Please tell me the name of this vintage s***w (window hardware)!?

Question

I have a house that was built in 1949 and am trying to dismantle a window, however I cannot figure out what screwdriver to use for the original screws used on the window. the s***w looks like two triangles. Help!

Answer 1

Go down to the local hardware store. Not the Home Depot. If you can take a picture of the s***w and show it to the hardware store people. The mom and pop stores have the best service and often know exactly what you are talking about.

Answer 2

You most likely have clutch screws,  a good tool store will have them, I have a set of 5 different sizes.  I used them quite a lot in the 1950`s and 60`s.  Not too often since.  

Answer 3

Try Blaine Window Hardware at 1-708-345 8400. Or [e-mail].

Answer 4

I can think of two things you may be describing.  The first is a clutch drive s***w.  Have a look at http://www.vermontamerican.com/rb/Develo...  This head type was around in that time period, but was used mostly for automotive applications.  

The second possibility is a one-way slotted s***w.  Sorry, I can't find a picture of that one without digging a bit more.  A standard flat screwdriver will drive this  type of s***w, you have to get creative to remove it.  If you can put a flat screwdriver on it and get a grip clockwise, this is probably what you have.  The easiest way to take one of these out is with a s***w extractor.

If neither of these helps you, your best bet is the hardware store.  Pictures are nice, but it is hard to match a bit with a picture.  Take a bit of play dough and press it onto the s***w head to make an impression and take the impression to the store with you.  You can match the shape and the size a bit easier that way.