Metallics DWS10B 10 x 3-1/2 in. Bugle Head Phillips Drywall Screws - Steel Black Phosphate - Fine Threads - Each

Fine thread is the metal-stud choice. The DWS10B runs 14 threads per inch with a sharp point, and Metallics lists its field application as hardwood, light gauge steel and light gauge aluminum. That covers drywall over steel track and hardwood. For softwood framing a coarse thread screw holds better, because the wider thread bites more wood fiber per turn.

Yes, for ordinary single-layer board it is overkill. At 3-1/2 in. long in a #10 diameter, the DWS10B is a heavy fastener meant for thick build-ups, multiple layers, furring and wood blocking, or framing-through applications where you need real embedment past the board. For 1/2 in. board on steel studs, a 1 in. to 1-1/4 in. fine thread screw is the normal pick.

The order minimum is 10,000 each, supplied boxed. That is a production-volume buy, so it suits a drywall contractor stocking a multi-building job or a facility keeping a standing MRO supply rather than a one-off repair. Shipping weight on the quantity is 27.9 lbs.

No. Black phosphate on the DWS10B is a mild corrosion and lubricity coating for dry interior service, not a weather finish. For exterior sheathing, soffits, or anywhere that sees moisture or treated lumber, move to a coated or stainless exterior screw.

No. Metallics lists the DWS10B as not Buy American compliant and not ARRA compliant, with multiple countries of origin. On a federally funded or domestic-preference job, specify a domestic fastener instead.

A #2 Phillips bit. The recess is a Phillips drive sized for a #2 driver, with a recess diameter of 0.190 to 0.204 in. and 0.124 in. depth. Metallics includes three #2 drive power bits with the order, so you are not buying bits separately to start the job.

That is what the bugle profile is for. The DWS10B head measures 0.334 to 0.363 in. across with a head height of 0.020 to 0.039 in., so the curved underside compresses the paper and seats just below the surface instead of cutting it. Metallics notes there is no single industry standard for bugle head dimensions, so slight deviation from those figures is normal.

They are case hardened to Rockwell C44 on AISI 1018 steel, which is what lets the sharp point pierce light gauge steel and aluminum without the threads stripping out. Keep the gun clutch set so the head seats and stops; overdriving a hardened screw is what shears heads off, not the material.

No pre-drilling for drywall over light gauge steel or into hardwood. The DWS10B has a sharp point that pierces board and light gauge metal on its own. In dense hardwood a pilot hole still helps prevent splitting, since the point is a sharp type rather than a self-drilling drill point.