I recently purchased the Kreg Mini Pocket Hole Kit, my first foray into pocket hole joinery. I’ve been dismayed at the price Kreg asks for their self-tapping screws and the others I’ve found are either of inferior quality, or else have to be acquired through mail-order… and the shipping costs are eating up any savings I get using mail order.
I have therefore done some experimenting, using standard #8 head 1 1/4″ screws in lieu of self-tapping screws. So far everything I’ve tried to fasten together is coming out just as good: no splits or any indication of problems.
Although I plan on using pocket screw joinery for face frames and such less-visible locations on the cabinets I make, it has really impressed me for its time-saving and strength features.
Your thought, my friends?
Marty
Replies
Marty,
I had always used the Kreg brand screws. Saving a few dollars didn't really occur to me since it was all part of the material cost and overhead of doing business.
Drywall screws have a smaller shank and are more likely to split the wood or fail if when you go to install a piece you accidently bump or rack the frame or carcase. Plus the washer head on the screw helps to seat the head in order to pull the joint tight.
I have always been one to use the right tool for the job. Just seems to make sense. I made a lot of built ins with my kreg jig and also used it on some stair jobs. The money it made in time savings was worth the extra for screws that were predictable in their performance.
J.P.
Marty ,
The drywall screws have a bugle head as opposed to a pan head face frame screw , so I think they seat themselves a bit differently . I have been using pocket screws for about 25 years and the screws I use are 1 1/2" long and are designed for hardwoods and have a fine shallow pitched thread with the self tapping end .
The screws you are using , although a bit short imo have a much coarser thread which for soft woods will work fine , but may cause splitting in hardwoods. Buy the correct fasteners for best results in general . You don't have to use Kreg brand , any cabinet hardware supply will have what you need .
good luck dusty
I am considering a Kreg system. Quick question: Do both pieces being joined require predrilling?
No. The screws are self piloting to prevent splitting.J.P.http://www.jpkfinefurniture.com
How does the strength of a Kreg joint compare to a traditional mortise and tenon?
check http://www.coastaltool.com for prices
Not sure what part of the country your from but upper midwest has a lumberyard/home improvement chain known as "Menards". About 2x year they print a coupon on the side of a grocery bag and deliver as part of Sunday newspaper. Here in Mpls area, the newspaper is used to entertain commies and wrap fish guts, but the coupon bag makes the Kreg screws affordable.
Hello
Two small thoughts on your problem.
I buy Kreg screws in a box of 1000 the cost is less than a penny each. If you can find cheaper, buy them, as far as I'm concerned.
Second point is the screw self drilling (cutting) ability isn't the real trick you should be watching out when buying another screw, the button head is.
A drywall screw or even a normal wood screw,will normally have a tapper on the underside of the head, this will weaken a screw pocket joint, the button head is flat on the underside, it will pull the joint together and not split the wood, as a normal screw will tend to do.
Other than that, I wish you luck finding a better screw.I am sure there just may be one out there, but watch out . You normally get what you pay for.
have a good night.
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