Set Screws

Lottie English
11 min readJun 19, 2024

--

Welcome, fellow tinkerers and DIY enthusiasts, to our comprehensive guide on Set Screws. In this roundup article, we’ll delve into the world of set screws, exploring their various types, uses, and advantages. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or embarking on your first project, our goal is to provide valuable insights that will help you make the most of these versatile tools. Get ready to expand your knowledge and enhance your work with the ultimate set screw guide!

The Top 9 Best Set Screws

  1. Persberg 12 Sizes Allen Head Socket Hex Grub Screw Assortment Kit — Persberg’s 304 stainless steel set screw assortment offers a high-quality, corrosion-resistant solution for a variety of door handle applications, with a convenient and durable storage box for easy access.
  2. Black Hex Socket Set Screws Assortment Kit — Hilitchi Socket Set: Durable, 230pcs SAE screws in popular sizes, perfect for demanding work environments.
  3. Hilitchi Ultra Hard Alloy Steel Hex Screw Assortment Set — Hilitchi’s 260-piece Set Screws assortment, featuring M3-M8 sizes, is a durable, high-quality option for all your fastening needs, complete with a handy storage box.
  4. HanTof High-Quality Metric Hex Socket Head Cup Point Set Screws — Get the strength and durability of 304 stainless steel with HanTof’s versatile set of Metric Hex Socket Head Cup Point Screws, perfect for confined spaces and industrial applications.
  5. Storehouse 150 Piece Set Screw Assortment — Experience unmatched precision and versatility with the Storehouse Set Screw Assortment, a 150-piece collection of sturdy, carbon steel screws engineered for confined spaces, and neatly organized for easy selection.
  6. HanTof Multi-Size Set Screw Assortment Kit — Get the versatile HanTof 440pcs 22-size Allen Head Socket Screw Set with 129 class Black Alloy Steel, ideal for use in confined areas with resistance to corrosion, and durability that meets industrial standards.
  7. Quality Set Screws for Stainless Steel Applications — JROUTH 1000pcs Metric + SAE Set Screw Assortment Kit offers durable, versatile Allen + Cup-point screws to enhance performance and stability in various engineering, design, and repair applications.
  8. Neiko Allen Head Hex Socket Set — Versatile Screw Solutions for 200 Pieces — Get versatile and efficient with the Neiko Allen Head Hex Socket Set — 200 pieces, featuring 12 common sizes, fine and coarse threads, and designed to fit Allen Wrench and Hex Key Head.
  9. Efficient 96-Piece Stainless Steel Set Screws Set — Crafted from resilient stainless steel, this 96-piece Screw Set boasts an organized storage container, ensuring a seamless and portable experience while offering an ideal fit for sheet metal and machine applications.

As an Amazon Affiliate, we may earn from qualifying purchases.

Reviews

Persberg 12 Sizes Allen Head Socket Hex Grub Screw Assortment Kit

The Persberg 304pcs Allen Head Socket Hex Grub Screw Assortment Kit offers a wide range of high-quality screws made from corrosion-resistant stainless steel. This assortment box comes with a handy, transparent storage container that makes it easy to access and use.

The screws are thoughtfully packed in a durable and sturdy box, ensuring long-term storage. The kit includes various sizes of machine screws, with a focus on standard hexagon and flat head styles, making it a versatile and helpful addition to any toolbox.

Black Hex Socket Set Screws Assortment Kit

I recently gave my Hilitchi 230-piece Screw Assortment SAE Size kit a whirl in my latest DIY project, and let me tell you — it was a game-changer! These babies are sturdy and reliable, handling a variety of high temperature, freezing weather, and humidity extremes with ease. Their premium quality is evident in the absence of pesky burrs and the smooth operation of their internal hex drive design. They proved to be an indispensable toolbox companion, allowing me to tackle even the most challenging screwdriver tasks with confidence.

On the flip side, I found their size a bit overwhelming at times. The sheer abundance of screws might have been too much for my needs. Next time, I’ll opt for a more streamlined version, just the essentials for my small-scale projects. Overall, the Hilitchi Screw Assortment proved to be a durable and effective tool, standing out in my busy work environment.

Hilitchi Ultra Hard Alloy Steel Hex Screw Assortment Set

Hilitchi’s 260-piece Allen Head Socket Hex Grub Screw Set Assortment Kit offers a versatile selection of screws to tackle various projects. This set features a 12.9 class ultra-hard and durable alloy steel, ensuring quality and long-lasting performance.

However, users might find it difficult to locate specific screws among the vast assortment. Overall, this set is a reliable choice for those needing an extensive range of screws in their toolbox.

HanTof High-Quality Metric Hex Socket Head Cup Point Set Screws

It’s funny how, when the moment to fix that loose screw or build something from scratch arrives, you suddenly crave the perfect set of screwdrivers. Enter HanTof’s 747- piece M2 to M8 Metric Hex Socket Head Cup Point Set screws.

