Wrench Size ChartMetric, SAE, Bolt Head & Socket Reference

Find the wrench or socket opening that matches a metric or SAE fastener head. Use the chart for common bolt-head references, close metric-to-inch comparisons, and fit checks before applying torque.

A wrench size is the distance across the flats of the fastener head. It is not always the same as the bolt thread diameter. When the job matters, measure the head, check the fastener standard, and use a snug 6-point tool for high-torque work.

Metric & SAE sizes
Bolt head reference
Printable workshop chart
Fit-risk notes

Quick answer

Common wrench size answers before you open the full chart

What wrench fits an M6 bolt?

Many common M6 hex bolts use a 10 mm wrench opening, but fastener standards and head styles can vary.

What wrench fits an M8 bolt?

Many common M8 hex bolts use a 13 mm wrench opening. Some standards or special heads may differ, so measure across flats when fit matters.

What wrench fits an M10 bolt?

M10 can commonly use 16 mm or 17 mm depending on ISO/DIN-style references and head pattern. Do not assume “M10” means a 10 mm wrench.

Is 1/2 inch the same as 13 mm?

No. 1/2 inch is 12.7 mm. A 13 mm wrench is close but slightly larger, so it can slip on a 1/2 inch fastener under torque.

Use close equivalents only for light checks or emergency reference. For stuck, rusted, or high-torque fasteners, use the correct measured size and the correct tool system.

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Wrench Size Conversion Chart

Metric & SAE Wrench ComparisonA4

Wrench SizeActual (mm)Metric HexSAE HexMetric SocketSAE SocketHeavy Hex
0.050"1.27---#3, #4-
1.5mm1.50--M1.6, M2--
1/16"1.59---#5, #6-
5/64"1.98---#8-
2mm2.00--M2.5--
3/32"2.38---#10, 1/8"-
2.5mm2.50--M3--
7/64"2.78---#6-
3mm3.00--M4--
9/64"3.57---#8-
5/32"3.97-#6 (Small Pattern)-#10-
4mm4.00--M5--
3/16"4.76-#8 (Small Pattern)-1/4"-
5mm5.00--M6--
5.5mm5.50M3----
6mm6.00--M8--
1/4"6.35-#6-5/16"-
7mm7.00M4----
5/16"7.94-#8, #10-3/8"-
8mm8.00M5-M10--
11/32"8.73-#8 (Heavy), #10 (Small)---
3/8"9.52-#10 (Heavy), 1/4" (Small)-7/16", 1/2"-
10mm10.00M6-M12--
7/16"11.11-1/4"---
12mm12.00--M14--
1/2"12.70-5/16"-5/8"-
13mm13.00M8----
14mm14.00--M16--
9/16"14.29-3/8"---
5/8"15.88-7/16"-3/4"-
16mm16.00M10 (ISO)----
17mm17.00M10 (DIN)-M20--
18mm18.00M12 (ISO)----
19mm19.00M12 (DIN)-M24--
3/4"19.05-1/2"-7/8", 1"-
13/16"20.64-9/16"---
21mm21.00M14 (ISO)----
22mm22.00M14 (DIN)----
7/8"22.22----1/2" (Heavy)
15/16"23.81-5/8"---
24mm24.00M16----
27mm27.00M18----
30mm30.00M20----
32mm32.00M22 (DIN)----
34mm34.00M22----
36mm36.00M24----
1-1/8"NaN-3/4"---
1-5/16"NaN-7/8"---
1-1/2"NaN-1"---
1-1/16"NaN----5/8" (Heavy)
1-1/4"NaN----3/4" (Heavy)
1-7/16"NaN----7/8" (Heavy)
1-5/8"NaN----1" (Heavy)

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Metric vs SAE wrench equivalents

Some metric and SAE sizes are close enough to look interchangeable, but a small gap can matter under torque. Use these as comparison notes, not as a license to force the wrong tool onto a fastener.

Close comparison sizes

  • 8mm ≈ 5/16"
  • 11mm ≈ 7/16"
  • 13mm ≈ 1/2"
  • 14mm ≈ 9/16"
  • 19mm ≈ 3/4"
  • 22mm ≈ 7/8"

Note: 13 mm is slightly larger than 1/2 inch. Treat close matches as low-torque, temporary references only; use the correct wrench or socket when fit matters.

Expert Advice: 6-Point vs 12-Point

For stubborn, rusted, or high-torque fasteners, a snug 6-point socket or wrench is usually the safer first choice. 12-point tools are easier to align in tight spaces, but they are less forgiving on worn or undersized heads.

