Thumb screws are designed to be tightened and loosened by hand. They come in a variety of head styles, but each includes an easy-grip head that allows for simple "by-hand" installation. The thumb screw has a shoulder that provides a good bearing surface and also makes the head easier to grip. The head has a diamond knurl, which also offers a gripping surface and makes it easier to tighten or loosen the fastener manually.

Free-machining brass, also known as alloy 360, is the most commonly used brass alloy. It resists corrosion and is nonmagnetic. Combined with a precision-machined finish, it also offers a decorative gold color for a finished look.

A threaded fastener's size name includes information about the major external diameter, followed by the threads per inch, which indicates if it is coarse or fine.