The zinc plated steel sheet metal screw with hex head and hex drive has a Type A point for forming threads in thin metals between 0.015" and 0.050" thick and resin impregnated plywood. The Type A point has a conical tip and spaced threads. Steel is often used in applications where strength is the primary consideration. The zinc plating offers corrosion resistance and has a reflective appearance. The hex head has six flat sides that a wrench can grip to turn the screw from the side, enabling use when there is no space above the head for a driver.
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.