Metallics TS22M 8 x 1-1/4 in. Pan Head Phillips Sharp Point Tapping Screws - Steel Zinc - Each

The pan head on the TS22M measures 0.306 to 0.322 in. across and 0.105 to 0.115 in. high, so it bears on a wide flat footprint and rises roughly an eighth of an inch above the surface. That's low enough for most box and strap work, but it is not a flush head: if you need the fastener to sit level with the surface, you need a flat or oval head, not a pan.

Both are flagged compliant for the TS22M, which matters if you're buying for a federally funded or government project with domestic sourcing language in the spec. Country of origin is listed as multiple.

The Metallics TS22M is a Type A tapping screw, meaning it has a sharp gimlet point and a coarse thread (15 threads per inch) that cuts its own thread as it drives. That point starts in thin sheet metal or wood without a pilot hole, which is why it's used for sheet metal boxes, straps, and light gauge brackets. It does not drill its own hole through heavier steel, so for thicker stock you want a self-drilling (Type TEK) screw instead, or drill a pilot first.

A #2 Phillips bit. The recess is 0.169 to 0.182 in. in diameter and 0.108 in. deep, with a 0.03 in. recess width, so a #2 seats fully. A #1 will cam out and a #3 won't bottom in the recess.

These ship as a box of 1,000, which is the order minimum. Other sizes and quantities are available by request.

The TS22M is zinc plated steel, which is a dry-location and indoor finish. It handles normal interior humidity fine, but in wet locations, exterior exposure, or corrosive environments the plating will eventually give up and the steel underneath will rust. For those jobs specify stainless.

Head and recess dimensions on the TS22M follow ASME B18.6.3-2013, and the thread follows ASME B18.6.4. If a drawing calls out either standard for a #8 sharp point tapping screw, this meets it. Note that dimensions for #9 diameter screws in this family are independent of ASME B18.6.4.

Metallics lists the TS22M for electrical, plumbing, heating and air conditioning work. The 1-1/4 in. length gives you enough thread to pull through sheet metal and bite into a stud or blocking behind it, which is why it shows up for mounting straps, boxes, duct hangers, and light brackets. Property maintenance crews keep the #8 pan head as a general purpose fastener for the same reason.

A full box runs 6.6 lbs, and the carton measures 7.25 x 6.75 x 3.25 in. Useful if you're staging multiple boxes on a van shelf or building out a stock room bin.