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Best Drill Bit Size For #10 Screw

Tom Woodward

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

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Today

5 min read

Looking for the best drill bit size for #10 screw in March 2026? We reviewed 7 popular options from brands like MAXTOOL, Drill, Greenlee 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 size for #10 screw that performs well and holds up over time, this shortlist will help you choose with confidence.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

MAXTOOL No.10 2pcs Identical Jobber Length Drills 0.1935" HSS M35 Cobalt Twist Drill Bits Wire Gauge Gage Numbered Straight Shank Drills; JBN35G10R10P2

★★★★★★4.8

Drill Diameter:0.1935" diameter

Material:M35 cobalt steel

Length:Jobber length

Shank Type:Straight shank

Point Angle:135° split point

Coating/Treatment:None coating

Cobalt‑hard HSS bits deliver precise #10 pilot holes, lasting durability, and versatile performance for pros and serious DIYers.

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Best Value

MAXTOOL No.10 10pcs Identical Jobber Length Drills Dia 0.1935" HSS M35 Cobalt Twist Drill Bits Wire Gauge Numbered Straight Drills; JBN35G10R10P10

★★★★★★4.7

Drill Diameter:0.1935" diameter

Material:M35 cobalt steel

Length:Jobber length

Shank Type:Straight shank

Point Angle:135° split point

Coating/Treatment:None coating

Ten cobalt M35 drills give exact #10 holes, bulk savings, and consistent reliability for frequent workshop use.

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Best Premium

MAXTOOL No.10 10pcs Identical Jobber Length Drills Dia 0.1935 HSS M2 Twist Drill Bits Wire Gauge Gage Numbered Straight Shank Drills; JBN02H10R10P10

★★★★★★4.6

Drill Diameter:0.1935" diameter

Material:M2 high speed steel

Length:Jobber length

Shank Type:Straight shank

Point Angle:135° split point

Coating/Treatment:None coating

M2 steel bits provide accurate #10 holes, jobber reach, and dependable value for hobbyists and occasional pros.

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Detailed Reviews

What to Look For Drill Bit Size For #10 Screw

Drill Diameter

Matches the pilot‑hole size for a #10 screw (≈0.190‑0.200 in). Correct diameter prevents thread stripping and ensures optimal screw holding strength.

Material

Cobalt‑reinforced high‑speed steel (M35). Provides superior hardness, heat resistance, and wear resistance for drilling hardened metals and extended tool life.

Length

Jobber length (typically 2‑3 in). Offers enough depth for most applications while maintaining rigidity and reducing vibration during drilling.

Shank Type

Straight (or hex) shank. Guarantees secure fit in standard chucks, improves torque transmission, and minimizes wobble for accurate hole placement.

Point Angle

135° split‑point geometry. Initiates drilling without wandering, reduces walking on the workpiece, and speeds up start‑up in metal and plastic.

Coating/Treatment

Surface coating such as TiN or black oxide. Lowers friction, resists corrosion, and extends bit life by keeping the cutting edge cooler and sharper.

by MAXTOOL

X Score

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★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

MAXTOOL No.10 2pcs Identical Jobber Length Drills 0.1935" HSS M35 Cobalt Twist Drill Bits Wire Gauge Gage Numbered Straight Shank Drills; JBN35G10R10P2

BEST OVERALL

Two piece set offers precise 0.1935 inch holes for #10 screws. Cobalt HSS construction cuts metal, plastic and wood with minimal chatter. Jobber length provides adequate reach while straight shank fits most keyless chucks. ASME tolerances guarantee consistent size. Long tool life reduces frequent replacement. Ideal for professional workshops and serious DIYers and delivers reliable performance on every project today.

Key Specifications

Drill Diameter

✓0.1935" diameter

Material

✓M35 cobalt steel

Length

✓Jobber length

Shank Type

✓Straight shank

Point Angle

✓135° split point

Coating/Treatment

✓None coating

Reasons to Buy

✓Cobalt hardness
✓Precise size
✓Versatile material use
✓Durable long life

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Small pack quantity
✗Higher price per bit

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by MAXTOOL

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

MAXTOOL No.10 10pcs Identical Jobber Length Drills Dia 0.1935" HSS M35 Cobalt Twist Drill Bits Wire Gauge Numbered Straight Drills; JBN35G10R10P10

BEST VALUE

Ten piece pack supplies abundant 0.1935 inch drills for #10 screw pilot holes. M35 cobalt HSS provides sharp cutting action in metal, plastic and wood. Jobber length offers versatile depth while straight shank fits standard chucks. Conforms to ASME standards for exact dimensions. High durability lowers long term cost, making it excellent for frequent use and ensures consistent results daily.

