Metallics QTEKD1 8 x 1/2 in. 1/4 Hex Head Quadrive Self-Drilling & Tapping Screws - #2 Drill Point - Domestic Steel Zinc - Each

The Metallics QTEKD1 has a #2 drill point, which is sized for light gauge steel such as standard metal studs, track, and thin strapping. It drills its own hole and taps its own threads in one pass, so no pilot hole is needed. For heavy structural steel you want a higher-numbered point (#3 and up) with more flute capacity to clear thicker material.

It takes a 1/4 inch hex driver or nut setter. The head is a 1/4 inch hex with a Quadrive recess, so you can also drive it with a square drive bit if you're working somewhere a nut setter won't reach. Most electricians just chuck a 1/4 inch magnetic nut setter in an impact driver and run them.

The QTEKD1 is domestic steel with zinc plating, which is a coating for dry interior service. It handles indoor humidity fine but will corrode in exposed exterior, coastal, or wet locations. For those, specify a stainless or a coated exterior-rated self-drilling screw instead.

The QTEKD1 is made in the USA from domestic steel, which is what a specification calling for domestically produced fasteners is looking for. Confirm the exact clause your contract cites, but the material and point of manufacture are both domestic on this screw.

A self-drilling screw like the QTEKD1 carries a drill point on the tip, so it bores the hole and forms the thread in a single operation with no pre-drilling. A plain self-tapping sheet metal screw has a sharp or blunt point and forms threads only, so you have to drill a pilot hole first. On metal framing and enclosure work the self-driller saves a whole step per fastener.

Order it by manufacturer part number QTEKD1 from Metallics. There is one configuration: #8 diameter, 1/2 inch length, 1/4 inch hex head with Quadrive recess, #2 drill point, zinc plated domestic steel. No finish or length choices to specify.