Filofax 6-Hole
Binders & Hole Punching · 6 specs
Direct Answer
The Filofax 6-Hole Standard (invented by Norman & Hill in London in 1921) is the global benchmark for personal ring planners, organizing 6 holes into two distinct 3-hole groups spaced 19.05 mm (0.75 in) apart. Available in standardized Personal (51 mm gap), A5 (70 mm gap), and Pocket (19 mm continuous) formats.
Source: Filofax Ltd. Technical Standards / FranklinPlanner Organizer Specifications · Last reviewed Aug 28, 2026
Specs
| Hole Grouping Structure | Two groups of 3 holes (19.05 mm / 3/4 in spacing within each 3-hole cluster) |
| Personal Size Center Gap | 51 mm (2.0 in) gap between clusters — 19-19-51-19-19 mm (95 × 171 mm paper) |
| A5 Size Center Gap | 70 mm (2.75 in) gap between clusters — 19-19-70-19-19 mm (148 × 210 mm paper) |
| Pocket Size Spacing | Uniform 19.05 mm continuous spacing — 19-19-19-19-19 mm (81 × 120 mm paper) |
| A5 Interchangeability | The middle holes of the two clusters (at 70+19+19 = 108 mm) align with US 3-hole spacing on some desk punches |
| Primary Applications | Filofax, FranklinCovey, Gillio, Moterm, Kikki.K ring planners |
The Center Gap Architecture
The deliberate open space between the two 3-hole groups accommodates the user's hand when writing across the center spine without resting directly on bulky metal ring mechanisms. In the popular Personal size, the 51 mm center gap provides ideal clearance for pen movement.