Which Pin Type Are You? (A Deeply Unscientific Guide)

Have you ever wondered what type of pin you’d be if you were… well, a pin? No? Well, buckle up—because you’re about to find out.

From strong and steady cotter pins to stylish custom enamel lapel pins, this deeply unscientific guide explores the world of pin types with a little fun and a lot of info. Whether you work in the automotive industry, love sewing, or just enjoy quirky blogs, we’ve got the pin fasteners for you.

Let’s find out: which pin are YOU?

Lapel Pins – The Everyday Hero

Let’s not forget the most wearable of all fastener pins— custom lapel pins. From company logos to charity awareness, these little pin fasteners carry big meanings.

They come in many different pin types, including soft enamel, hard enamel, die-struck, and even glitter pins.

Soft Enamel Pins – The Stylish One

Now we’re getting into the fun stuff! If you love design, colors, and self-expression—you might be a soft enamel pin.

These are super popular for brands and artists. They have raised edges, recessed color, and tons of pin designs. And yes, you can add glitter.

Hard Enamel Pins – The Fancy One

Love sleek style and a smooth finish? You’re totally a hard enamel pin. These are polished until flat and glossy.

Perfect for lapel pins, awards, or elegant branding. A classy choice that lasts a long time.

Die-Struck Pins – The Timeless Classic

Sometimes color isn’t needed. Die-struck pins are bold, professional, and all about texture and shine. No color—just beautiful metal pins that speak for themselves.

Cotter Pins – The Dependable One

If you always triple-check that the door is locked and make lists for your lists… you’re probably a cotter pin.

These pins are metal pins with split ends that bend after insertion. They’re found in all sorts of machines and tools. They hold parts together with a secure connection that won’t quit. Some even come as Hammer lock cotter pins, built for extra strength. Need a fastening pin that lasts a long time? This is it.

Clevis Pins – The Team Player

A clevis pin is never alone. It’s made to be used with a cotter pin, forming a powerful pair. If you’re someone who works best with a buddy, this might be your type of pin.

They fit through pre-drilled holes and are often found in agricultural machinery and machine parts. Made from stainless steel or Alloy Steel, these steel pins are great for heavy-duty jobs and specific applications.

Spring Pins – The Flexible Friend

Bend but don’t break—that’s the motto of spring pins. If you’re the go-with-the-flow type, you’re a spring pin.

Also called slotted pins or coiled spring pins, they fit tightly in holes and hold parts in place with ease of use. Thanks to heat treatment, they’re extra tough and can be used in a wide range of industries.

Dowel Pins – The Quiet Strength

You don’t have to be flashy to be strong. Dowel Pins are simple, round, and made to line things up just right. If you’re someone who brings people together, keeps projects on track, and doesn’t need praise—you’re a dowel pin.

Often made of carbon steel, low carbon steel, or Alloy Steel, they’re used in tools, furniture, and even electronic devices. Some have parallel grooves to keep from slipping. You’ll find them in a ton of different applications.

Lynch Pins – The Quick Thinker

Need something done fast and secure? Lynch pins (or Linch Pins) snap into place with a quick push. That’s perfect for someone who’s smart, speedy, and always one step ahead.

Used on tractors and trailers, they’re great for agricultural machinery. They make a secure hold with a simple locking mechanism.

Hitch Pins – The Heavy Lifter

Hitch pins are the ones you call when it’s time to tow something heavy. If you’re strong, solid, and always helping others—you’re a hitch pin.

They connect trailers and come with a pull-ring or clip. They work well with spring plungers and snap pins, too.

Taper Pins – The Perfectionist

Taper pins get smaller at one end, so they fit super snug. Kind of like how you always make sure everything fits just right.

They’re used in high-precision machine parts, often made from stainless steel or carbon steel for durability.

Detent Pins – The Button Lover

Click! That satisfying feel of a button press? That’s the detent pin experience. If you love unique features and things that click into place, this is your match.

Great for quick-release pins, these are often used in tools and specific purpose fastenings.

Split Pins – The Old-School Fixer

Split pins are like cotter pins with a classic twist. Simple, easy, and reliable—just like your grandpa’s favorite tools.

Perfect for locking pieces together. Not fancy, but they’ve been around forever for a reason.

Wire Lock Pins – The Clever One

Smart and quick, wire lock pins are all about speed with fastener pin power. They snap on, lock in place, and are ready to go.

They’re perfect in situations where fastening pins need to be removed often.

Roll Pins – The Hidden Hero

Roll pins are like the introverts of the pin world. Quiet, but powerful. They slip into place and expand to hold tight.

Their cylindrical shape and flexible walls make them great for all kinds of jobs. They don’t get the spotlight—but they make everything work.

Types of Pin Fasteners: So Many Choices

You’ve now seen a lot of pin types. There are different types for different sizes, jobs, and materials. Some are made from Alloy Steel, others from stainless steel, or even plastic head pins. Choosing the best one depends on the specific needs of your project.

Snap Pins – The Crowd’s Favorite

Loved in trailers and gear, Snap pins are super common in the automotive industry. If you’re always in high demand, you’re probably a snap pin.

Easy to use, fast to apply, and super handy, these pin fasteners are a must-have.

Quilting Pins & Sewing Pins – The Creative Ones

If you love crafts, you might be a quilting pin or sewing pin. With colorful glass heads or plastic head pins, they make fabric magic happen.

Grooved Pin & Spiral Pins – The Precision Pros

Last but not least, we have grooved pins, spiral pins, and knurled pins. These little guys are built for tight fits and high-precision work.

They often feature parallel grooves and hold tight in cylindrical pins or shafts.

Final Thoughts (and Your Email Address Please?)

So, which pin are you? Whether you’re a dowel pin holding things steady, a custom service pin showing off some flair, or a snap pin keeping things moving, there’s a pin type that matches your vibe.

Have questions? Want to order custom lapel pins? Fill out our request form and ask for free shipping on samples of different pin types. Drop us your email address at the footer of this page to receive free shipping promos.

More Blog Posts Like This?

Check out our other Blog Posts for more guides like this one. We cover all the types of enamel pin and pin fasteners you’ll ever need—plus tons of ideas for pin designs, production tips, and more.