Phillips heads are not really for high-torque applications. They stem from an era where many drivers didn't have a rapid stop, and the automated centering was v

Phillips heads are not really for high-torque applications. They stem from an era where many drivers didn't have a rapid stop, and the automated centering was very helpful. Unfortunately, this persisted in the construction industry because of drywall. Phillips heads in drywall will readily "cam out" when you hit a high enough torque, which can help prevent over tightening or stripping. (of course, if you keep trying to tighten the screws they will almost always strip). The bits were universal, but they were never designed to be a high torque fastener, and they are completely inappropriate for most woodscrews over 2 inches long (deck screws, etc.) Fortunately, even home depot and lowes are now beginning to carry Torx drive screws, which work much better. If you are buying deck screws for any project, always try to get T25 rather than T20 size screws. They are sufficiently resilient that each screw could be reused many times, while phillips/square drive screws will start to loosen/strip after 1 use.