I'm working on a desk using a 1.5" thick butcher block and plan to attach metal legs. The legs have a connecting face that is 17 gauge (0.057" thick). I'm currently looking at using 1/4-20 inserts that are 0.5" long, as well as furniture bolts that are either 1/2" or 5/8" long. Is there an ideal depth for the threaded inserts I should aim for? Also, do I need to consider longer inserts or bolts, and would switching to 3/4" inserts make a difference?
1 Answer
As a CNC machinist, I'd suggest you follow the general rule for metal connections: aim for about 1.5 times the diameter of your bolt for thread engagement. For a 1/4-20 bolt, that puts you at roughly 3/8" engagement. So, the 0.5" length you're considering should work well!
Got it, I think I should be good with either the 1/2" or 5/8" bolts. But would it make sense to go with 3/4" inserts if I'm using bolts that are around 3/4" long?