Editing Screwdriver (section)

== Handle ==
[[File:Screwdrivers WPC.jpg|thumb|left|"Perfect Handle" screwdrivers]]
The handle and shaft of screwdrivers have changed considerably over time. The design is influenced by both purpose and manufacturing requirements.  The "Perfect Pattern Handle"{{elucidate|date=March 2012}} screwdriver was first manufactured by [[H. D. Smith & Co.|HD Smith & Company]], which operated from 1850 to 1900. Many manufacturers adopted this handle design. At the time, the "flat bladed" screw type was prevalent and was the fastener with which they were designed to be used. Another popular design was composed of [[drop forging|drop-forged steel]] with riveted wood handles.

The shape and material of many modern screwdriver handles are designed [[Human factors and ergonomics|to fit comfortably]] in the user's hand, for user comfort and to facilitate maximum control and [[torque]]. Designs include indentations for the user's fingers, and surfaces of a soft material such as [[thermoplastic elastomer]] to increase comfort and grip. Composite handles of rigid [[plastic]] and [[rubber]] are also common. Many screwdriver handles are not smooth and often not round, but have flats or other irregularities to improve grip and to prevent the tool from rolling when on a flat surface.

Some screwdrivers have a short hexagonal section at the top of the blade, adjacent to the handle, so that a ring spanner or open wrench can be used to increase the applied torque. Another option are "cabinet" screwdrivers which are made of flat bar stock and while the shaft may be rounded, will have a large flat section adjacent to the handle which a wrench (often an adjustable) may be used on for additional leverage. The offset screwdriver has a handle set at right angles to the small blade, providing access to narrow spaces and giving extra torque.