Simpson Strong-Tie A33 Framing Angle

The A33 framing angle delivers 830 lb uplift capacity with just 4 SD9112 screws in a compact 3 in. x 3 in. footprint. That’s serious holding power for contractors who need verified structural strength without overbuilding.

Skip the A33 if you’re just tacking up trim or building shelves. This is 12-gauge steel (0.105 in. thick) engineered for structural connections where failure isn’t an option.

Load Ratings and Structural Performance

The numbers tell the story. Customers praise the thickness and strength of the 12-gauge steel, and the load tables back up their confidence:

Load Type	DF/SP	SPF/HF
Uplift	830 lb	715 lb
Lateral	335 lb	290 lb

*All values with 4 SD9112 screws

These aren’t theoretical numbers. They’re tested values you can specify with confidence. The 830 lb uplift in Douglas Fir beats what most contractors expect from a 3-inch angle.

Compare that to Simpson’s lighter options. The A21 and A23 use 18-gauge steel — fine for light-duty work but nowhere near the A33’s capacity. Need more muscle? Step up to the A44 with its 4-9/16 in. x 4-3/8 in. footprint.

Fastener Requirements and Compatibility

Getting rated loads means using the right fasteners. Simpson specs 4 Strong-Drive SD9112 screws or 10d (0.148 in. x 3 in.) nails per side. That’s per side — 8 fasteners total for a complete connection.

The SD9112 screws deliver better performance than nails. They’re engineered specifically for structural connections, and the 830 lb uplift rating assumes you’re using them. Want to use standard nails? You can, but expect lower allowable loads.

Minor complaints involve hole sizes being slightly tight for some fasteners. That’s by design. The pre-punched holes are sized for specified fasteners, not whatever’s rolling around in your nail pouch. Also compatible with structural through-bolts (ASTM A307) when you need the ultimate connection.

Real-World Applications

Joist-to-wall plate and rim-board to wall plate connections — that’s where the A33 earns its keep. The compact 3-inch footprint fits standard framing lumber without crowding adjacent hardware.

Professional framers use these angles for:

• Stud-to-plate or beam-to-post connections in residential framing
• Reinforcing interior and exterior shear walls
• General purpose wood framing where structural reinforcement is needed

The longer leg (W2) should be positioned against the primary load member. Basic stuff, but worth remembering when you’re banging out connections on autopilot.

G90 Galvanization Performance

G90 Galvanized (Zinc-coated) for rust and corrosion protection means this angle works inside and out. Montana’s freeze-thaw cycles and spring moisture can destroy bare steel in a few seasons. The G90 coating laughs it off.

4.6 stars from 1009 reviews — that’s not marketing fluff. Contractors keep buying these because they don’t rust out after five winters. Verify coating type (G90) is appropriate for the wood type and environment (untreated wood for G90). Using pressure-treated lumber? Check Simpson’s compatibility charts for proper hardware.

The 3 in. x 3 in. x 1-1/2 in. dimensions work perfectly with standard 2x lumber. No special blocking. No weird spacing. Just solid connections that pass inspection.

Bottom Line

At 4.6 stars across 1009 reviews, contractors have voted with their wallets. The A33 delivers what matters: verified load ratings, proper corrosion protection, and a size that fits real-world framing.

It’s not the cheapest angle on the shelf. It’s not supposed to be. When you need 830 pounds of uplift resistance in a connection that’ll last 30 years, the A33 delivers.

FAQ

What’s the actual thickness of the A33 angle? 12-gauge steel, approximately 0.105 inches thick. That’s nearly twice as thick as 18-gauge angles, which explains the superior load ratings.

Can regular nails be used instead of the SD9112 screws? Yes. 10d nails (0.148 in. x 3 in.) work as an alternative. But the published load values assume SD9112 screws. Expect lower allowable loads with nails.

What’s the difference between the A33 and A44? Size and capacity. The A44 has larger dimensions (4-9/16 in. x 4-3/8 in.) for higher capacity when you need more than the A33’s ratings. A33 is the mid-sized 12-gauge angle offering high strength with a standard 3-inch face.

Are the pre-drilled holes required? Install using all pre-punched fastener holes to achieve published load values. Skip holes and you’re guessing at capacity.

What certifications does the A33 carry? ICC-ES ER-102 (Product Approval), ICC-ES ER-112 (IBC, IRC, LABC Compliance), ICC-ES ESR-3096 (Structural Engineering Support), and Florida Building Code (FL10446).