5 Common Mistakes When Using a Torque Screwdriver (and How to Avoid Them)

5 Common Mistakes When Using a Torque Screwdriver (and How to Avoid Them)

A torque screwdriver is an essential tool for anyone who wants precise and consistent tightening—whether you’re working on electronics, firearms, bicycles, or DIY projects. However, even experienced users make mistakes that lead to inaccurate torque, damaged threads, or inconsistent results.

Below are the five most common mistakes people make when using a torque screwdriver—and how you can easily avoid them.

1. Using the Wrong Torque Range

Every torque screwdriver has a specific torque range. If your application requires 40 in.lb but your tool only goes up to 30 in.lb, you’ll inevitably overtighten. On the other hand, using a screwdriver with a higher range (such as 20–100 in.lb) to tighten a low-torque fastener can also compromise accuracy.

How to Avoid This

• Always check the required torque for your task before choosing your tool.
• Choose a torque screwdriver where your target torque falls near the middle of the tool’s range for best accuracy.
• Tools like the Uharbour Torque Screwdriver (10–60 in.lb) work well for gunsmithing, cycling, and precision assembly.

2. Not Calibrating the Tool Regularly

Even high-quality torque screwdrivers lose accuracy over time. Heavy use, dropping the tool, or improper storage can accelerate this.

How to Avoid This

• Recalibrate your torque screwdriver once a year, or every 5,000 uses.
• If you rely on high accuracy (e.g., working on carbon bike frames), calibrate more frequently.
• Store the screwdriver in its protective case to minimize wear.

3. Incorrectly Reading or Setting the Torque

Some users forget to properly lock the torque setting—or misread the scale—resulting in incorrect torque application.

How to Avoid This

• Double-check your torque setting before every use.
• If your torque screwdriver has a lock mechanism, always lock it before tightening.
• For digital torque screwdrivers, wait for the screen to stabilize before tightening.

4. Continuing to Apply Force After the “Click”

The biggest mistake beginners make is continuing to turn the screwdriver even after reaching the preset torque. This can easily damage threads or over-stress delicate components.

How to Avoid This

• Listen for the “click” or feel for the slight handle movement—that’s your cue to stop immediately.
• Practice on a spare bolt until you’re familiar with the feedback.
• If using a digital torque screwdriver, stop when you hear the beep or see the LED/reading indicating the target torque is achieved.

5. Using the Wrong Bit or Low-Quality Bits

Even when the torque is correct, using a poorly fitting or cheap bit can strip screws or damage workpieces.

How to Avoid This

• Use the correct size and type of bit for every job.
• Consider buying torque screwdrivers that include a high-quality bit set.
• Replace worn bits immediately—don’t wait for them to slip.

Final Thoughts

Using a torque screwdriver isn’t complicated—but using it correctly makes a huge difference. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can:

• Achieve consistent and accurate fastening
• Protect delicate components
• Extend the lifespan of your tool
• Improve the overall quality of your work

Whether you're a cyclist, DIYer, electrician, or gunsmith, mastering proper torque techniques is essential—and a quality tool like a calibrated torque screwdriver can make the job safer, faster, and more precise.