Jaw Slides
Representative Photo, actual item may vary
Representative Photo, actual item may vary
Taylor Made 2020109054 Stainless Steel External Eye End for 1" Bimini Top Support Poles
What Are Bimini Top Jaw Slides?
A bimini top is one of a boater's most essential pieces of onboard equipment, providing shade and protection from sun and rain while underway or at anchor. But the canvas alone isn't enough — it takes a precise system of hardware fittings to hold the frame together, and jaw slides are a critical part of that system. Jaw slides are sleeves that slide over the bimini top frame tubing and clamp in the desired position using set screws. They are used to attach the end of one bow to the leg of another bow, and they feature a bracket that connects to an eye end with a bolt or pin, effectively linking the bimini's structural components into a single rigid assembly.
How Jaw Slides Work
Unlike fixed fittings that must be installed during initial assembly, jaw slides are designed to be positioned along the length of the frame tubing and then locked in place. This adjustability makes them invaluable when fitting a bimini top to a specific boat, allowing the installer to fine-tune the geometry of the frame before committing to a final position. Once tightened, a jaw slide creates a firm, rattle-free connection that holds up to the vibrations and motion of being underway.
Jaw slides are typically available in sizes to fit the most common bimini frame tubing diameters — 7/8 inch, 1 inch, and 1-1/4 inch round tubing. Choosing the correct interior diameter is essential; a jaw slide that is too loose will not clamp securely, while one that is too tight will not slide into position. Always confirm your frame's tubing diameter before purchasing.
Materials and Corrosion Resistance
Because bimini tops live in one of the harshest environments imaginable — exposed to UV rays, saltwater spray, humidity, and temperature extremes — the material composition of a jaw slide matters enormously. 316-grade marine stainless steel is the gold standard for jaw slides and other bimini hardware. Compared to 304 stainless steel or iron alloys, 316 stainless steel offers superior resistance to rust and corrosion in saltwater environments, making it the preferred choice for coastal and offshore boating. A mirror-polished finish not only adds a clean, professional look but also helps shed water and resist surface oxidation over time.
Installation Tips
One of the practical advantages of jaw slides is that they can be added to the frame tubing without fully disassembling the bimini structure. Simply open the hinged jaw, position the fitting over the tube, and tighten the set screws with a hex wrench — no drilling or welding required. This makes jaw slides equally useful for new builds and for replacing worn or damaged fittings on an existing canopy.
Top Brands for Jaw Slides
Sea-Dog Line is the leading name in this category, and for good reason. Sea-Dog Line has been a trusted supplier of marine hardware for over a century, offering an extensive range of high-quality fittings built to withstand the demands of both recreational and commercial boating. Their jaw slides and bimini hardware are engineered from corrosion-resistant materials and backed by decades of expertise in marine-grade construction.