This reference table provides standard nail sizes using the penny (d) sizing system, which originated in England where nails were sold by the penny. The larger the number, the larger the nail. The table includes measurements for length, gauge, shank and head diameters, along with common applications.
Standard Nail Size Table
| Penny Size | Length (inches) | Length (mm) | Gauge | Shank Diameter (in) | Head Diameter (in) | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1d | ¾” | 19mm | 15 | 0.072 | 5/32″ | Small trim, delicate woodworking, model making |
| 2d | 1″ | 25mm | 15 | 0.072 | 5/32″ | Trim, molding, craft projects |
| 3d | 1¼” | 32mm | 14 | 0.080 | 3/16″ | Trim, small woodworking projects |
| 4d | 1½” | 38mm | 12.5 | 0.098 | 1/4″ | Trim, light framing |
| 5d | 1¾” | 44mm | 12.5 | 0.098 | 1/4″ | Trim, cabinet work, light framing |
| 6d | 2″ | 51mm | 11.5 | 0.113 | 9/32″ | Light framing, fencing |
| 8d | 2½” | 64mm | 10.25 | 0.131 | 5/16″ | General framing, decking |
| 10d | 3″ | 76mm | 9 | 0.148 | 3/8″ | Framing, fencing, general construction |
| 12d | 3¼” | 83mm | 9 | 0.148 | 3/8″ | Structural framing |
| 16d | 3½” | 89mm | 8 | 0.162 | 7/16″ | Structural framing, joists, studs |
| 20d | 4″ | 102mm | 6 | 0.192 | 1/2″ | Heavy framing, beams |
| 30d | 4½” | 114mm | 5 | 0.207 | 9/16″ | Heavy framing, beams, posts |
| 40d | 5″ | 127mm | 4 | 0.225 | 5/8″ | Heavy timber construction |
| 50d | 5½” | 140mm | 3 | 0.244 | 11/16″ | Heavy timber construction, structural beams |
| 60d | 6″ | 152mm | 2 | 0.262 | 3/4″ | Timber construction, heavy beams |
| 70d | 7″ | 178mm | 1 | 0.283 | 13/16″ | Heavy timber framing, large beams |
| 80d | 8″ | 203mm | 0 | 0.312 | 7/8″ | Timber bridges, docks, large structural members |
We hope you found our nail size chart and table helpful for your next project or engineering needs. Be sure to explore MISUMI USA’s full catalog of standard and customizable parts, including a wide variety of nail sizes and types. If you have any questions about selecting the right nail size for your application, feel free to contact our team of product experts and engineers.
Author: Scott Bredemann | Updated: 4/23/2025
Disclaimer:
The content on this webpage is for informational purposes only. MISUMI makes no guarantees, expressed or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, or validity of the information. Performance parameters, tolerances, designs, materials, or processes should not be assumed to reflect third-party suppliers’ or manufacturers’ deliverables within MISUMI’s network. Buyers are responsible for specifying their part requirements