Anchors/3/8" Sleeve Anchor

Sleeve Anchor

3/8" Sleeve Anchor

Quick Answer

A 3/8" Sleeve Anchor needs a 3/8" pilot hole, drilled to the full anchor length, with 1-1/4" minimum embedment, torqued to 15-18 ft-lbs.

Pilot Hole
3/8"
Embedment
1-1/4" minimum
Torque
15-18 ft-lbs
Safe Load
352 lbs

Where to Buy

As an Amazon Associate, BuildToolHQ earns from qualifying purchases. Specifications are for guidance only — always verify against the anchor manufacturer's ICC-ES ESR report and local building codes.

Full Specification

Type
Sleeve Anchor
Diameter
3/8"
Available Lengths
2", 2-3/4", 3-3/4", 5"
Pilot Hole Diameter
3/8"
Pilot Hole Depth
Hole depth = anchor length
Embedment Depth
1-1/4" minimum
Recommended Torque
15-18 ft-lbs
Compatible Substrates
Concrete, Brick, Solid block, Stone
Load Rating
352 lbs tension, 770 lbs shear safe working load — Ultimate: 1,406 lbs tension / 3,082 lbs shear — Ultimate values in 2000 PSI concrete (Confast). Allowable calculated at the industry-standard 4:1 safety factor.
Material
Zinc-plated steel, Stainless steel
Removable
No — permanent installation

Best For

  • Handrail brackets
  • Shelving
  • Mechanical equipment mounts
  • Pipe supports

Not For

  • Hollow block
  • Structural column bases
  • High seismic zones

How a Sleeve Anchor Grips

A sleeve anchor expands a full-length metal sleeve against the hole wall as the nut is tightened, spreading its grip over more surface area than a wedge clip does. That makes it more forgiving in brick and block, where a wedge anchor's concentrated expansion force can crack the base material.

Installation Tips

1.Drill the same diameter as the anchor — 3/8" hole for 3/8" anchor
2.Sleeve anchors work well in older or softer concrete where wedge anchors may not set properly
3.Can be used in brick and block — unlike wedge anchors
4.Don't overtighten — the sleeve can over-expand and crack masonry

Frequently Asked Questions

What size drill bit does a 3/8" Sleeve Anchor need?

Use a 3/8" carbide masonry bit, drilled to the full anchor length.

How much weight can a 3/8" Sleeve Anchor hold?

352 lbs tension, 770 lbs shear safe working load. Actual capacity depends on base material strength and embedment — verify against the manufacturer's ICC-ES ESR data for structural work.

How deep should the hole be?

Drill to the full anchor length. Minimum embedment for this anchor is 1-1/4" minimum.

How much should a 3/8" Sleeve Anchor be torqued?

Tighten to 15-18 ft-lbs. Over-torquing is a common cause of anchor failure.

Can a Sleeve Anchor be removed after installation?

No — this is a permanent installation; the anchor body stays in the hole.

Free Tool · Built on ACI 318-19

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