The Simpson Strong-Drive SDWS Framing Screw with Quik Guard Coating is a structurally rated wood framing fastener engineered to replace common nails - including 16d, 10d, and 8d nails - in a wide range of framing applications. At 0.160 in. shank diameter and 3 in. length, this screw delivers superior holding power and pull-out resistance compared to traditional nails, making it a trusted choice for carpenters, contractors, and framers who need code-compliant performance in structural wood assemblies. The tan Quik Guard finish provides a clean, consistent look while the screw's purpose-built geometry is optimized for fast, controlled installation in common wood framing tasks.

Key Features

• Quik Guard Coating (Tan) - provides a corrosion-resistant finish suited for framing environments, with a tan color that blends naturally with wood surfaces for a clean appearance
• 0.160 in. Shank Diameter - a heavier-gauge profile than standard nails, delivering greater shear strength and pull-out resistance in structural framing connections
• SawTooth Type-17 Point - cuts into wood fiber on contact for fast starts and reduced drive torque, allowing installation without predrilling and speeding up framing workflows
• Low Profile Head (0.450 in. diameter) - countersinks cleanly and easily into the wood surface, providing a flush finish that won't interfere with adjacent materials or finishes
• T25 6-Lobe Drive - the 6-lobe recess holds the driver bit tightly during installation, reducing cam-out and giving the installer more secure, confident drive control
• Serrated Threads with 8-1/2 TPI - aggressive thread geometry bites firmly into wood fibers, maximizing grip and resistance to withdrawal forces in framing assemblies
• 1-5/8 in. Thread Length - full engagement thread depth ensures strong anchoring through typical framing lumber thicknesses
• Code Listed under IAPMO UES ER-192 - meets 2018 and 2021 IRC and IBC code requirements for several common wood framing applications, simplifying inspection and approval on the job site

Why This Product

• Designed as a direct nail replacement for 16d, 10d, and 8d nails, this screw is load-rated for structural framing - so you get a code-compliant connection with better holding power than a nail without changing how you frame
• The SawTooth Type-17 point eliminates the need for predrilling in most framing lumber, saving time and reducing labor on high-volume framing work
• IAPMO UES ER-192 code listing and compliance with 2018 and 2021 IRC and IBC requirements means inspectors and engineers recognize this fastener for common structural wood framing applications - no guesswork on the job
• The T25 6-lobe drive combined with the low profile head gives installers positive bit engagement and a flush countersink result, reducing stripped drives and delivering a cleaner finish compared to standard framing nails

Specifications

• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Shank Diameter (in.): 0.160
• Length (in.): 3
• Head Diameter (in.): 0.450
• Head Type: Low Profile Head
• Drive Type: T25 6-Lobe
• Point Type: SawTooth Type-17 Point
• Thread Type: Serrated Threads
• Thread Length (in.): 1 5/8
• TPI: 8 1/2
• Coating/Finish: Quik Guard Coating
• Color: Tan
• Code Listing: IAPMO UES ER-192
• Code Compliance: 2018 and 2021 IRC and IBC
• Country of Origin: Taiwan

Available Pack Options

• SDWS16300QR50: 50 Pk - includes (1) T25 6-lobe driver bit
• SDWS16300QR75: 75 Pk - includes (1) T25 6-lobe driver bit
• SDWS16300QR150: 150 Pk - includes (1) T25 6-lobe driver bit
• SDWS16300QMB: 250 Pk - includes (1) T25 6-lobe driver bit
• SDWS16300Q: 1000 Pk - includes (2) T25 6-lobe driver bits

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the SDWS Framing Screw replace nails in structural framing without predrilling?

Yes. The SawTooth Type-17 point is designed to cut into wood fiber on contact, enabling fast installation with reduced torque and without the need for predrilling in standard framing lumber. This makes it a practical nail replacement for 16d, 10d, and 8d framing nails.

Is this screw approved for use under building codes?

Yes. The SDWS Framing Screw is code listed under IAPMO UES ER-192 and meets the requirements of the 2018 and 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) and International Building Code (IBC) for several common wood framing applications.

What driver bit does this screw require?

This screw uses a T25 6-lobe drive. The 6-lobe recess is designed to hold the driver bit tightly, providing secure drive control and reducing the risk of cam-out during installation.

Why does this screw have a low profile head?

The low profile head, measuring 0.450 in. in diameter, is specifically designed to countersink easily and cleanly into the wood surface. This provides a flush finish that keeps the screw head from protruding above the material, which is important in framing assemblies where adjacent members or surfaces must fit tightly together.

Note: Product dimensions and/or thread length may differ from picture. Please see item description for specifications.