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Best Drill Bit Size For #8 Screw

Tom Woodward

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

500+ views

Today

5 min read

Looking for the best drill bit size for #8 screw in March 2026? We reviewed 5 popular options from brands like Drill, METALLIXITY, IVY, DeWalt 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 #8 screw that performs well and holds up over time, this shortlist will help you choose with confidence.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Drill America #8 High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit (Pack of 12), KFD Series

★★★★★★4.8

Pilot Hole Diameter:0.199 in pilot

Material Grade:High‑speed steel

Tip Geometry:135° split point

Shank Size:Standard round shank

Coating Type:Black gold coating

Overall Length:70 mm length

12‑piece KFD split‑point set prevents walking, drills wood, metal and stainless with durable high‑speed steel.

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Best Value

Drill America #8 Cobalt Drill Bit (Pack of 12), DWDCO Series

★★★★★★4.7

Pilot Hole Diameter:0.199 in pilot

Material Grade:Cobalt high‑speed steel

Tip Geometry:135° split point

Shank Size:Round shank

Coating Type:Gold oxide coating

Overall Length:70 mm length

Cobalt alloy bits excel in stainless steel, nickel alloys, and hard metals; gold oxide finish resists corrosion, 12‑pack value.

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Best Premium

METALLIXITY Micro Drill Bit (#8) 5Pcs, 4341 High-Speed Steel Small Bits Straight Shank 135° Gold Finish for Copper Aluminum Wood Plastic Medium Hard Metal

★★★★★★4.9

Pilot Hole Diameter:0.199 in pilot

Material Grade:High‑speed steel

Tip Geometry:135° split point

Shank Size:Standard straight shank

Coating Type:Gold finish

Overall Length:93 mm overall

Compact METALLIXITY micro bits deliver precise 135° split‑point holes in copper, aluminum, wood, plastic, and medium‑hard metals.

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Detailed Reviews

What to Look For Drill Bit Size For #8 Screw

Pilot Hole Diameter

The exact pilot hole diameter (typically 0.164" for a #8 screw) ensures the threads cut correctly without stripping or overtightening.

Material Grade

Material grade such as high‑speed steel, cobalt, or titanium determines hardness, wear resistance, and suitability for drilling wood, metal, or stainless steel.

Tip Geometry

Tip geometry—split‑point, brad‑point, or standard—controls walking, centering accuracy, and entry speed, especially important when starting holes in hard or delicate materials.

Shank Size

Shank size (e.g., 1/4", 3/8") must match the drill’s chuck, providing secure grip and optimal torque transfer for consistent drilling.

Coating Type

Coating type such as black oxide or titanium nitride reduces friction, extends bit life, and helps dissipate heat during high‑speed drilling.

Overall Length

Overall length determines how deep a pilot hole can be drilled and affects flexibility; longer bits reach deeper, shorter bits offer more control in tight spaces.

by Drill

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

Drill America #8 High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit (Pack of 12), KFD Series

BEST OVERALL

Drill America #8 High Speed Steel Black & Gold KFD Split Point Drill Bit offers reliable performance for wood, metal and stainless applications. The 135° split tip eliminates walking, while the high‑speed steel provides good wear resistance. The pack of twelve ensures you have spares for multiple projects and fits standard chucks in both professional and hobbyist settings every time.

Key Specifications

Pilot Hole Diameter

✓0.199 in pilot

Material Grade

✓High‑speed steel

Tip Geometry

✓135° split point

Shank Size

✓Standard round shank

Coating Type

✓Black gold coating

Overall Length

✓70 mm length

Reasons to Buy

✓Walk prevention tip
✓Hardness suitable for metal
✓Pack of twelve
✓Fits standard chucks

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No price listed
✗Limited to #8 size

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by Drill

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

Drill America #8 Cobalt Drill Bit (Pack of 12), DWDCO Series

BEST VALUE

Drill America #8 Cobalt Drill Bit delivers superior cutting ability in stainless steel and nickel alloys thanks to its cobalt enriched alloy. The gold oxide finish distinguishes the tool and resists corrosion. Round shank design fits most holders, and the twelve‑piece pack offers excellent value for workshops that require durability and consistent performance across a wide range of projects daily.

Key Specifications

Pilot Hole Diameter

✓0.199 in pilot

Material Grade

✓Cobalt high‑speed steel

Tip Geometry

✓135° split point

Shank Size

✓Round shank

Coating Type

✓Gold oxide coating

Overall Length

✓70 mm length

Reasons to Buy

✓Excellent for hard metals
✓Corrosion resistant finish
✓Round shank versatility
✓Twelve piece pack

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No price information
✗Limited to single size

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by METALLIXITY

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.9 / 5.0

METALLIXITY Micro Drill Bit (#8) 5Pcs, 4341 High-Speed Steel Small Bits Straight Shank 135° Gold Finish for Copper Aluminum Wood Plastic Medium Hard Metal

BEST PREMIUM

METALLIXITY Micro Drill Bit #8 provides precise holes in copper, aluminum, wood and plastic with its 135° split point and gold finish. The 62 mm flute length and 93 mm overall size make it easy to handle for hand or motorized tools. Ideal for DIY repairs and low‑intensity projects where accuracy matters offering consistent results even when drilling thin sheets at home.

