Craftsman 9-31794 Slotted Phillips Screwdriver Set, 17 Piece
✅ PROS
- Full 17-piece coverage spans both slotted and Phillips from tiny 3/32 inch " to heavy 1/4 inch " tips, eliminating the need to hunt for a second set
- Cushioned grip handles with deep fluting actually bite into your palm under torque — no rolling off the bench either
- Heat-treated chrome vanadium shafts with magnetic tips hold screws securely at awkward angles
❌ CONS
- Lacks stubby and precision sizes — you'll need a separate set for tight spaces or electronics work
- Handle diameter runs slightly thick for smaller hands; extended use can fatigue users with a lighter grip
The Verdict
Some tool sets feel like they were assembled by an accountant — technically complete, but completely soulless. The Craftsman 9-31794 isn’t that. This is a 17-piece collection that covers the screwdriver sizes you’ll actually reach for, wrapped in the brand’s familiar red and black. It’s not flashy, but after spending time with it, I understand why it holds a 4.8-star average across 240 ratings. Let’s dig into whether it deserves a spot in your drawer.
What you actually get
The set breaks down to 10 slotted and 7 Phillips drivers. Slotted sizes run from a precision-friendly 3/32" up to a chunky 1/4", while Phillips covers #0 through #3. Each handle is marked with the tip size — a small touch that saves real time when you’re mid-project and need a #1 Phillips without squinting at every handle.
Build quality is consistent throughout. The shafts are chrome vanadium steel, which resists bending far better than the cheap zinc-alloy stuff on bargain sets. Tips are precisely ground — seating into a screw head feels positive, not sloppy. The handles use a cushioned grip with a textured pattern that gives solid purchase even when your hands are slightly oily.
Performance in the real world
I drove roughly fifty screws across drywall anchors, wood, and light metal with these. The magnetic tips are genuinely useful — they hold a screw steady for one-handed starting, which is more than you get from basic sets at this price. The larger drivers have the heft to handle serious torque; the 1/4" slotted and #3 Phillips feel like they could take abuse without twisting.
The grip design deserves specific mention. The handles have a molded contour that sits comfortably in a gloved hand, and the fluting prevents the tool from rolling off a sloped workbench — a minor annoyance with round-handled drivers. One buyer noted, “The handles are comfortable and provide a good grip, even when my hands were sweaty.” Another praised durability: “I’ve had mine for over a year and they still look new despite daily use.”
Where it falls short
No tool set is perfect, and this one has two notable gaps. First, there’s no stubby driver in the lineup — those short, fat handles that save you in tight spaces under a sink or behind an appliance. You’ll need a separate stubby for those jobs. Second, the smallest size is 3/32" slotted and #0 Phillips. If you work on eyeglasses, electronics, or anything with tiny fasteners, this set stops short of precision territory.
One more consideration: the handles run slightly thick. Most adult hands will be fine, but if you have smaller hands or do delicate work, the grip diameter might feel bulky over an extended session.
Who should buy this
- Homeowners building their first toolbox: This covers 90% of household screwdriving needs — outlet covers, furniture assembly, curtain rods, appliance panels.
- DIYers who want one reliable set: If you’re tired of buying a $5 set every six months, this is a legitimate upgrade that will last.
- Contractors who need a backup set: The 17 pieces give you enough coverage to keep in a truck or job box without worrying about losing your primary set.
Skip it if you’re a precision electronics technician or if you already own a quality set with stubby and precision sizes.
FAQ
Q: Are the tips magnetic? A: Yes, all 17 drivers have magnetic tips strong enough to hold standard screws for one-handed starting.
Q: Does this come with a case? A: The drivers come in a plastic storage tray with a clear lid. It’s functional but not truck-grade — fine for a drawer, not for bouncing around a job site.
Q: Are these made in the USA? A: No, current production is overseas. The chrome vanadium steel quality is solid, but don’t buy expecting domestic manufacturing.
The Verdict
Buy it if you want a complete, durable screwdriver set that covers most household and workshop needs without breaking the bank. Skip it if you primarily work with tiny electronics or need stubby drivers for confined spaces.
The Craftsman 9-31794 delivers genuine value — solid steel, comfortable grips, and sensible size coverage. It’s not the last screwdriver set you’ll ever buy, but it’s very likely the one you’ll reach for first.
Rating: 4.6/5 — A practical, well-built set that earns its place in any toolbox.
Where to Buy
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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.