Abstract: A method of constructing metal picket fences and components for use in building fences. Basically, panels are constructed by punching holes in frame tubes with a punch to form holes. Pickets are inserted into the holes to form fence panels that are fastened to posts. Several embodiments of self-locking pin systems are provided to lock picket ends in frame tube holes to prevent the pickets from being removed. In each embodiment, a pin is mounted on a picket end in a manner such that as the picket end is pressed into a frame tube hole, the pin will move outwardly of the picket wall inside the frame tube and prevent withdrawal of the picket. Straps can be fastened to the posts with fence panels fastened to the straps in a manner permitting accommodation of inter-post tolerances and ground slope changes. Several different embodiments of locking pins, blind fasteners and post or surface mounting brackets are described.

Abstract: A method of constructing metal picket fences and components for use in building fences. Basically, panels are constructed by punching holes in frame tubes with a pyramidal punch to form holes with inwardly extending metal tabs. Pickets are pressed into the holes to form fence panels that are fastened to posts. An angled, self-locking pin system is provided to lock picket ends in frame tube holes to prevent the pickets from being removed. Straps can be fastened to the posts with fence panels fastened to the straps in a manner permitting accommodation of inter-post tolerances and ground slope changes. Blind fasteners can be used to fasten the straps to the posts and panels so that the fasteners cannot be easily removed. Several different embodiments of blind fasteners and post or surface mounting brackets are described.