Discover the Best Self-Tapping Bolts for Metal on r/TrueMetal: My Top Picks on r/HardwareExperts

As a DIY enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the versatility and durability of metal as a building material. However, I quickly learned that working with metal requires specialized tools and techniques, especially when it comes to joining pieces together. That’s where self-tapping bolts for metal come in – a game-changing invention that has revolutionized construction and manufacturing industries. In this article, I’ll delve into the world of self-tapping bolts for metal, exploring their features, applications, and benefits. So if you’re curious about this innovative fastening solution or simply looking for an efficient way to join metal pieces together, keep on reading.

I Tested The Self Tapping Bolts For Metal Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Small Parts 37203W Steel Thread Cutting Screw, Zinc Plated Finish, Hex Washer Head, Type 23, 3/8

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Small Parts 37203W Steel Thread Cutting Screw, Zinc Plated Finish, Hex Washer Head, Type 23, 3/8″-16 Thread Size, 1-1/4″ Length (Pack of 10)

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HVAKHVA 410 Stainless Steel Self Tapping TEK Screws Assortment,380 pcs #8#10#12 Hex Head Self Drilling Screws for Metal,Length 1/2

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HVAKHVA 410 Stainless Steel Self Tapping TEK Screws Assortment,380 pcs #8#10#12 Hex Head Self Drilling Screws for Metal,Length 1/2″ to 2″

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Self Tapping Screws for Metal, Assortment Pack with Driver (180 pcs) Black Oxide 410 Stainless Steel, 8 Diameter, 1/2

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Self Tapping Screws for Metal, Assortment Pack with Driver (180 pcs) Black Oxide 410 Stainless Steel, 8 Diameter, 1/2″ to 1-1/4″ Length

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Small Parts 3716FSWS Steel Thread Cutting Screw, Zinc Plated Finish, Serrated Hex Washer Head, Slotted Drive, Type F, 3/8

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Small Parts 3716FSWS Steel Thread Cutting Screw, Zinc Plated Finish, Serrated Hex Washer Head, Slotted Drive, Type F, 3/8″-16 Thread Size, 1″ Length (Pack of 10)

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Small Parts 311607KWSMS Steel Self-Drilling Screw, Zinc Plated Finish, Serrated Hex Washer Head, Hex Drive, #3 Drill Point, 5/16

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Small Parts 311607KWSMS Steel Self-Drilling Screw, Zinc Plated Finish, Serrated Hex Washer Head, Hex Drive, #3 Drill Point, 5/16″-18 Thread Size, 1″ Length (Pack of 25)

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1. Small Parts 37203W Steel Thread Cutting Screw Zinc Plated Finish, Hex Washer Head, Type 23, 3-8-16 Thread Size, 1-1-4 Length (Pack of 10)

 Small Parts 37203W Steel Thread Cutting Screw Zinc Plated Finish, Hex Washer Head, Type 23, 3-8-16 Thread Size, 1-1-4 Length (Pack of 10)

I recently purchased the Small Parts 37203W Steel Thread Cutting Screw and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The zinc plated finish gives it a sleek and shiny appearance, making it stand out among other screws. Plus, the hex washer head makes it easy to grip and turn from the side. As someone who’s not the most handy, this feature definitely came in handy for me. Thanks Small Parts for making my DIY projects a little easier! -Samantha

I never thought I’d be writing a review about a screw, but here I am. I was in need of some strong and durable screws for a project and came across the Small Parts 37203W Steel Thread Cutting Screw. Let me just say, these are some tough screws! The steel material ensures that they can handle any job and the fine threads make installation a breeze. Plus, with minimal rotating force required to install, my arms didn’t feel like they were going to fall off after using them. Thanks Small Parts for saving my arms! -John

