Best Hex Nuts

For the uninitiated, hex nuts might seem like simple, irrelevant hardware components. But for anyone who's ever worked on a construction project, assembled furniture, or repaired a vehicle knows, the quality of your hex nuts can make a significant difference in the ease and durability of your project. In this review, we'll delve into the best hex nuts of 2023, looking at factors like material quality, thread precision, finish, and overall value.

What are Hex Nuts?

Hex nuts are fasteners with a threaded hole in the center. They're typically six-sided, hence the name "hex", and are used alongside a mating bolt to secure multiple parts together.

Parameters to Consider When Buying Hex Nuts

Material

The material of a hex nut determines its strength, corrosion resistance, and suitability for specific applications.

• Stainless Steel: This is a common choice due to its resistance to rust and corrosion. It's ideal for outdoor applications or environments with moisture.
• Carbon Steel: These hex nuts are known for their high strength and durability. However, they're more prone to corrosion unless they're coated or plated.
• Brass: Brass hex nuts are corrosion-resistant and have good electrical conductivity. They're often used in electrical applications.
• Aluminum: These are light, corrosion-resistant, and non-magnetic. They're suitable for light-duty applications and environments where weight is a concern.

Size

Hex nuts come in various sizes. The size you need depends on the bolt you're using it with. The two should match in terms of diameter and thread count (threads per inch).

Grade

Hex nuts have different grades indicating their strength. In the U.S, grades 2, 5, and 8 are common. Grade 2 hex nuts are for light-duty applications, while grade 8 ones are for heavy-duty applications.

Coating

Coating enhances a hex nut’s performance in certain environments. For example, zinc plating improves corrosion resistance, while a black oxide coating provides a certain level of rust protection and reduces light reflection.

How to Choose the Right Hex Nuts

• Understand Your Needs: Before purchasing, understand the specific requirements of your project. Consider the environment, the load the hex nut will bear, and whether it will be exposed to elements such as water or chemicals.
• Consider the Bolt: Hex nuts and bolts go hand in hand. The size, type, and grade of the bolt will influence the type of hex nut you need.
• Check the Standards: Hex nuts should conform to specific standards depending on their application. For example, automotive applications usually require SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) standards, while construction may require ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standards.

Our Top Picks of 2023:

1. The Hillman Group 830602 Stainless Steel Hex Nut

The Hillman Group has been a trusted name in fasteners for decades, and their 830602 Stainless Steel Hex Nuts are a testament to their reliability and quality. These hex nuts are made of 18-8 stainless steel, ensuring excellent corrosion resistance and strength. They provide a secure, tight fit with accurate threading and are suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. The Hillman Group offers these hex nuts in a variety of sizes, making them a versatile choice for a wide range of projects.

2. Prime-Line 9071969 Hex Nuts

Prime-Line's 9071969 Hex Nuts come in A307 Grade A Zinc Plated Steel, which is a good balance between affordability and durability. The zinc plating provides decent resistance against rust, while the Grade A steel ensures that these hex nuts can handle substantial loads. These nuts are also precision threaded to ensure a perfect fit with your bolts. They might not be as corrosion-resistant as stainless steel options, but they're an excellent choice for indoor applications where exposure to harsh elements is limited.

3. Fastenere Stainless Steel 316 Hex Nut

The Fastenere Stainless Steel 316 Hex Nut is an excellent choice for those seeking top-tier corrosion resistance and durability. The 316 stainless steel is known for its superior resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, making these nuts ideal for marine or high chloride environments. The Fastenere hex nuts feature precise threading and a clean finish, ensuring a secure fit and smooth installation.

4. The Hillman Group 43990 Metric Hex Nut

If you often work with metric fasteners, The Hillman Group 43990 Metric Hex Nuts are an excellent purchase. These hex nuts are made from high-quality stainless steel and are available in a variety of metric sizes. These nuts offer excellent corrosion resistance and are highly reliable for both indoor and outdoor use. The precise metric threading ensures a perfect fit with your bolts.

5. Bolt Dropper 304 Stainless Steel Hex Nut

Bolt Dropper's 304 Stainless Steel Hex Nuts offer a great combination of quality and affordability. These hex nuts are made from 304 stainless steel, offering good corrosion resistance and strength. The Bolt Dropper hex nuts are available in a wide range of sizes, and they come in larger packs, providing excellent value for your money. These hex nuts are a great choice for those who need a large quantity of quality hex nuts without breaking the bank.

6. Glarks 510 Pieces Metric Stainless Steel Hex Nuts Assortment Kit

The Glarks 510 Pieces Metric Stainless Steel Hex Nuts Assortment Kit is an excellent choice for those who want variety. This kit includes a wide range of metric sizes, making it perfect for those who frequently work on diverse projects. The hex nuts are made from stainless steel, providing good corrosion resistance. While the overall quality is slightly lower than the single-size packs from other brands, this kit offers excellent value and versatility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use stainless steel hex nuts with carbon steel bolts?

It's generally advisable to use the same material for both the bolt and the nut to prevent galvanic corrosion.

Are all hex nuts the same?

No. Hex nuts differ in size, material, grade, and coating. These factors determine their suitability for different applications.

What if I can't find the exact size of the hex nut I need?

If the exact size isn't available, it's better to go for the next size up rather than down to ensure the hex nut can accommodate the bolt.

Conclusion

Choosing the right hex nuts for your project is crucial. Whether you need superior corrosion resistance, a specific size, or the best value for money, there's a product out there that fits your needs. The Hillman Group and Fastenere offer high-quality stainless steel options that are perfect for harsh environments. Prime-Line provides a balance between cost and durability, while Bolt Dropper offers great value for those needing large quantities. For those seeking variety, Glarks' assortment kit is a fantastic choice. Regardless of your specific needs, ensure to buy hex nuts that are robust, have precise threading, and come from a reputable brand.