Meet the Malco BT132 #2 Point 8-18 x 5/8" Bit-Tip Drill and Tap Screws—the intelligent, one-step fastening solution for HVAC, structural metal, and layered sheet metal applications. By drilling its own hole, Bit-Tip creates the optimum hole size for excellent thread engagement and a tight, vibration-resistant fit, all in a single operation.

Why Bit-Tip stands out

• One-pass fastening: Drills, taps, and threads in one motion, eliminating misalignment and reducing assembly time.
• Precision Bit-Tip design: Precision cold-forged and heat-treated steel ensure uniform screw diameter and consistent drill-point contours for reliable performance.
• Self-drilling and self-tapping: No separate drill bits, taps, rivets, or welding equipment required—just a standard screw gun up to 2500 RPM with a drilling depth locator.
• Optimal hole size for strong threads: Bit-Tip drills its own hole to the correct size, delivering superior thread engagement and a tighter fit in metal.
• Versatile material compatibility: Suitable for structural and layered metal, HVAC ductwork, metal framing, enclosures, and fasteners that also secure plywood, soft wood, composition board, drywall, insulation, and laminates to metal components.
• Robust construction: Made from high-quality, specially heat-treated steel and precision-forged for consistent performance across assemblies.
• Non-weld, non-rivet replacement: An excellent alternative to rivets, nuts and bolts, spot welds, or adhesives when speed and simplicity matter.
• Practical for HVAC and metal projects: Specifically suited for HVAC fasteners, structural metal, and layered metal assemblies where reliable, flush seating is essential.
• Package size: High-volume supply—cartons of 10,000 screws to keep projects moving without frequent reordering.

Ideal use cases

Designing or repairing HVAC ductwork, metal studs, enclosures, or framing where metals of varying thicknesses are joined. The Bit-Tip screw can fasten to metal framing or components while also anchoring plywood, soft wood, drywall, insulation, or laminates, simplifying multi-material assemblies. It’s particularly beneficial in environments where precise hole sizing and reliable thread engagement improve installation speed and long-term durability.

How to use

• Load the BT132 screw into a standard screw gun rated up to 2500 RPM with a drilling depth locator set to the correct depth.
• Position the screw per the fastener plan; the Bit-Tip will drill the hole and cut threads as you drive.
• For thicker metal sections, choose the Bit-Tip point length appropriate for the material to ensure full penetration and secure threading.
• Securely seat with the 1/4" hex washer head for a flush, clean finish.

Specifications at a glance

• Product: Malco BT132 Bit-Tip Drill and Tap Screw
• Point: #2
• Size: 8-18 x 5/8"
• Drive: 1/4" Hex Washer Head
• Applications: Structural & layered metal, HVAC, sheet metal, and multi-material assemblies
• Material: Heat-treated steel, precision cold-forged
• Packaging: Cartons of 10,000 screws

With Bit-Tip BT132, you gain a fast, reliable fastening method that reduces equipment needs, speeds up installation, and delivers consistent results across metal and composite assemblies. Add these high-performance screws to your toolkit and experience streamlined HVAC and metal fastening like never before.