Metallics DWS7M 8 x 2-1/2 in. Bugle Head Phillips Drywall Screws - Steel Black Phosphate - Fine Threads - Each

Fine thread is the metal-stud choice. The DWS7M runs 15 threads per inch in a UNF fine spacing with a sharp point, and Metallics lists its field application as hardwood, light gauge steel and light gauge aluminum. For standard softwood framing (SPF studs), a coarse thread screw pulls and holds better; fine thread tends to spin without biting in soft wood.

The DWS7M has a sharp point, not a self-drilling drill point, so it pierces light gauge steel and light gauge aluminum but is not meant for heavier structural steel. Hardness is Rockwell C44, made from AISI 1018 steel, which is what lets the point start in light gauge without pre-drilling. On anything heavier than light gauge, use a self-drilling point screw instead.

No. The DWS7M is listed as not Buy American compliant and not ARRA compliant, with multiple countries of origin. On a federally funded job with domestic sourcing language, these will not qualify and you need a domestically produced fastener.

That is what the bugle profile is for. The head measures 0.315 to 0.363 inch across with a head height of 0.020 to 0.039 inch, so the flared underside compresses the paper and dimples the surface rather than cutting it, leaving a shallow depression you can fill and finish. Set your driver clutch so the head sits just below the face.

A #2 Phillips bit drives it, and Metallics includes a free #2 drive power bit with the box. The Phillips recess is 0.176 to 0.201 inch in diameter and 0.124 inch deep. Worn #2 bits are the usual cause of cam-out on long drywall screws, so for a 1,000 piece box plan on more than the one bit supplied.

No. Black phosphate on steel is a dry interior finish, intended to resist handling corrosion and help the screw drive, not to stand up to moisture. Keep the DWS7M to interior gypsum work. For exterior sheathing, soffits, or wet areas, move to a coated or stainless exterior fastener.

The DWS7M ships as a box of 1,000 screws, which is also the order minimum. The filled box weighs 6.43 lbs and measures 7.25 x 6.75 x 3.25 inches. Other sizes and quantities in the DWS series are available by request.

Yes, within limits. Metallics lists the application as hardwood, light gauge steel and light gauge aluminum, and the fine 15 TPI UNF thread cuts cleanly in dense material. The bugle head is the catch: it is made to sink into gypsum paper, so in hardwood it will keep pulling and crush the fibers unless you countersink. For finish work a trim head screw is a better match.

Not strictly. Metallics notes there is no single industry standard for bugle head or drywall screw dimensions, so the published figures (0.315 to 0.363 inch head width, 0.020 to 0.039 inch head height) are a guide and slight deviations are acceptable. For patching into existing work that matters little, since the head gets mudded over. Where it does matter is driver depth setting: check the first few screws on a fresh box.