The black oxide finish steel sheet metal screw with pan head and star drive has a Type AB point for forming threads in thin metals between 0.015" and 0.050" thick and resin impregnated plywood. The Type AB point has the conical tip of a Type A point with the finer spaced threads of a Type B point. Steel is often used in applications where strength is the primary consideration. The black oxide finish offers mild corrosion resistance and lubricity. The pan head has a flat top and short vertical sides with a rounded top edge. The star drive, also called a Torx drive, has a six-pointed indentation that provides a large contact area for the driver, resisting slippage better than a Phillips or slotted drive. A star drive requires use of a Torx driver for installation and removal.
Sheet metal screws, a type of self-tapping screw, have threads down the entire length of the shank for tapping and fastening thin material. The point style determines the type of material the screw can be used on, such as metal, wood, or plastic. These screws commonly have a sharp point that helps penetrate the material.