Simpson 2" Premium Common Nail in 316 Stainless Steel is engineered for demanding fastening applications where corrosion resistance is non-negotiable. Built from passivated Type 316 stainless steel with an 11-gauge annular-ring shank, this 6d nail delivers exceptional holding power in severe-exposure environments - including coastal construction, seaside decking, and other applications where saltwater, moisture, and harsh outdoor conditions would quickly degrade standard fasteners. Made in the United States by Simpson, it combines a circle-pattern head, blunt diamond point, and passivated finish to meet the performance expectations of professional contractors and builders working in the most challenging conditions.

Key Features

• Type 316 stainless steel construction - provides superior resistance to corrosion from saltwater, moisture, and chemicals, making this nail the right choice for seaside and severe-exposure environments where standard steel fasteners would rust and fail
• Passivated finish - an additional surface treatment that enhances the natural corrosion resistance of the 316 stainless steel, extending the service life of the fastener in wet and coastal conditions
• Annular-ring shank design - the ringed shank bites into wood fibers and dramatically increases pull-out resistance compared to smooth-shank nails, providing greater long-term holding power in structural and finish applications
• Circle-pattern head - reduces surface glare and accepts paint, stain, and other surface finishes, resulting in a cleaner, more professional appearance on exposed installations
• Blunt diamond point - drives straight and true while reducing the risk of board splitting, which is especially valuable in hardwoods, dense decking lumber, and thin stock
• 11-gauge wire diameter (0.12") - a robust shank diameter that balances driving ease with structural strength, suited for common framing and fastening tasks
• 2" length (6d penny size) - a versatile nail length appropriate for a wide range of common fastening and decking applications without over-penetrating thinner material

Why This Product

• If you are building or repairing structures in coastal or marine environments, Type 316 stainless steel is a recognized standard for corrosion resistance in saltwater exposure - this nail is purpose-built for exactly those conditions rather than being a generic stainless option
• The annular-ring shank means fasteners stay where you drive them - pull-out resistance is significantly higher than smooth-shank alternatives, which matters in decking, siding, and any application subject to wind uplift, thermal movement, or heavy loads
• Passivation goes beyond base material - by treating the stainless steel surface to remove contaminants and reinforce the protective oxide layer, this nail resists corrosion even after being cut, driven, and exposed to the elements over many years
• The circle-pattern head and blunt diamond point together address two of the most common jobsite frustrations - surface blemishes from glare and board splitting from aggressive point geometry - giving you a cleaner result with fewer wasted boards

Specifications

• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Material / Coating: Type 316 Stainless Steel
• Gauge: 11
• Penny Size: 6d
• Length: 2 in.
• Head Diameter: 1/4 in.
• Shank Diameter: 0.12 in.
• Shank Type: Annular-Ring Shank
• Head Pattern: Circle Head
• Point Type: Diamond Point
• Approx. Count per Lb.: 144
• Country of Origin: United States

Available Pack Options

• T6AKR1: 1 Lb (144)
• T6AKR5: 5 Lb (720)
• T6AKRB: 25 Lb (3600)

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Type 316 stainless steel better than standard stainless steel for coastal applications?

Type 316 stainless steel contains molybdenum in addition to the chromium and nickel found in standard 304 stainless steel. This addition significantly improves resistance to chloride-induced corrosion - the type caused by salt air and saltwater spray common in seaside environments. Combined with passivation, these nails are specifically suited for severe-exposure conditions where ordinary stainless fasteners may still corrode over time.

What does passivation mean, and why does it matter for these nails?

Passivation is a chemical treatment applied to stainless steel fasteners after manufacturing that removes surface iron contamination and reinforces the natural chromium oxide protective layer. This process enhances corrosion resistance beyond what the base material alone provides, ensuring the nail maintains its protective surface even after being driven and exposed to moisture, salt, and outdoor elements over the long term.

What is the benefit of an annular-ring shank compared to a smooth shank?

The annular-ring shank features rings along the shank that interlock with wood fibers as the nail is driven. This dramatically increases pull-out resistance compared to a smooth-shank nail of the same size, giving the fastener greater holding power. This is particularly important in applications subject to wind uplift, lateral loads, or movement - such as decking, siding, and structural sheathing in coastal construction.

Why does the circle-pattern head accept surface finishes better than a plain head?

The circle pattern embossed on the head reduces the smooth reflective surface area, which minimizes glare on exposed installations. More practically, the textured pattern provides a mechanical key that helps paint, stain, and other surface finishes adhere more effectively to the nail head, allowing the fastener to blend into the finished surface rather than standing out as a bright spot.

Note: Product dimensions may differ from picture. Please see the item description above for specifications.