Bed hardware

[Al Killian]

I am building a bed for my son and need help choseing the hardware for attaching the headboard and footboard. What have you used. What do like about it? I do not want to have to replace the hardware after a few years due to low quality.

[Larry Fox]

Al, I use a slight modification of a system Jeff Miller describes in his book "Beds" which is basically a hidden bed bolt. I say modification because he uses a bolt which requires a slot and pocket and I use all-thread and a nut that requires only a pocket. VERY strong. I didn't care so much for the hardware available and I didn't want a bed-bolt showing.

[Tim Lynch]

I just used these brackets on my son's twin bed. Incredibly easy to mount (no mortises), they pull the side rails very tight to the head and footboard, and you can sink an extra screw that locks everything in place. You know how those little rascals like to jump on the bed!

My son's bed is as solid as a rock. And I thought the price was right at $11.99 for all 4 brackets. You'll have to provide your own screws though.

http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=5783&filter=bed%20hardware

[Mike Circo]

I use this set from Van Dykes and feel that they are the easiest to install, VERY tough and extremely sturdy.

http://www.vandykes.com/product/02284211

They use a wedging action which continously tightens the joint. Absolutely no movement, wiggle, squeek or problem in 5 years on a queen size bed.

Since they attach to the inside faces of the rails and to the face of the post, there is no mortice to dig out. (a plus for me). The face attachment on the rail is especially nice as this eliminates the issue of the weak grip of screws into end grain that many bed attachment hardware has.

I got the installation jig set to aid in positioning, but with a little practice you could do it by hand.

Highly recommended (by me)
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[John Timberlake]

Maybe it's me, but I have only had long term success with bed bolts. The last ones I used were from Rockler and used bed bolt cover to hide them on the foot board. I have tried the hook type and didn't like them. Rockler also sells a wrench to fit them.

[Larry Crim]

I use the Hook type like these. They work out well. I make a template so they are all in the same and works out well.
http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=5289

[Al Killian]

Mike, so far the ones you have showen to me seem the best. I have heard of problems with the ones from Rockler comeing lose. I can not use bed blots as the footboard will be a bookcase and there will be no way to attach them.

[Larry Fox]

I can not use bed blots as the footboard will be a bookcase and there will be no way to attach them.

In that case - I highly recommend looking at the method Jeff Miller came up with in his book. Easy, rock-solid and no bed bolt showing through.

[Andrew Williams]

I use the "heavy duty wrought steel bed rail fasteners" from rockler. They require mortising and also chopping/drilling out a small deeper mortise for the hook clearance. They are pretty much as strong as whatever screws you decide to mount them with.

[Rick Gibson]

I have used these with good success. Haven't had one come apart yet but they do have to be morticed in to both pieces.

http://store.workshopsupply.com/catalogue/product_info.php?products_id=400