Drill bit size for dowel?

I want to put some 1/2 inch dowels into a body (sounds weird out of context). Measuring them with a caliper, they are actually a tad under 1/2 inch, like 0.4975. The question is, what size drill bit to use? It seems to me that they would not fit snugly if I use a 1/2 bit.

In case it matters, these are "fluted" dowels, and I was planning to put some wood glue on them before tapping them in. Does that take up enough space as to make the 1/2 inch bit a better idea?

I ordered a 15/32 bit, but now wondering if I should just use the 1/2 inch one I have.

Advice much appreciated ...

You should be fine with the 1/2 bit. Sounds ideal actually. I usually drill just a hair bigger than the plug and sand a slight taper into it. Scoring the sides of the dowell lets air & glue escape, but it sounds like you have that covered.

Thanks, Fred!

p.s. Great build thread, particularly fun to see your son's contribution :-)

Thanks, Fred!

p.s. Great build thread, particularly fun to see your son's contribution :-)

He's almost 7 now, always asking "Can I help?" when I'm trying to do something delicate. He never asks when I'm trying to rake the yard.:roll: