Q: I’m confused about the difference between a hex head bolt and hex cap screw? Is there a difference?
A: Yes these are two different types of fasteners. A hex head bolt is just that: a bolt with a head head. It is typically used when mechanical properties are more important than dimensional tolerances. A hex head cap screw is different because it has an added washer face under the head of the bolt. These screws are best for applications that require tight tolerances on the body dimension of the screw. The added washer face also provides more clamping area.