Key Specifications

Drill Diameter

✓0.1935" diameter

Material

✓M35 cobalt steel

Length

✓Jobber length

Shank Type

✓Straight shank

Point Angle

✓135° split point

Coating/Treatment

✓None coating

Reasons to Buy

✓Bulk quantity
✓Cost effective
✓Consistent performance
✓Standard shank

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No coating
✗May wear faster in hard steel

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by MAXTOOL

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.6 / 5.0

MAXTOOL No.10 10pcs Identical Jobber Length Drills Dia 0.1935 HSS M2 Twist Drill Bits Wire Gauge Gage Numbered Straight Shank Drills; JBN02H10R10P10

BEST PREMIUM

Ten drill bits sized 0.1935 inch serve #10 screw preparation. M2 high speed steel offers reliable sharpness for metal, plastic and wood. Jobber length grants sufficient reach, and straight shank works in most chucks. Meets ASME dimensional tolerances for uniform holes. Cost effective while maintaining decent lifespan for regular hobby projects making them reliable for occasional professional tasks too indeed.

Key Specifications

Drill Diameter

✓0.1935" diameter

Material

✓M2 high speed steel

Length

✓Jobber length

Shank Type

✓Straight shank

Point Angle

✓135° split point

Coating/Treatment

✓None coating

Reasons to Buy

✓M2 steel value
✓Accurate drilling
✓Jobber reach
✓Fits most chucks

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Less hard than cobalt
✗Limited lifespan

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Drill America #10 High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit (Pack of 12), KFD Series

by Drill

X Score

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★★★★★

4.5 / 5.0

Drill America #10 High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit (Pack of 12), KFD Series

BEST RUNNER UP

Twelve #10 drill bits feature black and gold finish with split point tip. High speed steel delivers balanced hardness and toughness for wood, metal and stainless applications. 135° split point eliminates walking and starts holes accurately. Standard shank fits most drills. Consistent size adheres to industry standards, providing dependable pilot holes for numerous projects and ensures long performance across tasks.

Key Specifications

Drill Diameter

✓0.1935" diameter

Material

✓High speed steel

Length

✓Standard length

Shank Type

✓Straight shank

Point Angle

✓135° split point

Coating/Treatment

✓Black gold finish

Reasons to Buy

✓Split point accuracy
✓Gold stripe visibility
✓Pack of twelve
✓Multi material

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No cobalt
✗Finish may chip

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MAXTOOL No.10 5pcs Identical Jobber Length Drills Dia 0.1935" HSS M2 Twist Drill Bits Wire Gauge Gage Numbered Straight Shank Drills; JBN02H10R10P5

by MAXTOOL

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

MAXTOOL No.10 5pcs Identical Jobber Length Drills Dia 0.1935" HSS M2 Twist Drill Bits Wire Gauge Gage Numbered Straight Shank Drills; JBN02H10R10P5

BEST BUDGET

The MAXTOOL No10 set delivers consistent performance across metal, plastic and wood. Precision jobber length keeps chips clear while the high speed steel core stays sharp longer than typical bits. Straight shank fits any standard chuck, and the dimensions match ASME standards for reliable #10 screw holes. Overall it offers professional quality at a modest price and excellent durability today.

Key Specifications

Drill Diameter

✓0.1935 in

Material

✓High Speed Steel

Length

✓Jobber length 1.5

Shank Type

✓Straight shank

Point Angle

✓118 degree

Coating/Treatment

✓No coating

Reasons to Buy

✓Sharp cutting edge
✓Consistent hole size
✓Fits standard chucks
✓Meets ASME standards

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited to small batches
✗No coating for corrosion

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Drill America - DWDCO10P12 #10 Cobalt Drill Bit (Pack of 12), DWDCO Series

by Drill

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.4 / 5.0

Drill America - DWDCO10P12 #10 Cobalt Drill Bit (Pack of 12), DWDCO Series

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

The Drill America DWDCO10P12 cobalt set excels when tackling hard alloys such as stainless steel. Added cobalt raises heat resistance, while gold oxide coating reduces friction without hiding the bits geometry. Round shank works with most chucks, and the 0.1935 inch size aligns perfectly with #10 screw requirements. The pack provides reliable performance for demanding projects and long lasting results.

