Whether you’re building or repairing firearms, you need a solid set that can face any kind of assembly problem. You might want a kit that better completes the kit you started with, or you might start from scratch with a huge one. You might be asking yourself, why do I need a dedicated gunsmith screwdriver set when I already have many screwdrivers. Take a look at this video to answer that question.
In no particular order lets dive into the list of the best gunsmithing screwdriver sets.
Best Gunsmith Screwdriver Sets
Real Avid Precision Screwdriver Set for Gunsmithing
If you’re going to build the best gun in your collection, you’re going to need a real complete screwdriver set to get the job done. The Real Avid screwdriver set has 87 labeled bits made from S2 steel, along with a nifty repair kit in case any accidents happen. You’re working with many small parts here, so the included magnetic tray keeps you from losing anything while you work.
The kit comes with special bonuses like an LED screwdriver bit driver for working with smaller, hard-to-see parts. Some bits are hollow ground to help prevent the screws from stripping. Some customers have complained about the pieces getting shipped loosely, but the set is also shipped padded to avoid damage.
Pros
- Included screwdriver bits fit most any firearm
- LED light is quite bright
- Force assist feature works excellently
- Versatile hollow grounds are a plus
- Includes layout diagram for carrying case
Cons
- Kits sometimes come with pieces crammed out of place
- The light sometimes comes defective
- The screw bits are shipped loosely
Wheeler Engineering Gunsmithing Screwdriver Set
Also constructed of S2 solid steel, the Wheeler gunsmithing set comes with all the heads you’ll need for firearm assembly and repair. Over one hundred firearms, both modern and antique, were measured to create the 89 screw bits for this kit. Two magnetic, non-slip screwdriver handles make switching between screw bits easier.
On that note, the kit has the necessary pieces for gunsmiths of all skill sets to use it. The hollow-ground bits, for example, are shaped so that you can insert them into the thin screw slots found on many firearms. Additionally, the top lid of the kit has a diagram showing you where to store all the bits.
The set also includes extras of the smallest screw bits since they may eventually crack or break.
Pros
- Extra bits come in handy
- Bits last for a very long time
- It contains bits specifically for professional firearms assembly
- Great for pairing with the Wheeler Scope Mounting Kit
- Hollow ground bits go a long way
Cons
- Some of the bits get scattered during shipping
- It takes too much effort to shut the case properly
- The parts diagram does not stay on the lid
Weaver Compact Gunsmith Tool Kit
The Weaver compact gunsmith tool kit helps specifically with smithing hunting guns. It’s not the most extensive kit (most kits rank at around 80-plus pieces), but the 36-piece kit works well to repair firearms. Each compartment in the kit’s hard-plastic case is molded specifically to each piece to help prevent them from falling and sliding around inside. The kit also includes a magnetic-tipped hex-bit driver.
On the whole, this gunsmith kit is best for weekend gunsmithing and quick repairs or adjustments. You can easily take it with you to the shooting range to clean and adjust your firearm. It might not work best for professional or more complicated gunsmithing tasks.
Some users recommend keeping the bubble wrap included with the pack so you can better keep the pieces in their compartments.
Pros
- Works well enough for weekend gunsmithing
- Works particularly well for ball and cap revolver maintenance
- Easy to bring to the shooting range for quick adjustments
- Small enough to store anywhere
- Hollow ground screw bits make projects a lot easier
Cons
- The plastic case is not the most durable
- Pieces don’t always stay in their proper compartments
- A few kits did not include the promised hex drill adapter
Wheeler 55 Piece Gunsmithing Screwdriver Set
The first thing you’ll notice about the second Wheeler screwdriver set on our list is that the pieces are a mix of SAW (inches) and metric (millimeters). Some users might find this a little confusing and unnecessary, but that is to help accommodate guns of different origins.
Nonetheless, the screw bits are all hollow ground to work best with guns. If you have other gunsmithing kits on hand, this one might complement it quite well. Like other Wheeler gunsmithing sets, this one comes with a diagram for placing the bits in the case, making it easy for beginner gunsmiths to use. With the variety of parts included, it should satisfy both professional and amateur gunsmiths.
Some users have even taken this kit beyond gunsmithing and used it to repair boats.
Pros
- It comes with plenty of driver options
- Diagram explains where bits go in the case
- Hollow ground screw bits for best results
- The range of bits should cover all kinds of gunsmithing projects
- Easy enough for beginners to use
Cons
- The case is not the strongest or most compact
- Random bits are missing
- The small driver might break easily
Forster 8-Piece Gunsmith Screwdriver Set
Here’s a set meant for beginner gunsmiths or more advanced gunsmiths looking for a smaller, more straightforward kit. The Forster 8-piece gunsmith screwdriver set includes hollow-ground screwdrivers meant for gunsmithing, but you can use them for other fixes too. Each screwdriver has a red plastic handle that should fit most hand shapes. They can easily fit in a bag so that you can take them to the range for quick fixes or adjustments.
While an 8-piece screwdriver set seems deceptively simple, these tips are quite clean and precisely shaped for gunsmithing needs. They are robust, able to last for quite a long period of smithing, whether you’re a professional or amateur. For those who prefer to buy USA-made products, these screwdrivers should also work great.
