Exhibit 16.1

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   Grant Thornton LLP
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September 24, 2010

U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission

Office of the Chief Accountant

100 F Street, NE

Washington, DC 20549

Re:    The Hillman Companies, Inc.

File No. 001-13293

Dear Sir or Madam:

We have read Item 4.01 of Form 8-K of The Hillman Companies, Inc. dated September 24, 2010, and agree with the statements concerning our Firm contained therein.

Very truly yours,

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Grant Thornton LLP

U.S. member firm of Grant Thornton International Ltd