Thumb screws are easy to install because they do not require the use of tools. Because most thumb screw heads are chamfered, they have a smooth fit. With a large head, thumb screws are easy to fully tighten. Thumb screws are used in many industries from electronics to furniture.

Standard materials for thumb screws are aluminum, steel, brass and nylon. Most companies offer the metals with a variety of finishes such as cadmium, chromium, black oxide and anodized. Consider the following when purchasing thumb screws:

1. Work with distributors who offer discounts for bulk orders

2. Find distributors that carry metric thumb nuts

3. Custom order thumb nuts when a standard nut will not work

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find a distributor of thumb screws who will give bulk discounts

When your business deals with a high volume of thumb screws, you want to get the best buy possible buy for your dollar. Many distributors pass a discount on to their customers who purchase in bulk.

I recommend: Purchase steel thumb screws, brass thumb screws, stainless steel thumb screws and thumb screw fasteners at Bolt Products. Get discounts for large quantity purchases. Shop at Barnhill Bolt for wholesale prices. This company has been in business for 46 years.

Purchase from a distributor that offers both metric and inch thumb screws

Not all thumb screw manufacturers and distributors deal with both metric and inches. Cutting confusing conversions from your process will speed up the work process. Make your work easier when you use a reliable distributor that has just what you need.

I recommend: Morton Machine is a thumb screw distributor that carries both metric thumb screws and inch thumb screws. Along with the option of an inch or metric thumb screw, find plastic thumb screws as well as the standard metals. Unicorp specializes in metric thumb screws. Their catalog has brass, stainless steel, carbon steel and aluminum thumb screws available in twenty finishes.

Use a manufacturer who specializes in custom orders

When the times arise that a standard thumb screw won't cut it, work with a manufacturer who is willing to customize thumb screws just for your business needs. Many manufacturers offer a large variety of standard screws as well as the option for custom orders.

I recommend: The Chicago Nut and Bolt company is a thumb screw manufacturer that fulfills custom orders. Specify any size, shape and quantity for the thumb screw that you need. Accurate Screw will fill your custom order in a week or less. They sell metric and inch screws and can custom order in either system.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Ask for companies to send you a sample of their thumb screws before you place an order. Request a sampling of metals as well as styles.