Calculator · Joinery & fasteners
Pilot Hole Size Calculator
The free Pilot Hole Size Calculator answers one question: Drill bit sizes for wood screws. Enter your numbers in inches or millimeters and the result updates instantly in your browser, with no sign-up and no app to install. Use it on your phone at the bench, then copy or print the result for your cut list.
Pilot holes prevent splitting; the clearance hole in the top board lets the screw pull the joint tight.
Which other joinery & fasteners calculators help with this project?
- Nail Size (Penny) Calculator — Penny size and length for your board.
- Dovetail Spacing Calculator — Even tail and pin layout for hand-cut dovetails.
- Wood Screw Length Calculator — Right screw length for joining two boards.
- Dovetail Angle Calculator — Convert dovetail ratios to degrees.
- Pocket holes vs. dowels vs. biscuits — Related guide
What you'll need for this project
Tools
Screws & hardware
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Build it · Beginner · 2 hours
Download the complete plan with cut list and materials list (PDF)
Drill Bit Caddy with Pilot-Hole Chart — Bench caddy holding 29 bits, with the pilot-hole chart printed on top. Drawings, cut list with board-foot totals, hardware list and step-by-step instructions.