bent screwdriver

[DMartin9N-2N]

Good evening:
I have a small wood-handled screwdriver, possibly collectible, it has the common old flat tip, about 3/16 inch wide. It has a slight bend about 1/4 inch from the end, a nuisance when I am using it on small items. Since it is collectable, I want to straighten it without breaking it. Any advice appreciated!

D. Martin in W. Tenn.

 

[MJMJ]

Heat comes to mind. Would probably make sure its actually “collectable” before worrying about it being perfect.

 

[Janicholson]

Whack it flat on an anvil or? it bent once, and is malleable. Been there. Jim

 

[4wdtom]

Whack it flat on an anvil or? it bent once, and is malleable. Been there. Jim

I agree, anvil or other flat surface and tapping with a hammer will straighten it. Enough heat to make a difference in bending will remove the temper.

 

[BarnyardEngineering]

I agree, anvil or other flat surface and tapping with a hammer will straighten it. Enough heat to make a difference in bending will remove the temper.

BTDT. The tip always snaps off when you try to bend it back.

Heat may remove the temper, but the screwdriver is "collectable." At least it will be whole and can be put on display.

 

[Brian G. NY]

I would put it in a vise....maybe some aluminum on the jaws so it doesn't get scratched.

 

[flying belgian]

Good evening:
I have a small wood-handled screwdriver, possibly collectible, it has the common old flat tip, about 3/16 inch wide. It has a slight bend about 1/4 inch from the end, a nuisance when I am using it on small items. Since it is collectable, I want to straighten it without breaking it. Any advice appreciated!

D. Martin in W. Tenn.

I bent this one to get at screws around corners.

 

[BTfromBG]

I bend them to make brake adjusting tools.

 

[Caryc]

I bent this one to get at screws around corners.

You should have just bought screws with corner heads on them.

 

[Texasmark]

We all know that as a farmer, you have to "adapt" to the situation. On one occasion I had to adapt a screwdriver to a situation so I bent the shaft 90* about 3/8" from the tip.....I probably used heat so that it wouldn't snap. It solved the problem and since then I have used it on several occasions solving my existing problem.