Best Lag Screws of 2025

Brian Howie Avatar
Brian Howie
Last Updated: Jan 2, 2025

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Lag screws, also known as lag bolts, are sturdy and durable fasteners commonly used in construction and woodworking projects. These screws feature a coarse threading that provides excellent holding power and resistance to pull-out forces. Lag screws are typically larger in size compared to regular screws and are ideal for heavy-duty applications, such as securing beams, posts, or brackets to wood or other materials. With their reliable grip and strength, lag screws are a go-to choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts seeking reliable and long-lasting connections.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

LIONMAX 3-Inch Lag Screws Cover #TOP 1
LIONMAX 3-Inch Lag Screws
ftb score rating icon 9.8
VIGRUE 108PCS Black Oxidized Hex Lag Bolts Stainless Steel 18-8 (304) Cover #TOP 2
VIGRUE 108PCS Black Oxidized Hex Lag Bolts Stainless Steel 18-8 (304)
ftb score rating icon 9.7
PRIME-LINE Hex Lag Screws 3/8" x 3" Cover #TOP 3
PRIME-LINE Hex Lag Screws 3/8" x 3"
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Lag Screws

#TOP 1

LIONMAX 3-Inch Lag Screws

LIONMAX
50-CLS143BL
Black
#14 x 3"
LIONMAX 3-Inch Lag Screws Cover
LIONMAX Lag Screws 3 Inch, Structural Wood Screw #14 x 3, 50-PCS Heavy Duty Construction Screw, Rust Resistant, Washer Head, Black Coated Exterior Wood/Lag/Timber Screws, Star Drive with Bit

The LIONMAX Lag Screws offer exceptional strength and durability for your woodworking projects. Made from heat-treated steel, these screws are designed to last, ensuring your work remains intact over time. The anti-corrosion coating protects against rust, making them suitable for outdoor use. With a knurled shank and sharp threads, these screws allow for easy drilling without pre-drilling, saving you time and effort. The modified truss washer head provides a clean finish, enhancing the overall look of your projects. Enjoy a reliable fastening experience with the T30 star drive that minimizes slipping during installation.

What We Like
Durable heat-treated steel
Excellent rust resistance
Easy installation
Flush finish design
#TOP 2

VIGRUE 108PCS Black Oxidized Hex Lag Bolts Stainless Steel 18-8 (304)

108 Hex Lag Bolts black
Black
1/4 x 1" to 3"
VIGRUE 108PCS Black Oxidized Hex Lag Bolts Stainless Steel 18-8 (304) Cover
1/4" Hex Lag Bolts Stainless Steel 18-8 (304), VIGRUE 108PCS Black Oxidized, Hex Lag Screws Heavy Duty Wood Screws Washers Assortment kit, Length Include 1" 1-1/2" 2" 2-1/2" 3"

VIGRUE Hex Lag Bolts are made from 18-8 (304) stainless steel and coated with black oxide for a strong and corrosion-resistant construction. With their deep wood screw coarse threads, these bolts provide a mighty grip, preventing stripping and ensuring superior holding power. The included washers distribute pressure evenly, preventing pull through. The kit offers 5 standard and various sizes, making it suitable for a range of heavy-duty applications such as industrial, exterior, and household projects. Whether you're building a deck or joining lumber, VIGRUE Hex Lag Bolts are the ideal choice. Trust in VIGRUE's guarantee of high-quality 304 stainless steel and lifetime service for any product quality issues.

What We Like
Premium material
Mighty grip
Standard and various sizes
#TOP 3

PRIME-LINE Hex Lag Screws 3/8" x 3"

PRIME-LINE
9056313
Zinc
PRIME-LINE Hex Lag Screws 3/8" x 3" Cover
Prime-Line 9056313 Hex Lag Screws, 3/8 In. X 3 In, A307 Grade A Hot Dip Galvanized Steel (25 Pack), Zinc

The PRIME-LINE Hex Lag Screws are designed for heavy-duty applications where regular wood screws may not suffice. Measuring 3/8 inch by 3 inches, these screws feature a robust hex bolt head for easy installation with a wrench or socket tool. Their deep wood screw threads ensure a secure grip in wood, making them ideal for projects like deck building. Since they require a pilot hole, you can achieve precise placement and support heavy loads confidently, ensuring your projects are both safe and durable.

