The square head is particularly important in pocket hole joints, where the head of the screw becomes hidden. The threads are less aggressive, but there are more of them to ensure great holding power without splitting. Since the head of the screw is designed to sink into the wood, it will try to do the same for your pocket holes.

pocket-hole screw | Kreg Tool How to select the correct pocket-hole screw | Kreg Tool

And if you’re ever not sure exactly what screws to use, you can check with the helpful Screw Selector tool. Stainless Steel Kreg Pocket-Hole Screws are the ultimate choice for outdoor applications that involve excessive exposure to moisture and corrosive elements.Galvanized screws are not immune to this process (I believe stainless steel 316, Copper or Bronze Coated fasteners are the only ones that are) but do last considerably longer here in Southern Ontario. Most of us have screws lying around and would like to avoid spending top dollar on more screws for the Kreg system. With that said, if you happen to be doing a lot of pocket hole related work, then the quick screw bulk pack could be for you.

Trend PH/JIG - Dual Column, Pocket Hole Jig, Black, 29-63mm Trend PH/JIG - Dual Column, Pocket Hole Jig, Black, 29-63mm

Blue-Kote™ Kreg Pocket-Hole Screws are the best choice for damp or wet applications, including projects for your porch, patio, detached garage, or outdoor areas. To find the best alternative pocket hole screws, you must first analyze the Kreg pocket hole screws and then match them. Remember the characteristics we named when looking for alternatives: self-tapping, washer-head, square drive screws.The square-headed bits are probably not as important a quality as self-tapping or the washer head; however, the square head of the Kreg screw allows the drill to get optimal torque and control without stripping the screws. Titman Edge pocket hole screws pack sizes start at only 50 pieces right through to boxes of 8,000 pieces. If you’re building a project for outdoor living, though, you’ll want a screw that can withstand the rigors of exposure to the elements. These screws feature 3 anti-corrosion layers to help them resist corrosion in wet areas for the long haul.

Trend PH/7X30/500C S/T Coarse Pocket Hole Screw Pack, Silver

If you keep these three things in mind, you shouldn’t have trouble finding several alternatives to the Kreg screws. They are a little cheaper than the Kreg screws at the same dimensions, however they are vastly superior in the coating used. Kreg screws that are only one inch in length might be cheaper than an alternative brand that is two inches in length. After you read this article, you’ll know exactly how to select the right pocket-hole screw for any project.I just used 2-1/2” deck screws with standard heads and tips including the star bit drive to build two square frames for 2 fence gates and they seem to be completely solid with no issue. I did a test with the Kreg exterior screws (the screws that came with the HD jig and coated for PT lumber) by driving a few into 2X4 PT lumber once and then extracting them. I’m sure it’s better for fine woodworking and cabinets to use the right screw but for this project no issues. They’re recommended for a wide variety of indoor projects that won’t be subjected to significant amounts of moisture.