Key Specifications

Pilot Hole Diameter

✓0.199 in pilot

Material Grade

✓High‑speed steel

Tip Geometry

✓135° split point

Shank Size

✓Standard straight shank

Coating Type

✓Gold finish

Overall Length

✓93 mm overall

Reasons to Buy

✓Precise for small holes
✓Gold finish reduces friction
✓Suitable for multiple materials
✓Compact flute length

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No price listed
✗Limited to micro size

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IVY Classic 01508 No. 8 Wire Gauge Drill Bit, M2 High-Speed Steel, 135-Degree Split Point, 1/Card

by IVY

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

IVY Classic 01508 No. 8 Wire Gauge Drill Bit, M2 High-Speed Steel, 135-Degree Split Point, 1/Card

BEST RUNNER UP

IVY Classic No. 8 Wire Gauge Drill Bit combines M2 high‑speed steel hardness with a 135° split point for clean entry in stainless and hard steel. The bright polished flutes aid chip ejection, and the jobber length provides adequate reach. Packaged singly, it serves professionals who need a reliable, high‑quality bit for occasional use in a wide range of applications today.

Key Specifications

Pilot Hole Diameter

✓0.199 in pilot

Material Grade

✓M2 high‑speed steel

Tip Geometry

✓135° split point

Shank Size

✓Standard jobber shank

Coating Type

✓Bright polished finish

Overall Length

✓Standard jobber length

Reasons to Buy

✓Excellent chip ejection
✓Durable M2 steel
✓Precise entry tip
✓Fits standard chucks

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Sold individually
✗No bulk discount

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DeWalt DW2721 No.8 Drill Flip Drive Replacement Bit

by DeWalt

X Score

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

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

DeWalt DW2721 No.8 Drill Flip Drive Replacement Bit

BEST OVERALL

The DeWalt replacement bit delivers quick start thanks to its split point tip and provides accurate pilot holes for #8 screws. Its durable coating resists wear, while the shank fits standard drills securely. Length is sufficient for most tasks, and the countersink feature reduces extra steps. Overall it offers reliable performance at a reasonable price for everyday projects and repairs.

Key Specifications

Pilot Hole Diameter

✓3.2mm Pilot Diameter

Material Grade

✓High Speed Steel

Tip Geometry

✓Split Point Tip

Shank Size

✓1/4 inch Shank

Coating Type

✓Titanium Nitride Coating

Overall Length

✓2.5 inch Overall Length

Reasons to Buy

✓Fast start on contact
✓Accurate pilot hole
✓Durable coating
✓Fits standard drills

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited to #8 size
✗No extra length options

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Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

Select a drill bit that matches the pilot‑hole diameter recommended for #8 screws—typically 7/64" (0.110") for hardwood and 1/8" (0.125") for softwood or sheet metal. Look for high‑speed steel (HSS) or cobalt bits for metal work, and titanium‑coated or carbide‑tipped bits for wood and composite materials. A straight shank fits most key‑chuck drills, while a hex shank offers better grip and reduced wobble.

Budget Recommendations

For occasional DIY use, a 5‑piece HSS set priced between $15‑$25 provides adequate versatility. Professionals benefit from a 20‑piece cobalt set in the $40‑$60 range, delivering longer tool life and consistent sizing. Premium titanium‑coated or carbide sets cost $70‑$120 but excel in high‑volume applications and resist wear. All three tiers are widely available at hardware stores, online retailers, and specialty tool catalogs.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid using a drill bit that’s too large; an oversized pilot hole reduces pull‑out strength and can strip the screw. Conversely, an undersized bit may split wood or cause excess torque, breaking the screw head. Don’t rely on cheap, low‑quality bits for metal— they dull quickly and produce inaccurate diameters. Finally, always verify the bit size with a caliper or gauge before drilling to ensure a proper fit for #8 screws.

How We Test Best Drill Bit Size For #8 Screw

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating drill bit size 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 size 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

Need the correct drill bit to pre‑drill pilot holes for #8 screws when installing shelves, brackets, or fixtures.

Furniture assemblers

Accurate pilot holes prevent wood splitting and ensure a tight fit for #8 screws used in flat‑pack furniture.

Automotive mechanics

Many vehicle interior and trim fasteners use #8 screws; the right drill bit speeds up repairs and reduces damage.

Hobbyist woodworkers

Selecting the proper drill bit for #8 screws guarantees clean joins in projects like cabinets, toys, and décor.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

For a standard #8 wood screw (typically 0.164‑0.169" shank diameter), a 7/64" (0.110") pilot hole is recommended for softwoods and a 1/8" (0.125") pilot hole for hardwoods.

What drill bit size is best for a #8 machine screw into metal?

When tapping a #8-32 machine screw into metal, start with a #43 drill bit (0.0890") for the pilot hole, then use a #8-32 tap (0.0990") to cut the threads.

Can I use a #8 screw without drilling a pilot hole?

You can drive a #8 screw directly into soft wood, but it will increase the risk of splitting the material and may reduce holding strength. Drilling a pilot hole is strongly recommended for most applications.

How do I choose the right drill bit for a #8 screw in plastic?

For most plastics, a pilot hole slightly smaller than the screw’s shank works best. Use a 5/64" (0.078") drill bit for a #8 screw; this provides enough clearance for the threads while minimizing cracking.

What if I need a clearance hole for a #8 screw rather than a pilot hole?

A clearance hole should be larger than the screw’s outer thread diameter. For a #8 screw, a 3/16" (0.188") drill bit creates a proper clearance hole, allowing the screw to pass through without engaging the material.