Update: I was totally wrong about self-tapping screws for metal studs

For like 3 years I refused to use self-tapping screws on metal studs. I was convinced they were a gimmick and would strip out or snap off. Last month I had a 12,000 sq ft job in a new warehouse in Charlotte and the GC specifically asked for them. I had no choice so I ran a test on a small section first. Used my regular collated screw gun with the right setting and man they went in smooth as butter. No pre-drilling, no fighting with the bit walking around. After doing 40 sheets of 5/8 on that job I'm a total convert. Has anyone else had that moment where you finally gave in to a tool or method you were sure was overhyped?

2 comments

2 Comments

the_riley13d ago

Man I had that same stubborn streak but with oscillating tools. I was over here cutting out drywall patches with a jab saw and a utility knife like a caveman for years. My brother finally shoved his Fein into my hand when I was trimming out a window in an old cinder block bathroom. Cut that metal latch plate clean off in like 30 seconds with zero dust. I went out and bought one that same afternoon and now I use it for everything from cutting pvc to trimming door jambs. It's embarrassing how long I fought it lol.

emerychen13d ago

The whole "I told myself it was a gimmick" phase is basically a rite of passage in this trade. I did the exact same thing with impact drivers back when they first hit the market, swore up and down a standard drill was all anybody needed. Took one weekend hanging cabinets for my brother in law and I haven't touched a regular drill for anything but drilling holes since.