Simpson 8d x 2-1/2" Annular Ring Shank Box Nail in 304 Stainless Steel is a premium fastener designed for demanding construction applications where corrosion resistance and superior holding power are essential. Crafted from Type 304 stainless steel, this 12-gauge box nail delivers lasting performance in outdoor structures, decking, wood foundations, and moisture-prone environments where standard steel fasteners would corrode and fail. The annular ring shank design provides dramatically increased withdrawal resistance compared to smooth-shank alternatives, making it a trusted choice for structural and finish carpentry projects requiring a secure, lasting attachment.

Key Features

• Type 304 stainless steel construction - provides strong corrosion resistance in outdoor, humid, and chemically exposed environments, extending the life of the fastener and the materials it joins
• Annular ring shank design - dramatically increases withdrawal resistance compared to smooth-shank nails, creating a more secure attachment that resists loosening over time due to wood movement, vibration, or load stress
• Full round head with checkered pattern - the textured checker pattern blends naturally with wood grain, reduces glare from sunlight, and accepts surface finishes for a cleaner, more finished appearance
• Diamond point tip - allows cleaner, more efficient driving into lumber, reducing the chance of splitting wood fibers during installation
• 12 gauge, 2-1/2" length (8d penny size) - a versatile box nail dimension well-suited for framing, sheathing, siding, and structural wood assembly applications
• 0.113" shank diameter with 1/4" head diameter - the slender shank profile reduces wood splitting risk while the broad head ensures strong surface bearing for reliable load transfer
• Made in the United States - domestic manufacturing supports consistent quality control and meets standards for use in residential and commercial construction

Why This Product

• Built for corrosion-prone environments: Type 304 stainless steel resists rust and degradation in outdoor, wet, and chemically active conditions - making this nail a reliable long-term fastener for wood structures exposed to weather, humidity, or preservative-treated lumber.
• Superior holding power where it counts: The annular ring shank actively grips wood fibers as the nail is driven, providing withdrawal resistance that far exceeds smooth-shank nails - critical for applications where structural integrity must be maintained over years of use.
• Meets permanent wood foundation standards: Stainless steel nails of this type are recommended for permanent wood foundation construction per ANSI/AF&PA Permanent Wood Foundations Design Specifications, giving builders confidence in code-appropriate fastener selection.
• Finish-friendly head design: The checkered full round head is engineered to accept stains, paints, and surface finishes, allowing the fastener to disappear into the finished surface - ideal for visible decking, trim, or siding work.

Specifications

• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Coating/Material: Type 304 Stainless Steel
• Gauge: 12
• Penny Size: 8d
• Length: 2-1/2 in.
• Head Diameter: 1/4 in.
• Shank Diameter: 0.113 in.
• Shank Type: Annular-Ring Shank
• Head Type: Full Round Head
• Head Pattern: Checkered
• Point Type: Diamond Point
• Approx. Count per Lb.: 138
• Country of Origin: United States

Available Pack Options

• S8ABN1: 1 Lb (138)
• S8ABN5: 5 Lb (690)
• S8ABNB: 25 Lb (3450)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Type 304 and Type 316 stainless steel for nails?

Type 304 stainless steel provides strong corrosion resistance suitable for most outdoor and moisture-exposed construction applications. Type 316 stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance and is specifically recommended for seaside or coastal applications where exposure to saltwater or highly corrosive marine environments is a concern. If your project is near the ocean or involves extreme salt exposure, Type 316 may be the more appropriate choice.

Why use an annular ring shank nail instead of a smooth-shank nail?

The annular ring shank features rings along the shank that grip wood fibers as the nail is driven, significantly increasing withdrawal resistance compared to a smooth-shank nail. This makes annular ring shank nails a better choice for applications where the fastener may experience uplift forces, wood movement, or vibration over time - such as decking, siding, and structural wood foundation work.

Are these nails recommended for use with pressure-treated lumber?

Yes. Stainless steel nails are among the fastener types recommended for use with pressure-treated lumber, as the stainless steel resists the corrosive effects of the chemical preservatives used in treated wood. Always verify the specific treatment type and consult current building code requirements for your application when selecting fasteners for pressure-treated lumber.

What does the checkered head pattern on these nails do?

The checkered pattern on the full round head serves multiple practical purposes: it blends with the natural grain pattern of wood to reduce visual contrast, it minimizes glare from sunlight on exposed nail heads, and it helps the head accept surface finishes such as paint or stain. This makes the checkered head particularly useful for visible exterior applications like decking and siding where aesthetics matter alongside performance.

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