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I use the right size driver bit, I try pushing as hard as humanly possible into the screw head, I drill a pilot hole first, I try doing it in short bursts..

and yet somehow I have 5 fucking driver bits in the last month - all stripped to shit from slipping over the screw head. Am I retarded?

It doesn't help that they're all made of cheap Chinese shit metal. Maybe I need some higher carbon bits.

I use the right size driver bit, I try pushing as hard as humanly possible into the screw head, I drill a pilot hole first, I try doing it in short bursts.. and yet somehow I have 5 fucking driver bits in the last month - all stripped to shit from slipping over the screw head. Am I retarded? It doesn't help that they're all made of cheap Chinese shit metal. Maybe I need some higher carbon bits.

(post is archived)

[–] [deleted] • 4 pts

Use deck screws with torx heads or square drive screws. If that is too expensive learn how to keep the driver straight on the screw.....

[–] [deleted] • 1 pt

This is the real deal answer. Phillips bits just aren't designed to carry the torque that modern drivers can transfer into the screw. One other tip is that as soon as you spin a bit on a phillips screw you need to replace it because it damages the bit as well as the screw.

[–] • 4 pts (edited )

Try an impact driver instead of a drill. Torx screws are pretty easy to deal with and becoming more popular.

[–] • 1 pt

This is the best answer. You could buy better bits and screws, they exist but harder to find than you think, but the impact driver is just phenomenal. Torx bits are great too, the go to for bigger screws.

[–] • 1 pt

Just edited to add the torx screws. I held off in using them but just about any screw for outdoor use is torx now. Really only using Phillips with drywall screws.

[–] • 0 pt

Robertson are best.

[–] • 0 pt

This isn't a McGinty screw; it's just a cheap knockoff!

[–] • 0 pt

Thanks, this is good advice - I'll try it.

[–] • 0 pt

If you don’t have an impact driver wait until Father’s Day, they’ll go on sale. Can usually pick up a drill driver kit fairly cheap.

[–] • 3 pts

30 years in the trades here. This is what I have found that works. First, like you said, correct bit for the screw. #1, #2, #3, etc. Mostly what I found was actually cheap screws stripping out, not the bits. But, cheap bits can strip out and shatter too. So first, I use an impact drill/driver. Takes the load of your shoulder and arms and puts the power into the tool/bit. Then, I use quality bits, like makita or Milwaukee. I prefer a bit holder/extension with a short bit, but not for everything. Now, let’s talk fasteners. Depending on your trade, I do remodel stuff, a lot of windows and doors, a lot of exterior trim. You need a screw that can handle the material, and the power of the tool. Cheap screws suck. Spend good money. My favorite brands are Fastap, and Tree Island Fasteners. These are both good for framing, decking, windows and doors, etc.

[–] • 1 pt (edited )

Thanks, all great advice. I will try this. I stopped buying those shitty zinc screws at Lowe's a few years back and that made a huge difference. There's nothing worse than working on a project and having to stop in the middle of it to drive the the hardware store because something broke. I've grown to see that Harbor Freight is a store for tarps and wire brushes but little else of quality or value. Everything cheap has a timer on it for when it will break in the middle of using it.

[–] • 1 pt

Another thought. When I have to use a finish screw, like oil rubbed bronze or bright brass, like in a door hinge, I will run in one of my Fastap screws first, then use the finish screw. Cant rekey on the finish screw to make the hole. The brand Fastap, is virtually indestructible. You can use a screw over and over again. It will shatter your bit befor stripping out the head. I’ve had you cut them out before, like in removing a door frame, and they’re tough on saws all blades. They’re made to some mil-spec. Link: https://www.fastapscrews.com/fts/a/build.asp?url=Products&cat=2&view=Exterior%20Screw%20Products

[–] • 3 pts

Don't use bits made out of chinesium.

[–] • 2 pts

buy better bits

[+] [deleted] • 0 pt
[–] [deleted] • 1 pt

Blood from stabbing the bit through your finger is the best loc-tite between a bit and screw that you can get.

[–] • 1 pt

This is why i love flat head screws. Especially when they are in something that you have to hold in one hand while applying as much pressure as possible with the other. I'm still nursing the latest slice on my finger.

[–] • 1 pt

Phillips are designed for manual drivers. Use a hex or torx when driving. With a quality fastener you don't have to worry nearly as much. But as you called it, Chinesium shit is shit.

[–] • 1 pt

Put a piece of felt, thin layer, between the drill bit and the screw. It will grip it more effectively and decrease the chances of slipping.

[–] • 0 pt

Phillips screws suck. That's all there is to it. They are good for one use. After that, as like as not, they will strip. It's a weakness in their design. Even the old-fashioned slot screws are better than Phillips, which is the worst screw in the world, after Hillary Clinton.

[–] • 0 pt

Hillary Clinton

Spoken like an experienced man. If true, I offer my deepest condolences.

[–] • 0 pt

You're a weak soyboy retard.

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