Trophy Education Guide

Anatomy of a Trophy

Understanding the parts of a trophy makes it easier to shop for awards, replacement parts, and custom trophy kits. Below are the most common pieces used to build a trophy, along with links to the parts we offer.

Most trophy parts use the same thread size

Many trophy components use a standard 1/4" x 20 threads per inch connection, which allows figures, rods, couplers, trim, risers, and hexnuts to work together when building or repairing a trophy.

Trophy Figure

Figure or Topper

Trophy figures are commonly used at the very top of a trophy. Each figure has a threaded stud on the bottom using the common trophy thread size: 1/4" x 20 threads per inch.

Figures may also be used on plaques or as trim on large post set trophies.

Threaded Trophy Rods

Threaded Trophy Rods

Threaded rods connect the trophy together. They run through the center of the trophy and are tightened with hexnuts.

We stock rods in 1/2" increments, from 1" up to 18". Longer post-set trophies can be built by connecting rods with a coupler.

Threaded Trophy Coupler

Coupler

A coupler, also called a threaded coupler, is used to join threaded pieces together. It can connect a figure to a threaded rod or connect multiple rods to create the needed length.

Plastic Trophy Column or Extrusion

Column / Extrusion

Trophy columns add color, height, and style to the award. Most columns are made from hollow plastic tubing.

Common styles include round columns, usually about 1 3/4" diameter, and rectangular columns, often about 2" x 3".

Gold Check Ring

Check Ring

Check rings help center a round column during assembly. They are also used when a figure needs to rest on top of a hollow round column.

Without a check ring, the figure may not sit properly on the column.

Trophy Marble Set

Marble Trophy Base and Lid

The base is the bottom of the trophy. A lid usually rests on top of the column or columns.

Many smaller single-column trophies do not use a lid, while larger double-column trophies often use a matching base and lid set.

Trophy Lid

Trophy lids are commonly used on top of rectangular columns. They are available in gold plastic, marble, and simulated weighted plastic marble.

Trophy Wood Base and Lid Set

Wood Trophy Base and Lid

Larger double-column trophies and post-set trophies often use a matching wood base and lid set for a heavier, more finished appearance.

Cup and Pedestal Bases

Cup Bases

Large cup bases have many uses. Some customers use them to build custom tops or mount custom pieces onto a larger, heavier base.

Trophy Trim

Trophy Trim

Trophy trim works like a small figure. Trim pieces usually have a threaded stud on the bottom and use the same 1/4" x 20 thread size.

Trim is often used above columns, between columns, on post-set trophies, or as eagle, date, number, and decorative pieces.

Mylar Inserts

Inserts / Mylar Inserts

Inserts are decorative stickers, usually 2" in diameter. Mylar is a foil-type material that allows metallic and holographic effects.

Inserts are commonly used in insert-holder figures, plaques, medals, resin awards, and other custom award pieces.

Trophy Risers

Risers

Risers add height and style to an award. Stem risers can lift a round column, while sport risers can be combined with a figure for extra detail.

A simple trophy can be built with a base, riser, figure, and two hexnuts.

Trophy Cups and Lids

Cups and Lids

Trophy cups can be mounted directly to a base for an inexpensive award or used as a riser on a larger trophy, such as a post-set trophy.

Cups can be used with or without lids and are available in many sizes and styles.

Trophy Labels and Plates

Labels or Plates

Labels and plates are the finishing touch. They add the personal message, name, date, event, or award information to the trophy.

Trophy Hexnut

Hexnut

Hexnuts tie the trophy together. They are used to bolt the parts in place and are commonly sized at 1/4" x 20 threads per inch.

Want to see how these parts go together?

Watch our videos explaining basic trophy parts and demonstrating the assembly of our trophy kits.

Watch Trophy Assembly Videos

Our Mission is simple:
To offer high quality Awards at the best possible price, while maintaining a superior level of customer service.