Best Externally Threaded Inserts of 2026

Brian Howie Avatar
Brian Howie
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2026

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Externally threaded inserts are a versatile and reliable solution for reinforcing or repairing threaded holes in various materials. These inserts feature external threads that allow them to be easily inserted into pre-drilled holes, providing a strong and durable anchor point for screws or bolts. With their high-quality construction and corrosion-resistant materials, these inserts are suitable for a wide range of applications, from automotive and aerospace industries to furniture and electronics. Whether it's for creating stronger connections or restoring damaged threads, externally threaded inserts offer an efficient and cost-effective solution.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

E-Z LOK Stainless Steel Threaded Insert 3/8-24 Cover #TOP 1
E-Z LOK Stainless Steel Threaded Insert 3/8-24
ftb score rating icon 9.8
NIRIAHO 2 Pack Stainless Steel Thread Adapters with Rubber Washers Cover #TOP 2
NIRIAHO 2 Pack Stainless Steel Thread Adapters with Rubber Washers
ftb score rating icon 9.7
TNITRIB 1/4-20 Zinc Threaded Inserts for Wood, 50 Pcs Cover #TOP 3
TNITRIB 1/4-20 Zinc Threaded Inserts for Wood, 50 Pcs
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Externally Threaded Inserts

#TOP 1

E-Z LOK Stainless Steel Threaded Insert 3/8-24

400-624-CR
Silver
3/8-24
E-Z LOK Stainless Steel Threaded Insert 3/8-24 Cover
E-Z LOK Knife Threaded Insert for Hard-Wood, Stainless Steel Thread Inserts 3/8-24 Pack of 5

The E-Z LOK Threaded Insert is specially made for use in hardwood, giving you a reliable solution for tough materials. Crafted from durable 303 stainless steel, it ensures long-lasting strength and resistance to corrosion. You can install it easily using a bolt and jam nut, which provides a secure fit, or choose the optional drive tool for faster setup. Made in Taiwan, this product combines quality craftsmanship with convenience, making your woodworking or repair projects smoother and more efficient.

What We Like
Hardwood compatibility
Durable stainless steel
Easy bolt and jam nut installation
Optional drive tool installation
#TOP 2

NIRIAHO 2 Pack Stainless Steel Thread Adapters with Rubber Washers

Y9061
Silver
1/2x28 to 5/8x24
NIRIAHO 2 Pack Stainless Steel Thread Adapters with Rubber Washers Cover
2 Pack Thread Adapters and Washers,1/2x28 to 5/8x24 Stainless Steel Thread Protector with Rubber Washer (Silver)

The NIRIAHO Thread Adapters Set is crafted from durable stainless steel, ensuring long-lasting use and resistance to wear. Its smooth, precise threading and well-designed knurling make installation easy and provide a secure grip, so you can handle it comfortably without slipping. This set helps you replace damaged parts quickly, preventing leaks and maintaining the integrity of your equipment. Plus, you can install the adapters and washers by hand without needing any tools, saving you time and hassle during repairs or maintenance.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel material
Precise threading and knurling
Leak prevention function
Tool-free manual installation
#TOP 3

TNITRIB 1/4-20 Zinc Threaded Inserts for Wood, 50 Pcs

T801420-20
Zinc
TNITRIB 1/4-20 Zinc Threaded Inserts for Wood, 50 Pcs Cover
1/4-20 Threaded Inserts for Soft Wood 50 Pcs, Assortment Hex Socket Drive Nut Inserts, Bolt Fastener Connector

The TNITRIB Wood Threaded Inserts come in a pack of 50 and are designed to fit soft woods like pine, plywood, and MDF. These inserts provide a strong and reliable connection, which is great for furniture assembly, drawer pulls, and display cases. Made from durable zinc-coated steel, they resist corrosion and last a long time, so you won't need to worry about replacing them often. Installation is simple using an Allen wrench or a special drive tool, making it easy to secure the inserts tightly without them coming loose later. These inserts help you achieve a professional and sturdy finish in your woodworking projects.

