Barrel Nuts
A barrel nut — also called a cross dowel nut — is a cylindrical nut with a threaded cross hole. It drops into a bored hole in one part while a bolt passes through the mating part and threads into the side of the barrel, pulling the two together. It’s the standard connector for knock-down furniture, equipment panels, bed frames, and any joint that needs to be assembled and disassembled cleanly. Eugene Fastener & Supply stocks barrel/cross-dowel nuts in steel and stainless, in common inch and metric threads.
Barrel nuts give a strong, flush, reusable connection with no protruding hardware on the finished face. We sell by the piece or in bulk, cross-reference part numbers, and ship same day on orders placed before 2pm Pacific.
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Barrel Nuts & Cross Dowel Nuts
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How a Barrel Nut Works
The barrel sits in a hole drilled across the grain or panel; a connector bolt passes through the mating piece and threads into the barrel’s cross hole. Tightening draws the parts together with a strong, hidden, reusable joint. A slot or drive in the end of the barrel lets you rotate it to align the threaded hole with the bolt. Common in cabinetry, bed frames, workbenches, and machine panels.
Barrel Nut FAQ
What is a barrel nut?
A barrel nut is a cylindrical nut with a threaded cross hole. It drops into a bored hole in one part while a bolt threads into its side from the mating part, pulling the two together. It is also called a cross dowel nut and is widely used in knock-down furniture and equipment panels.
What is the difference between a barrel nut and a cross dowel?
They are the same fastener — "cross dowel" describes the dowel-shaped body that sits across the joint, and "barrel nut" describes the barrel shape. Both provide a hidden, reusable connector for panel and furniture joints.
What sizes do barrel nuts come in?
Common inch and metric connector sizes (for example 1/4-20 and M6) in standard barrel diameters and lengths. If you need a specific diameter, length, or thread, contact us and we will match it.
Are barrel nuts reusable?
Yes — barrel-nut joints are designed to assemble and disassemble cleanly, which is why they are standard on knock-down furniture and serviceable equipment panels.
Why Buy from Eugene Fastener
- Barrel / cross-dowel nuts in steel and stainless, inch and metric.
- By the piece or in bulk, with cross-reference help.
- Since 1969 — serving Pacific Northwest industry for over 55 years.
Barrel nuts pair with connector bolts and our screw binding posts and joint-connector nuts for furniture and panel work. Browse all nut types or contact our sales team. Eugene Fastener & Supply — serving the Pacific Northwest since 1969.