Metallics WDS3M 8 x 1 in. Wafer Head Phillips Drywall Screws - Steel Zinc - Each

Yes. The WDS3M is a Type BSD self-drilling and tapping screw with a drill point, so it cuts its own hole in steel framing with no pre-drilling. It is specified for panel thicknesses of 0.350 to 0.100 in., and Metallics states drill time is about 2.5 seconds through a 1 mm thick plate.

No. The WDS3M is not Buy American compliant and is not ARRA compliant; country of origin is listed as multiple. On federally funded work with domestic sourcing language, you need a domestically produced fastener.

A #2 Phillips bit. The WDS3M has a Phillips drive with a recess 0.255 in. deep and 0.176 to 0.189 in. across, which is standard #2 geometry. A free power bit ships with the box, so you do not have to source one separately.

The wafer head is a wide, thin, flat-bearing head: 0.359 to 0.380 in. across with a head thickness of only 0.025 to 0.035 in. That spreads the clamp load over thin sheet and furring without pulling through, and it sits nearly flush. A bugle head is shaped to countersink into paper-faced gypsum board for finishing, so for metal-to-metal and clip, track, or channel work the wafer profile is the one you want. Note there is no single industry standard for wafer head dimensions, so these values are a guide.

The WDS3M ships as a box of 1,000 pieces, and 1,000 is the order minimum. Metallics notes other sizes and quantities are available by request, so if your job needs a different length or count, ask rather than splitting a box.

The WDS3M is rated to a minimum torsional strength of 42 lb-in, with a case hardness of Rockwell C32-40 and steel to AISI 1016-1024. Stay at or below that torque, back the clutch off on a screw gun, and the heads hold. Metallics notes minimum torque figures are the same for its stainless and steel self-drilling screws.

These are zinc plated carbon steel, which is an indoor corrosion finish. Fine for interior electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work and interior framing; for exterior exposure, roof decks, or damp locations choose a stainless or exterior-coated self-drilling screw instead.

That is the intended use. Metallics lists the WDS3M for metal-to-metal applications across the electrical, plumbing, heating and air conditioning trades. The wide wafer head bears on strap, clip, and bracket flanges, and the drill point goes straight into the stud or channel without pre-drilling.

The 1,000-piece box of #8 x 1 in. wafer head screws weighs 7.9 lbs and measures 4.5 x 7.25 x 4.5 in., so a case is easy to carry on a cart or in a tool bag.