Pocket hole joinery is popular because it is a fast, strong, easily adaptable, precise method of assembly. Joints are as strong as mortise and tenon joints and can be made in a fraction of the time. But, you’ve got to use pocket hole screws for the best results!

Pocket hole screws have several important features in common: First, a self-tapping, auger point prevents the screw from forcing the rail and stile apart as it advances from part to part. (Standard screw points can raise a chip between the parts, resulting in a gaping, unprofessional joint.) Second, the unthreaded portion of a pocket hole screw shank is properly designed to help prevent crossthreading. Finally, pocket hole screw heads are large enough to prevent wood fiber crushing, and flat underneath to prevent splitting.