Fasteners
Bolts
Hillman
$5-$25 per pack

Carriage Bolts for Clean, Tamper-Resistant Connections

Carriage bolts feature a smooth dome head with a square shoulder that pulls into wood to prevent spinning. This creates a clean, snag-free surface on the visible side while the nut and washer secure from the back for safe, attractive connections.

Key Features

  • Smooth dome head for snag-free surface
  • Square shoulder prevents spinning
  • Tamper-resistant design
  • Galvanized and stainless options
  • Through-bolt strength

Specifications

Material: Carbon steel
galvanized
or stainless | Head: Smooth dome | Shoulder: Square neck | Diameters: 1/4in to 1/2in | Lengths: 1in to 12in

Best For

Deck railings
Fence post connections
Playground structures
Pergola assembly

Compatible Materials

Dimensional lumber
Pressure-treated lumber
Cedar
Timbers
Metal plates

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • ✓ Smooth head is safe and clean-looking
  • ✓ Anti-spin square shoulder
  • ✓ Through-bolt maximum strength
  • ✓ Tamper-resistant from front side

Cons

  • ✗ Require through-hole and both-side access
  • ✗ Nut and washer required
  • ✗ Slower than screws

Installation Tips

Drill a hole matching bolt diameter through all pieces. Insert from the finished side, add washer and nut on back, tighten until square shoulder seats into wood.

Frequently Asked Questions