Slotted Drive

A slotted drive is one of the oldest and simplest screw drive styles, featuring a single straight slot across the screw head. It is driven with a flat-blade screwdriver, and is still commonly found in electrical devices, hose clamps, vintage hardware, and many light-duty household applications. Slotted screws are often specified when a traditional appearance is desired or when the screw may need occasional adjustment with a basic hand tool.

Because the slot provides limited contact area, slotted drives are more prone to the driver slipping out (cam-out) compared to recessed drive styles like Phillips or Torx. This can damage the slot, mar the surrounding surface, or cause inconsistent tightening, especially with power tools. For best results, use a flat-blade tip that matches the slot width and thickness, keep the driver centered and square to the head, and apply steady pressure to reduce the chance of slipping.