do you have to use kreg srews with there pocket jig?

[Devaji108]

Hey guys,
not 100% if one is supposed to use kregs screws with the pocket jig or is that just advertising. looking for suggestions for on the "right" screw.

will be joining 2x4 so from the info I found on there site is to used 2.5" screws

[chimmike]

well...unless you have the long extended screwdriver for phillips or otherwise, you have to use kreg screws.

I used the kreg screws...saw no reason to use any others. They sure did make disassembly easier instead of stripping out phillips head screws, same with install. No stripping those kreg screws.

[DBR_reef]

Nope, any 6'' long driver bit will work to drive your choice in screws and are $4 at the hardware/home improvement store.

[RocketEngineer]

You don't have to use their screws. I just find it easier to since they are meant for pocket holes.

If you want to see about alternatives, you want a "truss head" type screw for most applications. If you look at the screw head, you will see that the back side of the screw head is almost totally flat. This is what you want. Anything with a cone shape is going to try to split the wood when its tightened. Deck screws are a prime example of what NOT to use in a pocket hole.

[n2585722]

I agree with RocketEngineer. The Kreg screws are designed for the purpose of using them with their pocket hole system. They are not expensive and can be picked up a Lowes or Home Depot.

[Devaji108]

AH now I understand, in short the cone shapes are bad flat are good. :)
might as well use kreg screws. i'll order some along with the jig.

thanks guys!

[d2mini]

I love that jig!

[cabinetman123]

If you like pocketholes check out this video
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ZiKS4tpuVQw

[rags111875]

I've tried other screws and the kreg screws seem to pull the pieces together stronger. If you do not go with them, at least go with another flat head.

[dbenenh0]

That jig is one of the best investments I've made for my stand build!

[sleepydoc]

There are other pocket hole screws available, but I would stick with screws designed for pocket holes. As rocket and others have said, they have several features specifically designed for that use.

[Devaji108]

perfect thanks guys!

[Wayne918]

Any "pocket " screw will do. A #8 has a 3/8 head and that's the right size for the hole. Phillips are horrible. Square drive are better. Even a resex screw will work. Takes Phil or square.

[sleepydoc]

One other bit of advice from personal experience - The Kreg screws come in a couple different sizes - course & fine threads and large and small heads. If you are screwing into something hard and prone to cracking like hickory or maple use fine threads and consider using the smaller head screws. They are slightly smaller (#6 vs #8, IIRC) and less likely to crack or split the wood. Going slow, backing the screw out once or twice before going all the way in and using some wax on the screw will help as well.

[rickztahone]

If you like pocketholes check out this video
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ZiKS4tpuVQw

That is one the best videos I've seen today :) TFS

[Devaji108]

^ nice! great video.