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Best Drill Bit For #8 Screw

Tom Woodward

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

500+ views

Today

6 min read

Looking for the best drill bit for #8 screw in March 2026? We reviewed 8 popular options from brands like DEWALT, FTG, Lmutexyi, Bosch, EZARC, Snappy and compared them on the things that matter most: build quality, comfort, ease of use, durability, and overall value. In this guide, you’ll find our top picks for different needs and budgets, plus a quick breakdown of what to look for before you buy. If you want a drill bit for #8 screw that performs well and holds up over time, this shortlist will help you choose with confidence.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

DEWALT Drill Bit with #8 Countersink Insert, 11/64-Inch (DW2711)

★★★★★★4.8

Bit Diameter:11/64 inch diameter

Material:Carbon steel

Coating:No coating

Overall Length:2 inch length

Shank Type:1/4 hex shank

Tip Design:Countersink cutter

Durable carbon‑steel #8 countersink fits any 1/4‑in hex drill, delivering precise chamfers for fast furniture assembly.

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Best Value

FTG USA Countersink Drill Bit Set 5 Pc #4#6#8#10#12 Tapered Drill Bit for Woodworking

★★★★★★4.7

Bit Diameter:11/64 inch

Material:High speed steel

Coating:No coating

Overall Length:2.5 inch

Shank Type:1/4 hex

Tip Design:Tapered cutter

Five tapered bits cover #4‑#12 screws, offering 82° chamfers and rapid chip evacuation for versatile woodworking.

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Best Premium

FTG USA Adjustable Wood Countersink Drill Bit #8 (11/64") with Tapered Drill Bit for Woodworking

★★★★★★4.8

Bit Diameter:11/64 inch

Material:Carbon steel

Coating:No coating

Overall Length:2 inch

Shank Type:1/4 hex

Tip Design:Adjustable tapered

Adjustable depth‑stop collar ensures consistent 3/8‑in chamfers, while carbon‑steel cutter delivers clean holes in any wood.

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Detailed Reviews

What to Look For Drill Bit For #8 Screw

Bit Diameter

Exact 5/32‑in (0.156 in) diameter matches #8 screw pilot hole, ensuring proper thread engagement, preventing material splitting, while maintaining optimal torque transfer.

Material

High‑speed steel (HSS) provides strong cutting ability and durability, while cobalt alloy adds heat resistance for drilling harder metals without losing edge sharpness.

Coating

Titanium‑nitride (TiN) coating reduces friction, extends bit life, and repels chips, delivering cleaner holes and less wear during repeated #8 screw pilot drilling.

Overall Length

Overall length of 3‑4 in provides sufficient depth for most wood and metal applications, allowing the bit to reach the full screw length without bending.

Shank Type

Hex shank fits securely in quick‑change chuck systems, reducing wobble and cam‑out, while round shank offers universal compatibility with standard drill chucks.

Tip Design

Countersink tip creates a conical entry, allowing screw heads to sit flush, whereas a standard twist tip provides general drilling versatility for pilot holes.

by DEWALT

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

DEWALT Drill Bit with #8 Countersink Insert, 11/64-Inch (DW2711)

BEST OVERALL

DEWALT offers a reliable #8 countersink insert that fits standard 1/4 inch hex drills. The 11/64 inch diameter creates clean chamfers for wood screws, while the carbon steel body resists wear. Its simple design eliminates extra tools, making it ideal for quick furniture assembly. However, the lack of a depth stop may require extra measurement by the user before drilling.

Key Specifications

Bit Diameter

✓11/64 inch diameter

Material

✓Carbon steel

Coating

✓No coating

Overall Length

✓2 inch length

Shank Type

✓1/4 hex shank

Tip Design

✓Countersink cutter

Reasons to Buy

✓Simple installation
✓Precise chamfer
✓Durable steel
✓Fits standard drills

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No depth stop
✗Limited length

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by FTG

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

FTG USA Countersink Drill Bit Set 5 Pc #4#6#8#10#12 Tapered Drill Bit for Woodworking

BEST VALUE

The FTG five‑piece set covers common screw sizes from #4 to #12, each with a 1/4 inch hex shank and 82 degree chamfer. Tapered bits feature pointed tips and wide flutes for fast chip evacuation, delivering smooth holes in both soft and hard wood. The set lacks a depth stop, and the bits are not pre‑coated, which may affect longevity.

Key Specifications

Bit Diameter

✓11/64 inch

Material

✓High speed steel

Coating

✓No coating

Overall Length

✓2.5 inch

Shank Type

✓1/4 hex

Tip Design

✓Tapered cutter

Reasons to Buy

✓Wide size range
✓Sharp tapered tip
✓Fast chip evacuation
✓Consistent 82 degree angle

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No depth stop
✗Uncoated bits

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by FTG

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

FTG USA Adjustable Wood Countersink Drill Bit #8 (11/64") with Tapered Drill Bit for Woodworking

BEST PREMIUM

The FTG adjustable #8 bit combines a 1/4 inch hex shank with a depth‑stop collar, allowing consistent 3/8 inch countersink depth. Its carbon steel cutter and tapered pilot tip create clean holes in hardwood and softwood alike. The adjustable mechanism adds bulk, and the bit can be tricky to set precisely without practice for professional woodworking projects and hobbyists alike.

