The grade 8.8 refers to the tensile strength which is generally 116,000 psi, grade 10.9 is generally 150,000 and grade 12.9 is generally 175,000 psi.Grade 8.8 high tensile steel is often referred to as the structural grade for bolts. It is the most common form of high tensile material and is usually stocked in plain finish or zinc. It can be plated in many other coatings.