Screw Extractor Bit

A screw extractor is a hardened steel bit with reverse (left-hand) threads designed specifically for removing stripped or broken fasteners. Drill a small pilot hole into the center of the stripped screw head, insert the extractor, and run the drill in reverse. The extractor's threads bite into the screw and back it out.

Steps

1. Select a drill bit slightly smaller than the extractor tip and drill a pilot hole 3–6 mm deep into the center of the screw head. Use a center punch first to prevent the bit from wandering.
2. Insert the screw extractor into the pilot hole.
3. Using a tap wrench or drill set to reverse, turn the extractor counter-clockwise. The reverse threads dig into the metal and the screw begins to back out.
4. Once the screw is loose enough, switch to pliers to finish removing it.

When to Use

This is the most reliable method for severely stripped screws, screws flush with or below the surface, and hardened screws that resist other approaches. Extractor sets typically cost $5–15 and cover a range of screw sizes.

Caution

• Wear safety glasses—drilling into metal produces sharp fragments
• Do not apply excessive force; extractors are hard but brittle and can snap inside the hole
• If the extractor breaks off in the screw, the repair becomes significantly harder