What is a slotted screw drive design?

Chris

4th March 2020

A slotted drive is characterised by a single straight recess across the screw’s head.

Slotted drive as viewed from above.

Slotted screws are designed to be driven with a flat blade screwdriver bit. Ensure you select the correct size bit for your screw.

For more information, see section: How to select the correct screwdriver bit for the screw.

Advantages		Disadvantages
Flat blade bits can be re-ground easily if they wear down Compared to other types, slotted screws are easier and cheaper to manufacture and therefore purchase		Flat-blade screwdriver bits tend to slip out of a slotted screw with a lot of torque is applied. This can cause damage to the screw or work surface It’s hard to center a slotted screwdriver bit in a slotted screw drive. Other designs allow for easier centring