What We Like
Heavy-duty construction
Easy installation with hex head
Deep threads for secure grip
Ideal for load-bearing projects
#TOP 4

Power Pro 47877 Lag Screws

47877
5/16" x 4"
Power Pro 47877 Lag Screws Cover
Power Pro 47877 Lag Screws, 5/16" x 4", Star Drive Construction Lag Screws, Rust Resistant, Ceramic Coated Bronze, 5lb Tub, 100 pcs

Introducing the Power Pro Lag Screws, the perfect choice for all your outdoor wood projects. These lag screws are engineered for the outdoors and are ideal for decks, stairs, playsets, and more. With their rust-resistant bronze ceramic coat, they can withstand even the harshest weather conditions, making them highly durable and long-lasting. The star drive and truss head design ensure a smooth and effortless drive every time, eliminating cam-out and allowing for a secure and reliable hold. Whether you're a professional builder or a DIY enthusiast, the Power Pro Lag Screws are a must-have for any outdoor wood project.

What We Like
Durable
Rust-resistant
Effortless drive
#TOP 5

SG TZH Hex Head Lag Screws

LBS-01
Silver
5/16-18 x 2"
SG TZH Hex Head Lag Screws Cover
5/16" x 2" Hex Head Lag Screws Bolts 20Pcs 304 Stainless Steel 18-8, Partial Thread, Hexagon Head Wood Screws by SG TZH

SG TZH Lag Screws are rugged and durable stainless steel screws, perfect for exterior household and industrial applications. Made of high-quality 18-8(304) stainless steel, these screws have higher corrosion resistance and anti-rust effect, ensuring a longer service life. The exquisite craftsmanship of the hex head design makes these screws fast and strong, with high strength and resistance to deformation. With a diameter of 5/16" and a length of 2 inches, they are easy to use with a wrench size of 1/2". This value pack contains 20pcs of lag screws, ideal for various projects at home, in the office, or at work. SG TZH also provides excellent customer service, ensuring customer satisfaction.

What We Like
Rugged and Durable
Higher Corrosion Resistance
Exquisite Craftsmanship
#TOP 6

Power Pro 47867 Lag Screws

47867
50 Pieces
Power Pro 47867 Lag Screws Cover
Power Pro 47867 Lag Screws, 1/4" x 2", Star Drive Construction Lag Screws, Rust Resistant, Ceramic Coated Bronze, 1lb Box, 50 pcs

The Power Pro Lag Screws are designed specifically for outdoor use, making them perfect for various projects like decks and playsets. Their corrosion-resistant bronze ceramic coating ensures durability, even in harsh weather, having passed extensive salt spray tests. The star drive design helps you avoid cam-out, allowing for a smooth and easy installation without pre-drilling. This means you can save time and effort while achieving a secure hold in your outdoor wood projects.

What We Like
Durable outdoor use
Corrosion-resistant coating
Smooth installation
No pre-drilling required
#TOP 7

VGBUY 3/8" x 2" Lag Screws

VGBUY
VG01811
Silver
3/8" x 2" (12pcs)
VGBUY 3/8" x 2" Lag Screws Cover
VGBUY 3/8" x 2" Hex Head Lag Screws 12Pcs, 304 Stainless Steel 18-8 Lag Bolts Wood Screws Heavy Duty Large Screws for TV Mounts, Deck, Boat Repair

The VGBUY Lag Screws are designed to provide exceptional strength and durability for your woodworking projects. These heavy-duty screws feature a sharp tip that allows you to drive them deep into wood, making them ideal for load-bearing applications like decks and barns. Made from 304 stainless steel, they resist corrosion and rust, ensuring longevity whether used indoors or outdoors. The deep cutting and coarse threads enhance their grip, preventing stripping and ensuring a secure hold. With a smooth finish, you can work without worrying about sharp edges, making your projects safer and easier.

What We Like
Corrosion-resistant stainless steel
Sharp tip for easy driving
Coarse threads for strong grip
Great finish, no sharp edges
#TOP 8

Evecad 25PCS Stainless Steel Lag Screws

Evecad
SSLB-3
Black
1/4" x 2" (25PCS)
Evecad 25PCS Stainless Steel Lag Screws Cover
Evecad 25PCS 1/4" x 2" Hex Head Lag Screws, Stainless Steel Black Lag Bolts, Heavy Duty Lag Bolts, Washers Included

Evecad Lag Screws are designed for durability and versatility. Coated with black oxide, these screws not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also resist corrosion and wear, making them ideal for various outdoor and indoor projects. With a size of 1/4" x 2", they provide the strength needed for heavy-duty applications like building decks. Made from high-quality stainless steel, these screws offer excellent strength and corrosion resistance, ensuring your projects stand the test of time. Plus, the included washers help create a secure fit, giving you added convenience during installation.

