Remove stuck or stripped screws/bolts easily with one of these best screw extractors.
A screw extractor is a handy device widely used to remove the jammed/stripped fasteners. They come with a drill bit to grind a hole into the damaged screw’s head and a threaded extractor to bite into the hole. Thus, it grips the screw and lets you remove it with a ratchet or drill.
They come in a kit of several extractors of different sizes, and types used to extract screws or other fasteners of different sizes on various objects and surfaces (a wide range of applications). It saves a lot of time, effort, or energy that we use to remove the broken/stuck fastener while dealing with your project.
With the availability of several screw extractors on the market, it would be a bit difficult to find the right option that is suitable for your requirement.
Before investing in the best model, we suggest you consider the following key factors.
- Material: It is always better to use screw extractors made of hard metals like high-speed steel (HSS) or cobalt steel, which are harder, expensive, and hold a high temperature. Yet ensure to stay away from the extractors made of softer alloys, why because they won’t be hard enough to perform the job.
- Gripping Power: With the perfect gripping power on the screw extractor, you will be able to do it easily. Some models drill into the screw’s head and use reverse threads to bite and grasp the head, while other models grip the head by fitting over them. Also, the material type will affect the gripping power, as extractor and drill bit made of high-quality steel alloys will perform better than models made of cheaper material
- Number of Pieces: The screw extractors are offered in a set or series, in which each set consists of a particular series of extractor sizes. With a large number of pieces in a set, you are more likely to find the perfect match for the screws.
For more information on these screw extractors, we recommend you read our detailed “Buying Guide”. Using the same information, we have enlisted some Best Screw Extractors after thorough research on several products.
Go through them to get a clear idea of how to select the right option as per your requirement.
Best Screw Extractors
| Best screw extractor | Extractor Sizes | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|
| NEIKO 01925A Screw Extractor | #1 - #5 | Check On Amazon |
| RWYMQWT Damaged&Stripped Drill Bit Set | #0 - #4 | Check On Amazon |
| IRWIN Screw Extractor | #1 - #5 | Check On Amazon |
| Newte Screw Extractor | #0 - #4 | Check On Amazon |
| Be91eiter Damaged Screw Extractor | #1 - #10 | Check On Amazon |
| Nuovoware Damaged Screw Extractor | #1 - #10 | Check On Amazon |
| Alden 8440P Screw Extractor | #0 - #4 | Check On Amazon |
| XEWEA Screw Extractor | 1/8 " - 7/8" | Check On Amazon |
| Topec Screw Extractor | #1 - #6 | Check On Amazon |
| Raynesys Screw Extractor | #1 - #5 | Check On Amazon |
Best Screw Extractor Reviews
1. Neiko Screw Extractor
Nikeo is a top brand known for making high-quality tools and home improvement products for many years. Among their screw extractors, the 01925A stands out as a favorite. Made from premium HSS M2 steel, it features left-hand drill bits and alloy spiral flutes. These parts are excellent for tough extraction jobs, working well with both wood and metal projects. Whether you’re a professional builder or a DIY enthusiast, this kit is a must-have for your toolbox.
The spiral flutes grip fasteners tightly, making removal easier as you apply more torque. Stored in a sturdy metal case, the set is easy to organize and carry, perfect for quick repairs on the go. With sizes ranging from 5/64″ to 19/64″, the Neiko set meets a variety of extraction needs.
Best Features:
- Easy removal of broken screws, studs, and bolts
- Cobalt-fortified high-speed steel for durability
- Metal carrying case for organization
- Sizes clearly labeled for easy selection
- Ideal for construction, automotive, and home DIY projects
Pros:
- Versatile set for wood and metal projects
- Durable construction ensures longevity
- Convenient metal carrying case for easy storage
- Spiral flutes provide a firm grip for effective extraction
Cons:
- Limited to certain screw and bolt sizes
Neiko Screw Extractor vedio
2. RWYMQWT Damaged&Stripped Drill Bit Set
The extractor tool we have here from the manufacturer RWYMQWT comes as a set of 6 pieces. This low-cost set is ideal for effortlessly removing broken, damaged, and stripped screws.
The whole set is made of durable high-quality steel HSS 4341 that has a remarkable hardness of 63 HRC and due to their high rigidity, they can easily deal with damaged screws.
All you have to do is insert the drill side on the screw to drill until you get a good grip then flip the tool and insert the extractor side to begin extraction.