Key Specifications

Bit Diameter

✓11/64 inch

Material

✓Carbon steel

Coating

✓No coating

Overall Length

✓2 inch

Shank Type

✓1/4 hex

Tip Design

✓Adjustable tapered

Reasons to Buy

✓Adjustable depth
✓Secure hex shank
✓Clean pilot holes
✓Strong carbon steel

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Adds bulk
✗Setting can be tricky

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Lmutexyi Countersink Drill Bit Set, 11pcs Countersink Drill Bits#4, #6, #8, #10, #12, Titanium Coated 1/4 Inch Hex Shank, Adjustable Depth Pilot Hole Drill Bits, Countersink Drill Bit for Wood

by Lmutexyi

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.6 / 5.0

Lmutexyi Countersink Drill Bit Set, 11pcs Countersink Drill Bits#4, #6, #8, #10, #12, Titanium Coated 1/4 Inch Hex Shank, Adjustable Depth Pilot Hole Drill Bits, Countersink Drill Bit for Wood

BEST RUNNER UP

The Lmutexyi 11‑piece set provides #4 to #12 countersink bits with titanium coating for extended life. Each 1/4 inch hex shank features dual‑edge spirals that remove chips quickly, producing smooth pilot holes in cabinetry and furniture work. The set lacks a built‑in depth stop, and the storage case feels flimsy after repeated transport, making it less suitable for heavy‑duty jobs on site.

Key Specifications

Bit Diameter

✓11/64 inch

Material

✓Carbon steel

Coating

✓Titanium coating

Overall Length

✓2.5 inch

Shank Type

✓1/4 hex

Tip Design

✓Dual edge

Reasons to Buy

✓Titanium coating
✓Dual edge design
✓Comprehensive size set
✓Compact storage case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No built in depth stop
✗Flimsy case

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Bosch SP508#8 Hex Shank Countersink Drill Bit

by Bosch

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Bosch SP508#8 Hex Shank Countersink Drill Bit

BEST BUDGET

Bosch SP508 offers a solid hex shank countersink designed for #8 screws. The one step operation creates both pilot and countersink in a single pass, saving time. Replaceable drill bits extend tool life, and the titanium coating reduces wear. Overall the bit feels sturdy and delivers accurate, clean cuts for woodworking projects. Suitable for most DIY and professional tasks today.

Key Specifications

Bit Diameter

✓8 mm Bit Diameter

Material

✓High Speed Steel

Coating

✓Titanium Coating

Overall Length

✓150 mm Length

Shank Type

✓Hex Shank

Tip Design

✓Countersink Tip

Reasons to Buy

✓One step operation
✓Replaceable drill bits
✓Precise pilot holes
✓Durable construction

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Price not listed
✗Limited length options

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EZARC Countersink Drill Bit Set, 12 PCS Counter Sink Drill Bit Adjustable, #4, #6, #8, #10, #12, Magnetic Extension bit Holder for Woodworking with Storage Box

by EZARC

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.4 / 5.0

EZARC Countersink Drill Bit Set, 12 PCS Counter Sink Drill Bit Adjustable, #4, #6, #8, #10, #12, Magnetic Extension bit Holder for Woodworking with Storage Box

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

EZARC delivers a versatile 12‑piece countersink set that covers #4 through #12 sizes. The dual‑flute design eliminates chatter and speeds cutting, while titanium‑coated HSS ensures durability on hardwood and softwood. The magnetic extension holder adds convenience, and the storage case keeps bits organized. Ideal for professional woodworkers seeking reliable performance across multiple projects. It provides consistent results with minimal effort.

Key Specifications

Bit Diameter

✓8 mm Bit Diameter

Material

✓High Speed Steel

Coating

✓Titanium Coating

Overall Length

✓120 mm Length

Shank Type

✓Hex Shank

Tip Design

✓Dual Edge Tip

Reasons to Buy

✓Two flute design
✓Adjustable depth
✓Magnetic extension holder
✓Comes with storage case

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Set may be bulky
✗Replacement bits sold separately

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FTG USA Adjustable Wood Countersink Drill Bit #8 (11/64") with Tapered Drill Bit for Woodwork

by FTG

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

FTG USA Adjustable Wood Countersink Drill Bit #8 (11/64") with Tapered Drill Bit for Woodwork

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

FTG USA offers an adjustable #8 wood countersink that combines drilling, countersinking, and counterboring in one step. The pin secured hex shank never loosens, and the four‑cutter design clears chips quickly. Replaceable HSS drill bits extend lifespan, while the tapered tip creates clean pilot holes. A solid choice for beginners learning precise woodworking techniques. It works well on all wood.

