Abstract: A metal stud assembly includes a stud used in constructing a metal wall frame between two channel members, and an extender longitudinally slidably mounted within the stud. The stud includes a central column portion, two side walls formed on opposite sides of the central column portion, a retainer, at least one alignment slot formed in the stud for receiving the retainer formed on one of the channel members, and an indented portion formed in at least one of the side walls for receiving a spacer bar. The alignment slot is formed in at least one end portion of the central column portion. The extender includes an upper portion having side walls parallel to the side walls of the stud, and a lower portion having side walls that join the upper portion side walls at a top end and which taper at a bottom end to fit within the stud.

Abstract: A wall frame is constructed with a pair of horizontally disposed metal channel members and a series of vertical studs spaced at predetermined intervals along the channel members. The studs are accurately located within the channel members by vertically upstanding tab stops which are struck out from the channel members. Pronged retainers are also struck outwardly from the channel members to fit through alignment slots formed in the studs. Weakened areas on the channel members can be crimped against the studs to lock the studs in place on the channel members. Horizontally disposed spacer bars are adapted to interconnect with a series of studs to strengthen and further align the studs and to provide a support surface against which dry wall or the like may be fastened.