The Simpson Strong-Drive XE Exterior Structural Metal Screw (#10 x 3/4 in.) is a precision-engineered fastener built for demanding cold-formed steel applications where performance and corrosion resistance cannot be compromised. Featuring a 5/16 in. hex washer head, 16 threads per inch machine threading, and a dual hardened heat treatment, this screw delivers efficient drilling, exceptional ductility, and long-term holding power in metal-to-metal connections. Protected by a Quik Guard gray coating, it is engineered specifically for exterior structural use - making it a reliable choice wherever steel framing meets harsh outdoor conditions.

Key Features

• 5/16 in. hex washer head - provides high torque transfer and a broad bearing surface, reducing the chance of cam-out during installation in structural metal applications
• 16 threads per inch (16 TPI) machine threads - creates a strong, consistent thread engagement in cold-formed steel for reliable, load-rated connections
• Dual hardened heat treatment - improves drilling efficiency, maximizes ductility, and reduces the potential for hydrogen embrittlement, ensuring structural integrity under real-world loading conditions
• Quik Guard coating - delivers corrosion protection for exterior and outdoor applications where exposure to moisture and the elements is a concern
• Meets ASTM C1513 drill-time performance standards - independently verified drilling efficiency so you can count on consistent results in the field
• No. 2 drill point - self-drilling tip penetrates cold-formed steel without pre-drilling, saving installation time
• 0.400 in. head diameter, 0.190 in. shank diameter - engineered proportions that balance clamping force with minimal material disruption in steel framing assemblies
• Gray color - blends with galvanized and coated steel connectors for a clean, professional finished appearance

Why This Product

• The only fastener load rated for Simpson Strong-Tie L70Z and LS70Z connectors - if you are installing New Castle Steel Elevations steel deck framing, this screw is not just a good choice; it is the specifically approved fastener for those connector applications, eliminating guesswork on code-compliant assemblies
• Engineered specifically for exterior metal-to-metal structural work - the combination of Quik Guard corrosion-resistant coating and dual hardened heat treatment addresses the two most common failure modes in outdoor cold-formed steel fastening: corrosion degradation and fastener brittleness
• Self-drilling No. 2 drill point with ASTM C1513-verified performance - the screw drills its own hole in cold-formed steel, reducing labor time while conforming to a recognized industry performance benchmark
• Hex drive design at 5/16 in. - compatible with standard hex-drive impact tools and driver bits, making it practical for production framing where speed and driver accessibility matter

Specifications

• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Screw Size: #10
• Length: 3/4 in.
• Head Type: Hex Washer Head
• Head Diameter: 0.400 in.
• Shank Diameter: 0.190 in.
• Drive Type: 5/16 in. Hex
• Thread Type: Machine Threads
• TPI: 16
• Max. Grip Length: 0.291 in.
• Point Type: Drill Point
• Point Size: 2
• Coating/Finish: Quik Guard Coating
• Color: Gray
• Country of Origin: Taiwan

Available Pack Options

• XEQ34B1016M-1: 1000 Pk
• XEQ34B1016M -3: 3000 Pk

Approved Applications

• Fastening for Cold-Formed Steel

Frequently Asked Questions

What connector systems is this screw specifically load rated for?

The Strong-Drive XE Exterior Structural Metal screw (#10 x 3/4 in.) is the only fastener load rated for Simpson Strong-Tie L70Z and LS70Z connectors when used with New Castle Steel Elevations steel deck framing. Using the correct load-rated fastener is essential for code-compliant structural assemblies.

Does this screw require pre-drilling when used in cold-formed steel?

No. The No. 2 drill point is a self-drilling tip designed to penetrate cold-formed steel without pre-drilling. It also meets ASTM C1513 drill-time performance standards, confirming consistent and efficient penetration in cold-formed steel applications.

Why does this screw use a dual hardened heat treatment?

The dual hardened heat treatment serves three purposes: it improves drilling efficiency so the screw cuts cleanly through metal, it maximizes ductility so the fastener can absorb structural loads without becoming brittle, and it reduces the potential for hydrogen embrittlement - a failure mode that can occur in high-strength steel fasteners and compromise long-term structural performance.

What corrosion protection does this screw provide for exterior use?

The XE screw is coated with Quik Guard coating, which provides corrosion resistance suited to exterior structural applications. The gray color of the coating is consistent with the appearance of galvanized steel framing connectors commonly used in cold-formed steel assemblies.