screwdriver bit recommendations?

[patrick mitchel]

So what's the consensus on power screwdriver bits....go with the cheap, the bit more pricey or the exotic (diamond coated) for the average homeowner. Dunno the pedigree of the couple I picked up from the closeout box at a local hardware store but was surprised that after driving mebbe 50 1 1/2" drywall screws in ply that the bits were toast- yeah, the bits were the common #2 bits. Looking at the typical domestic US big box retailers- so that would make it dewalt, hilti, makita, vermont american- type makers. Just curious. Pat

[Lawrence]

Some are better and more durable than others. I don't try to tell the difference just be sure to have extras. Square drive bits and screws are better than the ordinary philips head but are more expensive. I always go with phillips head for that reason. If you use an impact driver rather than a drill/driver your tips will slip less and maybe last longer. I have snapped the cheap ones with my 12v panasonic impact driver.

[Edwin Pawlowski]

I buy mine at

or They are of a decent quality, wear a long time, and most important, they do not ruin the screw. You may want to consider using square head also. Less chance of slipping.

[Tekkie®]

If you don;t want to use square drive then buy the better Phillips bits. I get the best performance out of the "anti-cam out" bits. Little more expensive but provides a dividend for the price.