Finally tackling that project that's been sitting in the corner for months!

Whatever you're building, using the right fastener can make the whole project easier.

Once You Go Square...

There’s a reason Robertson screws have developed such a loyal following.

They're simple, practical and designed to give the driver excellent engagement with the screw.

At Screw it Screws, we specialise in Robertson® square-drive screws because we believe they're one of the best choices available for woodworkers and DIYers.

In fact, we only sell Robertson.

If you've never tried them before, our 500 Screw Introductory Pack is a great way to experience square drive for yourself.

Less slipping. Less frustration. More time building.

Visit Screw it Screws online to explore our range of Robertson® screws and find the right screw for your next project.

Screw it Screws

We Only Sell Robertson®
Square Drive. Better Drive.