Bolt Size Chart(Metric & Standard SAE Dimensions)

The ultimate reference guide for identifying, measuring, and selecting bolts. Compare Metric vs Standard, find wrench sizes, and check thread pitches instantly.

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Bolt Size & Thread Pitch Chart

System: Metric (ISO) β€’ Type: Hex Head β€’ A4

SizePitch (Coarse)Pitch (Fine)Head WidthWrench Size
M30.5 mm0.35 mm5.5mm5.5mm
M40.7 mm0.5 mm7mm7mm
M50.8 mm0.5 mm8mm8mm
M61.0 mm0.75 mm10mm10mm
M81.25 mm1.0 mm13mm13mm
M101.5 mm1.25 mm17mm17mm
M121.75 mm1.5 mm19mm19mm
M142.0 mm1.5 mm22mm22mm
M162.0 mm1.5 mm24mm24mm
M182.5 mm1.5 mm27mm27mm
M202.5 mm1.5 mm30mm30mm
M222.5 mm1.5 mm32mm32mm
M243.0 mm2.0 mm36mm36mm
M273.0 mm2.0 mm41mm41mm
M303.5 mm2.0 mm46mm46mm
M333.5 mm2.0 mm50mm50mm
M364.0 mm3.0 mm55mm55mm

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File Details

Rows

17

System

Metric

PDF FILE SIZE

β‰ˆ0KB

Quality

300 DPI

Wrench Size Lookup

Quickly find the right tool for your bolt.

Bolt DiameterMetric WrenchSAE Wrench
M610mm-
M813mm1/2"
M1017mm (16mm ISO)5/8"
M1219mm3/4"
1/4"-7/16"
5/16"-1/2"
3/8"-9/16"
1/2"-3/4"

How to Measure Bolts Correctly

Avoid common mistakes by measuring from the right reference points.

Measuring Diameter

Measure the outer diameter of the threads (Major Diameter). Do not measure the head. Use calipers for best accuracy.

Measuring Length

For Hex bolts, measure from under the head to the tip. For Flat/Countersunk heads, measure the entire bolt length including the head.

Checking Thread Pitch

Metric pitch is the distance between peaks in mm (e.g., 1.5mm). Imperial pitch is threads per inch (TPI). Count threads in 1 inch.

Bolt Strength Grades

Understanding head markings is critical for safety.

Metric 8.8

Standard high tensile strength.

Common in automotive suspension and structural parts.

Metric 10.9

High strength alloy steel.

Used for engine head bolts and critical stress points.

SAE Grade 5

3 Radial Lines.

Standard automotive and general hardware use.

SAE Grade 8

6 Radial Lines.

High strength for suspension and steering. Never downgrade!

⚠️ Warning: Never replace a Grade 8 or Metric 10.9 bolt with a lower grade fastener!

Understanding Thread Pitch

Coarse vs Fine threads: knowing the difference prevents stripped threads and stuck bolts.

Coarse Threads (UNC / Metric Coarse)

Standard for most applications. They assemble faster and are less sensitive to dirt or damage.

  • M10 x 1.5
  • 1/4"-20 UNC
  • Better for soft materials

Fine Threads (UNF / Metric Fine)

Higher strength and better vibration resistance. Used in automotive suspension and precision machinery.

  • M10 x 1.25 (Common in Japanese cars / JIS)
  • 1/4"-28 UNF
  • Allows finer adjustment

Common Applications

Where to use different bolt types and systems.

πŸš—

Automotive

Modern cars typically use Metric bolts (M6, M8, M10). Vintage US cars often use SAE. Fine threads are common on high-stress parts.

  • β€’Suspension & Brakes
  • β€’Engine components
  • β€’Lug Nuts (M12x1.5, 5x114.3)
πŸ—οΈ

Construction

Large diameter UNC bolts are standard for framing. Carriage bolts offer a smooth finish for wood-to-wood connections.

  • β€’Decking & Framing (1/2")
  • β€’Structural steel
  • β€’Lag screws for wood
βš™οΈ

Machinery

Socket Cap screws (Allen head) are used in tight spaces. High-strength grades (Class 12.9 or Grade 8) are essential.

  • β€’Precision equipment
  • β€’Robotics
  • β€’Machine tools

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about bolt sizing and selection.

How do I tell if a bolt is Metric or Standard?
Look at the head markings. Metric bolts often have numbers (8.8, 10.9) stamped on the head. Standard (SAE) bolts use radial lines (hash marks) to indicate grade. Also, try threading a known nut onto itβ€”never force it!
What is the difference between M10-1.5 and M10-1.25?
The second number represents the pitch. 1.5mm is the coarse (standard) pitch, while 1.25mm is the fine pitch. They are NOT interchangeable.
How are wrench sizes determined?
Wrench sizes are standardized based on bolt diameter, but standards vary (ISO vs DIN for metric). For example, an M10 bolt usually takes a 17mm wrench (DIN) or 16mm (ISO). This chart lists the most common wrench sizes.
What is a 'Clearance Hole'?
A clearance hole is a hole large enough for the bolt to pass through freely without threading into the material. A "Close Fit" is tight (for precision), while a "Free Fit" allows for some misalignment.
Can I use a metric bolt in a standard hole?
Only if it's a clearance hole and the size is close. NEVER force a metric bolt into a standard threaded hole (or vice versa). You will strip the threads.
What wrench size fits an M8 bolt?
An M8 bolt typically requires a 13mm wrench. In a pinch, a 1/2" SAE wrench is very close (12.7mm) but may round off the head if tight.
What do the lines on a bolt head mean?
Radial lines indicate SAE strength grade. 3 lines = Grade 5 (Standard), 6 lines = Grade 8 (High Strength). No lines usually means Grade 2 (Low Strength).