While they used to be used primarily in manufacturing, Torx head screws are making their way into woodworking. For instance, I recently bought a 5-pound box of treated deck screws to use on a treated lumber project, and noticed when I got back to the shop that the heads were not Phillips or square-drive, but six-headed Torx. Fortunately they included a bit in the case with the screws, so I didn't have to hunt for one (or head back to the home center).
I quickly learned that the advantage of the Torx bit for these screws is that the bit doesn't slip like a Phillips bit. So, while this means that I have to keep another set of screw tips around, I have to say that I really like not hearing the annoying grinding sound of a screw tip slipping.
Learn more about Torx Bits and Woodworking and why it's a good idea to keep a few Torx screwdrivers and bits around.
(c) 2012 Chris Baylor, licensed to About.com Inc.
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Comments
If I can avoid it I don’t use nails or slotted screws. I also try to stay away from Phillips head screws for anything that requires any drive force. I use either Torx or Robertson (square drive) screws.