Buying a screwdriver that is perfect for me except the bits aren't magnetized, I am gonnna buy a strong magnet and rub it down to magnetize it but I am curious as to how long it will stay magnetized to pick up screws.
Answers (1)
I have tried that and it does not work well. You need to wrap a heavy wire several times around the screwdriver and connect the ends to a battery. You want a big lantern battery so it can deliver some current, or your car battery. Don't start a fire. When I say "connect" I mean just for a moment. If it's not magnetic enough you can connect again. Auto parts stores sell heavy wire in small rolls. 14 gauge will work.
Magnetism is lost mainly because the metal was not made to hold magnetism. Too bad, that's what makes a good screwdriver. You just magnetize it again some day, and in the meantime don't bang it around.