Weighing just 4.2 ounces and measuring 2.36 x 1.5 x 0.5 inches, this lightweight small-size extractor set can be carried around in one’s pocket without any hassle. You will be receiving a durable case to place the set in one place safely.
Best Features:
- High-speed steel material
- 63 HRC hardness
- 6-piece set
Pros:
- Sturdy and convenient
- Comes with a travel case
- User-friendly
Cons:
- Not works well with rusted screws
3. IRWIN Screw Extractor Drill Bit Set
Coming at the top, we have placed the IRWIN Screw Extractor/ Drill Bit Set as our top choice for the best screw extractors. This set includes 10 different pieces that double as a drill bit apart from the screw extractor.
These pieces are designed to remove broken screws and studs that get stuck inside sockets and fillings. You will find an aggressive left-hand spiral design on these units that helps to forcefully pull out the screw with extras gripping power.
Each of these pieces has a particular extractor’s size and drill bit size embedded on them. Thus, you can always check what size of bit you are applying before starting to extract the screw. There are easy out spiral flutes that are also embedded on the pieces that increase the grip on the broken screws as the resistance from the screws increases. These cobalt made pieces offer a great amount of strength.
Best Features:
- Includes 10 different pieces
- Double as a drill bit
- Designed to remove broken screws and studs
- Aggressive left-hand spiral design
- Embedded size
- Easy out spiral flutes
- Better grip for more resistance
- Pieces are made of cobalt
Pros:
- One of the hardest bits from our picks
- Suitable for even the most deeply stuck screws
Cons:
- Expensive option
IRWIN Screw Extractor Drill Bit Set Vedio
4. Newte Screw Extractor
Newte’s extractor bit set is designed for durability and efficiency in removing stubborn screws and bolts. Crafted from High-Speed Steel H.S.S 4341#, this set comprises five extractor bits that guarantee longevity and reliability. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, this set is your ultimate solution for hassle-free extractions. With a sleek gold finish and spiral flute design, these extractors effortlessly grasp damaged fasteners, ensuring swift and effortless removal.
Compatible with any drill, these extractor bits are versatile, capable of handling screws and bolts of various sizes and types. Encased in sturdy packaging, this set keeps all bits organized and easily accessible, ideal for both workshop and on-the-go usage.
Best Features:
- Titanium-hardened steel for superior hardness
- Includes five extractor bits for various sizes
- Suitable for stripped, painted over, rusted, or rounded screws and bolts
- Easy-to-use two-step process for quick extraction
- Suitable for professional and DIY use
Pros:
- High-quality construction ensures durability
- Easy to use with any drill
- Comes with a durable case for convenient storage
- Versatile set works on various screw and bolt types
Cons:
- May not work on severely damaged fasteners
5. Be91eiter Damaged Screw Extractor
Transform your DIY game with the Be91eiter 22-Piece Extractor Kit. It comes with high-quality steel extractors in 10 sizes, so you won’t have to keep changing bits or adjusting things constantly. With the Be91eiter kit, removing any size screw becomes a seamless, one-step process.
This versatile set can handle any stubborn screw, whether it’s Allen, machine, lag, wood, hex, or sheet metal. These extractors are made from strong High-Speed Steel 4341, so they can handle even the toughest jobs with ease.
This Be91eiter Extractor Kit is made to work with most electric hand drills, effortlessly fitting into your toolbox without any fuss. This set has a total of 22 pieces in 10 different sizes, giving you everything you need to confidently tackle any screw removal task. Boost your toolkit with the Be91eiter 22-Piece Extractor Kit for efficient and durable performance.
Best Features:
- The Be91eiter Damaged Screw Extractor comes in a comprehensive 22-piece kit, offering a solution for various screw sizes and types.
- Crafted from durable High-Speed Steel 4341, ensuring toughness and longevity for demanding tasks.
- Designed for easy screw removal in one simple step, eliminating the need for multiple bit changes or chuck adjustments.
- Fits most electric hand drills, seamlessly integrating into your existing toolbox for added convenience.
Pros:
- The extractor set is adept at handling stubborn screws, including Allen, machine, lag, wood, hex, and sheet metal screws.
- The use of High-Speed Steel 4341 ensures the durability of the extractors, making them suitable for challenging projects.
- With 22 pieces in 10 different sizes, this kit equips users to handle a wide range of screw removal challenges.
Cons:
- Users may need a bit of practice to get used to the one-step removal process.
