What is this tool called?

Perhaps a driver for security screws.

I cant really help as I would just call it a screwdriver, reason being I had a screw a few years back and I had to take an old screwdriver and file the center out similar to what you have described to get it to fit. No doubt there is a proper name and I await someone enlightening us.

I've got a number of similar bits in a set sold for removing "security" screws on small electronic gear. It also has hollow torx and hex bits in for the type that have a pin in the centre of the hole to prevent unauthorised access.

Dunno, but I made one many moons ago by filing a notch out if a normal screwdriver. It was to tighten up the lockrings on chassis-mount 3.5mm jack sockets.

Spanner security screws.

Google for images and see.

Just one type of security bit? Although perhaps been around more than most.

Nick ( snipped-for-privacy@boom.co.uk) wibbled on Tuesday 08 March 2011 21:30:

There is certainly a security bit that matches that profile. But I know of the nuts the OP is talking about - but I do not remember the name.

To the OP - yes,

I usually make them as needed by dremelling a slot in a cheap old screwdriver. If no dremel, soften the tip with a blowtorch, file, then reharden (to blue stage IIRC, but it's unlikely to be critical here).

Cheers

Tim

Hard to explain. Looks like a screwdriver, but instead of a flat end to the blade, there are two protruding parts, one at either side - or a screwdriver blade with a notch in the middle. Used with special nuts that have two holes, to accommodate the protrusions on the tool.

Sideways on, it would look like this (but smaller!)

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In message , Tim Watts writes

Brilliant. Thank you, Tim. I cannot tell you how long I spent browsing the tools section of eBay, and using Google, but with the wrong search terms :-(

Yes, that would be a perfect example of the tool's use. Thanks.

Toolstation do a complete set inc one like that

In message , Tabby writes

Graeme ( snipped-for-privacy@nospam.demon.co.uk) wibbled on Wednesday 09 March 2011 07:39:

You'll almost certainly find single bits on ebay and in one of Farnell, RS or Rapid or CPC.

As an apprentice electrician almost 40 years ago, we called these Russell Hobbs screwdrivers because Russell Hobbs kettles had the element secured by screws that needed these drivers. Never came across them in anything else but they now seem to be part of modern "security" screw/driver sets.

Some4 security when you can buy screwdrivers and bits on the open market... !! I made my own spanner driver.... Jim

Model Railways again? I'm guessing you want a Romford screwdriver to remove the axlenuts.

MBQ

Is this related to the lubricating model railway locos thread? Removing axle nuts? Sounds like you want a Romford screwdriver

MBQ