Toolipedia: Drywall Screw Gun

What is a drywall screw gun?

A drywall screw gun is an extremely useful tool for drywall professionals and DIYers. A drywall screw gun functions similar to a standard drill with a few slight differences. First, it has a dedicated Phillips head bit that is semi-permanent. Second, most types drywall screw guns have an adjustable depth gauge to prevent the screw from driving in too deep and ripping the paper. However, still leaves a dimple to make finishing easy. Finally, most drywall screw guns have a pressure driven clutch. This engages the drill motor when the screw pressed into the drywall and disengages when the screw is driven in. Here are the basic parts of a drywall screw gun:

1. Handle
2. Trigger
3. Forward/Reverse
4. Belt Clip (optional)
5. Depth Adjustment
6. Dedicated Drill Bit
7. Drill bit housing

Though a standard drill and a drywall bit can be used, a drywall screw gun speeds up the drywall hanging process. Because of the increase in speed, many drywall professionals, remodelers and even DIYers prefer to use a drywall screw gun on larger projects.

How is a drywall screw gun used?

Operation basics

• Brace drywall to prepare for hanging
• Ensure that depth is adjusted properly
• Place screw on bit (most are magnetic and will hold the screw steady)
• Engage the trigger
• Press the screw into the drywall at the desired location
• Drive the screw in until the depth is reached and the drill stops driving the screw

Accessories needed

• Replacement bits

Safety

• Drilling screws into drywall can produce dust, wear proper eye protection
• Clutch driven motors can create pinch points once they engage, keep your support hand away from the point of drilling

What are the different types of drywall screw guns?

• Drywall screw guns can be battery powered or corded
• Some drywall screw guns take collated screws
• Some drywall screw guns have built in belt clips
• Some drywall screw guns have removable drywall driver ends
• Some manufacturers make a drill/drywall screw gun combos

What makes a good drywall screw gun?

• Powerful motor
• Belt clip
• Easily adjustable depth guide
• Smoot clutch engagement

Dewalt makes a high quality drywall screw gun.

Drywall Screw Gun Tip

Test a few screws on a scrap piece of drywall before starting, to ensure that the screws are driven into the proper depth.