For many years now, I have always used the black handle Xcelite Phillips screwdrivers with the chrome shaft & black tip. I outfitted my electronics bench with a fresh set a few years ago, and the #1 Phillips tip is already toast. I took apart a dead stick vacuum cleaner today that had a dozen screws down in holes, and I had to get my other #1 driver from my woodworking toolbox to finish the job. It is also showing signs of excess wear on the tip.
One problem is that the #1 tip is very pointy, and I think it is bottoming out on some screws, which increases its tendency to slip. This accellerates the damage & makes it more likely to slip the next time. The #2 tip is definitely rounded and no where near as pointy. The #0 seems to have a some of the same issue, but not as pronounced.
I'm going to have to replace the #1's (and may get another #0 as well), and was wondering if folks have a favorite brand that grips screws well and holds up better. I've had good luck with Wiha drivers in the past, but mostly for smaller stuff (jeweller's screwdriver size).
Thanks!
Doug White