Hex Head Screws

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vintage68

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Sorry for the really basic question, but why are Hex Head screws considered an "upgrade" from the regular slotted screw? A lot of custom 1911 smiths offer these as part of their respective "custom" packages and I just can't figure out why.

Thanks
 
I assume you mean socket head screws. They work better at holding a tool without slipping.

A hex head screw is basically a regular bolt that takes a wrench, not the recessed hex socket type screw.
 
This is a quote from one custom smith:

"Install hex head grip screws and smooth G-10 or checkered exotic hardwood grip panels"
 
Most all scope mount manufacturers have gone to socket (aka,allen head) or Torx. A vast improvement over slot screws. I sometimes use socket head action screws for Mauser 98 sporters.
 
So the Torx or hex head gives a better grip for the tool, but doesn't offer any improvement for the grips themselves. Is this correct?
 
Upgrading the screws is really useful for cleaning and changing of grips. Regular slotted screws will deform and possibly help to scratch your grips when you are using a regular screwdriver.

Using an allen wrench helps to keep the screws from getting mangled by distributing torque evenly and do look better IMO. I remove the grips for cleaning often and it becomes cheaper in the long run because the grip screws don't get mangled as easily.
 
Only in that a little more force can be applied to the screw with less chance of slippage. No great improvement in the fastenability of the screw.
 
vintage68 said:
This is a quote from one custom smith:

"Install hex head grip screws and smooth G-10 or checkered exotic hardwood grip panels"
Click to expand...
Well he doesn't know jack about screws! Lets hope his gunsmithing skills are better than his screwing skills.:D

It is a common error I hear and see all the time. Sort of like the people that call a metric bolt size by the size of the wrench it takes, which is also incorrect.
 
No matter what you call them (Hogue who sells them even calls them hex head screws) if they are available for a gun that I own they go on ASAP. I find they offer a very positive fit with the wrench, and I'm tired of slipping screwdrivers and messed up screw slots from not using a perfectly fitting screwdriver. I find the hexes to be more durable in the long run, as well as more visually appealing.
 
I use the Novak screws, they have the socket head with a slot cut through them so you can use the wrench when you have one but can also use a slotted screw driver when you don't have access to special tools.
 
I hate the hex/Allen head screws! Too many sizes that differ by so little its near impossible to pick the right size the first time on a random one. Torx is better, fewer sizes and they are far enough apart I can usually tell which size driver I need the first time.

--wally.
 
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