Note: A 3/8 inch wrench is 9.5 mm, so it is not a good substitute for a 10 mm opening.

ISO vs DIN: The Metric Head Size Conflict

Why does your 17mm wrench fit some M10 bolts but not others? It depends on the engineering standard used.

M10 Bolt Head

  • ISO Standard: 16mm
  • DIN Standard: 17mm

M12 Bolt Head

  • ISO Standard: 18mm
  • DIN Standard: 19mm

M14 Bolt Head

  • ISO Standard: 21mm
  • DIN Standard: 22mm

How to choose the wrench size

Use the chart to narrow the likely size, then confirm the actual fit on the fastener before applying torque.

Measure Across Flats

Use calipers to measure the distance between the two parallel flat sides of the bolt head. This is the wrench size.

Identify the Thread

Look for markings. Numbers (8.8, 10.9) mean Metric tools. Hash marks or letters mean SAE (Inch) tools.

Select Correct Fit

Check for a snug fit. If the wrench rocks on the fastener head, stop and confirm the size, system, and head condition before applying torque.

Before choosing the wrench

A wrench chart identifies common head sizes, but it does not identify the full fastener by itself. If you know the head size but not the thread, cross-check the Bolt Size chart for diameter and pitch. If you are preparing a tapped hole, use the Drill Bit Sizes chart to verify the numbered or letter drill before cutting threads.

For screws instead of bolts, use the screw diameter and thread reference before choosing a driver or pilot hole.

Wrench Application Guide

Different bolts require different driving tools. Know when to use each.

General Maintenance

Standard combination wrenches are ideal for most tasks. Socket sets are preferred for engine bays where space is limited.

  • 10mm: The most used automotive size
  • Adjustable wrenches: Emergency use only
  • Box-end vs Open-end trade-offs

Industrial Machining

Precision equipment often uses Heavy Hex or Socket Cap bolts that require heavy-duty impact sockets or Hex keys.

  • Metric ISO 4014 standard
  • SAE Grade 8 high-torque needs
  • Torque wrench requirements

Home & Furniture

Flat-pack furniture often relies on metric hex keys. Keep a set of 4 mm, 5 mm, and 6 mm keys handy.

  • Allen key equivalents
  • Screwdriver-to-Wrench cross-over
  • Small SAE sizes for hardware

Complete Your Workshop Reference

Use these related workshop charts when you need to identify the fastener, check a pilot hole, or convert metric dimensions before choosing a wrench.

Inches → MMWorkshop preset
Inches (fraction)Inches (decimal)MillimetersCentimeters
1/4"0.2506.350.64
1/2"0.50012.701.27
1"1.00025.402.54
1 1/2"1.50038.103.81
2"2.00050.805.08
2 1/2"2.50063.506.35
3"3.00076.207.62
4"4.000101.6010.16
5"5.000127.0012.70
6"6.000152.4015.24

Inches to MM

Imperial to metric conversions for hardware sizing and fabrication.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What wrench fits an M10 bolt?
An M10 bolt often uses a 16 mm or 17 mm wrench opening depending on the fastener standard and head style. The thread size is not the wrench size. If the fit matters, measure across the flats of the head and check the relevant ISO, DIN, manufacturer, or vehicle reference.
Is 1/2 inch the same as 13 mm?
No. 1/2 inch is 12.7 mm, while 13 mm is slightly larger. A 13 mm wrench may feel close, but it can slip on a 1/2 inch fastener under torque.
How do I know the correct wrench size?
Measure across the two flat sides of the fastener head with calipers or test a snug socket by hand before applying torque. If the tool rocks, stop and confirm the size, tool system, and fastener condition.
What is the difference between metric and SAE wrench sizes?
Metric wrench sizes are marked in millimeters. SAE wrench sizes are marked in inch fractions. Some sizes are close, such as 13 mm and 1/2 inch, but close does not always mean safe under load.
Should I use a 6-point or 12-point wrench?
A 6-point tool grips more of the hex head and is usually better for high-torque, stuck, or damaged fasteners. A 12-point tool can be useful in tight spaces, but it is less forgiving when the fit is loose.
Can an adjustable wrench replace a socket set?
Not for every job. Adjustable wrenches can help with light-duty or emergency work, but jaw play can round fastener heads. Use the correct fixed wrench or socket when torque, safety, or finish matters.