A drive socket for imparting torque loads to a fastener element includes a body with a cavity opening to a distal end for receiving the fastener element. The cavity has protuberances projecting inwardly toward the central axis from the cavity surface to engage the fastener element. The protuberances have a frusto-pyramidal shape and are uniformly spaced circumferentially around and longitudinally along the cavity surface. The protuberances thus form a cross-hatched or knurled pattern. The cavity is tapered to further assist in fastener engagement. The protuberances firmly engage the fastener element at longitudinally intermittent points to apply torque loads and facilitate rotary displacement.