I used the ABU-44Z for the connection point for the ground contact stair rail post on a deck I am building. Prior to ordering the item I spoke with my local county building inspector/plans inspector and he confirmed that the ABU-44 was acceptable for this function in our county. The caveat was that I was required to use 1/2" diameter bolts driven through the sides of the ABU-44, each of the two surrounding stringers, and the 4x4 post.

The construction of the ABU-44 is solid and heavy duty. I am extremely pleased. But, I would expect nothing less for Simpson. The Simpson Strong Tie products perform as expected. It is nice to see a company taking pride and delivering quality products at at reasonable price. If you have questions call the Simpson 800 customer service number and a technician / product specialist will square you away and offer suggestions. I do not work for Simpson. I am a career fireman/medic.

I used 6" Simpson Strong Tie HD Titen screws to set the ABU-44z into the concrete base that has an overlay of 1" slate slab. The connection was a breeze and is solid. Can you say, "money!"

The connection with the 4x4 post via the 8" x 1/2" galvanized carriage bolts was simple. The connection without the stairs or railings is solid. When the stairs were completed with the treads and railing the assembly as a whole the connection is rock solid.

The inspector commented that that I "did it right".

The team at Fasteners Plus was phenomenal. I have ordered from them several times. Each time the items have arrived quickly withing 2-3 days of me placing the order. I highly recommend both The ABU-44 and Fasters Plus.

I have gone to these almost exclusively when building decks. They keep my PT posts off the concrete, and with Fastenal's pricing they are competative with other solutions; assuming you have a good concrete drill.