Starting a screw on hard wood or especially metal can be a challenge. A couple years ago I discovered the joys of punching, with a center punch that is. I like the style that is spring loaded with adjustable tension. Once you set the tension, which controls the force of the impact, you just apply downward pressure until the punch shoots forward and dimples the surface. The resulting dimple then makes it easy to start your fastener. Available at most home improvement stores for about $10-20. Gemplers has them for about $15.
About Marc Lyman