The M6 size of Hex Head Bolts with Reduced Shank is dimensioned by ISO 4015. The tables below give the dimensional row from the standard, the drill and spanner sizes that go with it, and the assembly torque per property class. The technical drawing on this page redraws to the exact values selected.
M6 Dimensional Row (ISO 4015)
| Size | Pitch P (mm) | b1 (mm) | b2 (mm) | c_max (mm) | d_a_max (mm) | d_s (mm) | d_w_min (mm) | Width across corners e (mm) | Head height k (mm) | k_max (mm) | k_min (mm) | k_w_min (mm) | r_min (mm) | Width across flats s (mm) | s_min (mm) | x_max (mm) | Length range l (mm) | Reference standard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M6 | 1 | 18 | 0 | 0.5 | 6.8 | 5.3 | 8.74 | 10.89 | 4 | 4.24 | 3.76 | 2.63 | 0.25 | 10 | 9.64 | 2.5 | 25~60 | ISO 4015 |
Spanner & Drive for M6 Hex Head Bolts with Reduced Shank
M6 Hex Head Bolts with Reduced Shank have a width across flats of 10 mm — fit a 10 mm open-ended spanner or socket. Prefer a 6-point socket over a 12-point: it loads the corners of the 10 mm hex far less, which matters on plated heads and on anything that will be re-used. Set preload with a torque wrench rather than by arm.
Hole Sizes for M6
| Coarse-thread pitch (ISO 724) | 1 mm |
|---|---|
| Through-hole / clearance (ISO 273 medium) | 6.6 mm |
| Tapping drill, coarse thread | 5 mm |
Tightening Torque for M6
| Class 8.8 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 10 Nm |
|---|---|
| Class 10.9 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 15 Nm |
| Class 12.9 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 17 Nm |
Indicative dry-joint values. Lubrication can lower the required torque by 15–25%. Always confirm against the joint design, especially when going up a strength class.
Proof Load & Strength for M6
| Tensile stress area As (ISO 724) | 20.1 mm² |
|---|---|
| Proof load, class 8.8 | 12 kN |
| Proof load, class 10.9 | 17 kN |
| Proof load, class 12.9 | 20 kN |
| Min. ultimate tensile load, class 8.8 | 16 kN |
Proof load = tensile stress area × the proof stress Sp of the class, per ISO 898-1 — Sp is a lower figure than the yield stress Rp0.2 and the two are not interchangeable. The stress area is computed from this size's own diameter and pitch, so a fine-pitch designation gives the fine-pitch figure. Design the joint so the working preload stays below the proof load of the class selected.
M6 Hex Head Bolts with Reduced Shank Weight
A steel M6 hex head bolts with reduced shank at the listed 2,560 mm length weighs approximately 571 g each — about 571 kg per 1,000 pieces. Stainless A2/A4 weighs roughly the same (density 7.9–8.0 g/cm³).
Actual weight varies slightly with head form, thread and finish; use this figure for freight estimation only.
Installation Tips for M6 Hex Head Bolts with Reduced Shank
- Use a 6-point socket where access allows — 12-point sockets are more prone to rounding the corners on smaller sizes.
- A flanged head is its own washer. Adding a flat one under it lifts the serrations clear of the surface they are meant to bite, which is the whole locking mechanism gone.
When to Step Up or Down from M6
When the joint preload approaches the proof load of M6 class 8.8, step up to M8 class 8.8 (or move to M6 class 10.9). When the joint is over-specified, M5 often saves weight and cost without losing the safety margin.
Custom manufacturing · Made to drawing
Need hex head bolts with reduced shank in a size this table does not list?
This page covers M6 hex head bolts with reduced shank. Material and finish are usually what drives a special — a grade the standard part is not stocked in, or a coating chosen against a salt-spray figure instead of a default. Made by cold heading or hot forging.
Minimum order from 2,000 pieces; samples within 7 days of drawing approval.

