Captive screws - M3

[DTJ]

I'm looking at options for captive screws for some sheet metal.

I'm sure I've seen some M3x8mm pozidrive screws on domestic electronics and I'm trying to find some without any luck.

There's lots of fancy and EXPENSIVE ($2 to $4 each) captive fasteners but no affordable ones.

I really only need something like a standard M3x8 pozidrive panhead with a millimeter or two of thread removed from just under the head.




Has anyone used or seen a source of this sort of screw?

Cheers.

[EPAIII]

I don't know if they will ship to Australia, but looks like around $0.20 each (USDs) in relatively small quantities. That should give you a price point to look for.

https://www.mcmaster.com/captive-panel-screws/socket-head-captive-panel-screws/

McMaster is not known for the best prices. If you need thousands to millions, look for screw and fastener companies in your larger cities. You can probably beat that price by a factor of 10 if you are buying a large enough quantity.

But then, even McMaster would drop the price if the quantity is large enough - but you have to drop a dime and TALK TO THEM. If you are buying in bulk, you can not get the best prices for anything by just using a web search. You have to talk to a person. But not for a dozen or two.

[jpanhalt]

I saw that too.  Then, I carefully examined the column headings.  A 6-32 x3/8 is $4.28 each for 1-4.  The "packages" refer to retainers.

See attachment.   The lowest price I found for a smallish screw was about $2.30 each, but shipping was high.  I think you are stuck paying way too much for low volume (<1,000) or making them yourself on a lathe.  If finish isn't important, you could try a file and a drill press.

[TimFox]

Unfortunately, McMaster does not ship outside of North America, and US only for personal orders.
That's a shame, since if you can't find the object there, you probably don't need it.
In Chicago, if I place a small order at 2 PM it arrives at my house the next day by UPS.

[DTJ]

Thanks for the input people.

[Phoenix]

Keables are an Australian nut and bolt specialist. They might be able to help.

https://www.keables.net.au/