#2 Wood Screw Pilot Hole — 1/16"
A #2 wood screw needs a 1/16" pilot hole. Hardwood may require a larger pilot hole to prevent splitting.
Result
Answer
1/16" drill bit
Standard
Screw Gauge#2
Shaft Diameter0.086"
Pilot Hole (softwood)1/16"
Pilot Hole (hardwood)5/64"
Clearance Hole3/32"
A #2 wood screw (0.086" shaft) needs a 1/16" pilot hole in softwood or 5/64" in hardwood. Clearance hole is 3/32". Small trim screws, craft projects.
Note
Showing softwood pilot hole size by default. Hardwood requires a larger pilot hole to prevent splitting.
Ad space
Related Sizes
About #2 Wood Screw Pilot Holes
A #2 wood screw has a shaft diameter of 0.086". In softwood (pine, cedar, spruce), drill a 1/16" pilot hole. In hardwood (oak, maple, cherry), use a 5/64" pilot hole to prevent splitting. The clearance hole for a #2 screw is 3/32". Small trim screws, craft projects. Always drill a pilot hole in hardwood to avoid splitting and ensure the screw draws the joint tight.