🌊 Product Overview: M3 A4 Stainless Steel Phillips Pan Head Machine Screws – Flat Tail (3–50mm)
When you need a fastener that stands up to saltwater, chemicals, or harsh outdoor conditions, A4 (316) stainless steel is the answer. These M3 Phillips pan head machine screws are made from marine‑grade A4 stainless, offering superior corrosion resistance that outperforms standard A2 (304) in coastal and marine environments. The low‑profile round pan head sits flush on surfaces, while the Phillips drive works with standard #1 bits for easy installation. Fully threaded with a standard coarse M3x0.5 pitch, and a flat tail (plain end) for general‑purpose fastening. Available in lengths from 3mm to 50mm (measured under the head). Perfect for marine hardware, chemical equipment, outdoor furniture, and any application where rust is not an option.
✨ Why A4 Stainless Steel M3 Pan Head Screws Are a Marine Essential
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A4 stainless steel (316 / marine grade) – Contains molybdenum for exceptional resistance to saltwater, chlorides, and industrial chemicals. Outperforms A2 (304) in harsh environments.
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Phillips pan head design – Low‑profile rounded head with a flat bearing surface. Distributes clamping force evenly and gives a clean, professional finish.
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Flat tail (plain end) – Non‑self‑tapping, standard machine screw end for use with nuts or pre‑tapped holes.
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M3 metric diameter – fully threaded – Standard coarse pitch (0.5mm). Threads run the entire shank length for maximum grip in thin materials.
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Lengths from 3mm to 50mm (under head) – Short screws for thin panels, longer ones for through‑hole assemblies. Choose exactly what your project needs.
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Wide application range – Marine hardware, chemical equipment, outdoor furniture, boat fittings, coastal construction, and general industrial use.
📏 Technical Specifications – M3 A4 Stainless Pan Head Screws (Flat Tail)
| Specification |
Details |
| Product Type |
Phillips Pan Head Machine Screws (Round head) |
| Material |
A4 Stainless Steel (316 / marine grade) |
| Drive Style |
Phillips cross‑head (use PH1 bit) |
| Head Style |
Pan head (round, low profile) |
| System of Measurement |
Metric |
| Thread Size |
M3 (3mm diameter) |
| Thread Pitch |
0.5mm (standard coarse) |
| Thread Type |
Fully threaded |
| End Type |
Flat tail (plain, non‑self‑tapping) |
| Length Range (under head) |
3mm – 50mm (select from options) |
| Length Measurement |
Under head – from flat bearing surface to tip (head not included) |
| Finish |
Natural stainless (unplated, bright) |
❓ FAQs – A4 Stainless Steel M3 Pan Head Screws
🔸 What is the difference between A4 (316) and A2 (304) stainless steel?
A4 (316) contains molybdenum, which greatly improves resistance to chlorides – that means saltwater, de-icing salts, and many industrial chemicals. A2 (304) is fine for most indoor and general outdoor use, but A4 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 20mm screw has a 20mm threaded shank.
🔸 Will A4 stainless steel rust in saltwater?
A4 (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 with fresh water for maximum lifespan.
🔸 What is a “flat tail” screw? Is it self‑tapping?
A flat tail means the screw has a plain, flat end – it is not self‑tapping. These screws are designed to be used with a matching nut or a pre‑tapped hole. For self‑tapping screws, look for a pointed or gimlet point.
🔸 What Phillips screwdriver size works for M3?
For M3, use a PH1 Phillips screwdriver. A quality PH1 bit provides good engagement without stripping.
🔸 What lengths are available for M3?
We offer lengths from 3mm to 50mm in standard increments. Common lengths include 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50mm. Please select your desired length from the dropdown options. If you need a length not listed, contact us.