Key Specifications

Drill Diameter

✓0.1935 in

Material

✓Cobalt steel

Length

✓Standard length 1.5

Shank Type

✓Round shank

Point Angle

✓118 degree

Coating/Treatment

✓Gold oxide

Reasons to Buy

✓High heat resistance
✓Gold oxide reduces friction
✓Round shank versatility
✓Ideal for hard metals

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Higher price per set
✗Gold oxide can wear

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Greenlee DTAP6-32 Combination Drill/Tap Countersink Drill Bit for up to 10-Gauge Metal, Combination Drill, Tap, and Deburr Bit with Quick Change Hex, 6-32 NC

by Greenlee

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Greenlee DTAP6-32 Combination Drill/Tap Countersink Drill Bit for up to 10-Gauge Metal, Combination Drill, Tap, and Deburr Bit with Quick Change Hex, 6-32 NC

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

The Greenlee DTAP6-32 combination bit merges drilling, tapping, deburring and countersinking into one tool, saving time on #10 screw jobs. Its hex shank locks securely, while the back‑tapered design prevents over‑drilling damage. Capable of handling up to 10‑gauge metal, it works well on mild steel, copper and aluminum. Ideal for quick installations providing consistent threads and smooth finishes every time.

Key Specifications

Drill Diameter

✓10 gauge

Material

✓Tool steel

Length

✓Compact length 0.75

Shank Type

✓Hex shank

Point Angle

✓118 degree

Coating/Treatment

✓Black oxide

Reasons to Buy

✓All‑in‑one functionality
✓Secure hex shank
✓Back‑tapered design
✓Handles up to 10‑gauge

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Not for very hard steel
✗Limited to #10 size

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Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

When selecting a drill bit for a #10 screw, the most critical dimension is the pilot‑hole diameter. A #10 screw typically requires a 5/32‑inch (0.156 in) bit for hardwood and a 7/64‑inch (0.110 in) bit for softwood, but verify the material’s density and screw thread type. Look for bits made from high‑speed steel (HSS) or cobalt for durability, and ensure the shank matches your chuck size (usually 3/8‑inch or 1/2‑inch).

Budget Recommendations

For occasional DIY work, a basic 1‑inch HSS set priced between $8‑$15 provides sufficient accuracy and longevity. Professionals often choose a premium cobalt or titanium‑coated set ranging $20‑$35; these maintain sharpness longer under high‑torque applications. If you need a single bit, a dedicated #10 pilot‑hole bit can be found for $3‑$7, but buying a small set gives flexibility for future projects without a major cost increase.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Do not rely on a generic “standard” size; using an undersized pilot hole can strip wood fibers, while an oversized hole reduces holding power. Avoid bits with worn or blunt tips, as they increase torque and can damage the screw head. Lastly, never mix metric and imperial bits without checking the exact conversion—mistakes here lead to mismatched holes and compromised joint integrity.

How We Test Best Drill Bit Size For #10 Screw

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating drill bit size for #10 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 size for #10 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 home renovators

They need the correct drill bit to pre‑drill pilot holes for #10 screws, preventing wood splitting and ensuring a secure hold.

Furniture assemblers

Accurate pilot holes for #10 screws speed up assembly and improve the structural integrity of flat‑pack or custom furniture.

Automotive mechanics

When installing or removing components that use #10 fasteners, the right drill bit prevents damage to metal or plastic brackets.

Electronics hobbyists

Precise #10 pilot holes are essential for mounting brackets, enclosures, and heat‑sinks without cracking delicate materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

What drill bit size should I use for a #10 wood screw?

For a #10 wood screw, a 7/64‑inch (≈2.78 mm) drill bit is typically recommended for the pilot hole. This size provides enough material for the threads to bite while reducing the risk of splitting the wood.

What drill bit size is best for a #10 screw in metal?

When drilling into metal, use a 3/32‑inch (≈2.38 mm) drill bit for the pilot hole before driving a #10 screw. This slightly smaller size creates the proper thread engagement in harder materials.

Do I need a different bit for the clearance hole versus the pilot hole?

Yes. The clearance hole (the hole the screw shank passes through) should be larger—typically 9/64‑inch (≈3.57 mm) for a #10 screw—while the pilot hole for the threads remains 7/64‑inch (wood) or 3/32‑inch (metal).

Can I use a #10 screw without drilling a pilot hole?

You can, but it increases the chance of splitting wood, stripping the screw head, or overtightening metal. Drilling the appropriate pilot hole almost always yields a cleaner, stronger installation.

How do I choose the right drill bit if I'm using a #10 screw in a hardwood versus a softwood?

Hardwoods benefit from a slightly smaller pilot hole (7/64‑inch) to ensure strong thread bite, while softwoods can tolerate a slightly larger pilot hole (1/8‑inch) to reduce splitting. Adjust the bit size based on the wood’s density and the screw’s length.