Security Fastener
Our Thoughts
Good For
Not Good For
Driver Availability
Maximum Torque (MFG Claim)
Minimum Quantity
Average Break-In Time
Cost Per Fastener
Samples Available
Keyway Type
Tool Control
Head Style Options
Material Options
Reusability
Tamper Resistance
Tool Compatibility
Installation Method
Visual Deterrence Level
Removal Risk if Tool Leaks
Lead Time to Purchase
Where to Buy
One-Way
This classic one-way design installs with a standard flathead but resists removal by camming out in reverse. It's low-cost, widely available, and simple to install—but also easy to defeat with pliers, extractor tools, or modified drivers. While it provides basic deterrence, it’s not suitable where determined tampering is a concern.
One-Way
- Low-Cost Deterrence
- Indoor Fixtures
- Short-Term Security
One-Way
- High-Security Installations
- Outdoor or Public Exposure
- Resistance to Basic Tools
One-Way
Widely available: One-way removal tools accessible to public.
One-Way
~85 in/lbs for 1/4-20x1
One-Way
Not specified; likely low (e.g., 100 pieces).
One-Way
Moderate: Removal possible with specialized tools.
One-Way
As low as $0.04
One-Way
Not Likely.
One-Way
One-way slotted drive.
One-Way
Minimal: Removal tools available to public.
One-Way
Button.
One-Way
Steel, stainless steel, brass.
One-Way
Non-reusable; one-way design.
One-Way
Moderate: One-way design resists casual tampering but not specialized tools.
One-Way
Compatible with one-way removal tools.
One-Way
Manual; one-way installation.
One-Way
Moderate: One-way drive signals tamper resistance.
One-Way
High: Removal tools increase risk.
One-Way
Not specified; Stock items ship quickly.
One-Way
Tri-Groove
This fastener is widely available and lacks meaningful tool control or tamper resistance. While often marketed as a "security screw," it does not meet our standards for the security classification. It may deter casual tampering but offers very little protection against intentional removal.
Tri-Groove
Widely available; sold in stores and online.
Tri-Groove
Moderate; varies by size and material.
Tri-Groove
Low: Often available in small packs.
Tri-Groove
Low: Easily removed in minutes.
Tri-Groove
Low: Varies by supplier, size, and material.
Tri-Groove
Likely available from distributors.
Tri-Groove
Standard, not proprietary.
Tri-Groove
N/A: Bits widely available to public.
Tri-Groove
Button, flat, pan, socket; varies by supplier.
Tri-Groove
Steel, stainless steel (e.g., 304, 316), sometimes brass or zinc-plated—depends on supplier.
Tri-Groove
Reusable with matching bit; integrity depends on torque and material.
Tri-Groove
Low: Easily defeated with standard bits or modified tools.
Tri-Groove
Compatible with standard bits; widely available tools.
Tri-Groove
Manual or power-driven with bit; standard installation process.
Tri-Groove
Low: Recognizable shape signals basic security, not highly deterrent.
Tri-Groove
N/A: Tool/Bit is widely available.
Tri-Groove
N/A: Commonly stocked item.
Tri-Groove
