All Replies on Pilot hole + countersink bit for #8 screws--am I crazy?

DeWalt had some very bad quality control issues on their countersinks right now, that could be part of it.

-- Rick M, http://thewoodknack.blogspot.com/

@Rick M: Just to clarify, what I’m saying is when I’ve purchased a #8 countersink/pilot hole combo bit it’s always been 1/8th. Now, they are 11/64 which makes a hole too big for a #8 screw.

Lee Valley has these: Countersink bits

(I think they are made by Snappy)

-- Jerry, making sawdust professionally since 1976

Well 11/64 is the through hole size and not the size hole to use if you want the threads to catch any wood. It sounds like they are now designed for a through hole instead of a pilot hole.

Here is a chart that does a little explanation of the 11/64”, I suppose they assume you will use a screw that is long enough for the threads to engage?

https://www.boltdepot.com/fastener-information/Wood-Screws/Wood-Screw-Pilot-Hole-Size.aspx

If you are using a 2” screw, set you counter sink at 2” . If you’re using 1 1/4”, set it at 1 1/4”. That’s the way it’s designed to be used. It sounds like you are setting the countersink at the top of the bit instead of for the size of the screw your drilling for. Set properly, the taper allows the screw to get a bite, the straight portion allows for a through hole, and the countersink allows the screw head to be flush or hide below any surface you’re screwing into.

• Drill, countersink and counterbore in one step *

That’s from the description in the second link you posted….............. Jerry (in Tucson)

-- Jerry (in Tucson) www.woodturnerstools.com

I don’t know for sure if this is any help but, the chart show 11/64 for tappered bits and 1/8 for straight bit for #8 screws.

https://www.jamestowndistributors.com/userportal/document.do?docId=279

-- Alaskan's for Global warming!