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Sentinel Security Screws vs Clutch Heads, Clash of the One-Way Screws

One of SecuritySafetyProduct's newer members of staff recently asked the question: "With Sentinel screws being slightly more expensive than Clutch head screws, why would anyone buy a Sentinel? After all, both are one-way security screws so both surely fulfil the same function....."

What today's article seeks to do is look at the similarities and differences between these two permanent security fixings, and highlight the benefits of each.

Firstly the similarities: As a basic introduction to these two permanent security screws, both operate in a clockwise fashion, with anti-clockwise turning prohibited due to shape of the screw head's drive recess.

Both screws can also be installed by a standard screwdriver. In the case of the Clutch-head screw it is installed by a flat head screwdriver. Arguably one of the first security screws ever made, it is both quick and easy to fit.

Building on the concept of the clutch head screw, the Sentinel can be installed using a standard Pozidriv screwdriver. For the DIY novice this is a cross head screwdriver with a slightly sharper point than a conventional ‘Phillips' screwdriver.

As for the differences between the two, the Clutch head screw can be installed using a suitable flat head screwdriver and is slightly cheaper than the patented Sentinel screw. However, with the slight increase in the pence per screw, the Sentinel comes with a list of features and benefits over its one-way rival:

Firstly the Sentinel countersunk version of the screw offers the user a perfectly flat finish. This is something the clutch head screw does not provide as it features two raised lips for the flat head screwdriver to press against.

The Sentinel also snugly fits its respective screwdriver. Without the same level of give and movement as the Clutch head screw, this means the Sentinel offers a greater torque - meaning it can be tightened beyond its Clutchhead equivalent.

Finally, and perhaps the most important point of all, the Sentinel can be tightened using an electric screwdriver or drill. Of course if you are only fixing one or two screws this is perhaps a non-issue. However, if you are fitting lots of screws, then an electric screwdriver can be a real time and energy saver.

Certainly this was a benefit to one of SecuritySafetyProducts customers when he replaced his stolen thatched roof. Using over 500 screws, it would have taken him many times longer had he used clutch heads.

For more information on one-way security screws, please contact us using this link or on 0161 797 0176.