Magna Tip Master Super Set

[SLT223]

So I finally broke down and got one of these sets...literally not one flat blade bit fits the side plate screws of my Dash Two's. All the "-3" bits (thinnest in the set) are too thick. At least the 210 bit fits the strain screw. Anyone know which bit numbers to use for 40 year old S&W's?

I had to default to my trusty little S&W aluminum handle screw driver to change out a couple mainsprings this afternoon.

 

[jrs70]

Bald Eagle 32 Pc. Power Bit Set was my first set and will work fine. I also have the 89 pc Wheeler Engineering set it also works better some times. I have never tried the Brownells set.

 

[Walter Rego]

SLT223, I shared your frustration. I added these bits to my set: 120-1 & 120-2. 150-1 & 150-2, 180-1 & 180-2, 210-1 & 210-2 and 240-1 & 240-2. They fit all the sideplate screws and also some other guns with thin slots. I also had to drill through the plastic tray on the right front to allow the tips to drop in far enough for the lid to close.
I began with the "starter" super set I had no need for bits other than flat blades but I have added more bits and now have all but a dozen holes filled on the size chart.
The -2 size bits are thin, so make sure that you put some penetrating oil on the screws first or apply some heat if there is any suspicion of Loctite on the screws, and of course clean the slots first and keep enough downward pressure on the blade and keep it square with the slot so that it won't slip or bend the tip.

 

[oberon]

Bits are cheap.
Make what you need out of one of 'em. Have a few extra on hand just for that reason.
Use the grinder, files, stones, whatever it takes, and fit it just right.
Makes life way easier, and much less frustrating.

 

[jepp2]

Modifying tips to match screws is a fairly common practice. Brownells sells special stones just for the bits for Magna Tips. They work really well. link

 

[chief38]

I have always advised guys here in this Forum that if you purchase a Magna-tip set, spend an extra 5 or 6 Bucks and get the bit grinding stone they sell too. THERE IS NO SET that is going to fit 100% perfect 100% of the time - NO SET! S&W has probably contracted with dozens of screw manufacturers over the years - each one will be slightly different. NO Company can make a perfect fitting bit for screws mades over 100 + years, so you need to grind your own once in a while.

Grinding a screw driver bit with the Brownell's stone is very easy and someone who can't do a simple task like that probably has no business being inside the gun in the first place. There is mechanical ability, common sense and some knowledge involved, so before buying tools buy a few book to see if this is for you.

 

[tomcatt51]

The Brownells' bits are nice, I have a couple handles and a bunch of bits but not the full set. BUT what i use most on S&W revolvers are a #2 and #16 Bonanza-Forster screwdriver.

 

[SLT223]

I'll be grinding....like I've done since I was 10 years old, making my own tools. I thought since I'm all mature I should get myself a sophisticated screwdriver set. Whoops! I'll just rely on the skills I learned early on. Should have gone with my gut and bought a handle with three thick bits of different widths, and a stone. Dangit, I hate re-learning lessons!

 

[chief38]

I have a few OLD Stanley Yankee screwdrivers with black wooden handles that I have designated to custom grinding. I've re-ground them so many times I have lost count, but when I need a specific screwdriver tip that is not part of any set, that's what I do. They are very short now and are currently set up for removal of the older sized S&W side plate screws which were thin slots compared to todays versions.

I have added two photos of two different custom ground jobs...........