🌊 Product Overview: M2–M3 Phillips Pan Head Screws – 316 Stainless Steel (Marine Grade)
If you're working near saltwater, on boats, or in chemical environments, regular stainless steel won't always cut it. These M2, M2.5, and M3 Phillips pan head machine screws are made from 316 stainless steel – the grade with added molybdenum for superior resistance to chlorides, salt spray, and industrial chemicals. The low‑profile pan head sits flush on surfaces and gives a clean, professional finish, while the Phillips drive works with standard #0 or #1 bits. Fully threaded with standard coarse metric pitch, they're perfect for marine hardware, coastal equipment, laboratory gear, and any application where long‑term corrosion resistance is critical. Available in various lengths – select what you need.
✨ Why Choose 316 Stainless Steel Pan Head Phillips Screws
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316 stainless steel (A4 / marine grade) – Contains molybdenum for exceptional resistance to saltwater, chlorides, and industrial chemicals. Outperforms 304 in harsh environments.
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Phillips pan head design – Rounded top with a flat bearing surface. Distributes clamping force evenly and gives a clean, low‑profile finish.
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Metric sizes M2, M2.5, M3 – The most common small diameters for electronics, instruments, marine sensors, and precision equipment.
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Fully threaded, coarse metric pitch – M2x0.4, M2.5x0.45, M3x0.5. Threads run the entire shank length for maximum grip in thin materials.
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Length measured under the head – No confusion: an M3 x 12mm screw has 12mm of threaded shank below the pan head.
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Grade 5 strength – Strong enough for demanding marine and industrial fastening applications.
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Made in China to GB standards – Consistent quality and precision threads.
📏 Technical Specifications – M2–M3 Pan Head Screws (316 Stainless)
| Specification |
M2 |
M2.5 |
M3 |
| Thread Diameter (d) |
2mm |
2.5mm |
3mm |
| Thread Pitch (p) |
0.4mm |
0.45mm |
0.5mm |
| Head Style |
Pan head (round, low profile) |
| Drive Style |
Phillips (use PH0 for M2/M2.5, PH1 for M3) |
| Material |
316 Stainless Steel (A4 / marine grade) |
| Thread Type |
Fully threaded |
| Length Measurement |
Under head (from flat bearing surface to tip) |
| Length Range |
Select from product options (typical: 3–30mm) |
| Finish |
Natural stainless (unplated) |
| Grade |
Grade 5 |
| Standard |
GB |
📊 Stainless Steel Comparison – Which Grade to Choose?
| Grade |
Corrosion Resistance |
Surface Brightness |
Best Use |
| 201 Stainless (SUS) |
Poor – rusts with water |
Dull, may have bubbles |
Dry indoor decorative use only |
| 304 Stainless (A2) |
Good – resists corrosion & acid |
High brightness |
Outdoor, humid, general purpose |
| 316 Stainless (A4) |
Excellent – with molybdenum for saltwater & chemicals |
Bright |
Marine, coastal, high‑chloride areas (these screws) |
❓ FAQs – 316 Stainless Pan Head Phillips Screws (M2–M3)
🔸 What’s the difference between 316 and 304 stainless steel?
316 contains molybdenum, which greatly improves resistance to chlorides – that means saltwater, de-icing salts, and many industrial chemicals. 304 is fine for most indoor and general outdoor use, but 316 is the standard for marine, coastal, and chemical environments. It costs a bit more but lasts much longer in harsh conditions.
🔸 Are these screws fully threaded? How is length measured?
Yes – they are fully threaded from just under the head to the tip. Length is measured from the underside of the head (the flat bearing surface) to the tip, not including the pan head. For example, an M3 x 12mm screw has a 12mm threaded shank below the head.
🔸 Will 316 stainless steel rust in saltwater?
316 stainless is highly resistant to saltwater corrosion and is the go‑to choice for boat hardware, dock fittings, and submerged applications. While no metal is completely immune to crevice corrosion in stagnant, low‑oxygen conditions, 316 performs excellently for most marine use. Rinse occasionally for maximum lifespan.
🔸 What Phillips screwdriver size works for M2, M2.5, and M3?
M2 and M2.5: use PH0 or PH00 (PH0 is best). M3: use PH1. Using the correct size prevents stripping – a precision screwdriver set is recommended for these small sizes.
🔸 Can I use these screws with nuts, or are they self‑tapping?
These are machine screws – they require a matching metric nut (M2, M2.5, or M3) or a pre‑tapped hole. They are not self‑tapping. For best corrosion resistance, pair them with 316 stainless nuts.
🔸 Are these screws magnetic?
316 stainless is generally non‑magnetic in its annealed state, but cold forming (like thread rolling) can make it slightly magnetic. A light magnetic response is normal and does not affect corrosion resistance.
