They are certainly easier to install in my experience. Which brings me to the question of what makes a slotted head screw superior to the hex, or vise versa for that matter.
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The common argument is availability, especially in the field. Almost every multi-tool, toolbox, or SAK has a flathead on or in it. Even battlefield junk can be used as a makeshift flathead. Not so with a hex or torx head.
I'm not sure how much I buy that argument for the average user or how much that really matters, but it's something to take into account.
(for the record, all of mine are flathead for the above reason; I'm a delusional paranoid :))
I use one of these every time I put on a new grip, works great. I've got 2 in my parts bin waiting for future grip upgrades/builds.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...m=181228630600
I like the slotted head and big honking flat screwdriver. If you do cut the grip away, you might try filing flats on the screwhead and wrenching it out.
Had not thought of that and as much as I like the idea of ease of use or servicing my gear, I don't know if I buy into in this case, not with the depth of the grip and that fact that I have had a number of drivers be too short to reach the head of the screw in the past. Suppose it depends on your needs. Given options would likely lean towards a hex head personally just because I find it easier to use.
I like this one...
https://www.lwrci.com/p-325-pistol-grip-hex-bolt.aspx
This is one thing I mention in class and why all of my grips use a standard Colt/ USGI grip screw. I have had people show up that didn't even realize they had a hex screw in their grip and were scrambling to find a wrench or bit.
I can find any crack head and ask for a flat tip screwdriver and he will get one. Not so of xxx size hex wrench.
Before you think of drilling the screw out, think about taking it to a machine shop. If it's a quality receiver, it'll be worth having a machinist do the work. They can clamp it up machine the head or what's left of the bolt flush with the receiver, then drill the screw out without damaging the receiver. You might have luck checking with the manaufacturer of your receiver.
IMHO, Magpul is notorious for slotted grip screws that are really, really hard to install, then scary hard to back out when you get the point where you're sure you've cross-threaded it. I've found it necessary to apply heat to melt the thread locker off and use loctite.
I like the cut-the-grip and use vise grips with heat idea.
These grip makers need to quit with the junk screws and thread locker.
Put in a good screw and a star washer, charge an extra dollar or whatever it takes.