Simpson 3-1/2" Premium Common Nail in 316 Stainless Steel is engineered for demanding fastening applications where standard nails fall short. Built from passivated Type 316 stainless steel with an annular-ring shank and a 16d penny size, this nail delivers exceptional corrosion resistance and pull-out strength in severe-exposure environments - including coastal construction, seaside structures, and any application where saltwater, moisture, or harsh weather are ongoing concerns. Made in the United States by Simpson, it meets ASTM F1667 specifications and brings professional-grade durability to every drive.

Key Features

• Type 316 stainless steel, passivated - resists corrosion in saltwater, marine, and severe-exposure environments where lesser alloys fail prematurely
• Annular-ring shank - locks into wood fibers for superior pull-out resistance and greater long-term holding power compared to smooth-shank nails
• Circle pattern head - reduces glare during installation and accepts surface finishes, keeping exposed fastener heads visually clean
• Blunt diamond point - drives straight and true while reducing the risk of board splitting, especially in dense or dry lumber
• ASTM F1667 compliant - meets recognized specifications for post-frame ring-shank nails, supporting code-compliance on professional job sites
• 8 gauge / 0.162" shank diameter - provides a robust cross-section for high-load connections in structural and framing applications
• 3-1/2" length (16d) - suited for dimensional lumber framing, decking, and heavy wood-to-wood fastening tasks

Why This Product

• Built for coastal and waterfront construction - Type 316 stainless steel is the recognized standard alloy for saltwater-exposed fasteners, making these nails the right choice where standard galvanized or 304 stainless nails corrode and stain
• Holds tighter over time - the annular-ring shank bites into wood and resists seasonal movement and vibration, reducing the risk of nail back-out in deck boards, siding, and framing over the life of the structure
• Passivation adds a critical layer of protection - the passivation treatment enhances the natural corrosion resistance of the stainless steel surface, extending service life in chemically aggressive and high-humidity environments
• Verified performance, not just a claim - ASTM F1667 compliance means the nail geometry, materials, and mechanical properties have been independently validated, giving contractors and inspectors documented confidence in the fastener

Specifications

• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Material: Type 316 Stainless Steel
• Gauge: 8
• Penny Size: 16d
• Length: 3-1/2 in.
• Head Diameter: 1/3 in.
• Shank Diameter: 0.162 in.
• Shank Type: Annular-Ring Shank
• Head Pattern: Circle Head
• Point Type: Diamond Point
• Approx. Count per Lb.: 44
• Standard: ASTM F1667
• Country of Origin: United States

Available Pack Options

• T16AKR1: 1 Lb (44)
• T16AKR5: 5 Lb (220)
• T16AKRB: 25 Lb (1100)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Type 316 stainless steel specified for coastal and marine fastening applications?

Type 316 stainless steel contains molybdenum, which significantly increases its resistance to chloride-induced corrosion - the primary cause of fastener failure in saltwater and seaside environments. The passivation process applied to these nails further enhances that resistance by reinforcing the protective oxide layer on the steel surface, making them well suited for severe-exposure conditions.

How does the annular-ring shank improve holding performance compared to a smooth-shank nail?

The annular-ring shank features rings along the shank that interlock with wood fibers as the nail is driven, mechanically resisting withdrawal forces. This design provides greater pull-out resistance than a smooth shank, which is especially important in decking, siding, and framing applications subject to load cycles, wind, or seasonal wood movement.

What does ASTM F1667 compliance mean for this nail?

ASTM F1667 is a recognized industry standard that specifies the dimensional, material, and mechanical requirements for driven fasteners including post-frame ring-shank nails. Compliance means this nail has been manufactured to meet those verified criteria, which can support code compliance and project documentation on professional construction sites.

What is the purpose of the blunt diamond point, and how does it help during installation?

The blunt diamond point is shaped to drive straight and reduce the wedging effect that can cause lumber to split along the grain. This is particularly useful when nailing near the ends of boards or working with dry, dense wood species where a sharp point might initiate cracks - helping maintain the structural integrity of the material being fastened.

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