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I knew that subject would get someone's attention.....

I am talking about putting gun screws in and tightening them. A recent project brought it to mind.

I learned way back to turn a screw in reverse until you feel the screw thread drop into the hole thread, to avoid cross-threading. Then turn it the right way.

I've also had the long habit of tightening a screw until I get resistance (snug), then watching the end of the slot and turning the distance of the slot thickness to finish. Seems to work. I've never cracked a grip, stripped a thread, or had a screw fall out.

Except for being super precise with a torque indicating screwdriver, does anyone else have some profound wisdom about fasteners?

Besides stop before it gets loose

I have always done things by feel and never had a problem. With all of the alloy frames, screw fit is critical. As ones gets worn it has less engagement and will not take full torque. The use of lubricants can extend the life by reducing wear.

Always use the proper sized blade for the screw to prevent damage to the head or slippage.

R,
Bullseye

I was taught to tighten until the threads strip, then back it off a half-turn.

jperodeau wrote:I was taught to tighten until the threads strip, then back it off a half-turn.

That is backing off too far. After many years as a service tech on recreational vehicles, lawn and garden, I learned to tighten until either the screw breaks or the treads are gone and the back off 1/4 turn and hope for the best. Also apply JB Weld and hope no one looks to closely at the screw head.

Are we talkin about Hardware here??? this is a family site!