Use pliers to grip the head, cut a new slot with a hacksaw, or drill with a left-handed bit. Always wear safety glasses and stop if you risk damaging the workpiece.
Why Screws Get Stripped
Stripped screws happen when the drive recess (Phillips, flathead, Torx) wears down so the screwdriver can no longer grip. Common causes include using the wrong bit size, applying too much torque, or working with soft metal screws. Corrosion, overtightening, or repeated use can also round off the edges. When the screw head is damaged, the screwdriver spins without turning the screw, leaving you stuck.
Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback and key decision factors to identify the most effective removal methods. Safety is the top priority: always wear eye protection, work in a well-lit area, and avoid excessive force that could break the screw or damage your workpiece.
How to Remove a Stripped Screw Without a Screwdriver
Try these methods in order, starting with the least invasive. Stop if you feel the screw is not budging to avoid worsening the damage.
- Use Pliers. If the screw head protrudes above the surface, grip it firmly with locking pliers (Vise-Grips) or needle-nose pliers. Turn counterclockwise while applying steady pressure. For better grip, place a thin cloth or rubber band between the pliers and the screw head. This method works best for screws with a visible head. For example, a stripped screw on a door hinge can often be removed this way without any other tools.
- Cut a New Slot with a Hacksaw. For a flush or slightly protruding flathead screw, use a fine-tooth hacksaw to cut a straight slot across the head. Make the slot deep enough for a flathead screwdriver to bite. Wear gloves to protect your hand, and cut slowly to avoid slipping. Once the slot is cut, insert a flathead screwdriver and turn counterclockwise. This technique is especially useful for screws in furniture or electronics where the head is accessible but the drive is stripped.
- Drill with a Left-Handed Bit. Left-handed drill bits rotate counterclockwise, which can catch the screw and back it out as you drill. Choose a bit slightly smaller than the screw shaft. Center-punch the screw head to prevent the bit from wandering. Drill slowly at low speed; the bit may grab and spin the screw out. If this fails, you can try a screw extractor set next. Left-handed bits are available at most hardware stores and are a good investment for anyone who frequently deals with stripped screws.
- Use a Screw Extractor. Drill a small pilot hole into the screw head with a standard bit, then insert the extractor (reverse-threaded tool) and turn counterclockwise. The extractor bites into the screw and pulls it out. Follow the extractor kit instructions carefully to avoid breaking the extractor inside the hole. Screw extractor sets come in various sizes; choose one that matches the screw diameter.
When to Replace the Screw or Call a Professional
If you successfully remove the stripped screw, replace it with a new one of the same size and thread type. For critical applications (e.g., structural, electrical, or automotive), use a screw of equal or higher grade. If the screw is broken or the removal attempt damages the surrounding material, stop and assess. Call a professional if the screw is in a safety-critical component, if you cannot access it safely, or if you lack the tools for the job. Drilling into electrical boxes, gas lines, or water pipes requires expert knowledge.
Always consider the risk of damaging the workpiece. For expensive items or delicate electronics, a professional machinist or repair technician may save you money in the long run. When in doubt, it is better to ask for help than to cause irreversible damage.
Preventing Stripped Screws in the Future
To avoid stripped screws, always use the correct screwdriver bit size and type for the screw head. Apply steady, even pressure and avoid overtightening. For screws in soft materials like plastic or aluminum, consider using a thread-locking compound instead of excessive torque. Regularly inspect screws for wear and replace them before they become damaged. Using a manual screwdriver instead of a power drill can also reduce the risk of stripping, as you have better control over the torque.
