Hex Drive Threaded Inserts-Choose size

I've been using these inserts in the furniture that I build for my customers. After stripping out the allen socket multiple times, I cut down a bolt slightly so that it doesn't protrude past the end of the insert, then used a socket in my cordless drill to drive the insert in. This method works really well.

I initially tried to install the insert by using a hex bit in my hand drill. That doesn't work very well and I had to remove a couple of broken inserts. I removed them by using epoxy, inserting a 1/4 - 20 hex nut and turning over the board so that the epoxy would flow towards the bolt. Next day, a wrench removed the bolt and insert easily. I found that using a ratchett works well.

Worked perfectly. I can't understand why others had trouble, because these were so easy to install: Drill a hole; Put a hex drive on a socket wrench; Turn.I've used the 1/4" size in Maple and Red Oak--both end grain--with absolutely no resistance, breakage, splitting, etc. And they hold tight, unlike some of the T-nut options out there.I used a 7/16" bit for both, but if you simply read the back of the package, the suggested bit sizes are listed for hardwood or softwood applications. A 15/32" bit is recommended for hardwood (NOT a 3/8" hole, as others mentioned). I always start with a smaller hole first, however, because you can make a hole bigger, but not smaller! The 7/16" hole worked on the first test--held fast, and the insert went in with no more torque than needed to run a machine screw.Great item.

Worked great. You just have to make sure the correct size hole is drilled. I installed mine into red oak with a hex wrench with no problems.

I used the inserts to repair 33 office chairs that had been delivered and set up by a vendor. The people who assembled and installed the previous inserts did not tighten them even hand tight. When I was called upon, months later, to repair the chairs, I used your inserts which were slightly larger and therefore were a perfect fit for the project. I used an 8mm Allen driver in a half-inch driver drill to drive and torque the bolts. Perfect solution to a problem that could have been prevented, but wasn't.