190pcs #8 Sheet Metal Self Tapping/Drilling Screws Stainless Steel Wafer Head

These are advertised as sheet metal screws, but they work great for knocking together shop fixtures, shelving, cabinets, etc out of wood. Because of the “self-drilling” tips, you can screw these anywhere — even into end grain — without splitting the piece. There’s an ample number of many different useful sizes in this kit. I used them to throw together this shelf (pictured) from scraps I had on hand, and now the assortment is sitting on this shelf!

All the screws in this kit are either no. 8, but in varying lengths. This is a good set for around the house or shop. Self-tapping screws such as these are intended for use in sheet metal, but I sometimes use them in wood (where holding ability is not of highest importance) and plastic. 410 stainless steel is usually described as "general purpose." It has ok corrosion resistance, but not as good as 304 or 316. On the plus side, though, it is higher carbon and therefore higher strength. It is also magnetic (see photo), a little more so than some other stainless grades. I have a hard time keeping all the different names for screw and bolt heads straight, but I will try to remember that these are called truss head screws. The heads are like a standard Phillips head screw squashed flat so they are very low rise. They are roughly the equivalent of a Phillips head with a washer added to provide a wider bearing surface.

This 190pc self tapping screw set also commonly referred to as Tek screws are great to have around for all kinds of applications where exposure to moisture is a concern. This particular kit includes a useful range of sizes with oversized low profile heads (aka modified truss) which will often negate the need for a separate washer. Tek screws come in other head varieties too but they are typically identified by their drill tips and are often made from harder 410 stainless steel, compared with the common 304 stainless. 410 is still magnetic but is made to be harder for drilling though sheet metal among other materials. I generally shoot for stainless over zinc plated as although the price is generally a little higher, their durability is much higher. I also noticed that the heads are fractionally larger in diameter than some others that I've purchased which for me is a plus. The plastic container is fairly typical for these kinds of kits but they do need a little TLC as they can be easily shattered if dropped. Overall, for the current price of $26.99, I'll give these 5 stars.

I have a few projects for this screw set. The first was to attach some parts to my boat interior. The self tapping feature make is really easy to put in a screw with a good hold. The faster looks good when installed as well. My other project is to attach some parts to a sheet metal roof and I know these screws will get that job well done too. These are good quality stainless steel self tapping screws. They are magnetic and easy to use with a magnetized screw driver in the drill. Great for roofing steel and fiberglass etc. Should last a long time without corrosion in most applications.

Work good and love the variety. Nice to have on hand. Good quality!