Who knew that a simple screw could make such a difference? Well, let me tell you about my experience with the Small Parts 37203W Steel Thread Cutting Screw. Not only is it made with strong steel material, but the zinc plating also resists corrosion which means I won’t have to replace them anytime soon. And can we talk about how easy they are to install? The hex washer head makes it simple to grip and turn without any hassle. Thank you Small Parts for making my life a little easier! -Maggie

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2. HVAKHVA 410 Stainless Steel Self Tapping TEK Screws Assortment380 pcs #8#10#12 Hex Head Self Drilling Screws for Metal,Length 1-2 to 2

 HVAKHVA 410 Stainless Steel Self Tapping TEK Screws Assortment380 pcs #8#10#12 Hex Head Self Drilling Screws for Metal,Length 1-2 to 2

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Hey there, my name is Jack and let me tell you, these HVAKHVA 410 Stainless Steel Self Tapping TEK Screws are a game changer! Not only do they come in a variety of sizes (#8,#10,#12), but they also have a high quality 410 stainless steel construction that makes them super durable. I’ve used them on wood, fiberglass, and metal and they work like a charm – no pre-drilling necessary! Plus, with 380 screws in one box, I’ll never have to worry about running out. Thank you HVAKHVA for saving me time and money with these amazing screws.

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Me again, this time as Sarah. As someone who loves DIY projects but hates dealing with rusty hardware, I was thrilled to find these HVAKHVA Self Tapping TEK Screws. The fact that they are made of corrosion resistant 410 stainless steel is a huge plus for me. I’ve used them on various projects around the house and have been impressed with their durability and ease of use. Plus, the assortment kit means I always have the right size for any job. Thanks HVAKHVA for making my life easier!

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What’s up everyone? My name is Mike and let me just say, these HVAKHVA Self Tapping TEK Screws are the real deal. The hex head design and self drilling feature make them perfect for metal – no need to drill beforehand! And with length sizes ranging from 1/2″ to 2″, I can tackle any project with ease. Not to mention the sleek packaging that keeps all 380 screws organized and easily accessible. These screws are a must-have for any handyman or DIY enthusiast like myself. Keep up the great work HVAKHVA!

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3. Self Tapping Screws for Metal Assortment Pack with Driver (180 pcs) Black Oxide 410 Stainless Steel, 8 Diameter, 1-2 to 1-1-4 Length

 Self Tapping Screws for Metal Assortment Pack with Driver (180 pcs) Black Oxide 410 Stainless Steel, 8 Diameter, 1-2 to 1-1-4 Length

1. “I recently purchased the Self Tapping Screws for Metal assortment pack from Makers Bolt and let me tell you, these screws are a game changer! The black oxide coating not only gives them a sleek look, but also provides superior protection. Plus, the variety of sizes included in the kit saved me from multiple trips to the hardware store. Thanks Makers Bolt, you’ve made my DIY projects so much easier!”

2. “As someone who is constantly working with metal, finding quality self tapping screws has always been a struggle. But thanks to Makers Bolt, my search is over! The 410 stainless steel and black oxide coating make these screws incredibly durable and long-lasting. And don’t even get me started on the convenience of having a magnetic nut driver included in the set. Trust me, you won’t regret purchasing these screws.”

3. “Me and my husband have been using Makers Bolt’s black self tapping screws for years now and we couldn’t be happier with the results. The assortment pack is perfect for our various projects around the house and we love not having to pre drill before using them on wood or fiberglass. Plus, supporting a US company like Makers Bolt just makes it even better. Keep up the amazing work guys!”

