Stainless Steel Bolt - 3/8 inch

Though they claim to be 3/8" diameter, I think they may be closer to 10mm (slightly larger than 3/8"). I'm hand-drilling, so I assume if anything, the holes are slightly oversized. I haven't had a problem when using a 2 3/4" length in granite with a 3/8" hole, but I have a difficult time with the 3.5". I would guess the double expansion (3 3/4") bolt would be impossible to hammer into very hard rock. On the other hand, in softer rock where you decide not to use a 1/2" diameter bolt, the 3 3/4" would likely be an excellent choice. Another characteristic that I like is the bolt's relative flexibility, these bolts are not brittle at all; they bend over 90 degrees no problem (yes, I've botched a few placements).

These bolts are far superior to the Rawls found on most sport climbs in the US. They aren't meant for soft rock though, be sure to check out the Triplex for that.

I have placed hundreds of these babies and love them, though they can be tempramental. They are metric so the 10mm diameter means if you are using a 3/8" bit you'll have to ream the hole a bit once your depth has been reached. This will prevent the bolt from jamming when you pound it in. The SS metal is pretty soft so if you you do pound it in a hole that is a little too small, you'll deform or bend it rendering it a useless do over. The rubber washer can be used between the rock and hanger to seal the hole in applications where seepage might be an issue, or between the hanger and metal washer to gain some compression making it less likely to be a future spinner. I recommend using a thread lock compound to keep the nut from ever coming loose. Also remember to use SS hangers with these bolts to prevent metalurgic breakdown.

Those bolts suck! The nut will loosen over time and you can't remove them from the hole when it's time to replace them. All you can do is break the threads off and drill a new hole. Wedge bolts suck. Don't use them!

Solid, Solid, Solid! This is quality equipment. Properly installed these bolts should give years of safe climbing.