Be91eiter Damaged Screw Extractor Vedio
6. Nuovoware Damaged Screw Extractor
Meet the Nuovoware Damaged Screw Extractor Set – a complete 22-piece toolkit crafted to easily handle stubborn screws that are stripped, broken, or rusty. Made with care from strong HSS 4341 steel, our extractor set is tough and reliable, perfect for handling even the trickiest tasks.
Inside the kit, you’ll find 10 drills and extractors in various sizes. They’re carefully designed to work with all kinds of drills, making it easy to remove any type of screw or bolt. Using it is a breeze with just two steps: pick a drill bit smaller than the screw, then use the matching extractor in reverse with your electric drill.
This versatile set is not only effective but also highly convenient. Packaged in a portable and organized storage box, it allows for easy accessibility and transport. The Nuovoware Damaged Screw Extractor Set is great because it works with different drills and screws. It’s a must-have for DIY lovers and professionals alike. Invest in this advanced solution today and bid farewell to the frustration of dealing with stubborn, damaged screws. Designed to be easy for you and built to last, this extractor set is ready to be your go-to tool in your toolkit.
Best Features:
- Comprehensive 22-piece set
- 10 different sized drills and extractors
- High-quality HSS 4341 steel construction
- Simple 2-step operation
- Portable and organized storage box
Pros:
- Removes stripped, broken, and rusty screws effortlessly
- Compatible with all drill types and screw varieties
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting use
- User-friendly design with a straightforward 2-step process
- Portable and organized for easy storage and transport
Cons:
- May not be suitable for extremely small or large screws.
Nuovoware Damaged Screw Extractor Vedio
7. Alden Screw Extractor
Alden is another top brand known for its quality screw extractors. One can consider their 8440P model for easy removal of broken bolts and screws. This kit combines a drill bit and extractor, making the process simpler and reducing clutter. Built from strong M2 HSS steel, these tools offer reliable performance. Plus, they have self-centering drill tips for accuracy and time-saving.
The kit includes four dual-ended bits, suitable for various screw and bolt sizes. It’s versatile for different tasks and works well for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Just use a 3/8″ drill to power up and effortlessly remove fasteners, making your job easier.
Best Features:
- Tempered twice for extra hardness and durability
- Removes broken screws and bolts effortlessly
- Suitable for hex, Phillips, and square drive fasteners
- No grinding or center punching required
- Multiple extractions per tool for efficiency
- Can be used in quick-change chucks for convenience
Pros:
- Two-step drill bit and extractor in one tool
- Self-centering drill tip for precision
- Made from high-quality M2 HSS steel
- The versatile kit covers a range of screw sizes
Cons:
- May require careful handling to avoid breakage
Alden Screw Extractor Vedio
8. XEWEA Screw Extractor
Meet the XEWEA 25Pcs Screw Extractor Set – your reliable partner for tough jobs. Crafted with durability and performance in mind, this set is here to make your life easier. Made from super-strong chromium molybdenum steel, our extractor set is tough and won’t let you down. It’s built to withstand damage and corrosion, so you can count on it to be a long-lasting and reliable tool for all your projects.
This extractor set is designed to be user-friendly. Its clever spiral design makes it a breeze to remove broken screws, bolts, nuts, studs, fittings, threaded pipes, and pins with ease and no fuss. No matter if you’re using power tools or doing it by hand, the XEWEA Screw Extractor Set works smoothly with both. It ensures efficiency and convenience for every job you tackle.
With a total of 25 pieces, this set has got you covered for all sorts of tasks. It handles screw sizes ranging from 1 inch to 1/8 inch, making it versatile and perfect for your needs. You’ll find it easy to spot the right size with the engraved markings on the sockets. It adds to the user-friendly experience and ensures precise use every time.
Whether you’re a professional mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, the XEWEA 25Pcs Screw Extractor Set is your go-to companion, combining versatility, quality, and reliability for unparalleled performance in every task. Elevate your toolkit with this essential set that delivers on durability and ease of use.
Best Features:
- Made from heat-treated chromium molybdenum steel for enhanced durability.
- Suitable for both power tools and hand tools.
- Facilitates quick and easy removal of broken screws, bolts, nuts, studs, fittings, threaded pipes, and pins.
- Includes 25 pieces in various sizes, accommodating screws from 1″ to 1/8″.
- Engraved socket detailing for effortless size identification.