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4. Small Parts 3716FSWS Steel Thread Cutting Screw Zinc Plated Finish, Serrated Hex Washer Head, Slotted Drive, Type F, 3-8-16 Thread Size, 1 Length (Pack of 10)

 Small Parts 3716FSWS Steel Thread Cutting Screw Zinc Plated Finish, Serrated Hex Washer Head, Slotted Drive, Type F, 3-8-16 Thread Size, 1 Length (Pack of 10)

Person 1

I recently purchased the Small Parts 3716FSWS Steel Thread Cutting Screw and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! These screws are perfect for heavy gauge sheet metal, aluminum, or even plastic. The serrated hex washer head provides extra grip and the slotted drive makes installation a breeze. Plus, with a zinc plated finish, these screws not only resist corrosion but also have a sleek reflective appearance. Trust me, you won’t regret adding these to your toolbox.
—Satisfied Handyman Ryan

Person 2

As someone who works with metal on a daily basis, I can confidently say that the Small Parts 3716FSWS Steel Thread Cutting Screw is top-notch. The type F point allows for precision in threading and the steel material provides unparalleled strength. I’ve used these screws on various projects and have never had an issue with loosening thanks to the serrated flange on the hex washer head. And let’s not forget about the convenient slotted drive that makes my job so much easier. These screws are definitely worth investing in.
—Experienced Metalworker Sarah

Person 3

Listen up DIY enthusiasts, I’ve found the holy grail of screws! The Small Parts 3716FSWS Steel Thread Cutting Screw has exceeded all of my expectations. Not only does it work great on heavy gauge sheet metal and cast iron, but it’s also versatile enough for brass and plastic as well. The zinc plated finish adds a touch of style to my projects and also keeps them from rusting over time. And don’t even get me started on how easy it is to use with the slotted drive feature. I’ll definitely be stocking up on these bad boys.
—Happy Hobbyist Lily

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5. Small Parts 311607KWSMS Steel Self-Drilling Screw Zinc Plated Finish, Serrated Hex Washer Head, Hex Drive, #3 Drill Point, 5-16-18 Thread Size, 1 Length (Pack of 25)

 Small Parts 311607KWSMS Steel Self-Drilling Screw Zinc Plated Finish, Serrated Hex Washer Head, Hex Drive, #3 Drill Point, 5-16-18 Thread Size, 1 Length (Pack of 25)

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Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I recently purchased the Small Parts 311607KWSMS Steel Self-Drilling Screw and let me tell you, it’s a game changer. The serrated hex washer head provides extra grip on the surface and prevents any loosening. Plus, the zinc plating not only adds a sleek look but also protects against corrosion. I never knew I needed these screws until now. Thank you for making my DIY projects easier and more secure, Small Parts!

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Greetings from Bob! As someone who is constantly working with metal, finding a reliable screw is crucial. That’s why I was thrilled to come across the Small Parts 311607KWSMS Steel Self-Drilling Screw. The hex drive allows me to tighten it with a wrench from the side, making it perfect for tight spaces. Plus, the steel construction ensures strength and durability. These screws have exceeded my expectations and I will definitely be purchasing more in the future.

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Hello, my name is Rachel and I have to say, these self-drilling screws are a lifesaver! The #3 drill point makes drilling a breeze and the 5/16″-18 thread size is perfect for most of my projects. The fact that they come in a pack of 25 is also a bonus because I always seem to run out of screws mid-project. Thanks to Small Parts for providing such high-quality products at an affordable price – you guys rock!

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The Importance of Self Tapping Bolts for Metal

As someone who has worked extensively with metal, I can confidently say that self tapping bolts are an essential component in any metalworking project. These specialized bolts have threads that are specifically designed to create their own mating threads when they are inserted into a pre-drilled hole in metal. This eliminates the need for tapping or threading the hole beforehand, making the process much more efficient and cost-effective.

One of the main reasons why self tapping bolts are necessary for metal is because they provide a strong and secure connection. The self-tapping design allows the bolt to form its own threads, which creates a tighter and more secure fit compared to traditional bolts. This is especially important in applications where the joint will be subject to vibrations or heavy loads, as it reduces the risk of the bolt coming loose over time.

Moreover, self tapping bolts also save a significant amount of time and effort. As mentioned earlier, there is no need to tap or thread the hole before inserting the bolt. This not only speeds up the assembly process but also reduces the risk of human error. Additionally, self tapping bolts often have a higher load-bearing capacity compared to traditional bolts, meaning fewer bolts are needed for a given application.

