M8 Hex Bolts (ISO 4014 / ISO 4017) are specified by thread size, length and head dimensions. The M8 row from the standard is reproduced below, followed by the drill sizes, spanner size and torque values used when installing this size.
M8 Dimensional Row (ISO 4014 / ISO 4017)
| Size | Pitch coarse (mm) | Width across flats s (mm) | Width across corners e min (mm) | Head height k nom (mm) | Nominal diameter d (mm) | Reference standard | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M8 | 1.25 | 13.0 | 14.38 | 5.3 | 8.0 | ISO 4014/4017 | Fully threaded |
Spanner & Drive for M8 Hex Bolts
M8 Hex Bolts have a width across flats of 13.0 mm — fit a 13.0 mm open-ended spanner or socket. Use a 6-point socket for tight clearances and to reduce rounding; for repeated assembly choose a torque wrench so the joint preload is repeatable.
Hole Sizes for M8
| Coarse-thread pitch (ISO 724) | 1.25 mm |
|---|---|
| Through-hole / clearance (ISO 273 medium) | 9 mm |
| Tapping drill, coarse thread | 6.8 mm |
Tightening Torque for M8
| Class 8.8 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 25 Nm |
|---|---|
| Class 10.9 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 35 Nm |
| Class 12.9 (dry, ~µ 0.125) | ≈ 41 Nm |
Indicative dry-joint values. Lubrication can lower the required torque by 15–25%. Always confirm against the joint design, especially when going up a strength class.
Proof Load & Strength for M8
| Tensile stress area As (ISO 898-1) | 36.6 mm² |
|---|---|
| Proof load, class 8.8 | 21 kN |
| Proof load, class 10.9 | 30 kN |
| Proof load, class 12.9 | 36 kN |
| Min. ultimate tensile, class 8.8 | 29 kN |
Proof load = stress area × proof stress per ISO 898-1. Design joints so the working preload stays below the proof load of the selected class.
Common Applications for M8 Hex Bolts
M8 Hex Bolts are commonly specified for general-purpose machinery, jigs, fixturing and light structural connections.
Mating Parts for M8
For M8, pair with a M8 hex nut (ISO 4032 / DIN 934) and, where used, a M8 flat washer (ISO 7089 / DIN 125A) under the head and under the nut.
When to Step Up or Down from M8
When the joint preload approaches the proof load of M8 class 8.8, step up to M10 class 8.8 (or move to M8 class 10.9). When the joint is over-specified, M6 often saves weight and cost without losing the safety margin.

