I totally agree on the pilot hole and I used oil and 4" nailsl! I would have used screws on part of it except I could not find my box of 3" screws. So, had no choice but to use nails. Then found out my son used the screws to build a set of steps for his camper last weekend - and then took the rest with him.Indeed it is. I switched to screws for most stuff because they hold better and longer than nails and using the drill does not cause my hands to go numb like constant hammering does. For oak, a pilot hole and soap does wonders whether using nails or screws.

I'm really paying for it today though - rotator cuff problems rare not fun.