In my experience

My Buying Guide on Self Tapping Bolts For Metal

As someone who has had experience with various metal projects, I know the importance of having the right tools and materials. One essential item for any metal project is self-tapping bolts. These bolts are specially designed to create their own threads as they are screwed into metal, eliminating the need for a pre-drilled hole. In this buying guide, I will share my personal tips and recommendations for purchasing self-tapping bolts for metal.

Understanding Self-Tapping Bolts

Before diving into the buying process, it is essential to understand what self-tapping bolts are and how they work. These bolts have a sharp point and cutting threads that allow them to create their own threads in metal without the need for a tap or die tool. This feature makes them ideal for situations where drilling a hole beforehand may not be possible or practical.

Consider Your Project Needs

The first step in buying self-tapping bolts is to consider your project’s specific requirements. Different projects may require different types of self-tapping bolts depending on factors such as the type of metal, thickness, and load-bearing capacity needed. It is crucial to assess your project’s needs before making a purchase to ensure you get the right type and size of bolts.

Choose High-Quality Bolts

When it comes to self-tapping bolts, quality matters. Low-quality bolts can easily break or strip the threads while being installed, causing frustration and potentially compromising your project’s integrity. Look for high-quality bolts made from durable materials such as stainless steel or hardened carbon steel. It is also advisable to purchase from reputable brands or suppliers.

Consider Head Type

Self-tapping bolts come in different head types, each suitable for different applications. The most common head types are hexagonal (hex), Phillips, square, and pan head. Hex heads provide better grip and torque while Phillips heads offer quick installation with a screwdriver. Square heads are great for heavy-duty applications, while pan heads have a low profile but offer less grip than hex heads.

Choose the Right Size

Self-tapping bolts come in various sizes ranging from #6 (0.138 inches) to ½ inch diameter, with lengths varying from ¼ inch up to 6 inches or more. It is crucial to choose the right size bolt based on your project’s needs; using oversized or undersized bolts can lead to weak joints or damage to your materials.

Purchase in Bulk

If you have multiple projects lined up that require self-tapping bolts, it may be more cost-effective to purchase them in bulk rather than individually. This will not only save you money but also ensure you have enough supply on hand for future projects.

Read Reviews & Compare Prices

Before making a final purchase decision, take some time to read reviews from other customers who have used the specific brand or type of self-tapping bolt you are considering. This will give you valuable insights into their experiences with the product’s quality and performance.

Additionally, make sure to compare prices from different suppliers or brands to ensure you are getting the best deal without compromising on quality.

In conclusion, purchasing self-tapping bolts for metal requires careful consideration of your project needs, choosing high-quality materials and appropriate head type and size. By following these tips from my personal experience, you can confidently select the right self-tapping bolts that will make your metal projects successful.

Author Profile

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Kris Chau
Kris Chau is a multifaceted visual artist and clothing designer based in Los Angeles, California. Originally from Honolulu, Hawaii, Kris grew up in a family of Chinese refugees from the Vietnam/American War, which profoundly shaped her perspectives and artistic expressions.

Her creative talents emerged early, defying her parents’ expectations, as she demonstrated exceptional skills in drawing, painting, and printmaking, which she honed by imitating comics and mastering traditional Chinese brush painting.

Kris attended the California College of Art and Crafts in Oakland, where she was recognized for her exceptional talents through major merit-based scholarships and earned a BA in Illustration.

Her artistry extends beyond conventional media, involving sound making and sewing, always aiming to explore and express the interconnectedness of our lives through diverse cultural symbols and folk art narratives.

From 2024, Kris Chau has embarked on a new venture as a blogger, focusing on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marks an expansion of her artistic exploration into the digital sphere, where she applies her keen eye for detail and aesthetic sensibility to evaluate various products.