Something About T8 Screwdriver You Need to Know

You can never own too many tools, and there are always new items that you can add to your toolbox. If you try to take certain items apart you might discover that they have a screw with a different head. It’s vital that you get the right tool for the job, trying to use the wrong type of screwdriver can cause damage and even injury. Anybody who repairs mobile phones, tablet computers or other small pieces of consumer electronics really needs to buy a good quality set of Torx driver bits. Disassembling anything these days requires a variety of different types and sizes of screwdriver bits. Today we are going to look at the Torx t8 security bit and find out exactly what it is.

What is Torx?

Torx is a certain type of screw head which looks like a star. If you have ever tried to take phones or other electronic devices apart then you have no doubt seen lots of these. There are various different sizes of Torx head which range from T1 right up to R100. One of the most common types of Torx is the T8 which is generally used on consumer electronics and computers.

The Torx standard was developed by Camcar Textron back in 1967. It’s a popular type of security screw since it’s design is perfect for automated production lines. It also allows the user to get a lot of torque on the screw without slipping.

What is a T8 Security Screwdriver?

A T8 Security screwdriver allows you to safely remove or tighten a T8 screw. These Torx T8 screws are one of the most popular sizes and are used on everything from bikes, to electrical equipment. While it is sometimes possible to use a flat blade screwdriver to remove these, it’s really not advisable. It can easily strip the head of the screw, and any slippages can be dangerous and painful. It’s also not a good idea to drill these screws out wince it creates mess and is also time consuming to do. It’s much better to get the right tool for the job.

Torx Bit Sets

There are lots of different sizes of Torx bits, it’s a good idea to buy yourself a set which includes all the common sizes. T3 – T10 will be enough for most people, and then you can add additional size bits as and when you need them. It’s useful to have a set since it can be very frustrating if you don’t have the right size bit for the screw you are trying to remove!

Using a Torx T8 Screwdriver

A T8 screwdriver is very easy to use and is used in exactly the same way as any other type of screwdriver. The drivers have a star shaped bit which fits snuggly into the head of the screw. It actually fits much better than a Philips head screw which makes it easier to tighten screws without the risk of slipping out and causing damage. If you are using Torx bits then these will need to be fitted into a suitable handle holder or Torx wrench to enable you to use them.

How to Remove Stuck T8 Screws

If you ever have to take apart a phone or other device you will probably come across at least one screw which won’t budge. This can be very frustrating and annoying! But instead of getting out a Dremel to remove the pesky screw, try a few simple things first. Gently tap the screwdriver with a small hammer to try and loosen it. Or if the head is a bit damaged you can try using a rubber band in-between the screwdriver and the head of the screw. This will hopefully provide a bit more friction to help remove the screw.

What size is a T8 screwdriver?

A T8 screw is pretty small, the diameter of the actual screw bit is approximately 2.3mm or 0.09″. The screws themselves are tiny and very easy to lose. When taking apart things which use these small screws, a magnetic mat is very helpful to stop them rolling all over the place. A T8 screwdriver itself is available in several different sizes. You can buy L shaped torx 8 Key screwdrivers, bit type T8 screwdrivers, or small pocket sized T8 screwdrivers.

Where to Buy a Torx T8 Security Screwdriver

Torx is a very common standard these days. Although they are called security screws, you can buy a screwdriver for them from virtually anywhere. You can find inexpensive sets at most home hardware stores or online. It’s also possible to get some nice electronic sets if you take apart a lot of electronic devices.

Are Cheap Torx Drivers Worth It?

If you’re anything like me then you probably love a bargain. However, there’s a good reason why you shouldn’t just rush out to get the cheapest Torx T8 screwdriver possible. A lot of the cheap ones are made of soft metal which means they will be fine for a short time. However after a while the bits will start to round off which makes them unusable. It’s much better if you spend a bit extra on a good quality Torx driver set which will last for a long time to come.

Security Screw or Normal Torx Screw

It’s also worth noting that there are generally two different types of Torx screw used. There are security Torx T8 screws which have a little dimple on the top, and standard ones which are just a star shape. It’s better if you get a set which includes both types. You will generally find that the security drivers can be used to remove standard Torx screws too, but a spare is always a good idea.

There are also a few other types of security screws which you may come across. These include snake eye screws – with two holes, and security hex screws. As with Security Torx screws, it’s important that you use the right type of screwdriver to remove them. Trying to get a security screw to budge with anything else could cause damage to the item, the screw, or even yourself.

So there you have it, hopefully everything you have ever wanted to know about the Torx T8 screwdriver! If you have any questions or have noticed anything I have missed then please get in touch. Also, let me know if you found this information useful as I may consider creating guides about other types of screws and security screws.