Set Screws

Set Screws Cup Point

Set screws with a recessed cup tip that bites into a shaft for a strong, permanent hold, the most common general-purpose point.

Security Set Screws

Set screws with a tamper-resistant drive that requires a special bit, used to deter unauthorized adjustment or removal.

18-8 Stainless Steel

Set Screws Dog Point

Set screws with a cylindrical extended tip that seats into a matching hole or slot to align and hold parts without marring the shaft.

Metric 18-8 Stainless Steel (A2)

Set Screws Half Dog Point

Set screws with a shorter cylindrical tip for the same locating function as a dog point where less protrusion is needed.

18-8 Stainless Steel

Set Screws Cone Point

Set screws with a sharp cone tip that seats into a matching countersink for high holding power and precise permanent location.

Set Screws Knurled Cup Point

Set screws with a knurled cup tip that grips harder and resists loosening under vibration.

What are set screws?

Set screws are headless fasteners designed to lock components in place—most often securing a collar, gear, or pulley to a shaft. With the drive recessed into the body and no external head, they sit at or below the surface for a clean, low-profile hold in tight spaces.

Which point styles do set screws come in?

Cup point — general-purpose point that bites into the shaft for strong holding power.
Knurled cup point — serrated edge increases grip and resists loosening under vibration.
Flat point — flat bearing surface for frequent adjustment or where you want to minimize shaft marking.
Cone point — sharp tip for precise location; penetrates the mating surface for maximum holding strength.
Dog point — cylindrical tip fits into a prepared hole or slot for positive indexing.
Half-dog (extended flat) point — shorter dog for shallow holes/slots; easier assembly alignment.
Soft/nylon/brass tip — protects finished shafts while maintaining friction.

What drive styles do set screws use?

Hex-socket (Allen) — the most common for high torque in tight spaces.
Slotted — simple service with a flat screwdriver.
Square / hex socket / Torx® — specialty drives used on select sizes for added torque or security.

Materials and finishes for set screws

Alloy steel black oxide — high strength with low-glare finish for indoor use.
18-8 / 304 stainless steel — corrosion resistance for most environments.
316 stainless steel — added resistance in marine or chloride exposure.
Brass / nylon-tip combinations — protect soft or finished shafts.

How do I size and specify set screws?

Order by diameter × thread × length (e.g., 1/4″-20 × 3/8″, 10-32 × 1/4″, M6-1.0 × 8 mm). Length is the overall screw length. Choose the point style, drive, and material/finish to match the shaft and environment.

When should I use each set screw point style?

Cup / knurled cup — general machinery, pulleys, collars; good holding strength.
Flat — frequent repositioning or against a flat machined spot; minimizes marring.
Cone — precise location or where penetration into the mating part is acceptable.
Dog / half-dog — alignment in a detent hole or slot; positive indexing.
Soft-tip — protect chromed, ground, or soft shafts.

Common applications for set screws

Securing collars, gears, sprockets, and pulleys to rotating shafts
Locating knobs, levers, and handles on flats
Locking components in instruments, appliances, and fixtures
Assembly of jigs, tooling, and precision mechanisms

Installation tips for set screws

Match the point style to the shaft: use a machined flat for flat points; a detent hole for dog/half-dog; avoid marking critical surfaces unless specified.
Use the correct hex key and seat fully to prevent stripping; tighten to the recommended torque for the size/material.
Apply a suitable threadlocker or use a second “jam” set screw when vibration is present.
Do not over-torque—excess force can deform threads or damage the shaft.