What We Like
Durable zinc-coated steel
Strong holding power
Easy Allen wrench installation
Corrosion resistant
Compatible with soft woods
#TOP 4

Tredox Thread Protector 1/2x28 to 3/4x16 Black Oxide

GA-TA-001-12-2
Black
1/2-28 to 3/4-16
Tredox Thread Protector 1/2x28 to 3/4x16 Black Oxide Cover
Tredox Thread Protector, 1/2 x 28 Convert to 3/4 x 16, CNC Machine, Black Oxide Finish

The Tredox Thread Protector offers a sturdy steel construction that ensures long-lasting use, making it a reliable choice for your projects. Its black oxide finish not only enhances durability but also provides a sleek, professional look that keeps your equipment neat and tidy. Thanks to precise CNC machining, this protector fits perfectly, allowing for smooth installation and optimal performance. If you need to fix worn parts or replace damaged ones, this product serves as an excellent replacement, helping you maintain your tools without hassle. The Tredox Thread Protector combines strength, style, and functionality for your convenience.

What We Like
Durable steel construction
Black oxide finish
CNC machined precision
Effective replacement part
Low-profile design
#TOP 5

E-Z LOK Stainless Steel Hardwood Threaded Inserts 5/16-18

400-5-CR
Silver
5/16-18 - 5 Pack
E-Z LOK Stainless Steel Hardwood Threaded Inserts 5/16-18 Cover
E-Z LOK Knife Threaded Insert for Hard-Wood, Stainless Steel Thread Inserts 5/16-18 Internal Threads, 0.625" Length Pack of 5

The E-Z LOK Hardwood Inserts are specially made for use in hard wood, giving you a strong and reliable hold for your projects. Crafted from durable 303 stainless steel, these inserts resist rust and last a long time, making them a smart choice for tough applications. You can easily install them using a bolt and jam nut, or choose the optional drive tool for quicker setup. Made in Taiwan, these inserts combine quality and convenience, helping you achieve a secure fit with ease.

What We Like
Hardwood compatibility
Durable stainless steel
Easy installation options
Long-lasting quality
#TOP 6

E-Z LOK Zinc Threaded Inserts for Wood

801024-13
Silver
E-Z LOK Zinc Threaded Inserts for Wood Cover
E-Z LOK Knife Threaded Insert for Soft Wood, Zinc Hex-Flush Thread Inserts 10-24 Internal Threads, 0.512" Length Pack of 50

The E-Z LOK Threaded Inserts are designed specifically for soft wood, making them perfect if you want to avoid stripped or worn-out threads in your projects. These inserts give you strong, reliable machine threads, thanks to their wide external threads that hold firmly in the wood. You can choose between flush or flanged zinc inserts, so you get the right fit for your needs. They work well with common materials like pine, plywood, and MDF, making them a versatile choice for furniture, drawers, or display cases. Installing them is simple—you just need an Allen wrench or a special E-Z LOK tool to get the job done quickly and easily.

What We Like
Strong thread holding power
Flush and flanged designs
Suitable for soft woods
Easy installation
#TOP 7

Axyuada 3 Pack Thread Protectors with Washers 1/2 * 28-3/4 * 16 Black

1/2-28
1/2X28 - 3/4 X 16
Axyuada 3 Pack Thread Protectors with Washers 1/2 * 28-3/4 * 16 Black Cover
3 Pack Thread Protector and Washers, 1/2 * 28-3/4 * 16, Black

The Axyuada Thread Protector Set offers a pack of three durable black screws paired with six rubber washers to help you replace worn or broken parts easily. These protectors are designed to prevent leaks, ensuring your equipment stays sealed and safe. Each screw is lightweight yet sturdy, weighing just 34.5 grams, making them easy to handle and install. Made from steel, these protectors provide long-lasting strength, while the rubber washers create a tight seal to keep everything secure. This set is ideal for anyone looking for a simple, effective way to maintain and protect threaded connections.