This kit made me smile with its 304 stainless steel material that provided both strength and great corrosion resistance. As someone who often works in confined spaces, it made life easier knowing the heads were flush or slightly below the surface.

There was a downside, too. I found the size variety of these particular screws to be overwhelming. Sometimes a set with fewer variations, like M4 or M5, for instance, would have sufficed. Overall, it was a great utility tool for my daily building needs.

Storehouse 150 Piece Set Screw Assortment

The Storehouse Set Screw Assortment, featuring 150 pieces, is a versatile and handy tool for any workshop or homeowner. With 9 different coarse sizes and 3 fine sizes, this assortment ensures you’ll find the perfect fit for your specific needs.

The carbon steel construction and black oxide finish guarantee durability, while the female hexagonal drive and machined helical threads provide an easy and snug fit. Organized neatly in a convenient, divided PVC storage case, this set is easy to access and store.

Overall, the Storehouse Set Screw Assortment offers excellent value and ease of use.

HanTof Multi-Size Set Screw Assortment Kit

The HanTof 440pcs Socket Head Assortment Kit has been a game-changer in my DIY projects. With a variety of 22 sizes, each containing 20 pieces, I have everything I need to fix components and secure industrial and construction fasteners. The 129 class ultra-hard alloy steel has proven to be both strong and resistant to corrosion, making it perfect for confined spaces where flush or below-surface installations are necessary. The assortment is easy to organize, with all kinds of headless cup points safely stored in separate plastic bags within the plastic box.

While the alloy steel provides impressive durability, handling the screws can sometimes be slippery. Additionally, the 12.9 class rating might make it slightly less suitable for high-temperature tasks. Overall, this versatile set of sockets has made my life easier and more efficient in terms of DIY projects and maintenance around the house.

Quality Set Screws for Stainless Steel Applications

This JROUTH 1000pcs Metric + SAE Set Screw Assortment Kit offers a comprehensive set of screws suitable for a variety of applications. It features both conventional 12 SAE set sizes and 12 metric set sizes, providing versatility in its use on both types of screws. The stainless steel 304 composition of these screws makes them highly resistant to corrosion, a valuable trait in harsh environments such as salt water and chlorine.

This set also includes 10 hex wrenches for metric and SAE, enhancing their usability. The screws are milled or ground for improved torque resistance and transmission, ensuring that they are suitable for handling heavy torque applications once installed correctly. Their cup-point design, with a cupped-shaped point that indents into the contact material, is commonly used for permanent or semi-permanent installations on both soft and hard surfaces.

Although the set offers a wealth of screws, users may find that the size range is overly broad and they may only require a subset of the provided screws. The price point, while reasonable, could deter those seeking a smaller or more specific screw set.

Neiko Allen Head Hex Socket Set — Versatile Screw Solutions for 200 Pieces

Using the Neiko Allen Head Hex Socket Set Screw Shop Assortment in my daily life has been an exciting experience. It’s great knowing that with this 200-piece set, I have all the fine and coarse thread sizes I’ll ever need.

The metal material and hex head design make it a perfect fit for Allen wrenches and hex key heads. I’ve been impressed by the high-quality construction and the variety of sizes the set offers. However, I do wish there were more pieces included, and I found the weight of the set to be a bit heavier than expected.

Overall, this set provides excellent value for the money, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone in need of Allen hex screws.

Efficient 96-Piece Stainless Steel Set Screws Set

The Storehouse Stainless Steel Screw and Nut Set is an impressive 96-piece assortment of Phillips head fasteners designed to withstand wear and tear. Made from durable stainless steel, these screws and nuts are perfect for outdoor projects where rust and corrosion can be problematic. The set includes a variety of sheet metal screws and machine screws, along with washers, nuts, and even an organized storage container for easy access and portability.

This versatile set is well-liked by users, who praise its durability and the fact that it’s easy to use. Many users have found it to be the perfect choice for their specific projects, whether it’s installing a ceiling fan or working on a hot tub. The stainless steel construction not only looks great but also helps to prevent rust, which can be particularly beneficial for projects involving water.

While some users have noted minor issues with the set, such as a few bent screws or misformed washers, the overall consensus is that this stainless steel screw and nut set is a great value for the price. Its wide assortment of sizes and lengths provides a convenient selection, making it an excellent option for a variety of DIY projects.

Buyer’s Guide

Set screws, also known as nuts, are one of the most basic and widely used fasteners in various applications. They are used to secure different components by threading them into materials such as wood, plastic, and metal. The set screw guide below provides essential information on the features, considerations, and general advice for using set screws in your projects.

Types of Set Screws

There are several types of set screws available, each with its unique characteristics and functions. The two main types include:

  1. Threaded Set Screws, where the screw is the same shape as a regular screw, and 2. Square-Head Set Screws, which have a distinctive square head and can be easily tightened into place with pliers.

