Metallics DWS3B 6 x 1-1/4 in. Bugle Head Phillips Drywall Screws - Steel Black Phosphate - Fine Threads - Each

Fine thread, 18 threads per inch, UNF. Fine thread drywall screws are meant for metal framing and harder substrates, and Metallics lists the DWS3B for hardwood, light gauge steel and light gauge aluminum. For drywall over standard wood studs, a coarse thread screw holds better in soft wood.

The DWS3B has a sharp point, not a drill point. It pierces light gauge steel and light gauge aluminum under drive pressure, which is what Metallics lists it for. For heavier gauge steel framing you want a self-drilling point screw instead, since a sharp point will walk or spin out.

A #2 Phillips. The recess runs 0.176 to 0.201 inch diameter at 0.106 inch deep, so a standard #2 Phillips seats fully. Three #2 drive power bits ship with the order, which is enough to get a crew started but not enough to finish 8,000 screws without spares.

They come as a box of 8,000, sold each with a minimum order of 8,000 pieces. The full box weighs 32.8 lbs. Metallics notes other sizes and quantities are available by request if 8,000 of the 1-1/4 inch is more than the job needs.

That is what the bugle profile is for. The DWS3B head measures 0.315 to 0.347 inch across with a head height of 0.020 to 0.031 inch, so the underside flares gradually and dimples the paper rather than cutting it when set with a depth-stop driver. Metallics does note there is no single industry standard for bugle head dimensions, so slight deviations are normal.

No. Black phosphate on AISI 1018 steel is a dry-interior coating only, offering minimal corrosion resistance. Keep the DWS3B inside conditioned space. For exterior sheathing, wet rooms, or cement board use a coated or stainless fastener.

No. The DWS3B is not Buy American compliant and is not ARRA compliant, with multiple countries of origin. If your contract carries domestic sourcing language, this fastener will not qualify.

They are case hardened to Rockwell C44 over AISI 1018 steel, which is the standard range for drywall screws driving into light gauge metal. Back the clutch off on the gun; hardened screws resist cam-out but will snap if you keep driving after the head seats.

The DWS3B is rated by Metallics for hardwood, light gauge steel and light gauge aluminum, so it will thread into those materials. It is a drywall screw though, hardened and brittle, so it belongs in sheet-material attachment rather than in load-bearing or hanging applications. Use a rated machine screw or structural fastener for supporting equipment.