- Enhances precision and user-friendliness during application.
- Backed by XEWEA’s 7*24h customer after-sales support.
Pros:
- Affordable and user-friendly.
- Sturdy construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Versatile compatibility with a wide range of tools.
- Efficient removal of various types of broken fasteners.
- Comprehensive set covers a variety of screw sizes.
- Engraved markings simplify size identification.
- User-friendly design enhances precision.
Cons:
- May not be suitable for extremely specialized applications.
9. Topec Screw Extractor
Topec offers a versatile 49-piece set made of durable CR-MO steel and HSS materials. The spiral design provides strong gripping force, with metric and imperial measurements like 13mm, 9/16″, and 5/8″ available.
Included are 13+1 nut removers, 6 spiral screw extractors, 13 multi-spline screw extractors, and 16 left-hand cobalt drill bits. This comprehensive solution suits both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. The spiral design enhances engagement with harder materials, while the hex head design ensures optimal engagement in tight spaces. Whether dealing with stripped, rusted, or stubborn fasteners, this equips you for efficient completion, making it an essential toolbox addition.
Best Features:
- Constructed from durable CR-MO steel and HSS materials
- Spiral design enhances gripping strength
- Ideal for extracting broken studs, bolts, socket screws, and fittings
- Various sizes and specifications cater to diverse job needs
- Hex head design facilitates usage in tight spaces
- Plum thread securely grips worn, stubborn, and broken fasteners
Pros:
- Comprehensive set covers various extraction needs
- High-quality materials ensure durability and reliability
- Easy to use with clear instructions provided
Cons:
- Limited range of sizes may not cover all specific applications
10. Raynesys Damaged Screw Extractor
Meet the Raynesys Damaged Screw Extractor Set – your go-to solution for pesky stripped, broken, or damaged screws. This 22-piece toolkit is made of top-notch alloy steel, ensuring it handles the job seamlessly on various materials like wood, metal, and plastic. Designed to be flexible, this set comes with 10 carefully sized drill bits, ranging from 0.05 inches to 0.22 inches. They make sure you can create a precise and clean hole when dealing with damaged screws.
These drill bits come with 10 special extractors that are designed to easily grip and remove damaged screws. The set also has a crucial adapter to handle larger drill bits and extractors, making the kit even more versatile.
The Raynesys Damaged Screw Extractor Set is made with strong alloy steel, making it a tough and dependable tool that can handle a variety of tasks. Boasting a 4.5 out of 5-star rating on Amazon, the set has garnered acclaim from over 1,000 satisfied customers. While most people praise how well it works, some users mention that the drill bits might struggle a bit with really tough screws. Budget-friendly and easy to use, the Raynesys Damaged Screw Extractor Set is your go-to solution for effortlessly dealing with all sorts of damaged screws.
Best Features:
- High-quality alloy steel construction for durability.
- 22-piece set for comprehensive screw extraction.
- Versatile application on wood, metal, and plastic.
- 10 meticulously sized drill bits (0.05 inches to 0.22 inches).
- 10 purpose-built extractors for efficient screw removal.
- Essential adapter for larger drill bits and extractors.
- Dedicated bit holder for secure storage during operation.
Pros:
- Affordable and user-friendly.
- Effective in removing stripped, broken, or damaged screws.
- Crafted from premium materials for long-lasting performance.
- Comprehensive set covering various screw sizes.
Cons:
- Some users note potential challenges with exceptionally tough screws.
How to Choose the Best Screw Extractors
Till now, you have gone through the best screw extractors, it’s time to take a look at various parameters offered by the screw extractors. Retain that these parameters will change as per the aimed application of the unit and budget range of the set. Here we have mentioned the important factor to consider while shopping for the best screw extractor.
Let’s get into its details.
1. Types
Spiral flute extractor, straight flute extractor, and spiral flute extractor with drill-out end are three main types of screw extractors available. It is essential to know about these types to get a clear idea of what type of screw extractor is best suitable for your requirement.
Here is a detailed explanation of each of its types.
- Straight Flute Extractor: It is an ideal option designed to remove bolts, screws, and studs in thin surfaces or softer materials. They extract screws either by themselves or with the help of a nut. If your model uses a nut, then you find a distinct nut attached to the end and turn it to take out the screw with the help of a wrench. The less wedging effect will result in a low propensity for locking the screws in its place compared to a tapered screw extractor.
