Hex Bolts

Hex bolts are six-sided externally-driven fasteners used throughout construction, machinery, and general assembly. Built to general-purpose tolerances and available with a partially threaded shank for shear strength or full thread for maximum engagement, they are among the most versatile fasteners stocked. We carry hex bolts across every grade, material, and finish.

Hex Bolt vs. Hex Cap Screw

Hex bolts and hex cap screws look similar, but hex cap screws are held to tighter tolerances with a chamfered point and washer face, while hex bolts use looser commercial tolerances suited to construction. For precision machine work, choose hex cap screws; for general structural and construction use, hex bolts are economical and effective.

Partial vs. Full Thread

Partially threaded hex bolts have a smooth shank under the head that improves shear performance in joints loaded perpendicular to the bolt axis, and helps align mating parts. Fully threaded versions (tap bolts) maximize thread engagement and work where the joint is loaded in tension. Choose based on how the joint is loaded.

Grades and Materials

Grade 2: low-cost carbon steel for non-critical use. Grade 5: medium carbon, quenched and tempered, the general industrial standard. Grade 8: alloy steel for high-strength applications. 18-8 and 316 stainless for corrosion resistance. Metric equivalents are classes 8.8, 10.9, and 12.9.

Dimensional Standards

Inch hex bolts conform to ASME B18.2.1; metric to DIN 931 / ISO 4014 (partial thread) and DIN 933 / ISO 4017 (full thread).

Selecting the Right Hex Bolt

Match grade to the required clamp load and pair with an equal-grade nut. Choose partial thread for shear joints, full thread for tension. Select finish for the environment, and verify thread pitch matches the nut. Allow two to three threads of projection past the nut for full engagement.

Use the filters to narrow by size, length, grade, material, and finish.

Bulk box quantities

Stock hex bolts in Bulk Box packs when you need quantity — common pack sizes on this site include 300, 400, 500, 600, 800, 1,000, 1,200, and 2,500 pcs depending on size. Always use the pack quantity shown on the product page.

Shop by strength and material

• Grade 8 fasteners
• 18-8 stainless steel fasteners
• 316 stainless steel fasteners