Simpson Strong-Tie Strong-Drive SD CONNECTOR Screw, #10 x 2-1/2-in. 1/4-Hex Drive, Mech. Galv., 100-Pack (SD10212R100-R)

Key Features

Approved Connector Fastener This screw is specifically designed to replace nails in certain Simpson Strong-Tie connectors, and it is the only screw approved for that application. That matters when you need a fastener that matches the connector design and load requirements instead of making a guess on the job. Hex Drive Control The 1/4 inch hex head with integrated washer gives you better control during installation and helps reduce cam-out. If you are working inside framing corners or overhead connector locations, that extra control saves time. Exterior-Ready Coating The mechanically galvanized Class 55 coating is built for interior and most exterior connector work, including use with certain treated wood applications. You get corrosion protection suited to real framing and structural hardware installs.

Overview

The Simpson Strong-Tie Strong-Drive SD CONNECTOR Screw, #10 x 2-1/2-in. 1/4-Hex Drive, Mech. Galv., 100-Pack (SD10212R100-R) is a load-rated connector screw made for installing Simpson Strong-Tie framing connectors. This is a connector screw designed for fastening approved metal connectors to wood in structural framing applications. Model Number: SD10212R100-R.

What sets this fastener apart is simple: it is not just another exterior wood screw. Simpson Strong-Tie designed the Strong-Drive SD CONNECTOR Screw specifically to replace nails in certain connector applications, and according to the manufacturer it is the only screw approved for that use. For builders, remodelers, and serious DIY users, that means you can install hardware with more control than swinging a hammer while still staying inside the connector manufacturer’s approved fastener schedule where specified.

This version is a #10 x 2-1/2 inch screw with a sharp point, a 1/4 inch hex drive, a hex head, and an integrated washer head around 0.370 inch in diameter. In practical terms, the hex head and washer design help the driver bit stay engaged better and spread the clamping force at the connector face. That is useful when you are working in awkward positions, against existing framing, or anywhere nail placement is tight and a hammer is inconvenient.

The shank is also purpose-built for connector work. Simpson Strong-Tie calls out that the shank is specifically designed to match the fastener holes in its connectors. That is one of those details that matters more than it sounds. With structural connectors, fit is part of performance. A screw that was not designed for the hole geometry can create installation headaches or fall outside approved use.

Material and finish matter here too. The screw uses mechanically galvanized Class 55 coating and is intended for both interior and most exterior applications. The manufacturer also notes that this coating meets ASTM B695 Class 55 and is recommended for use with certain preservative-treated woods, with recognition as an alternate to hot-dip galvanized in ESR-3046. If you are buying for deck framing repairs, exterior ties, hangers, or general structural connector installs where corrosion resistance is part of the conversation, that is relevant information.

Simpson Strong-Tie also notes optimized heat treating for ductility and strength. On the job, that translates to a fastener that is engineered to hold up under structural connector demands instead of behaving like a brittle generic screw. The SD screw line has been tested and approved in many popular Simpson Strong-Tie products, and the manufacturer states that single-fastener load values for SD screws exceed those of typical common nails in comparable applications.

This pack includes 100 screws, making it a practical size for smaller framing runs, punch-list connector installs, repair work, and keeping a box on the truck for inspectors’ callouts or hardware upgrades. A hex driver is included, which is a nice touch because it gets you installing right away without hunting for the correct bit.

If you work with Simpson Strong-Tie connectors regularly, this is the kind of fastener worth buying on purpose instead of substituting. It makes the most sense for carpenters, deck builders, framers, general contractors, remodelers, and homeowners handling approved connector installations where control, repeatability, and correct fastener selection matter. If your connector schedule specifically calls for SD screws, use the approved fastener and move on with confidence.

Install Connectors Where a Hammer Is a Pain

Connector locations are often cramped, angled, or overhead. That is exactly where this screw earns its keep. Instead of fighting a hammer in a tight framing bay, you can drive the fastener cleanly with a drill or driver and keep control of placement.

• 1/4 inch hex drive for positive engagement during installation
• Designed for use in many Simpson Strong-Tie connector applications

Made to Match Simpson Strong-Tie Hardware

This is not a generic wood screw being asked to do a connector screw’s job. The shank is sized to work with Simpson Strong-Tie connector holes, and the fastener is tested and approved for many of the brand’s most-used connectors.

• Specifically designed to replace nails in certain approved connector applications
• The only screw approved for that application where specified by Simpson Strong-Tie

Built for Exterior Connector Work

The mechanically galvanized Class 55 finish makes this screw a better fit for interior and most exterior framing connector work than plain steel fasteners. It is also a better choice when treated lumber compatibility is part of the jobsite conversation.

• Mechanically galvanized Class 55 coating
• Recommended for certain preservative-treated wood applications

What’s in the Box

• (100) Simpson Strong-Tie SD10212R100-R connector screws
• (1) Hex driver

Key Specifications

Fastener Type	Hand-drive screw
Screw Size	#10
Length	2-1/2 in.
Drive Type	1/4 in. hex
Head Type	Hex head
Head Diameter	0.370 in.
Shank Diameter	0.160 in.
Thread Length	1-1/8 in.
Threads Per Inch	10
Point Type	Sharp point
Coating	Mechanically galvanized, Class 55
Package Quantity	100
Material	Steel
Package Weight	1.7 lbs

Compatibility

Connector System Designed for use with many Simpson Strong-Tie connectors and specifically designed to replace nails in certain approved Simpson Strong-Tie connector applications. Drive Interface Uses a 1/4 inch hex drive and includes a hex driver for installation. Use Environment Tested and approved for both interior and most exterior applications, including use with certain preservative-treated woods.

Built For

Carpentry Construction Deck Framing Structural Connector Installation Remodeling General Contracting DIY / Hobbyist Wood-to-Wood Connector Work

Pro Tip

If your Simpson connector schedule calls for an SD screw, use this approved connector screw instead of swapping in a generic construction screw. With structural hardware, the fastener is part of the system, and this one is designed to match the connector holes and approved load path.

Tool Nut’s Take

Tool Nut’s Take

Simpson Strong-Tie Strong-Drive SD CONNECTOR Screw Is the Right Fastener for the Job

If you are installing Simpson hardware and want control, speed, and the correct approved fastener, this is the box to grab.

• Who it’s for: Framers, deck builders, remodelers, inspectors fixing callouts, and serious DIY users working with Simpson Strong-Tie connectors.
• Why it stands out: It is purpose-built for connector holes, load-rated, and approved where a generic screw is not. The hex head and washer also make installation a lot less annoying in tight spots.
• Worth knowing: This is a 100-pack of #10 x 2-1/2 in. connector screws with a mechanically galvanized finish. Buy it because your connector application calls for it, not because it looks like any other exterior screw.

Common Questions

• Can this screw replace nails in Simpson Strong-Tie connectors? Yes. Simpson Strong-Tie states that the SD CONNECTOR Screw is specifically designed to replace nails in certain Simpson Strong-Tie connectors and is the only screw approved for that application.
• Is this screw suitable for exterior use? Yes, for most exterior applications. The mechanically galvanized Class 55 coating is intended for interior and most exterior connector work.
• What drive does this screw use? It uses a 1/4 inch hex drive and has a hex head with an integrated washer.
• What size is this specific model? This SD10212R100-R model is a #10 x 2-1/2 inch connector screw.