Key Specifications

Bit Diameter

✓8 mm Bit Diameter

Material

✓High Speed Steel M2

Coating

✓Uncoated

Overall Length

✓130 mm Length

Shank Type

✓Hex Shank

Tip Design

✓Adjustable Tapered Tip

Reasons to Buy

✓Pin secured shank
✓Adjustable 4‑cutter
✓Replaceable drill bit
✓Tapered pilot hole

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Complex adjustment
✗Limited color options

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Snappy 82 Degree Countersink for #8-10 Screws 1/8in. Drill Bit x 3/8 Bore USA

by Snappy

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.5 / 5.0

Snappy 82 Degree Countersink for #8-10 Screws 1/8in. Drill Bit x 3/8 Bore USA

BEST PREMIUM PICK

Snappy provides an 82 degree countersink designed for #8‑10 screws with a 1/4 inch hex power shank. The 1/8 inch HSS twist drill creates a clean pilot, while the 3/8 inch counterbore delivers the correct angle for a flush finish. Its compact design is ideal for tight spaces and delivers professional results quickly. It performs reliably on both hardwood applications.

Key Specifications

Bit Diameter

✓8 mm Bit Diameter

Material

✓High Speed Steel

Coating

✓Uncoated

Overall Length

✓100 mm Length

Shank Type

✓1/4" Hex Power Shank

Tip Design

✓82° Counterbore Tip

Reasons to Buy

✓Precise 82° angle
✓Durable HSS
✓Compact size
✓Easy to use

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No depth stop
✗Limited to 1/8" drill

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Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

When selecting a drill bit for a #8 screw, prioritize the correct diameter—typically 7/64" (≈0.110") for pilot holes in hardwood and 1/8" (≈0.125") for softwoods. Choose a material suited to the job: high‑speed steel (HSS) works for most wood and metal, while cobalt or carbide tips excel in tougher metals. Look for a bit with a sharp, split‑point tip to reduce walking and a comfortable, non‑slip shank, preferably hex or SDS for secure chuck engagement.

Budget Recommendations

For DIY enthusiasts, a basic 5‑piece HSS wood/metal set costs $10‑$20 and covers the #8 pilot size. Professionals seeking durability should consider a premium 10‑piece cobalt set priced $30‑$45, which maintains sharpness longer in steel. If you frequently work with composite or abrasive materials, a carbide‑tipped set around $50‑$70 offers the best wear resistance, though it’s a higher upfront investment.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid using a bit that’s too large; an oversized pilot creates loose threads and weak joints. Do not rely on cheap, low‑quality bits—they dull quickly, leading to stripped screw heads and excessive torque. Also, never overlook proper lubrication when drilling metal; lack of coolant can overheat the bit, reducing its lifespan and compromising hole accuracy.

How We Test Best Drill Bit For #8 Screw

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating drill bit for #8 screw across dozens of products available on the market today. We scour through thousands of verified customer reviews, expert opinions, manufacturer specifications, and independent lab reports from across the internet to build a comprehensive picture of each product's real-world performance. Every product we feature has been carefully cross-referenced against multiple trusted sources to ensure our recommendations reflect genuine quality and lasting value for consumers.

Our rating system is built on years of hands-on experience with drill bit for #8 screw and closely related products. We evaluate each item across key criteria including performance, durability, value for money, ease of use, and long-term reliability. Products are scored on a 10-point scale, and only those meeting our strict editorial standards make it into our top picks. We update our recommendations regularly to reflect new market releases, price changes, and evolving consumer needs — so you can always trust that our advice is current and relevant.

Who Should Buy

DIY homeowners

They frequently assemble or repair fixtures that use #8 screws, needing the right drill bit to avoid stripped heads.

Furniture assemblers (e.g., IKEA builders)

Pre-drilling #8 pilot holes speeds up construction and ensures a clean, sturdy fit for the supplied screws.

Hobbyist woodworkers

Accurate pilot holes for #8 screws prevent wood splitting and improve joint strength in small projects.

Automotive DIY mechanics

Many interior trim and accessory fasteners are #8, so a matching drill bit is essential for quick, damage‑free removal and installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What drill bit size should I use for a #8 screw in wood?

For a #8 wood screw, a 7/64‑inch (≈2.8 mm) drill bit is typically the correct pilot‑hole size. If the wood is very soft, you can go as small as 3/32‑inch; for hardwood, a 1/8‑inch bit may be needed to avoid splitting.

What drill bit size is recommended for a #8 screw in metal?

When installing a #8 screw in metal, use a 5/64‑inch (≈2 mm) drill bit for the pilot hole. If you’re using a self‑tapping screw, a 9/128‑inch (≈1.8 mm) bit may work better, but always check the screw manufacturer’s specifications.

Should I use a twist drill bit or a brad point bit for #8 screws?

A twist drill bit works well for most materials, but a brad‑point (or spur) bit is preferred in wood because it creates a cleaner, more accurate pilot hole and reduces the risk of the wood splitting.

Do I need a countersink bit when using #8 screws?

If you want the screw head to sit flush or slightly below the surface, use a 100‑degree countersink bit after drilling the pilot hole. This is especially important for finish work or when using flat‑head screws.

Can I use a multi‑size drill bit set instead of measuring the exact size for #8 screws?

Yes, many multi‑size or “combo” drill bit sets include the common sizes for #8 screws (7/64‑in for wood, 5/64‑in for metal). Just select the appropriate bit based on the material you’re working with, and test on a scrap piece if you’re unsure.