What We Like
Durable steel construction
Leak prevention
Lightweight and sturdy
Includes rubber washers
Easy installation
#TOP 8

E-Z LOK Heavy Wall Threaded Insert Kit

EZ-C107
Black
E-Z LOK Heavy Wall Threaded Insert Kit Cover
E-Z LOK Threaded Inserts For Metal; Assortment Kit; Carbon Steel; Heavy Wall; UNC Internal Threads, 10-24, 1/4-20, 5/16-18, 3/8-16, 7/16-14; 48 pieces

The E-Z LOK Threaded Insert Kit offers a variety of sizes, so you can find the perfect fit for your project without hassle. You don’t need any special tools to install these inserts; just a standard drill and tap will do, making the process simple and accessible. These inserts feature a self-locking design that activates an adhesive during installation, ensuring a strong hold that’s ready in just 3 to 5 minutes. They work especially well with soft metals like aluminum, cast iron, or magnesium, giving you reliable strength when working with these materials.

What We Like
Variety of sizes
No special tools required
Self-locking adhesive
Works with soft metals
#TOP 9

E-Z LOK 400-610 Threaded Inserts

400-610
Brass
One Size
E-Z LOK 400-610 Threaded Inserts Cover
E-Z LOK Brass Wood-Threaded Insert, 3/8-16, 1.00" Length, Pack of 10

The E-Z LOK Threaded Inserts are designed specifically for hard woods, making them ideal for projects like furniture and cabinets where thread damage can occur. Their unique knife thread design offers excellent grip by cutting into the wood, ensuring a secure hold. You can choose between brass and stainless steel options, with stainless steel being perfect for tougher woods and areas prone to corrosion. These inserts are compatible with various hard woods such as oak, cherry, and maple, providing versatility for your woodworking needs.

What We Like
Easy installation
Strong grip
Corrosion resistance
Versatile for hard woods
#TOP 10

E-Z LOK Knife Threaded Inserts

900610-13
Silver
10-24
E-Z LOK Knife Threaded Inserts Cover
E-Z LOK Knife Threaded Insert for Hard-Wood, Stainless Steel Thread Inserts 10-24 Internal Threads, 0.500" Length (Pack of 10)

The E-Z LOK Inserts are perfect for wood applications where threads might wear out or strip. Their unique knife thread design helps them grip securely in hardwoods like oak, cherry, and maple, offering you peace of mind in your furniture or cabinet projects. You can choose between brass or stainless steel options, with stainless steel being ideal for areas exposed to moisture. Installation is a breeze, whether you use a screwdriver, bolt, or the optional E-Z LOK drive tool, making your projects easier and more efficient.

What We Like
Strong grip in hardwoods
Corrosion-resistant options
Easy installation
Ideal for furniture and cabinets
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between internal and external threading inserts?

External threading inserts can be single-pointed or die cut, with single-point threading being more accurate but time-consuming and expensive. Internal threading can be achieved with a single-point or tap method.

2. What is the difference between HeliCoil and threaded insert?

Heli-Coil inserts are wound wire inserts, while Helisolid® Threaded Inserts are solid metal pieces. Helisolid® Threaded Inserts offer greater pull-out and torque-out strength and are less prone to cross-threading.

3. Are threaded inserts stronger than screws?

Threaded inserts provide a stronger bond than self-tapping screws and are a stronger alternative to weld nuts and tapped holes. They are designed for automation and are usually considered the strongest and most efficient fasteners in manufacturing.

4. What are the disadvantages of threaded inserts?

The downsides of using threaded inserts include higher cost compared to standard drilling and tapping. The price of threaded inserts combined with installation charges can add up quickly, especially for prototype models.

5. What is the strongest thread insert?

Helically coiled wire thread inserts are considered the strongest and most durable threaded assemblies known to engineers.

6. Should I glue threaded inserts in wood?

In most cases, gluing threaded inserts in wood is unnecessary. However, for heavily used inserts, it may be beneficial to secure them with adhesive.

Editor's Notes

During our externally threaded insert research, we found 24 externally threaded insert products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 10,656 customer reviews through our big data system to write the externally threaded inserts list. We found that most customers choose externally threaded inserts with an average price of $13.01.

The externally threaded inserts are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of externally threaded inserts, including E-Z LOK, NIRIAHO, TNITRIB, Tredox, Axyuada. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Brian Howie Avatar

Brian Howie is a content writer and senior industrial designer. After graduation from Westminster College, he has been engaged in product design and manufacturing for 18 years. Brian Howie has always found great pleasure in designing industrial products and sharing his ideas and experience online.