The 316 stainless steel dowel pin has a plain finish. The dowel pin is inserted into a hole to align and join components. It also can be used as a location guide. The 316 stainless steel grade provides strength and offers better corrosion resistance than 18-8 stainless steel, especially in marine environments. The material may be slightly magnetic.

Pins are non-threaded cylindrical fasteners that are inserted into one or more holes to fix a component's position, join components, or maintain alignment between them. Several different pin styles fit a variety of application and installation requirements. Dowel pins, for example, have a solid shaft that is often rounded or beveled at the ends. Quick-release pins have a button, handle, or ring at one end that releases retractable balls at the other end to act as a lock-and-release mechanism. Clevis pins have a head at one end and one or more cross holes at the other end that allow insertion of cotter pins to lock components in place. Cotter pins have two prongs that can be inserted into the hole of clevis pins or other fasteners and bent to secure them in place.