When looking at ways to attach a table top while allowing for movement, I have come across two prodominat methods in my mind. The first being using z-clips ( http://www.leevalley.com/US/Hardware/page.aspx?p=40146&cat=3,43586,43588&ap=1 ) and the second being figure eights ( http://woodworker.com/desktop-fasteners-mssu-866-826.asp ). Both require screws. I an attempt to use only American made materials in my projects, I am having trouble finding American made screws. Can anyone recommend an American made screw or another method of attaching a table top? Thanks.
I have refurbished some old Singer sewing machine cabinets and found the screws to be of much higher grade than anything I can find today. They are made of hard steel and I value them to the degree I save any I can get. I just made two raised panel Oak doors for a cabinet and while installing the hinges using pilot holes two screws broke in half. Total made in china junk. Good luck in your search.
I find McFeely's hardware superior in quality and selection.
They have heat treated steel, choice of plating/color, thread style, and more.
McFeelys.com
800-443-7937
I can't remember the last time I saw an American screw. I'm sure they exist, but as tough to find as an episode of Roy Underhill without a bandaid on his finger! Most of the McFeely's screws i have (my main supplier) are imports. You might give Quickscrews a glance, I don't remember if they list origin or not. Good luck with the quest, if you come across a good source let us know.
Quality products can be made overseas, even in China, if the company that runs the plant operates under good management with modern equipment and with good quality control procedures. I imagine that Mcfeeleys runs the plant or purchases from a reliable company that does so.
I think I may have found what I'm looking for. http://www.gouletoem.com Im sure they're going to be quite a bit more expensive and most likely perform the same, but its the principle in this case for me. (they also have a pretty cool video of one of their old machines manufacturing them.) Thanks for everyones help!
I have boxes of #6 1/2" (pan) and 5/8" (flat) Spax screws. Great product.
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