Lath and plaster walls have a reputation for being tricky to hang anything on. One wrong turn with a drill and you’re staring at a crumbling hole instead of a mounted shelf. The key is using an anchor designed to grip the hollow cavity behind the plaster, not just the brittle surface itself.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind WellFizz. I’ve spent years analyzing hardware specifications, comparing load capacities, and assessing installation methods across hundreds of anchoring solutions for challenging wall materials.
This guide cuts through the guesswork, covering only the anchors that deliver reliable holding power without destroying your walls. Here is everything you need to choose the right anchors for lath and plaster walls.
How To Choose The Best Anchors For Lath And Plaster Walls
Standard plastic expansion anchors rely on the surface material to grip. On plaster, that surface is often brittle and prone to cracking. The best solution is an anchor that opens behind the wall, distributing weight across the back of the lath or plaster board. Here’s what to look for.
Anchor Type: Molly Bolts vs. Toggle Bolts
Molly bolts have expandable sleeves that crush against the back of the wall, creating a permanent anchor that allows screw removal without losing grip. Toggle bolts use spring-loaded wings that open behind the wall and cannot be removed without dropping the wing into the cavity. For most homeowners, molly bolts offer more convenience because the screw can be taken out and reinserted.
Wall Thickness Compatibility
Lath and plaster assemblies can range from 0.12 inches to over 1.5 inches thick depending on the number of coats and type of lath. Many anchor kits specify a maximum wall thickness — a typical molly bolt covers 0.12 to 1.28 inches. Measuring your wall thickness ensures the anchor’s sleeve is long enough to expand behind the plaster.
Load Capacity and Screw Size
Not all anchors are rated for the same weight. A standard molly bolt rated at 55 pounds is sufficient for picture frames, mirrors, and towel racks. Heavier items like shelves or wall cabinets benefit from anchors rated at 65 pounds or toggle bolts with wider wing spans. The screw diameter (M4, M5, M6) also matters — larger screws provide more shear strength.
Installation Tool Quality
A good setting tool prevents the anchor from twisting or stripping inside the wall. Look for tools made from heat-treated carbon steel with thickened construction — these resist bending under pressure and provide consistent expansion across multiple installations.
Quick Comparison
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| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AKKTOL 36 PCS | Molly Bolt Kit | Heavy loads up to 65 lbs | 6 sizes, 65 lbs capacity | Amazon |
| FOREVTL 32 PCS | Molly Bolt Kit | Wide wall thickness range | 8 sizes, up to 1.52″ thick | Amazon |
| JoblikeBrez 34 PCS | Molly Bolt Kit | Consistent, repeatable installs | 3 sizes, 55 lbs capacity | Amazon |
| BURMONG 34 PCS | Molly Bolt Kit | Compact kit for small projects | 3 sizes, 55 lbs capacity | Amazon |
| Hillman 50 PCS | Toggle Bolt | High pull-out resistance | 1/8″ x 2″, 50-pack | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. AKKTOL Molly Bolts for Drywall & Plaster Walls
The AKKTOL kit features 36 molly bolts in six sizes, offering the widest range of screw diameters and lengths for varying plaster thickness. The setting tool uses a hammer-and-pull mechanism instead of twisting, which prevents screws from bending during installation — a common failure point with inferior tools. The tool is made from 2.5mm heat-treated carbon steel, giving it a sturdy feel that withstands repeated use without flexing.
Each anchor is constructed from zinc-plated carbon steel for corrosion resistance. The holding capacity ranges from 40 to 65 pounds, depending on the screw size and wall material. The double-sided storage box keeps all anchors organized, reducing the chance of mismatching sizes mid-project.
Several users noted that the included anchors have metric threads, which may not be compatible with standard coarse-thread screws if replacements are needed. The tensile strength rating of 8000 psi adds confidence for heavier mounts like wall cabinets or floating shelves.
Why it’s great
- Setting tool uses pulling action rather than twisting, reducing screw bending
- Six bolt sizes cover thin and thick plaster assemblies
- Heat-treated carbon steel tool resists wear over many installations
Good to know
- Included anchors use metric threads; standard-thread anchors need separate purchase
- Some users found the anchor bodies softer than expected
2. FOREVTL Molly Bolts for Drywall & Plaster Walls
The FOREVTL kit provides 32 anchors in eight sizes, including M4 through M6 diameters with lengths reaching 65mm — the longest in this lineup. This makes it the best choice for thicker lath-and-plaster assemblies that exceed 1.28 inches. The setting tool features a non-slip ergonomic grip with an orange rubber coating, reducing hand fatigue during extended projects.
Each molly bolt is made from zinc-plated carbon steel and holds up to 65 pounds. The tool is constructed from 2.5mm heat-treated reinforced carbon steel, which resists corrosion and maintains alignment over many cycles. The double-sided carrying case separates anchors by size, making it easy to grab the right bolt without sifting through loose hardware.
