#4 Wood Screw Pilot Hole — 5/64"
A #4 wood screw needs a 5/64" pilot hole. Hardwood may require a larger pilot hole to prevent splitting.
Result
Answer
5/64" drill bit
Standard
Screw Gauge#4
Shaft Diameter0.112"
Pilot Hole (softwood)5/64"
Pilot Hole (hardwood)3/32"
Clearance Hole7/64"
A #4 wood screw (0.112" shaft) needs a 5/64" pilot hole in softwood or 3/32" in hardwood. Clearance hole is 7/64". Cabinet hardware, light hinges.
Note
Showing softwood pilot hole size by default. Hardwood requires a larger pilot hole to prevent splitting.
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About #4 Wood Screw Pilot Holes
A #4 wood screw has a shaft diameter of 0.112". In softwood (pine, cedar, spruce), drill a 5/64" pilot hole. In hardwood (oak, maple, cherry), use a 3/32" pilot hole to prevent splitting. The clearance hole for a #4 screw is 7/64". Cabinet hardware, light hinges. Always drill a pilot hole in hardwood to avoid splitting and ensure the screw draws the joint tight.