What is the proper pilot hole size for a 5/8" wood s***w?

Question

What is the proper pilot hole size for a 5/8" wood s***w?

Answer 1

Choose a bit that is approximately as large as the unthreaded portion of the s***w....i.e. the central shaft of the s***w. If the upper body of the s***w near the head has no threads, you may have to drill another larger hole to accomodate that section and any recess for the head of the s***w..

Answer 2

1/4 inch pilot hole will be fine..just enopugh for the point to first go in and to keep the wood from splitting

Answer 3

I assume you mean it's 5/8" long, but what # is it?

Regardless, check out the downloadable s***w size chart from Wood Magazine at the link below. It will tell you the proper pilot hole based on s***w # and type of wood (hard or soft).