Guide 01 · Fastener Reference Guide
Drive Types & Head Styles
The drives and head styles you'll meet across the fastener range, and what each one is good for.
Text version — searchable and screen-reader friendly
Drive types
| Drive | Description |
|---|---|
| Hex head | One of the few drives turned by using the outside of the head rather than the inside. Installed with a socket, usually on a ratcheting tool or power driver. |
| Socket, hex or Allen | Contains a hex-shaped internal socket, tightened or loosened with a hex key or Allen wrench. |
| Slotted | Provides less torque than other drives and is subject to slippage. |
| Slotted hex drive | Hex head with a built-in washer and slot. |
| Phillips | The most common screw drive. Developed as one of the first alternatives to the slotted drive. |
| One way | Often called security screws — they cannot be removed without special tools. |
| Combination | Usually a combination of a slotted and a Phillips drive. |
| Square | The four 90° angles provide strong torque and decrease the possibility of cam-out. |
| Pozidriv | Designed to allow more torque and greater engagement than Phillips drives. |
| Torx® | A six-lobe drive, also called Torx® style or star drive, with a six-pointed star shape. |
Head styles
| Head | Description |
|---|---|
| Hex | Typically used on larger bolts; hex heads allow for greater torque. |
| Pan | Used in many applications where a flat bearing surface is required. |
| Hex flange | Includes a circular flange under the head that acts like a washer to distribute the load. |
| Countersunk (flat) | Installed in a countersunk hole for a flat surface. |
| Cup | A cup head bolt is a bolt with a large, domed head. |
| Round | Tall domed heads, used primarily for decorative purposes. |
| Hex socket | A cap screw with a cylindrical head and hexagonal drive hole. |
| Cheese | A cylindrically shaped screw head with an outer edge. Often used in industrial applications. |
| Button | Rounded head, most often used in socket-driven screws. |
| Oval | Low domed and countersunk heads, used primarily for decorative purposes. |
Reference only. Drive and head availability varies by product, material and finish — check the product listing or talk to our team.