Full-scale tests of A588 Grade 50 single-angle tension members, with b
olted connections designed to fail in block shear, were conducted. Max
imum loads were compared with those predicted by the current American
Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) Load and Resistance Factor Desi
gn (LRFD) and Allowable Stress Design (ASD) Specifications. It was fou
nd that both methods were very accurate in predicting the experimental
load capacities. However, the procedure provided in the first edition
of the LRFD Specification is shown to consistently, and in some cases
significantly, overestimate the nominal failure loads. That procedure
is adequate, however, when the resistance factor, phi, is applied and
design resistance is compared.