Drill Bit Size Chart
A printable drill bit size chart: every fractional bit from 1/64" to 1/2" with its decimal and millimeter equivalent, plus a wood screw pilot hole table for #4 through #12 screws in softwood and hardwood. One page, shop-wall ready.
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Reading the pilot hole table
The pilot hole is drilled in the piece the threads grip; it should match the screw's root diameter so threads bite but the shank does not split the wood. The clearance hole goes through the top piece so the screw pulls the joint tight instead of holding the boards apart. Softwoods compress, so they take the smaller pilot; hardwoods do not forgive, so drill the larger one — always, near an edge. Published pilot charts vary by one size; in very dense woods like hickory, go one size up and test in scrap. Joining with pocket screws instead? Use our pocket hole guide.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What size pilot hole for a #8 wood screw?
3/32 inch in softwood and 7/64 inch in hardwood, with an 11/64 inch clearance hole through the top piece. Charts vary by one size - in very dense hardwood, go one size up.
What is the difference between a pilot hole and a clearance hole?
The pilot hole is in the lower piece and lets threads bite without splitting; the clearance hole is a through-hole in the upper piece so the screw can pull the two boards tight together.
Do I always need to drill a pilot hole?
In hardwoods, near board ends or edges, and with large screws - yes. In the middle of soft pine with small screws you can often drive without one, but a pilot never hurts the joint.
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