Metallics JDS150 6 x 3/8 in. 1/4 Indented Hex Head Slotted Sharp Point Tapping Screws - Steel Zinc - Each

Either one works. The JDS150 has an indented hex head measuring 0.244 to 0.25 inch across the flats, so a 1/4 inch hex driver or nut setter seats on it, and the head is also slotted (slot width 0.039 to 0.048 inch, depth 0.033 to 0.046 inch) so a flat blade screwdriver drives it when you can't get a socket in. Width across corners is 0.272 inch if you're checking socket clearance in a tight box.

No. The JDS150 is a Type A tapping screw with a gimlet (sharp) point, so it pierces and forms its own thread in thin sheet metal without a pilot hole. Type A screws are spaced-thread screws meant for sheet metal, not for thick plate or structural steel; the thread is 18 per inch on a 3/8 inch long shank, so your material needs to be thin enough for the point to start and the thread to engage within that length.

That's the stated use. Metallics lists the JDS150 for light metal assembly including electrical outlets, framing and other sheet metal work. The combination hex/slot head lets an electrician drive it with a nut setter on a cordless or finish it by hand with a screwdriver in a crowded box.

The hex head carries an integral washer flange with an outside diameter of 0.302 to 0.328 inch and a washer thickness of 0.015 to 0.025 inch. That spreads the bearing load on thin sheet and keeps the head from pulling through, but it is not a sealing washer, so don't rely on it for a weather-tight joint. Head height is 0.08 to 0.093 inch.

Dimensionally the JDS150 is built to ASME B18.6.3-2010 with threads to ASME B18.6.4. Steel is AISI 1016 to 1024, heat treated to Rockwell C28-38, with a minimum torsional strength of 24 lb-in. Note the manufacturer states that dimensions for #9 diameter screws in this family fall outside ASME B18.6.4.

The JDS150 is carbon steel with a zinc finish, which is a light corrosion coating for dry interior service. For sustained exposure to weather, washdown, or corrosive atmosphere, zinc plating will eventually rust and a stainless fastener is the better call. Indoors, in boxes, framing and sheet metal, the zinc is adequate.

No. The Metallics JDS150 is not Buy American compliant and is not ARRA compliant; country of origin is listed as multiple. If your contract carries a domestic sourcing clause, these won't satisfy it.

They ship in a jar of 100, which is the order minimum. The jar weighs 0.27 lbs. Metallics lists other diameters and lengths in this family on request.

A #6 diameter by 3/8 inch long tapping screw with 18 threads per inch, indented hex head measuring 1/4 inch across the flats, slotted drive, gimlet point, zinc plated steel. Order it as Metallics JDS150.