What We Like
Corrosion resistance
Durable black finish
Includes washers
Versatile applications
#TOP 9

Prime-Line Hex Lag Screws 9055515

PRIME-LINE
9055515
Zinc
5/16 in. -18
Prime-Line Hex Lag Screws 9055515 Cover
Prime-Line 9055515 Hex Lag Screws, 5/16 In. X 1-1/2 In., A307 Grade A Zinc Plated Steel (50 Pack)

The Prime-Line Hex Lag Screws are designed for heavy-duty applications where traditional wood screws fall short. Measuring 5/16 inch by 1-1/2 inch, these screws feature a six-sided hex head that allows for easy installation using a wrench or socket tool. With deep wood screw threads, they provide superior grip in wood, making them ideal for projects like deck building. Additionally, they require a pilot hole for installation, ensuring a secure fit that can withstand significant loads.

What We Like
Heavy-duty construction
Easy installation with tools
Deep threads for strong grip
Ideal for heavy loads
#TOP 10

3/8 x 2 Lag Screw Kit by Makers Bolt

LBK3832BR50
Black
3/8 x 2
3/8 x 2 Lag Screw Kit by Makers Bolt Cover
3/8 x 2 (50 Pack) Lag Screw Kit, 50 Screws and 50 Washers, Ceramic Black Ruspert Coating for Exterior Use, Meets ASTM A307 and ASME B18.2.1, Industrial/Commerical Grade by Makers Bolt

The Makers Bolt Lag Screw Kit includes 50 durable lag screws and 50 flat washers, making it a great choice for your construction needs. With a 3/8" diameter and 2" length, these screws are designed to provide a strong hold. The Black Ruspert coating offers superior weather resistance, ensuring twice the rust protection compared to traditional galvanized options. This makes them perfect for outdoor projects, especially when working with ACQ treated lumber. A pilot hole is recommended for easier installation, giving you confidence in your work.

What We Like
Weatherproof ceramic coating
Includes flat washers
Strong hold for outdoor use
Twice rust resistance
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a lag screw used for?

Lag screws, also known as lag bolts, are heavy-duty screws used to connect heavy lumber and materials that bear intense loads. They are different from other screws like wood screws, sheet metal screws, and self-drilling screws.

2. What is the difference between a lag screw and a screw?

The main difference between a lag screw and a regular screw is that lag screws require a pre-drilled hole before installation. They also use a nut to provide extra strength and security. Lag screws are specifically designed for applications with intense loads and can support much heavier weights compared to ordinary screws.

3. What are the disadvantages of lag screws?

One of the downsides of using lag screws is the additional complexity and time required for pre-drilling a lead hole into the wood. According to the NDS, lag screws larger than 3/8" in diameter need a pre-drilled lead hole for proper installation, whether it's for withdrawal or lateral forces.

4. How far should a lag screw go into wood?

For single shear connections, the minimum penetration of a lag screw into the main member should be four times the diameter. For example, a 1/2" lag screw would require approximately 2" of penetration. This measurement does not include the length of the tapered tip.

5. How much weight can a 3/8 lag bolt hold in wood?

A 3/8" lag bolt can hold up to 272 pounds per inch of thread. The weight capacity of lag bolts varies based on the diameter of the bolt. For example, a 1/4" lag bolt can hold up to 100 pounds per inch of thread, while a 5/16" lag bolt can hold up to 200 pounds per inch of thread.

6. How much weight can a lag screw hold in a stud?

The weight capacity of a lag screw depends on its size. A single 1/4" lag bolt can hold up to 13,000 lbs, while a 1/8" lag screw can support up to 3,000 pounds of weight. It's important to consider the size and strength of the stud when determining the weight capacity of a lag screw.

Editor's Notes

During our lag screw research, we found 24 lag screw products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 9,718 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lag screws list. We found that most customers choose lag screws with an average price of $14.83.

The lag screws are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lag screws, including LIONMAX, VIGRUE, Power Pro, SG TZH, Hillman. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 761 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

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.