Metallics JBSC838 8-32 x 3/8 in. Socket Button Head Hex Cap Screws - Alloy Steel Black - Each

The button head measures 0.298 to 0.312 inch across the head width and 0.077 to 0.087 inch in head height, so it sits almost flush and needs only about a 5/16 inch clearance footprint. Drive is an internal hex socket with a 0.052 inch socket depth, so engagement is shallow, seat the key fully before torquing.

No. The manufacturer states these are not recommended for critical, high-strength applications. They're rated at 1940 lb minimum tensile with a Rockwell C39-44 hardness, which is fine for panel, enclosure and equipment mounting, but if the connection is structural or life-safety, specify a fastener qualified for that duty instead.

No. These are not Buy American compliant and not ARRA compliant, with country of origin listed as multiple. On a job with domestic sourcing requirements you'll need a fastener with documented US origin.

They're supplied plain, meaning no protective plating over the black alloy steel. Alloy steel with no coating will corrode in wet or exterior conditions, so for damp, outdoor, or washdown locations use a stainless or plated machine screw. Indoors, in dry enclosures and panels, the plain finish is fine.

They ship in a jar of 100, and 100 is the order minimum. Shipping weight on the jar is 0.35 lbs. Good for a shop drawer or a van stock item rather than a one-off repair.

Yes, head and socket dimensions are made to ASME B18.3-2012, the standard for socket cap screws, and threads to ANSI/ASME B1.1. If a drawing calls out B18.3 socket button head, these satisfy that callout at 8-32 x 3/8 inch.

The button head gives a low, rounded profile with no projecting corners, so it won't snag wire or hands in a panel, and the internal hex drive takes more torque without camming out than a slotted or Phillips head. Trade-off is clearance: the socket is only 0.052 inch deep, so you need a clean hex key and a square approach. Where you need a flush surface instead, use a flat head countersunk screw.

It's catalogued for electrical, plumbing, heating and air conditioning work, typical uses being enclosure covers, device and equipment mounting, bracket and strut attachment where a low-profile head is wanted. Property maintenance and MRO crews stock the 8-32 x 3/8 size because it matches the tapped holes already in most boxes and panel hardware.