- Spiral Flute Extractor: For quick and perfect removal of screws, you have to fit this spiral flute extractor in a pre-drilled hole in the screw/bolt. After its proper fitting into that hole, then rotate the extractor counter-clockwise (anti-clockwise) to extract those stuck or stripped screws. It is a great option to extract broken studs, bolts, and socket screw. It is designed to surround itself deep into the fastener while you turn them. Its grip will increase whenever the resistance of the fastener will increase. Moreover, additional gripping power is offered by these extractors with their unique spiral design.
- Spiral Flute Extractor with Drill-Out End: It is made of hardened steel that lets you use both ends. This extractor is suitable to remove screws and other fasteners on precision equipment and electronics. If you prefer to purchase this set, then a spiral flute extractor will allow you to extract a variety of bolts and screws, while a drill-out end creates a hole to penetrate the extractor through it. Finally, place this extractor in a wrench or drill to successfully remove the screw.
2. Supported Screw Size
A broad range of sizes is available for screw heads in the market, in which you have to inspect and confirm the correct size that perfectly fits into your screw extractor. Mostly, the size range of these sets will be from 0.125 inches to 0.625 inches. While the size of larger sets come with large 0.875 inches extractors, which can easily remove large bolts on industrial machines and vehicles.
Other sets are used to take out tiny machine screws in electronics like computers, TV, or laptop with small size extractors as 0.0781 inches. A small kit that comes with 4 – 5 screw extractor sizes is mostly enough for either DIYers or Pros. So, it is good to invest in a set covering a wide range of sizes.
3. Gripping Power
Different extractor models use different strategies to grip and remove a rusted or stripped screw or bolt head properly. Some models drill into the screw head and then bite and grip them by using reverse threads, whereas other models fit over the screw head to grip and remove them.
However, more gripping power is created by the second method, yet this style of the extractor is restricted to instances, where the screw head or bolt is projecting out of the material that allows the extractor to grab it effectively.
The type of screw extractor material also affects its gripping power. For instance, extractors and drill bits made of high-quality steel alloys will perform better to bite into and grip fasteners and also last longer compared to those made of cheaper materials.
4. Material
Screw extractors have to burrow into metal screws to work and remove them effectively. So, they must consist of hard metal. In general, the screw extractors are made from high-speed steel (HSS), a quite commonly used material in most saw blades and drill bits. It is a harder material compared to other alloys or steel. It can endure high temperatures without softening, an essential feature to drill into the heads of metal fasteners.
Also, you can choose cobalt steel, a bit pricier yet harder material than HSS that can hold better to high temperatures generated while metal cutting. With its high tensile strength, this extractor made of cobalt steel is a perfect option with a narrower flute of 0.125 inches (or less). We suggest you not choose extractors that comprise of softer alloys, why because they won’t be hard enough to perform these jobs.
5. Ease of Use and Versatility
To make screw extractors use them with ease, you have to check for certain features and confirm that using the right drill bit with the right extractor. Models working in conjunction with a drill bit have to match the bit size for effective working. Also, this extractor has a compatible drill bit size fixed on its side to get rid of any confusion.
However, the double-sided extractors feature the extractor and drill bit in only one reversible shank making them the most convenient models, which won’t let you search for a compatible drill bit. Here you have to drill a hole with one side and flip the shank to set the extractor.
Magnetic extension bit holders are provided by some models to hold either extractor bit or drill that let the operator swap between them quickly, which speeds up the screw removal process. Usually, bolt or screw extractor kits contain more than 30 pieces, in which a handy carrying case is offered by several models to organize the tools and take them out whenever required.
6. Convenience
The easy matching of the bits to the preferred extractor diameter in less time will let you know the convenience to use your screw extractor. Purchase a set with the size etched on the surface of each fastener removal will cut back on time and let you maintain the set organized that let you use further.
7. Compatibility
There won’t be a universal size, which means you have to ensure the screw size you use should be compatible with the application. A wide range of screw sizes is used in various applications. Some extractors are designed to do work with any screw size, whereas others are designed to work only on specific screw sizes. So, it is essential to know the type of screw you have to extract before starting.
Prefer to seek out kits having numerous pieces of varying extractor sizes. Thus, it ensures you don’t require to purchase a different pack future whenever encountering a screw size that extractor is compatible with or not.
