If you’re looking for a great way to join 2×4 lumber, but you’d like to hide those ugly screw heads, pocket holes might be the perfect option for you. But can you use pocket holes on 2x4s?

Yes, pocket holes are a great way to join 2x4s together, as they provide a strong and hidden joint. As long as you use the proper length screw, and set your jig to the correct angle and drilling depth, pocket holes make for an easy, strong, and long-lasting woodworking joint.

Whether you’re constructing a piece of furniture or building a workbench for your garage, pocket holes are a versatile and easy way to join 2×4 lumber.

What’s The Best Screw Length For Pocket Holes In 2x4s?

If you’re working with standard 2x4s, then a 2-1/2″ long screw is the perfect length for pocket holes. In general, you should drill at least 2 pocket holes per joint and use a screw with course threads, as they will bite into the lumber better and provide a stronger joint.

Also, for exterior projects, make sure to use coated screws that are rated for outdoor use, like these Kreg 2-1/2″ exterior screws. Since non-coated screws will rust and corrode over time, exterior screws will help your project hold up to the elements.

What’s The Best Pocket Hole Jig For 2X4s?

If you’re looking for a great pocket hole jig that’s perfect for 2x4s, then we recommend the Kreg 720 Pro. Since this jig works with stock up to 1-1/2″ thick (i.e. the actual thickness of a standard 2×4), it’s perfect option for fast and repeatable pocket holes.

This jig is also adjustable, so you can set it to drill at the proper angle for any project you’re working on.

This jig is easy to use, and it comes with everything you need to get started. It’s also very affordable, making it a great option for budget DIYers that want to construct sturdy, long-lasting projects.

How To Set Up Your Pocket Hole Jig For 2x4s

The best part about Kreg Pocket Hole Jigs is that they label everything so that you don’t have to guess about anything. As long as you set your jig to the proper stops and markings, you’ll get perfect pocket holes every single time.

Step 1: Set your jig depth to 1-1/2″

The first thing you need to do when drilling pocket holes is to set your jig depth to accomodate a 2×4. On the Kreg jig, you can do this by lifting the drilling guide to the 1-1/2″ mark. Since 2x4s are actually only 1-1/2″ thick, this will ensure that your screws are properly countersunk.

Step 2: Set your drill bit stop collar to the proper depth

The next step to drilling pocket holes in a 2×4 is to set the drill bit stop collar to the proper depth. On the Kreg 720Pro, your drill bit will come with pre-set markings that will help you set the collar to the perfect depth.

For a 2×4, go ahead and align the collar with the 1-1/2″ mark on the drill bit.

Step 3: Clamp your 2×4 into your jig

The next step is to clamp your 2×4 into your jig. If you’re using the Kreg 720Pro, the built-in clamps will make this process quick and easy.

If you’re drilling into a 2×4, align the middle of the board with the center of the jig. This will allow you to drill 2, evenly-spaced pocket holes in every joint.

Step 4: Drill your pocket holes

Using the provided pocket hole drill bit, the next step is to drill your pocket holes through the drill guide. For best results, I recommend drilling half the hole, pulling your drill bit out to clear wood chips from the guide, then finishing the pocket hole on a second pass.

Having drilled thousands of pocket holes in my life, I can tell you that this will give you the cleanest results.

Don’t force your drill bit through the wood. If you start to feel it binding, just back it off and clear out some of the chips.

Step 5: Clamp and screw your joint

Once you’ve drilled all your pocket holes, the next step is to clamp and screw all your joints together.

If possible, I recommend clamping both boards to a flat surface (i.e. a table or workbench) when screwing them together. This will keep them from wandering when you’re screwing them together, and result in a flush, beautiful joint.

Pro Tips For Using Pocket Holes With 2x4s

When using pocket holes to join 2x4s, there are a few things to keep in mind in order to get the best results. Here are a few quick tips to help you out:

1) Rip the rounded edges off your boards

If possible, when using 2x4s to construct a piece of furniture, I recommend removing the rounded edge from your boards. The best way to do this is with a table saw.

By removing the rounded edge, all of your joints will fit seemlessly together, and add an extra level of professionalism to your work.

2) Clamp, Clamp, Clamp

I know I already mentioned this, but it bears repeating: if you want to achieve the best possible results with pocket holes, be sure to clamp your pieces securely to a workbench when screwing your joints together.

I know this might seem little inconvenient when you’re staring down a stack of pocket hole joints you need to screw together. However, the extra effort will be worth it when you see the final results.

3) Plug Your Pocket Holes

Once your project is complete and all the joint are screwed together, the final step is to plug your pocket holes.

If you want to make this as easy as possible, you can just buy some Kreg Pocket Hole plugs. Or, you can always just cut down a 3/8″ dowel and flush cut, plane, or sand the excess wood sitting proud of your joint.

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a easy and incredibly strong way to build your next project out of 2x4s, pocket hole joinery is a great way to go. Not only will you be able to conceal all the screws, but with the help of a jig like the Kreg 720Pro, you can achieve perfect joints every single time.

Having built furniture using all manner of woodworking joinery, I can tell you that pocket holes provide the easiest way to achieve professional-quality results.

Now go grab some 2x4s and a pocket hole jig and start building!