3 mm Drill Bit Size
A 3 mm drill bit is 0.1181 inches. The nearest common fractional drill bit is 1/8 inch, which is slightly larger at 0.1250 inches or 3.18 mm.
Quick Answer
Decimal
0.1181 in
Metric
3.00 mm
Closest
#31
3 mm Drill Bit Equivalent Chart
| Size | Decimal Inches | Metric | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 mm | 0.1181 in | 3.00 mm | Exact size |
| #31 | 0.1200 in | 3.05 mm | Closest numbered drill size |
| 1/8 inch | 0.1250 in | 3.18 mm | Common fractional oversize |
| 7/64 inch | 0.1094 in | 2.78 mm | Common fractional undersize |
Common Uses
General pilot holes, plastic, soft metal, and small metric hardware.
Exact vs Nearest Size
Choose the exact bit for threads, tight hardware fits, dowels, and precision layouts. Use the nearest common equivalent only for rough pilot holes, clearance holes, or material removal where a slight difference is acceptable.
3 mm Drill Bit FAQ
What are the inch and metric dimensions for 3 mm?
3 mm drill bit measures 0.1181 in and 3.00 mm.
What is the closest common equivalent to 3 mm?
#31 is the closest common equivalent listed here. It measures 0.1200 in or 3.05 mm.
Can I substitute another bit for 3 mm?
Use the exact bit size for tap drilling, precision holes, dowels, and manufacturer-specified hardware. A nearby fractional, metric, numbered, or letter drill bit is usually fine only for clearance holes or rough pilot holes.