A potential drawback mentioned by users is that the mushrooming strips on the anchors can bend inward if too much force is applied during insertion. If this happens, the strips can be straightened with pliers before reattempting installation.
Why it’s great
- Eight anchor sizes accommodate wall thicknesses up to 1.52 inches
- Ergonomic grip on setting tool improves comfort for large jobs
- Zinc-plated carbon steel resists rust in interior applications
Good to know
- Anchor strips may bend inward if inserted with excessive force
- A few users experienced screw bending during tool use
3. JoblikeBrez Molly Bolts for Drywall Plaster Walls
The JoblikeBrez kit offers 34 molly bolts in three sizes — M5x37mm, M5x52mm, and M5x65mm — all sharing the same M5 screw diameter. This simplifies selection for users who primarily need one screw gauge. The expansion arms are designed with a butterfly shape that opens outward, pressing flat against the wall backing for a secure hold.
All metal cavity dowels are made from galvanized carbon steel for rust resistance. The setting tool is constructed from 1-inch hardened carbon steel, which provides enough leverage to expand the wings without slipping. Users reported that even large molly bolts set reliably with minimal effort, and the tool performed without bending across 25 to 30 installations.
One trade-off is the limited size variety — if your project requires multiple screw diameters, you’ll need a separate kit. The included instruction booklet is comprehensive, making this a good starting point for first-time users of hollow wall anchors.
Why it’s great
- Uses consistent M5 screw diameter across all sizes, reducing confusion
- Butterfly expansion arms distribute weight evenly behind plaster
- Hardened carbon steel tool handles repeated use without bending
Good to know
- Only three sizes available, all with M5 threads
- Tool is slightly heavy for its compact size
4. BURMONG Heavy Duty Molly Bolts for Drywall
The BURMONG kit packs 34 molly bolts in three sizes alongside a compact setting tool. The anchors are made from galvanized carbon steel, and the mounting clamps on the tool are constructed from 1-inch hardened carbon steel. Despite the smaller tool profile, it provides enough leverage to expand the wings securely in walls up to 1.28 inches thick.
Each anchor holds up to 55 pounds, and the internal thread design allows the screw to be removed and reinstalled without losing load-bearing capacity. This is especially useful for repositioning shelves or swapping decor without needing new anchors. The kit includes sizes M5x37mm, M5x52mm, and M6x52mm, covering both medium and heavy-duty applications.
One common complaint is that the rubber grip on the setting tool slid off after a few uses. Some users opted to glue it back in place. For occasional DIY tasks, this is a minor inconvenience, but heavy users may prefer a tool with a permanently bonded handle.
Why it’s great
- Small tool profile fits easily into a tool bag or drawer
- Internal thread allows repeated screw removal without compromising hold
- Galvanized carbon steel resists rust and corrosion
Good to know
- Rubber grip on setting tool may slide off over time
- Limited to three sizes; M5 and M6 only
5. Hillman 50 Pcs Toggle Bolt (1/8″ x 2″)
The Hillman 50-pack of toggle bolts offers a completely different approach from molly bolts. Instead of an expanding sleeve, each bolt has spring-loaded wings that open once pushed through the wall cavity. This creates a wide bearing surface that distributes weight across a larger area, making toggle bolts the strongest option for heavy loads on hollow walls like lath and plaster.
Each bolt is 1/8 inch in diameter and 2 inches long, with a round head machine screw and zinc-plated steel finish for corrosion resistance. Installation requires a 3/8-inch pilot hole. The spring-action wings are rated for medium to heavy loads, suitable for shelving brackets, wall cabinets, and bathroom accessories. The 50-count pack is generous for multiple projects.
The main limitation is that toggle bolts cannot be removed without dropping the wings into the wall cavity. This makes them less convenient for temporary installations. Some users also reported that the wings occasionally get stuck closed or catch during insertion, requiring careful alignment.
Why it’s great
- Spring-loaded wings provide maximum pull-out resistance on hollow walls
- 50-count pack offers excellent value for large projects
- Zinc-plated steel resists rust in interior applications
Good to know
- Wings cannot be removed from the wall without dropping them
- Some users experienced wings catching or sticking during insertion
FAQ
Can I use plastic expansion anchors on lath and plaster walls?
What size hole do I need to drill for a molly bolt?
How much weight can a molly bolt hold in plaster?
Do I need a setting tool for molly bolts?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the anchors for lath and plaster walls winner is the AKKTOL 36 PCS kit because it offers the widest size range, a heavy-duty setting tool with a pulling mechanism, and a 65-pound capacity that handles everything from mirrors to towel racks. If you need anchors for walls thicker than 1.28 inches, grab the FOREVTL 32 PCS kit. And for bulk toggle bolting on large shelving or cabinet projects, nothing beats the Hillman 50-pack.
Mo Maruf
I created WellFizz to bridge the gap between vague wellness advice and actionable solutions. My mission is simple: to decode the research and give you practical tools you can actually use.
Beyond the data, I am a passionate traveler. I believe that stepping away from the screen to explore new environments is essential for mental clarity and physical vitality.