Bolt Size Chart(Metric & SAE Standard Guide)

The professional workshop reference for identifying Metric and Standard bolts. Compare M4 to M36 and 1/4" to 1" sizes. Includes critical data on wrench sizes, thread pitches, and head marking strength grades.

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Bolt Size & Thread Pitch Chart

System: Metric (ISO) • Type: Hex HeadA4

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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Wrench Size Lookup Table

Instantly find the correct wrench or socket size for any Metric or SAE bolt head.

Bolt DiameterMetric WrenchSAE Wrench
M610mm-
M813mm1/2" (Close Fit)
M1017mm (DIN) / 16mm (ISO)5/8"
M1219mm (DIN) / 18mm (ISO)3/4"
1/4"6.35mm7/16"
5/16"7.94mm1/2"
3/8"9.53mm9/16"
1/2"12.7mm3/4"

Bolt Strength Grades & Head Markings

Understanding bolt markings is critical for automotive and structural safety. Never replace high-tensile bolts with lower grades.

Metric 8.8

"Standard" high-tensile steel. Equivalent to SAE Grade 5.

Yield: 640 MPa

Metric 10.9

High strength alloy steel. Used for engine and suspension.

Yield: 940 MPa

SAE Grade 5

Identified by 3 radial lines on the bolt head.

Proof Load: 85,000 psi

SAE Grade 8

Identified by 6 radial lines. Maximum strength.

Proof Load: 120,000 psi

Safety Warning: Bolt Downgrading

In automotive and high-stress applications, never replace a Grade 8 or Metric 10.9 bolt with a lower grade. Doing so can lead to catastrophic failure under load. Always verify head markings before installation.

How to Measure Bolts Correctly

Proper identification starts with accurate measurements. Use this guide to avoid ordering the wrong size.

Measuring Diameter

Measure the major diameter of the threads using digital calipers. Do not measure the width of the bolt head.

Bolt Length Calculation

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

Checking Thread Pitch

Metric pitch is the mm distance between threads (e.g., 1.5mm). Imperial pitch is TPI (Threads Per Inch).

Metric vs SAE Thread Pitch

Coarse vs Fine threads: knowing the difference prevents stripped threads and project delays.

Coarse Threads (UNC / Metric)

Standard for most applications. Assemble faster and less sensitive to dirt or damage.

  • M10 x 1.5 (Standard Metric Coarse)
  • 1/4"-20 UNC (Standard SAE Coarse)
  • Ideal for threading into soft materials like aluminum.

Fine Threads (UNF / Metric Fine)

Higher strength and better vibration resistance. Used in performance automotive parts.

  • M10 x 1.25 (Common in Japanese Automotive/JIS)
  • 1/4"-28 UNF (Standard SAE Fine)
  • Essential for suspension and steering components.

Common Application Guide

Which bolt system and strength grade should you use?

🚗

Automotive Repair

Modern vehicles use Metric (M6, M8, M10, M12). Vintage US cars require SAE. Always match the thread pitch to avoid stripping fasteners.

  • Engine & Transmission (Grade 10.9)
  • Suspension Bolts (M12x1.25)
  • Body work (M6-1.0)
🏗️

Construction & Framing

UNC Coarse threads are preferred for wood framing and deck building due to their speed and durability on site.

  • Structural Lag Screws
  • Carriage Bolts (1/2" UNC)
  • Anchor Bolts for foundations
⚙️

Industrial & Machinery

Socket Head Cap Screws (Allen) are common in tight industrial spaces. High-strength Grade 12.9 is often required.

  • Robotics & Automation
  • Custom Fabrication
  • Machine Tool Tooling

Frequently Asked Questions

What wrench fits an M10 bolt?
An M10 bolt head typically requires a 17mm wrench (DIN standard) or a 16mm wrench (ISO standard). It is a common size in automotive engine mounts.
What is the difference between Metric 8.8 and 10.9 bolts?
8.8 is a high-tensile bolt used for standard mechanical applications. 10.9 is higher strength, comparable to SAE Grade 8, and is used in suspension, braking systems, and cylinder heads.
Is M12 the same as 1/2 inch?
No. While they look similar, an M12 bolt is approximately 11.9mm in diameter, whereas a 1/2 inch bolt is exactly 12.7mm. They are NOT interchangeable and will strip threads if swapped.
How can I tell if a bolt is SAE or Metric?
Check the head markings. Metric bolts use property class numbers (e.g., 8.8, 10.9). SAE bolts use radial hash marks (3 lines = Grade 5, 6 lines = Grade 8).
What is the thread pitch for an M8 bolt?
The standard coarse pitch for an M8 bolt is 1.25mm. The fine pitch version (often used in performance automotive) is 1.0mm.
What does UNC and UNF stand for?
UNC stands for Unified National Coarse (common), and UNF stands for Unified National Fine (high strength/vibration resistance). They are the standard for SAE imperial bolts.