#carriagebolt

What Are Carriage Bolts?

A carriage bolt is a type of bolt that has a round, smooth head and a square section under the head. This square part helps keep the bolt from turning when you tighten the nut.

Unlike regular bolts, carriage bolts do not have a slot or shape on the head for tools. They are tightened from the nut side.

Main Parts of a Carriage Bolt

A carriage bolt has three main parts:

Round Head – Smooth and dome-shaped top

Square Neck – Fits into the material to stop rotation

Threaded Shaft – The lower part where the nut is attached

How Do Carriage Bolts Work?

Carriage bolts are mainly used with wood.

First, you insert the bolt into a hole in the wood

The square neck locks into the wood and prevents spinning

Then you tighten a nut on the other side

This makes the connection strong and stable.

Materials Used

Carriage bolts are made from different materials depending on the use:

Steel – Strong and commonly used

Stainless Steel – Rust-resistant, good for outdoor use

Zinc-Coated Steel – Protected from corrosion

Brass – Used for decorative purposes

Common Uses of Carriage Bolts

Carriage bolts are mostly used in wood-related work:

Furniture making

Wooden structures

Fencing and decking

Doors and panels

Playground equipment

They are also used in metal-to-wood connections.

Advantages of Carriage Bolts

Here are some key benefits:

Smooth finish – No sharp edges on the head

No slipping – Square neck keeps it in place

Strong hold – Provides tight and secure fastening

Safe design – Reduces risk of injury or tampering

How to Choose the Right Carriage Bolt

When selecting a carriage bolt, consider:

Length and diameter

Material type

Type of project (indoor or outdoor)

Load requirements

Choosing the correct size and material is important for safety and durability.

Tips for Proper Use

Drill the correct hole size for a tight fit

Make sure the square neck is fully seated

Use washers for better support

Tighten the nut properly, but do not overtighten

Conclusion

Carriage bolts are simple, strong, and very useful fasteners, especially for wood projects. Their unique design makes them easy to use and provides a neat and secure finish.

Not all bolts are meant to stand out. Some are forged to blend in—clean, smooth, and flush with the surface. Our Flat Head Carriage Bolts are designed to disappear into wood while still delivering serious strength.

Perfect for: 🪵 Timber frame joinery 🚪 Rustic doors & gates 🪑 Furniture builds 🛠️ Hidden strength with a handcrafted touch

Each one is hand-distressed, forged for durability, and finished with that rugged, Old West character. Because even the low-profile hardware deserves to be made right.

Need a long, slender bolt that won’t sacrifice looks? Our 1/4 x 8 carriage bolt is perfect for wood joinery, gate hardware, rustic furniture, and exposed beam accents. With its domed head and square neck, it stays locked in place while adding a touch of hand-forged character.

Not all bolts are created equal. When you're choosing hardware for your next project, understanding the difference between a hex bolt and a carriage bolt can save time, stress, and even improve the final look.

So, hex bolt vs carriage bolt — what’s the deal?

Hex bolts have six-sided heads and are ideal when you need access from both sides for tightening. They're rugged, versatile, and often used in heavy-duty construction.

Carriage bolts feature a domed head and square neck, locking into wood to prevent spinning. They’re perfect for visible applications where a clean, finished look matters.