It Starts with the Drill, Not the Peg
Many makers think about pegs last. We’d argue you should think about them first — or at least at the same time you’re planning your hole layout. The drill bit size you choose determines everything. Get that part figured out and the peg selection becomes straightforward.
Here’s a simple guide to help you match your board to the right peg.
Typical Cribbage Board Shapes and Sizes
Pocket-Sized Travel Boards — 5/64″ Drill
Best match: 5/64″ Mini Cribbage Pegs
Building something that fits in a jacket pocket or a small travel case? The 5/64″ mini peg is made for exactly that. Small, clean, and precise — these pegs are purpose-built for compact boards where space is tight and every detail matters.
If you’re drilling 5/64″ holes, this is your peg.
Small Travel Boards — 3/32″ Drill
Best match: 3/32″ Small Cribbage Pegs
A step up from pocket-sized, small travel boards are a popular build for makers who want something packable but still comfortable to play on. The 3/32″ small peg fits this category just right — slightly larger than the mini, but still easy to handle.
Drill 3/32″ holes and these pegs drop right in.
Standard Cribbage Boards — 1/8″ Drill
Best match: 1/8″ Standard Pegs or 1/8″ Ball Top Pegs or 1/8” Oversized Pegs
The 1/8″ hole is the most common size in cribbage board making — and for good reason. It works across a huge range of board sizes and styles, from simple two-track designs to more elaborate custom builds.
For standard boards we offer two options:
1/8″ Standard Pegs — our most popular peg. Clean tapered design, smooth glide, available in brass, copper, silver, black, and polished steel. A reliable choice that looks great on any board.
1/8″ Ball Top Pegs — same 1/8″ shaft, same hole size, but with a rounded ball top that makes them easier to see and pick up during play. A great upgrade for players who want a little extra grip and visibility without changing their hole layout.
Both fit the same 1/8″ hole. The choice comes down to the look and feel you want for your finished board.
Larger Statement Boards — 1/8″ or 3/16″ Drill
Best match: 1/8″ Oversized Pegs, Oversized Ball Top Pegs, or 3/16″ Straight Shank Pegs
Building something big? A live edge slab, a showpiece board, or anything where the pegs need to hold their own visually — you have options.
1/8″ Oversized Pegs — a larger peg body that still fits a standard 1/8″ hole. No re-drilling required if you’ve already laid out your holes. Easier to see and pick up, with a more substantial feel in the hand.
Link to 1/8” Oversized Cribbage Page shop page.
3/16” Oversized Ball Top Pegs — combines the larger peg body with a ball top for maximum visibility and grip. Popular with makers building boards for older players or anyone who wants the pegs to be a feature of the board rather than an afterthought. These pegs are designed to fit 3/16” drilled holes. Please contact us for pricing on these pegs.
3/16″ Straight Shank Pegs — for makers who want to go truly large. These require a 3/16″ drill bit and deliver a bold, substantial peg that commands attention on a big board. If you’re building something meant to impress, these are worth considering.
Quick Reference Guide
| Board Type | Drill Size | Recommended Peg |
| Pocket travel | 5/64″ | Mini Pegs |
| Small travel | 3/32″ | Small Pegs |
| Standard | 1/8″ | Standard Pegs |
| Standard — easier grip | 1/8″ | Oversized or Oversized Ball Top Pegs |
| Large statement boards | 3/16″ | Straight Shank, Oversized Ball Top Pegs |
Not Sure? Order a Sample Pack
If you’re between sizes or working with a new wood species, reach out before you commit to a bulk order. We’re happy to send samples so you can test fit and finish in your actual board before placing a larger wholesale order.
Every maker’s build is a little different — we’d rather you get it right the first time.
Shop Wholesale Cribbage Pegs →
Looking for pegs for non-cribbage projects or custom orders? Read: Metal Pegs Beyond the Cribbage Board →
