Use Locking Pliers

If enough of the screw head protrudes above the surface, clamp locking pliers (such as Vise-Grips) tightly onto the outside edges of the head. Once the jaws are locked securely, twist counter-clockwise to loosen and remove the screw.

Why It Works

Locking pliers apply constant, adjustable clamping force that grips the screw head from the outside rather than relying on the damaged internal slots. This bypasses the stripped head entirely.

Limitations

The screw head must extend above the material surface enough for the plier jaws to grab—typically at least 1–2 mm of exposed edge. Flush or countersunk screws cannot be gripped this way. On very small screws, standard locking pliers may be too large; needle-nose locking pliers can help.

Tips

• Adjust the pliers so the jaws grip tightly before locking; a loose grip will round off the remaining head edges
• Apply penetrating oil (such as PB Blaster or WD-40) 10–15 minutes beforehand if the screw appears corroded
• Protect the surrounding surface with painter's tape if the plier jaws might scratch the material