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Remove a Stripped Screw: 6 Methods That Actually Work

June 19, 2026

A stripped screw is one of the most infuriating things in home repair. You’re one screw away from finishing a project, and that last screw just spins in place. It’s rounded out. Your screwdriver has nothing to grab. You’re stuck.

I once destroyed a $40 bathroom towel rack because the mounting screw stripped and I tried to force it out with a bigger screwdriver. The head disintegrated. The bracket bent. The whole thing went in the trash. Since then, I’ve learned there’s a sequence to this — six methods ranked from “try this first, takes ten seconds” to “this is your last resort, plan ahead.”

Put on safety glasses before you try any of these. Metal shards, drill bits, and flying screw fragments don’t care about your DIY confidence.

Method 1: The Rubber Band Trick

This works on about 60% of stripped screws and takes under 30 seconds. Lay a wide rubber band flat over the stripped screw head. Press your screwdriver down hard — harder than you think you need to — and turn counterclockwise slowly. The rubber compresses into the stripped cavity and fills the gaps where the bit used to grip.

Use a wide, thick rubber band. The thin ones that come around broccoli at the grocery store won’t hold up. A jar lid rubber band or a standard office rubber band works best.

Method 2: Grab It with Locking Pliers

If the screw head is raised above the surface — even just a millimeter — locking pliers can grab it. Clamp the jaws onto the outer edge of the screw head. Crank the adjustment knob until the grip is tight enough that the pliers lock on. Turn counterclockwise slowly. Don’t yank. A slow, steady twist breaks the screw free.

This method only works if there’s something to grab. If the screw is countersunk flush with the wood or metal, skip to the next method. Pliers need exposed head material.

Method 3: Cut a New Slot

If the screw head is flat or slightly domed, cut a new slot across it with a hacksaw. Go slow and straight. You’re cutting a groove deep enough to fit a flathead screwdriver tip. A Dremel with a cutting wheel works too and is faster, but it also throws sparks and can wander if your hand isn’t steady.

Once the slot is cut, fit a flathead screwdriver into it and turn. This method leaves a visible cut mark on the surrounding surface, so it’s better for hidden screws or things you’re replacing anyway.

Method 4: The Screw Extractor

A screw extractor is a tool designed specifically for this problem. You can buy a set for $10 to $20 at any hardware store. It has two ends: one drills a small pilot hole into the center of the stripped screw, the other is a tapered bit with aggressive reverse threads.

Drill the pilot hole first. Then tap the extractor bit into the hole with a hammer so it bites. Attach a wrench or locking pliers to the extractor and turn counterclockwise. The reverse threads dig in as you turn, and the screw backs out. This is the most reliable method for screws that are completely stripped but not seized. If the screw is rusted in place, the extractor can snap — and a snapped extractor is harder to remove than the original screw. Drill the pilot hole straight and centered.

Method 5: Left-Hand Drill Bit

A left-hand drill bit cuts in reverse. As it drills into the screw, it’s also trying to unscrew it. Start with a small bit, drill slowly, and apply steady pressure. If the bit grabs, the screw spins out with the drill. This works best on screws that aren’t heavily rusted or bottomed out.

Left-hand bits are sold individually or in sets. Most hardware stores carry them in the drill bit aisle, but you might need to ask. They’re less common than right-hand bits.

Method 6: Epoxy as a Last Resort

If nothing else works, glue something to the screw head. Apply two-part epoxy to the tip of a disposable screwdriver or an old bolt head. Press it firmly into the stripped screw cavity. Don’t move it. Don’t nudge it to see if it’s setting. Leave it alone for a full 24 hours.

After it cures, turn counterclockwise slowly. The epoxy bond is strong but not permanent — it’s enough to break the screw free. This method requires planning and patience. If you need the project done today, this isn’t the fix.

Clean Up After Yourself

Once the screw is out, you’re left with a damaged hole. If you’re putting a new screw into the same hole, fill it with a toothpick and wood glue, let it dry, and drive the new screw in. If you’re replacing hardware, measure the old screw and buy the same size.

And buy a new set of screwdriver bits. A stripped screw usually means your bit was worn out or you used the wrong size. Good bits last longer than you think, and they cost a lot less than the damage from a stripped screw.

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