I have not had any eye screws fail that i have not epoxy'd in. But i have had them turn. And have landed many mid 40's (muskies) on my lures. But i also do epoxy them in too, depends on the lure. I also think that placing the eye screws through the grain of the wood, not with the grain. Also helps hold them in place better. Just my opinion to try to help you out. Hope it helps
Musky Machine