8. Quality
The build quality and the performance of the screw extractor are essential to consider before making its purchase. Always prefer to buy a steel-made extractor, yet retain that all these extractors are not completely made of carbon HSS steel – a special type of steel used widely in a drill bit to pierce through a hard material and thus makes its way in. Choose an excellent build quality extractor that is capable to drill a hole into a damaged screw/bolt while dealing with these damaged screw heads.
9. Screw Damage Level
Painted or rusted screws are a bit difficult to remove, which won’t budge except high force is applied. So, to get rid of this issue, most manufacturers designed their extractors to remove rusty, broken and painted screws. They securely grip the screws and remove them perfectly. Hence, purchase a screw extractor to take out the damaged screws.
10. Price
The general price range of these screw extractors will be from $10 – $100, based on their features, built quality, and brand.
- Price Range from $10 – $50: Mostly, the screw extractors (including the most popular brands) will fall under this category. They come in a set and are used to remove different types of bolts and screws efficiently and easily.
- Price Range from $50 – $100: Extractors made of pure steel, which are strong and durable enough will come under this category. They come in a kit, including socket adapters and extension bit holders.
11. Warranty
An extended warranty is essential to consider while purchasing the extractor, as the warranty will validate that manufacturer has faith in their tools, so if anything happens, they will be replaced or repaired by the manufacturer. Some models offer a minimum warranty of 1 year, while others offer a warranty of up to 5 years. Also, check the customer service provided by the manufacturer along with the warranty of the model before making its purchase.
Tips to Safely Use a Screw Extractor
Almost all these screw extractor models are easy and simple to use (for beginners). Here are some of the valuable tips that allow you to use a screw extractor efficiently and safely.
- Initially, drill a hole into the damaged screw head. thread cutting oil has to be applied to the drill bit before drilling, why because it reduces friction and makes it easy for the bit to drill through the metal.
- Also, ensure to apply penetrating oil to the damaged screw threads before you try to remove the screw with an extractor. Here the oil will loosen the screw and thereby make it easy to remove.
- Set on a slow speed when you want to run a power drill to extract the screw. The reason is that they maximize the torque of the drill and let the threads of an extractor properly grip the drilled-out hole in the fastener’s head. If you use too high speed, then it results in the extractor slipping into the hole.
- For restoring the sharp threads of a dull extractor, you have to use a sharpening knife. Also, make sure to replace the extractor whenever its threads are too worn out.
- However, the depth of the hole will decide the success of an extractor in removing the damaged screw. So, maintain a clean hole without letting it clogged with too much debris.
- Avoid inserting the extractor forcefully into the hole. It has to draw/set itself into the hole for proper removal of stuck or damaged screws.
- Prefer to use a drill that comes with a handle to have a firmer grip on the tool. Also, it prevents the risk of getting any injuries.
- Usually, extractor kits come with several different sizes of extractors, in which you can easily use the right one to take the screw.
Benefits of Screw Extractors
It is a must to know about the benefits which you can grab by using a screw extractor. Here are a few mentioned, take a look at them…
Easy to Use – Usually, the screw extractors are simple and easy-to-use tools, even for beginners. All you need is to tap the extractor easily into a screw head that won’t worry about damaging the threads.
Comes in Different Sizes – Most screw extractors come in a kit that has numerous different sizes of extractor options to choose from. Thus, you can remove different-sized screws with ease. Several screw extractor models are multipurpose and can take out screws, bolts, and other fasteners.
Advanced Gripping Power – The screw extractor’s edges will slide into the head and grab the sides much better as twisting into the screw. It will ensure the extractor won’t lose its grip on the screw.
How do we use a Screw Extractor?
Take a closer look at this step-by-step procedure that explains you on how to use this screw extractor.
- A screw extractor kit, safety gear, and a hammer are required to use a screw extractor. Ensure to wear eye protection (goggles) and hand protection (gloves) beforehand for your safety against sharp metals.
- Put the punch tool’s end at the center of the damaged screw head, which you need to extract. Then strike the end of the punch tool sharply to create an indent slightly on the screw’s top.
- Attach a drill bit of smaller diameter compared to the extracted screw in the power drill. Then apply oil on the screw’s top.
- Set the drill bit and drill in such a way that they are parallel with the screw. Now start your drilling process slowly by not keeping much pressure on the drill tool.
- Allow the drill to perform most of the work. For this, drill down about 1/8-inch or ¼-inch, and ensure to stop only to clean those metal filings by using a soft cloth. Clear out the hole at the screw’s top.