Pros
- Sets can last for several years at a time
- Hard to twist or break any of the screwdrivers
- Easy for amateur gunsmiths to use
- Small enough kit to take on the go
- Red storage pouch included
Cons
- Some gunsmiths may require a wider variety of drivers
- Drivers might be a little large for some smithers
- The handles should probably be rubber instead of plastic
Lyman 68 Piece Master Gunsmith Tool Kit
The Lyman Master Gunsmith multi-tool kit is a medium-size kit, but it should have you covered for all of your gunsmithing needs. All the bits have a labeled place in the kit, and the diagram on the back of the lid tells you where everything goes.
One small note is that not all of the bits fit into the extension as it comes in the package. Before you panic, see if you can loosen the set screw on the side of the extension. Loosen that screw, and the bits should all be able to fit.
If you already have a gunsmithing screwdriver bit kit, you can use this one to add to it. A kit of this size should keep you covered if you go to the gun range and need to care for your firearm quickly.
Pros
- Small enough kit to pack for the gun range
- An excellent complement to larger screwdriver kits
- Precisely-shaped screwdriver bits
- Easy for beginner gunsmiths
- Sturdy (and stylish) orange case
Cons
- Extension screw may need adjusting out of the package
- The screwdriver handle could be a little larger
- Some smaller bits might chip with too much force
Kings County Tools Gunsmith Screwdriver
We’ve seen several larger kits on this list, but a standard set of three can work just as well. The Kings County Tools gunsmith screwdriver set has three 6″ long screwdrivers, each made with pretty Rosewood handles, strong steel blades, and brass ferrules. For best results, the screwdriver heads use hollow ground blades.
The screwdriver bits do not come from hardened steel, so they might bend a little more under hard pressure. On that note, the pretty handles’ large size might make these screwdrivers work better as display items rather than actual tools. If you do want to use the screwdrivers, their handles are large enough for most hand shapes for better ease of use.
Pros
- Rosewood handles are pretty to look at
- Handles are comfortable to hold
- Hollow ground screwdriver bits work well
- Reasonably priced
- It might make pretty display items for your workshop
Cons
- Screwdriver bits not made from hardened steel
- Bits have sometimes bent under too much pressure
- Not a lot of variety
Chapman MFG 5589 Ultimate Gunsmith Screwdriver Set
The Chapman MFG 5589 gunsmith screwdriver set is proudly USA-made and assembled, heat-treated with a black oxide finish to prevent rust and promote durability. The kit includes 32 screwdriver insert bits, all of which with a ball detent that secures the bit in the handle and their part number stamped on. A mini ratchet with plenty of teeth allows you to get into hard-to-reach places.
The bits also have knurled ends to help with finger tightening and are interchangeable with the main drive. Plus, the parts are non-magnetic so that you can use the tools on electronics. The bits are all strong but don’t apply too much pressure to the points since they can crack or break.
Pros
- The kit has good organization
- Screwdriver kit works on other appliances besides firearms
- The mini ratchet works well
- It comes in a stylish box
- Feels good in the hand despite the small handles
Cons
- Bits don’t hold that well in the drive
- Flathead screws are not that strong
- It might not hold up to a lot of professional gunsmithing
Grace USA – Peacemaker Gunsmith Screwdriver Set
Like any good screwdriver set for gunsmithing, Grace USA uses hollow-ground bits constructed with solid steel alloy. The bits are also finished with a black oxide finish to stop rusting, and they are also great for woodworking and home care products.
The Maine hardwood, nickel-plated steel ferrule screwdriver handles help keep your grip strong even when your hands get sweaty. If you prefer tools made in the USA, Grace USA’s got you covered with their part replacement policy. If a tool should break for any reason, Grace USA will replace it free of charge, no questions asked.
Pros
- Excellent customer service for lost or replaced parts
- Works on several older Colt and Uberti models
- Bits fit excellently into the drive
- Easy to change bits from the drive
- Great for professional and amateur gunsmiths
Cons
- The biggest one broke after a few uses for some users
- Not all tips work as they should and require some modification
- No screwdriver is available one at a time
Wheeler Professional Gunsmithing Screwdriver Set
The Wheeler Professional Gunsmithing screwdriver set comes with 21 S2-tool steel, hollow-ground bits, along with a couple of non-slip plastic handles for easier use. All pieces come in a handy dandy case with a location guide in the lid. Once again, we have a Wheeler set produced from measuring all kinds of antique and modern guns to ensure the tools fit every model.
Such versatility means that the bits in this set can pair with other Wheeler tools, like the Wheeler FAT wrench. Luckily, the bits seem to fit a majority of gun models. On that note, you can go ahead and add this particular set to your range bag in case of an emergency.
Pros
- Screwdriver bits fit several gun models well
- Bits are the perfect hardness for tough jobs
- All the parts stay in place during shipping
- Tools can work for typewriters and other applications
- Excellent for professional gunsmiths
Cons
- The storage case is sometimes hard to open
- The smallest bits warp and twist more easily
- Might not have the torque needed for some projects
Summary
Picking out a gunsmith screwdriver set can be a gamble, but the best one for you will depend on your needs. Need a small one to take to the gun range just in case? Maybe a medium-sized kit to complete your collection? There’s a kit to fit those needs on this list. Overall I really lean toward Real Avid set for the house. One of the smaller ones would work well for the range.
Or maybe this list is a good starting point for inspiration. It doesn’t matter as long as you can find a gunsmith screwdriver set just right for you.
