#2 drill size
A #2 drill is 0.2210 in (5.61 mm). It sits between #3 and #1 in the number series; the nearest metric drill is 5.6 mm.
#2 at a glance
Decimal, metric and the nearest sizes in the other series.
Nearest metric drills
Metric drills step by 0.05 mm below 3 mm and by 0.1 mm from 3 mm. Difference is metric minus inch size.
| Metric drill | Inch | Difference | In inches | Hole |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.6 mm | 0.2205" | −0.013 mm | −0.0005" | Smaller |
| 5.7 mm | 0.2244" | +0.087 mm | +0.0034" | Larger |
Nearby inch drills
The next size down and up in each inch series, so you can pick a substitute from the drawer.
Threads a #2 drill can tap
Threads from the tap tables on this site that this drill can tap, with the thread percentage it leaves (55–85 % shown).
| Thread | Standard drill | Thread with this drill | Suits |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/4-28 UNF | #3 | 63 % | Hard, tough metals |
Clearance for screws and bolts
Bolts and screws a #2 hole clears, with the diametral clearance and the gap each side. Metric sizes are compared with ISO 273.
| Fastener | Diameter | Clearance | Per side | ISO 273, metric only |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #8 screw | 0.1640" | 0.0570" | 0.0285" | – |
| #10 screw | 0.1900" | 0.0310" | 0.0155" | – |
| M5 bolt | 5 mm | 0.61 mm | 0.31 mm | Normal fit (normal 5.5, loose 5.8 mm) |
| #12 screw | 0.2160" | 0.0050" | 0.0025" | – |
Inch clearance is the drill size minus the basic major diameter. A drilled hole usually cuts slightly oversize.
Number drill index
Every size in the series, holes drawn to scale.
Common questions
What size is a #2 drill?
A #2 drill is 0.2210 in, which is 5.61 mm (5.6134 mm exactly).
What is the metric equivalent of a #2 drill?
The nearest metric drill is 5.6 mm, 0.013 mm smaller. The other close size is 5.7 mm.
What thread can I tap with a #2 drill?
It leaves about 63 % thread in 1/4-28 UNF.
Which fractional drill is closest to #2?
7/32 in (0.2188 in) is the closest, 0.0023 in smaller.
What does a #2 drill clear?
It clears a #12 screw with 0.0050" total clearance (0.0025" per side).