Security Set Screws
What are security set screws?
Security set screws are headless, flush-install fasteners that use tamper-resistant drives (for example pin-in hex or pin-in Torx/6-lobe). The recessed drive requires a matching security bit to install or remove, helping deter unauthorized access to collars, knobs, covers, and equipment panels.
Why choose security set screws
- Tamper resistance – specialty drives discourage casual removal in public or high-traffic areas.
- Low-profile, headless design – sits at or below the surface for a clean look and minimal snag risk.
- Strong holding power – machine threads and point styles provide reliable grip on shafts and components.
- Material options – stainless steel choices support indoor/outdoor use when corrosion resistance matters.
Which security drives do set screws use
- Pin-in hex (security Allen) – compact, good torque in tight spaces.
- Pin-in Torx / 6-lobe – high torque transfer and reduced cam-out.
- Other specialty drives – one-way or proprietary patterns on select sizes.
Point styles for security set screws
- Cup / knurled cup – general-purpose bite on round shafts; knurled edge adds grip under vibration.
- Flat – bears on a machined flat; minimizes marring and allows frequent repositioning.
- Cone – sharp location point when penetration is acceptable.
- Dog / half-dog – tip locates in a hole or slot for positive indexing.
Materials and finishes for security set screws
- 18-8 / 304 stainless steel – dependable corrosion resistance for most non-marine outdoor and indoor uses.
- 316 stainless steel – added resistance for coastal, chloride, or harsh environments.
- Alloy steel black oxide – high strength for dry interiors (security drive availability varies).
How do you size and specify security set screws
Order by diameter × thread × length (e.g., 10-32 × 3/16″, 1/4″-20 × 3/8″, M6-1.0 × 8 mm). Length is the overall end-to-end length. Choose the security drive and point style to match your tool set, shaft condition, and holding needs.
Common applications for security set screws
- Public fixtures and access panels where tamper resistance is required
- Battery compartments, hubs, knobs, and instrument collars
- Transportation, kiosks, and shared equipment
- Light industrial and OEM products with user-accessible fasteners
Installation tips for security set screws
- Use the correct security bit fully seated to avoid stripping the recess pin.
- Align square to the part; tighten to the recommended torque for the size/material.
- Add threadlocker or a jam set screw for vibration-prone assemblies.
- Protect finished shafts by using a flat or soft-tip style, or by providing a small machined flat.
Security considerations for security set screws
- Tamper-resistant patterns deter casual removal; they are not a substitute for high-security locking systems.
- Maintain control of matching bits; specify proprietary drives where policy requires controlled tooling.
Security Set Screws FAQs
See the accordion below for quick answers on drive types, sizing, outdoor use, tool selection, and choosing the right point style for a shafted assembly.
A tamper-resistant recess (e.g., pin-in hex or pin-in Torx) that requires a matching security bit to install or remove.
Both are tamper-resistant. Pin-in Torx generally provides higher torque transfer and less cam-out; pin-in hex fits very tight spaces and common Allen tooling families.
Yes, use stainless (304 for general exterior; 316 for coastal/chemical exposure). Pair materials to minimize galvanic corrosion.
Cup for general bite, knurled cup for added grip under vibration, flat for a machined flat or when you want minimal marring, cone for precise location, dog/half-dog for indexing into a hole or slot.
Order by diameter × thread × overall length (e.g., 10-32 × 3/16″ or M6-1.0 × 8 mm). There is no external head; the length is end-to-end.
Often yes, tamper resistance doesn’t prevent vibration loosening. Use threadlocker or a jam set screw where movement is a risk.
Use the correct, fully seated bit and proper torque to prevent damage. If a pin is damaged, removal may require specialty extractors and part replacement.
They can be, provided threads and the recess are undamaged. Replace any screw with a rounded socket, damaged pin, or deformed point.
Choose 316 for marine/coastal or chloride-rich environments; use 304 for most standard outdoor/indoor applications.
They’re tamper-resistant, not tamper-proof. For critical security, combine with controlled access, guards, or additional locking methods.