- Set and clamp the exact sized screw extractor to your drill tightly to avoid any slippage.
- Keep in mind that threads of screw extractors will work counter-clockwise or backward direction, which means you have to flip the drill to move in reverse to take out the screw.
- Now keep the screw extractor’s tip in the screw hole and turn on the drill that allows the drill to properly set the extractor into the hole. Thereby it will reach the hole’s bottom and then slowly starts to draw out the screw.
- You have to keep consistent and even pressure on the drill till the extractor takes out the screw from the object/material.
What to do when the Screw Got Stuck?
It is quite common that you encounter some issues with a screw that won’t twist back, especially if it is glued, torn off, or stuck without any reason. Here is a detailed guide that helps you in solving this issue of screw getting stuck.
- Ensure you perform the unscrewing process in the correct direction. Just remember turning the screw in counter-clockwise will release them, while turning it in clockwise will tighten it.
- It’s not wrong in trying several different instruments. We suggest you use the correct size screwdriver. Many gadgets come with ordinary screws – small ones. At times, the screws are a bit bigger for the screw key that you use. So, confirm that you are using the specified key that fits into the slot in a damaged or stuck screw head.
- Now tap the base of the bolt driver/screw extractor by using a hammer. This will set the turn-screw properly into the head of the screw and thereby help for setting down of hammer and removing the screw.
- Keep in mind that this method only works with soft-metal bolts.
- In case, if you find the screw not to get loose and the head is sticking out, then you can use pliers. All you need is to set the protruding part of the screw and twist it till you remove the screw.
- For better results, try to use a vice or socket wrench to increase its torque. It particularly helps in the case that the screwdriver comes with a square or hexagonal tip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: Since there is no standard length mentioned for a screw extractor, you can use either long or short extractors. They both will work well to remove the damaged bolts and screws. You have to choose a drill bit and extractor of the correct diameter that is suitable to take out the damaged screw/fastener.
Ans: A drill bit is a vital part of the extractor that plays a key role in boring a hole in the damaged screw or bolt’s head. Thus, it let the screw extractor penetrate and grasp the head of the screw to remove it slowly and easily.
Ans: Most extractor models offer plastic cases, in which some models come with a clip to fasten the extractor to your belt. Thus, it makes you work easily by setting the appropriate extractor size to remove different types of screws.
Ans: Several companies manufacture screw extractors, as we reviewed and mentioned the products from the best brands in the article. Some of those brands will be Neiko, Irwin Hanson, Craftsman, Bosch, Alden tool company, RMQ, Jellas, ORIA, etc. will make the best-rated blot and screw extractor sets.
Ans: Based on the type of bolt or screw, the length of extractors will vary greatly and you need to use the correct one that is designed to remove the particular screw type. As some are small in diameter, short in length, whereas others are larger in size. However, around 2.2 inches is considered the standard length for double-ended extractors, yet this may slightly vary based on the manufacturer/brand. While the length of the spiral extractor will be from 0.9 – 3 inches.
Ans: Yes, a user manual or guide will come along with the screw extractor at the time of its purchase. This has all the essential information required for you to use the extractor.
Ans: Yes, you can remove the broken screw with a straight flute extractor. Since these screws are small/tiny, you have to use small extractors. Also, check and use the extractor that is meant to use for the particular shape of the screw which you are removing with this extractor.
Ans: Yes, you can easily remove the irreversible screw with the help of the Rioa Damaged screw extractor set.
Conclusion
While working with screws you should have both, a screwdriver and a screw extractor ready by your side. Most of the time, the screws face an obstacle inside the wall and deviate from their path while going in.
If you are using a power screwdriver to put the screws in the wall, you will find the screw damaged inside the wall instantly before you get a chance to stop the driver. A screw extractor can do wonders in these conditions by saving you a lot of time. You can simply grip the broken screw in the extractor and pull it out easily. If you are still not sure about which one you have to get, take a look at some of the best screw extractors from our picks.
- One of the most important factors of a screw extractor is to have options. The XEWEA Screw Extractor gives you 25 different options whenever you are stuck with a broken screw. This set is also quite cheaper than many other options.
- In case the screw is severely stuck inside the wall, you sometimes have to use the tougher extractors like IRWIN Screw Extractor Drill Bit Set. This extractor has 10 different pieces included in the set that are made of cobalt for ultimate hardness. This is surely a premium pick and suitable for a lifetime of use.