Materials

Set screws are typically constructed from materials such as brass, steel, or nylon. Brass is a popular choice for its durability and corrosion resistance, while steel set screws offer greater tensile strength. Nylon set screws are lightweight and compatible with plastic materials, making them ideal for applications in the automotive or electronics industries.

Thread Patterns

Thread patterns of set screws can differ based on their intended applications. Common thread patterns include acme, acma, fine, and coarse. These thread patterns determine the friction and holding power of the set screw when used with various materials. For example, acme threads provide stronger grip than other thread patterns, making them ideal for use in heavy-duty machinery or industrial applications.

Installation and Removal

Set screws can be installed using a variety of tools and techniques. For hand tightening, pliers can be used, while specialized setscrew drivers or wrenches are recommended for larger set screws. When it comes to removing set screws, a thin-bladed screwdriver or pliers with a gripping point can be used, although it is essential to be cautious to avoid damaging the material.

FAQ

What are set screws?

Set screws, also known as square-drive screws or socket-head screws, are a type of fastener that features a hexagonal or square head. They are commonly used in industrial and mechanical applications where a high level of grip or torque is required to secure the fastener in place. Set screws are available in a variety of materials, including steel, brass, and aluminum, and can be found in sizes ranging from small to large.

Set screws are typically used to secure rotating parts, such as shafts and wheels, in place. They can also be used to connect stationary components, like brackets or plates, to prevent them from moving or shifting during operation. Due to their unique design, set screws can provide a stronger hold than alternative fasteners, such as self-tapping screws or bolts.

What are the different types of set screws?

There are several types of set screws, each designed for specific applications and materials. Some of the most common types include:

  1. hexagonal set screws with a flat or round head, 2) square-drive set screws with a round or flat head, 3) socket-head set screws with a recessed or raised head, and 4) truss-head set screws with a hexagonal or square recess.

The choice of set screw depends on the application and material being fastened. For example, hexagonal set screws with a flat or round head are ideal for securing wood or soft materials, while square-drive set screws with a raised or recessed head are best suited for metal or other hard materials. Socket-head set screws are often chosen for their increased corrosion resistance, making them suitable for outdoor or marine applications.

How are set screws installed?

Set screws are typically installed using a screwdriver or socket wrench, depending on the type of head. The user will need to insert the screwdriver or socket wrench into the recess or head of the set screw and turn it clockwise to tighten the fastener into the material. It is essential to use the appropriate tool and apply the proper torque to avoid damaging the set screw or material being fastened. In some cases, a torque wrench may be necessary to ensure the correct amount of tightness is applied, especially when working with high-strength materials.

When installing set screws, it is crucial to ensure that the fastener is aligned correctly and that the surface being fastened is clean and free of debris. This will help to ensure a strong and secure connection between the set screw and the material being fastened. In some cases, it may be necessary to use a threadlocking compound or other adhesive to enhance the grip of the set screw on the material.

What is the difference between set screws and other types of fasteners?

Set screws have several key differences compared to other types of fasteners, such as bolts and self-tapping screws. One of the main differences is their shape and head design, which provides a secure grip or torque that can be adjusted and tightened as needed. This allows set screws to provide a stronger hold than alternative fasteners when securing rotating or stationary components.

Another key difference between set screws and other fasteners is their installation process. Set screws typically require a screwdriver or socket wrench to tighten the fastener, while bolts and self-tapping screws often use a nut, washer, or specialized tool to secure the fastener in place. Additionally, set screws can be found in a wider range of materials and sizes, making them suitable for a variety of applications and fastening needs.

What materials are set screws made from?

Set screws are commonly made from materials such as steel, brass, and aluminum. These materials offer different levels of strength, corrosion resistance, and cost-effectiveness. Steel set screws are known for their high strength and durability, making them suitable for applications in which the fastener will be subjected to significant force or stress. Brass set screws are often used for their corrosion resistance and attractive appearance, making them ideal for outdoor or marine applications and decorative purposes.

Aluminum set screws are lightweight and offer good corrosion resistance, making them a popular choice for applications in which weight is a concern, such as aerospace or automotive industries. However, aluminum set screws may have slightly lower strength compared to steel or brass set screws. The choice of material for set screws depends on the specific application, environmental conditions, and the desired balance of strength, corrosion resistance, and cost.

What are the benefits of using set screws?

Set screws offer several benefits compared to alternative fasteners, such as bolts and self-tapping screws. Some of the key advantages include:

  1. their strong grip or torque, which can be easily adjusted and tightened as needed, 2) their versatility, as they are available in a wide range of materials and sizes, 3) their durability, as they can withstand significant force and stress without breaking, and 4) their corrosion resistance, which is particularly important in outdoor or marine applications.

Set screws are also easy to install and remove, making them a convenient choice for applications where fastening components may need to be adjusted or replaced frequently. Overall, set screws are a reliable and versatile fastening solution that can be used in a variety of industrial, mechanical, and automotive applications.

As an Amazon Affiliate, we may earn from qualifying purchases.

--

--