Conquest #8 x 3 Type 316 Stainless Steel Trim Head Deck Screws

In this review the Conquest #8 x 3 Type 316 stainless steel trim head deck screws are evaluated for marine and exterior decking work; the bottom line is these screws are aimed at builders and homeowners who need long-lasting fasteners for salty or wet environments. The reviewer found the biggest reason to buy is the combination of Type 316 corrosion resistance and a self-drilling point that reduces pilot hole work, making these screws a practical choice for docks, jetties, fences and exposed walkways.

Key Features

• Type 316 stainless steel: Offers superior corrosion resistance for ocean-side and severe marine environments so fasteners last longer without rusting.
• #8 x 3 in size: Provides a common length and thread diameter that works well for standard deck boards and fascia without excessive splitting when installed correctly.
• Trim head design: The smaller head recesses neatly into wood, leaving a reduced visible footprint for a cleaner deck surface and easier finishing.
• 6-lobe star drive: Ensures positive bit engagement and reduces the chance of stripped heads during installation, improving driving speed and control.
• Type 17 point with flute: The sharp pointed tip and cut-out flute capture and remove waste for easier self-drilling into softwoods and common decking materials.

Who It's For

The screws are well suited to professional deck builders, boatyard crews, and homeowners installing or repairing docks, jetties, fences, and outdoor walkways where exposure to salt air or frequent moisture is expected. If corrosion resistance and a low-profile head are priorities, these fasteners deliver practical value.

Those working with very hard or dense hardwoods or structural framing where larger diameters or specialized coatings are required should consider alternative fasteners designed specifically for those uses. Also, users expecting countersinking for finished carpentry should confirm head visibility and test on scrap before final installation.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent corrosion resistance from Type 316 stainless steel, suited to marine conditions.
• Trim head leaves a smaller footprint for neater deck and railing appearances.
• 6-lobe star drive gives secure engagement and reduces cam-out for faster driving.
• Type 17 point and flute aid self-drilling and waste removal when driving into wood.

Cons

• The smaller trim head may require careful countersinking for fully flush finishes on some hardwoods.

Specifications

Thread Diameter	#8
Length	3 in
Quantity	1750 pieces
Material	Type 316 Stainless Steel
Head Type	Trim head
Drive Type	6-lobe star drive
Point Type	Type 17 point with cut out flute

Our Verdict

The Conquest #8 x 3 Type 316 stainless steel trim head screws are a sensible purchase for anyone needing durable, marine-grade fasteners for decks, docks, jetties, and outdoor walkways. They balance corrosion resistance, a low-profile head and a self-drilling point to save time and extend service life, making them good value for salt-exposed installations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these screws suitable for saltwater exposure?
Yes. Type 316 stainless steel is specified for severe corrosive environments including ocean-side applications.

Do these screws require pilot holes?
The Type 17 point with a cut out flute assists self-drilling into many woods, though pilot holes may still be recommended for dense hardwoods.

What driver bit is needed?
A 6-lobe star drive bit is required for positive engagement and to avoid stripping the head.