How to Remove a Stripped Screw?

A stripped screw has a damaged head that your screwdriver can no longer grip. The trick is to create new friction or a new grip point. Try these methods from easiest to most aggressive.

What you might need:

• A rubber band or steel wool
• A manual screwdriver (bigger bit)
• Pliers or locking pliers (Vise-Grips)
• A screw extractor kit
• A rotary tool or hacksaw

Methods, easiest first:

1. The rubber band trick. Lay a wide rubber band flat over the screw head, press your screwdriver firmly into it, and turn slowly. The rubber fills the gaps and adds grip — great for lightly stripped screws.
2. Press harder with a manual driver. Use a manual screwdriver (not a power drill) and push down hard while turning slowly. A slightly larger bit can bite into a stripped Phillips head.
3. Grip the head with pliers. If the screw sticks up at all, clamp locking pliers onto the head and twist the whole screw out.
4. Cut a new slot. Use a rotary tool or a hacksaw blade to cut a straight groove across the head, then remove it with a flat-head screwdriver.
5. Use a screw extractor. For fully stripped or recessed screws, a screw extractor bit drills into the head and grips it in reverse. Drill a small pilot hole, insert the extractor, and turn counter-clockwise.

Tips: Apply steady, slow pressure — fast spinning strips it more. A drop of penetrating oil helps if the screw is also rusted or stuck.