Lag Shields
What are lag shields? Lag shields are female expansion anchors made from a ribbed zinc alloy sleeve, used with lag screws in concrete, block, and brick. As the lag screw is driven into the internal tapered threads, the shield expands against the base material, cutting its own grip for a removable medium-duty hold.
How do lag shield anchors work?
A lag shield is a slotted, ribbed sleeve of Zamac zinc alloy with internal tapered threads. You drill a hole, insert the shield until flush, place the fixture over it, and drive a lag screw in through the fixture. As the screw threads into the tapered bore, it forces the two halves of the shield apart against the hole wall, while the external ribs bite the base material to resist spinning. Because the lag screw holds the fixture, removing the screw releases the fixture, so lag shields keep the connection serviceable. They come in short and long styles: short shields suit harder masonry and cut drilling time, while long shields give greater hold in softer, denser base materials. The soft zinc alloy also absorbs vibration.
Why choose lag shields
- Removable: the lag screw and fixture come off when needed.
- Versatile base: works in concrete, block, and brick.
- Short and long styles: matched to hard or soft masonry.
- Vibration tolerant: soft zinc alloy absorbs vibration.
Common applications for lag shields
- Fixtures and brackets to concrete and block
- Brick and mortar-joint fastening
- Medium-duty removable connections
- Handrails, fixtures, and equipment mounts
For a hammer-set permanent anchor, see strike anchors, and browse every option on the main anchors category.
Lag Shields FAQ
What screw do lag shields use?
A lag screw. Driving it into the shield's tapered internal threads expands the sleeve against the base material.
What is the difference between short and long lag shields?
Short shields suit harder masonry and cut drilling time, while long shields give greater hold in softer, denser base materials.
Are lag shields removable?
The fixture is removable by backing out the lag screw. The shield itself stays set in the hole.