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TAMPERPROOF WEBSITE FAQs


1) What makes a screw tamperproof?

These are screws that cannot be removed with a standard screwdriver. They require special tools for removal. But “tamperproof” is a misnomer. They are best called a “tamper-resistant security screw” as none are guaranteed to offer 100% protection.


2) Which is the most tamperproof screw?

The One-Way screw offers the most security. But it should only be used for permanent installations. For screws that need to be removed and reinserted, the Phillips Pin-Head, Opsit®, or TP3® are highly tamper-resistant.


3) What is an “Imperial” screw?

An “imperial” screw is what Americans consider to be the standard screw.
There are two systems used for gaging screws: Imperial and Metric.
Tamperproof offers both.


4) Can I substitute a metric screw with a standard screw?

Metric and standard sheet metal screws are interchangeable, but not machine screws.
The basic unit, when measuring length, is 1 inch = 25.4 mm.


5) I don’t know the size of my screw. How can I gage it?

There are gages sold for screw identification. You cannot properly gage a screw using a ruler. If a screw gage is not available, then it is best to go to the fastener section of any hardware store and measure your screw against one that’s already identified.


6) What is the difference between a 10-32 and a 10-24 thread?

The 10-32 has 32 threads per inch, which is a fine thread.
A 10-24 has 24 threads per inch, which is a coarse thread.


7) Are sheet metal screws and self-tapping screws one of the same?

Yes, but they are not the same as a self-drilling screw.


8) Do you sell wood screws?

No, we do not sell wood screws, but you can use our sheet metal screw in wood.
A wood screw typically has a portion of a non-threaded shank under the head. A sheet metal screw is fully threaded.


9) Do you have a screw I can use in masonry or concrete?

No. None of our screws are recommended for use in masonry or concrete, unless you have an anchor to use along with it.


10) Why am I having so many problems installing the Phillips Pin-Head?

The Phillips Pin-Heads do, indeed, need special handling for installation.
We recommend the following:
· If a sheet metal screw, make sure you have a drilled pilot hole
· When using a power tool, disengage the power before the final torqueing
and finish the installation using hand-force only
· It is helpful to first insert the driver bit into the pin-head drive before you turn on the power drive


11) What is the difference between a Spanner Nut and a Breakaway Nut?

The spanner nut is removable with our matching tool.
The breakaway nut is not removable.


12) What’s the difference between a Snake Eyes® and a Spanner?

There is no difference. Snake Eyes® is Tamperproof’s trademark for our spanners.


13) Are your nuts compatible with stainless steel?

Yes.


14) Do you have a stronger spanner bit? Mine keep breaking.

We do not have a stronger bit.
If your bits keep breaking, lessen the torque before the final tightening.


15) What good are these screws if I can find the removal tool online?

These days anything can be found on the internet.
But most of the times, vandalism and theft tends to be impulsive and spontaneous. Perpetrators do not have the time to wait for such an order to be placed and delivered.


16) Can I return an item?

All claims for error or shortages must be made within 10 days after receipt of goods.
No goods shall be returned without authorization and an RMA. All authorized returns are subject to a restocking charge. Spanner and Pin-Head Tamper-Resistant tools are NOT guaranteed against over-torque, misuse, breakage or wear and are not returnable.


17) What is your largest diameter?

1/2-13 in imperial sizes, M6 in metric sizes


18) Can I get your screws painted?

We do not sell any painted screws. All our screws are stainless steel with a plain finish. Stainless steel is difficult to paint, though you might be able to find a plater who is able to do so. We do not handle that.


19) How do I remove a One-Way screw?

We do sell the “Un-Do-It” removal tool to give removal a head-start. Completing the removal usually has to be done by hand with a pliers. One-Way screws are meant for a permanent installation and should not be considered if removal is anticipated in the future.


20) What is the difference between a bolt and a screw?

A bolt and a screw are basically the same. It’s really just a matter of semantics. If you want to differentiate between the two, a bolt is used with a nut, a screw is not.


21) What is an undercut screw?

An undercut screw does not have a full conical head that tapers down to the shank.
Instead, it has a flat bottom under the head to allow for more threads.
It is typically used when screws are very short in length.


22) What is a countersunk screw?

A countersunk screw is another term for a flat head