Thread: Hermes Spiral Screwdriver

Yankee Spiral screwdrivers were originally made by North Bros.
After Stanley bought North Bros, they were produced in both the US and the UK.
They continued to be made under licence in West Germany after Stanley ended production in the UK.
They are still in Germany today and are available under the SCHRÖDER brand.

However, I believe that prior to WW1, a copy one of the models was briefly made in Germany under the Hermes brand. If I recall correctly, this was stopped after "negotiation" with North Bros. I can't find the link to this - but it is out there somewhere.

Yes, I might have a Yankee driver or two(ish).

I have one of those German ones. Bought it new In 1975. They were a handy tool before battery drills came along. I have only 2 of the driver bitts left for it now and it has not been seriously used in well over 20 years. A lot of young blokes that have been in my shed ask what is that thing for.
Regards
John

Still use mine, since the batteries on my drill are a bit dodgy. I had to modify a phillips head driver bit to fit it though

In case anyone is interested in acquiring some bits for their Yankees they can be purchased from here
http://www.leevalley.com/us/wood/pag...411,43417&ap=2

I have some of the Lee Valley bits.
They are decent quality but they don't seem to be making any more as some sizes are now out of stock.
An alternative is their hex bit adapter which allows you to fit any hex bit.
http://www.leevalley.com/us/wood/pag...411,43417&ap=2

mine is a goodell pratt, slow spiral no return spring model. I modified a 1/4" hex bit holder to fit it. been a good tool for me close to 30 years now.