Welcome to Screw 101: Tighten Your Knowledge
Video #1: Introduction—Start Here
Think all screws are the same? Think again.
In this first episode of the Screw 101 series, Brent kicks things off with a no-BS look at why fasteners matter more than you think. From screw types to bit fit to the tools that get the job done right—this series is built to help you make confident choices on every build.
- Why the right screw matters more than ever
- What to expect in the series
- A look at Big Timber’s Mountain Tested® lineup
Watch now. Build smarter.
Video #2: Screw Anatomy—Heads, Threads & Drives
Not all screws are created equal—and here’s why.
In this episode, Brent breaks down the anatomy of a screw from head to tip. You’ll learn what each part does and why it matters, so you can avoid cam-out, stripping, and frustration on the job. Because using the best starts with knowing what makes them the best.
- Star drive vs. Phillips vs. hex
- Head shapes: bugle, washer, trim
- Threads, knurl, tips—and how they affect grip, pull-through, and performance
Know your gear. Build with confidence.
Video #3: Safety Basics—What Not to Do
Even the best screw can’t fix a safety fail.
In this episode, Brent gets real about the risks of using fasteners the wrong way—and how to avoid them. From stripped heads to snapped shafts, you’ll learn how to protect your tools, your project, and yourself. Because getting the job done right starts with getting it done safe.
- Must-have safety gear for every build
- Common fastener fails and how to avoid them
- Tips for clamping, driving, and preventing damage
Stay sharp. Stay safe. Keep building.
Video #4: Bits, Drills, and Drivers Basics
The right tool. The right bit. The right result.
If you’re stripping screws or breaking bits, it might not be the fastener—it’s likely your setup. In this episode, Brent breaks down how to choose the right bits, when to use a drill vs. an impact driver, and how torque settings can make or break your project.
- Bit sizes from T-10 to T-40
- Drill vs. Impact Driver—what to use and when
- How torque control keeps your gear and your project intact
Less frustration. More precision. Every time.
Video #5: Screw Sizing
Pick the right screw for the job.
Tired of guessing which screw to use? In this episode, Brent explains gauge and length, and how to choose the right screw for wood, framing, or trim work. Save time, avoid returns, and make sure your fasteners actually fit.
- What is gauge and why it matters
- How to pick the right screw length
- Avoiding splits and weak connections
Get it right. The first time.
Video #6: Screw Coatings —Built to Last
Rust doesn’t care how good your build is—unless your screws are ready for it.
In this episode, Brent breaks down why coating matters. From zinc to stainless to Big Timber’s Bronze 3x and Peak Performance™ coatings, you’ll learn how to choose the right coating for every job—and why it can save your time, your work, and your reputation.
- Bronze 3x Coating vs. zinc vs. stainless steel
- What to use outdoors—and what to avoid
- ACQ compatibility and why it matters
Prevent rust. Protect your build. Choose the right finish.
Video #7: Labels & Certifications—What They Really Mean
All those letters on the box? They matter more than you think.
In this episode, Brent decodes the acronyms and certifications on screw packaging—from ACQ to TERS—and explains how they impact code compliance, inspection readiness, and long-term performance. If you want to build to spec and pass the test, this one’s for you.
- ACQ-treated lumber compatibility
- Salt spray testing for corrosion resistance
- TERS and structural testing for strength & safety
Build to code. Build with confidence. Know what your fasteners are certified to do.
Video #8: Factory Tour—How Screws are Made
It’s more than just metal—it’s engineering.
In this episode, Brent takes you behind the scenes at the Big Timber factory. From raw steel to final packaging, you’ll see the entire process: cold heading, thread rolling, heat treating, coating, and more. It’s the kind of craftsmanship that sets our fasteners apart—and delivers the performance pros count on.
- Cold heading, thread rolling & pointing
- Heat treatment and high-performance coatings
- Quality checks that guarantee every screw is job-ready
Built right from the start. See what goes into every Big Timber screw.
Video #9: Wrap-Up—Your Fastener Foundation
You made it. And you know your screws.
In this final episode, Brent and Bill bring it all home with a recap of the biggest takeaways from the Screw 101 series. From anatomy and safety to tools, coatings, and certifications—this is your go-to refresher for building smarter and faster with the right fasteners every time.
- Key lessons from every episode
- Best practices for pro-level fastening
- Why Big Timber delivers the performance your builds deserve
Thanks for watching. Keep building strong.
Next Up: Drill Down Series
Get Into the Grit with Drill Down
Welcome to the Drill Down series, your inside look at Big Timber’s full line of reliable fasteners. While our Screw 101 series gives you the big picture, Drill Down takes you one layer deeper focusing on the unique features, use cases, and engineering behind each Big Timber product.