Source for High Strength SS Hex Cap Screws

[Jeff D]

I am in the process of rebedding the deck harware on my daysailer. I have removed the chain plates and have fabricated some beefy SS backing plates, but would like to replace the machine screws that are approaching 27 years old. Does anyone have a source of high quality SS hex cap screws (aka bolts) 5/16 x 2.75". I don't feel safe buying them from an unknown manufacturer.

[pete faga]

Jeff try boltdepot located in Weymouth mass.

[Jeff D]

Thanks. Do you know if they excercise any control over the source? I am more concerned with the manufacturer than just finding a source. WM sells the sizes that I need, but who knows where they were made. What I am afraid of is that an unknown brand was sourced in China, priced by the tonne.

[bottomscraper]

Like most things in life you have tradeoffs type 316 stainless is more corrosion resistant but not as strong,
18-8 (typically similar to type 304 SS) is stronger but not as corrosion resistant.

Check McMaster Carr.

If this link works it should be for type 316 SS Cap Screws:
http://www.mcmaster.com/#standard-cap-screws/=g4vhoz

and 18-8:
http://www.mcmaster.com/#standard-cap-screws/=g4vklo

[Russell]

Thanks. Do you know if they excercise any control over the source? I am more concerned with the manufacturer than just finding a source. WM sells the sizes that I need, but who knows where they were made. What I am afraid of is that an unknown brand was sourced in China, priced by the tonne.

I have never had an issue with any fasteners I have purchased from Jamestown Distributors. I cannot say the same for WM. I have no idea where JDs fasteners are made, it may well be china, but JDs core buisness is selling fasteners for marine use, so they cannot get away with selling inferior product like WM can.

[John Stone]

I am using milspec bolts and nuts for the chainplates on my CD 36 Far Reach. They are not cheap. If you are going to pay for them you should ask for the certification. A reputable vendor will provide it when you ask. Often, they will also give you a choice of where the part is made, e.g. Europe, Canada, the USA.

The vendor I use is: http://www.bsbolts.com/materialsgroup.html. They are located in Norfolk, VA.

[Jeff D]

Thanks for the leads. I don't mind paying a premium for the 4 bolts that hold up the mast.