Design & DIY Why Canada’s Robertson screwdriver is far superior to the American Phillips screw By Wayne Lennox Published: April 8, 2025 share Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Pinterest Copy Link Cancel Photo by sockagphoto/Shutterstock If you are a true Canadian, the only screwdrivers you enjoy using are Robertson (black, red, green, or yellow handles denote the size of screw). Oddly, the square-hole fastener, patented in 1909 by Ontarian P.L. Robertson, never caught on in the U.S. Blame, according to lore, falls to a failed agreement between the inventor and Henry Ford. Consequently, our American neighbours still cling to the Phillips screw, a far inferior choice. Cottage Coach: Which screwdriver heads should you keep in your tool box? Stuff We Like: The Gyro screwdriver How to free a stuck screw or a seized nut Related Story How to choose the right chain for your next DIY job Related Story These carvings by a self-taught woodworker are astonishing Related Story The ultimate cottage tool: the Swiss Army knife Sign up for our newsletters By submitting your information via this form, you agree to receive electronic communications from Cottage Life Media, a division of Blue Ant Media Solutions Inc., containing news, updates and promotions regarding cottage living and Cottage Life's products. You may withdraw your consent at any time. Dockside Weekly The latest cottage-country news, trending stories, and how-to advice The Key Weekly Need-to-know info about buying, selling, and renting cottage real estate Family Matters Five-part series Untangle the thorny process of cottage succession with expert advice from lawyer, Peter Lillico