Park Tool’s new U.S.A made DSD-2 and DSD-4 are designed for derailleurs. What’s so special? Shimano use JIS screws that are not the same as phillips screws so these fit much better.

Park Tool (https://www.parktool.com/) is always looking for new tools to help you wrench on your bike and today we’re going to take a look at their DSD-2 and DSD-4 screwdrivers that are designed for derailleurs.

Video overview

The key takeaway with the DSD-2 screwdriver is that Shimano uses Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) screws in their components so using a traditional phillips screwdriver can work, but it is not the right tool as you’re more likely to strip or damage the screw head.

Screwdrivers come in all shapes and sizes.

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Below you can see how the head of the JIS screwdriver compares and why it fits better in those Shimano bolts. Left (Park Tool SD-2), Center (Park Tool DSD-2 JIS), Right (Snap-On Phillips #2)

The Park Tool DSD-4 is a flat blade screwdriver that also fits into Shimano and other derailleurs as well. It’s 5mm blade is designed for derailleurs but we prefer using the DSD-2 for those Shimano derailleurs.

These screwdrivers are designed for derailleurs and the fit and feel is quite nice. The even slim circumference of the handle feels comfortable and is easy to apply precise movements which comes in handy when making tweaks to your derailleur screws. (L-R : Snap On #2, Park Tool SD-2, DSD-2, DSD-4)

The knurling has good tactile feel and it has a balanced weight feel to it that makes it easy to hold and use.

If you want to see how the fit compares or see the weights, check out the comparison photos below.

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Overall we are a fan of these screwdrivers. The DSD-2 is an easy recommendation if you’ve got a Shimano derailleur. We have other JIS screwdrivers in our toolbox as well like the cheaper Vessel JIS #2 that also work well but the Park Tool one is longer and is much nicer to use with a better handle in our experience. One other tidbit for those of you who have a Honda, they also use JIS screws so if you’re a DIY person changing brake rotors it’s worth getting a JIS impact screwdriver to remove the brake rotor retaining bolts without stripping them.

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