Learn how to use a screw extractor, and no broken or stripped fasteners will ever slow down a DIY project again.

Allen screws made from weak metals strip quickly, and using the wrong size Allen wrenches /hex keys can also damage them. Regardless of the reason, it's no fun trying to remove a stripped Allen screw.

Thus, the screw stays put but the extractor continues to turn, reaming out the hole in the process. An alternative, old-school method is to use a straight-flute extractor.

How to Remove Stripped Screws With Exposed Heads If you can grip the screw head or bolt, do so with a pair of locking pliers. Our preferred pliers are these Eagle Grips by Malco.

Your screw extractor may be double-ended to serve both as the pilot hole creator and the screw extractor. If this is the case, you may be able to use just the screw extractor bit.

A stripped screw in wood will likely be flush with the material or slightly lower than the surface, so using a stripped screw extractor is your best bet to retrieve the screw.

Screw head broke off again? Learn how to get a broken screw out, along with rusted or stripped screws, with special bits, pliers, or a screw extractor tool.

Professionals use a screw extractor with a drill to remove stripped screws. Products like ScrewGrab, which helps add friction, can help in many instances. For a more DIY method, try using a rubber ...

Damaged screws can be extracted by drilling into the screw with a drill bit, then using a special screw extractor bit that is tapered and has threads which turn opposite to those of the screw.

Screw extractor sets can be useful when you're dealing with a stripped screw. Here are five sets that can help if you get stuck in that bind.