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In article ,
says...
Andy Dingley wrote:
On Sat, 04 Sep 2004 21:32:05 +0100, Steve Jones
wrote:

What is the purpose of a self tapper screw, and when would one use such
a screw?

Machine screws go into ready-threaded holes, cut with a separate tool.

Traditional woodscrews are quite crude things that cut their own way
in, usually with a thread that tapers in diameter considerably.
snip
In the modern world of high speed bodging, just use Goldscrews for
everything.

The exception is where you want to screw planks or other bits of wood
securely to something.
With the plain shank, it will pull through lots easier, to pull the
two bits flush.
With a screw threaded all the way to the top, you have to apply enough
torque to break the thread formed in the wood, before the screw will continue
to turn and bring the two bits of wood flush.

...........or by pre-drilling a clearance hole in the top plank. Much
easier and more precise, imho.
--
Paul Mc Cann