DIYPicks

Red Head 3/8 in Hex-Nut Sleeve Anchor Review (2026)

By Nate Sawyer, Editor ยท Updated July 2026

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4.6$2015-ctCheck Price on Amazon โ†’

Red Head's 3/8 in sleeve anchor is a versatile expansion anchor rated for solid concrete plus hollow block and brick, where wedge anchors often fail, with a full-length sleeve that spreads clamping force in soft masonry. But it has lower ultimate strength than a same-diameter wedge, and holding in old crumbly brick should be pull-tested.

Pros

  • One of the few expansion anchors rated for brick and hollow block, not just poured concrete
  • The full-length sleeve spreads clamping force, so it is more forgiving in soft masonry than a wedge
  • Code-approved for commercial building use and available in many lengths

Cons

  • Lower ultimate strength than a wedge anchor of the same diameter in solid concrete
  • Permanent and not reusable once the sleeve expands
  • Holding power in old or crumbly brick is unpredictable and should be pull-tested

Specifications

Base materialSolid concrete, hollow block, and brick
Load ratingMedium-to-heavy, varies by base material (weakest in soft brick)
Anchor typeExpansion sleeve anchor
Drill bit3/8 in
ScrewIntegral stud with hex nut and washer
Best useLedger boards, electrical boxes, brackets in brick or block

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