Nut Spinners

About Nut Spinners

Nut spinners, also known as nut drivers or nut setters, are essential hand tools designed for the rapid tightening and loosening of hex nuts and bolts. Combining the speed of a screwdriver with the efficiency of a socket, these tools feature a hollow shaft that allows the fastener to pass through, making them ideal for working with long threaded rods and recessed applications. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of nut spinners from professional brands including Wera, Draper, Sealey, Wiha, and Bahco.

Available in individual units or multi-piece sets, nut spinners come in various configurations including standard fixed handles, T-handle designs, flexible shaft options, and VDE insulated versions for electrical work. With metric and imperial sizes covering the most common hex dimensions, these tools are indispensable for tradespeople requiring fast, reliable fastening solutions across mechanical, electrical, and assembly applications.

Applications

Nut spinners are widely used across numerous trades and industries:

• Electricians: Installing switches, sockets, consumer units, and toilet seat fixings with insulated versions for 240v applications
• Plumbers: Securing radiators, taps, boilers, and pipe fittings with hose clip drivers
• HVAC Engineers: Assembling ductwork, grilles, and ventilation systems
• Assembly and Manufacturing: Production line work requiring repetitive fastening tasks
• Automotive Mechanics: Working on vehicle components, panels, and interior trim
• Maintenance Engineers: General equipment servicing and repairs
• DIY Enthusiasts: Furniture assembly, home improvements, and general repairs

Choosing The Right Nut Spinners

When selecting nut spinners from MyToolShed.co.uk, consider these essential factors:

• Size Requirements: Identify the hex sizes you work with most frequently – sets typically cover 5mm to 13mm metric or imperial equivalents
• Handle Type: Standard handles suit general use, whilst T-handle versions provide greater torque for stubborn fasteners
• Shaft Length: Longer shafts access recessed nuts; flexible shafts navigate awkward angles
• Insulation: VDE insulated models are mandatory for live electrical work up to 1000V
• Drive Options: Spinner handles with square drive sockets offer versatility for use with existing socket sets
• Material Quality: Chrome vanadium or hardened steel ensures durability and resistance to wear
• Grip Comfort: Soft-grip or ergonomic handles reduce fatigue during extended use
• Brand Reputation: Professional brands like Wera and Wiha offer superior build quality and accuracy

Safety Information

Always use VDE certified insulated nut spinners when working on or near live electrical circuits up to 240v. Inspect tools regularly for damaged insulation, cracks, or wear. Ensure the nut spinner size matches the fastener precisely to prevent rounding and potential injury from slippage. Never use standard nut spinners as chisels or pry bars, and avoid applying excessive force that could cause handle breakage or fastener damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a nut spinner and a socket?

Nut spinners feature a hollow shaft allowing threaded rods to pass through the tool, making them ideal for long fasteners and recessed applications. They're also faster to use than ratchets for repetitive tasks. Sockets require a ratchet or breaker bar and cannot accommodate protruding threads.

Can I use nut spinners with an impact driver?

Standard nut spinners are designed for hand use only. For power tool applications, you'll need specifically designed hex shank nut driver bits rated for impact drivers. MyToolShed stocks various power tool compatible options.

Are spinner handles compatible with all sockets?

Spinner handles with 1/4" or 3/8" square drives are compatible with standard sockets of matching drive sizes, offering excellent versatility for professional tradespeople who already own comprehensive socket sets.