Do you want to know how to drill out a screw quickly and easily? This article will give you a step-by-step guide to help you get the job done. You will learn how to properly prepare the screw and drill, and how to safely remove the screw without damaging the material it’s attached to. With the right tools, technique, and a bit of patience, you’ll be able to drill out a screw in no time.
Tools & Materials Needed
| Tools | Materials |
| Drill | Screw extractor bit |
| Screwdriver | Screw |
| Drill bit | Lubricant |
| Vise | Pencil |
To successfully drill out a stripped screw, you will need a drill, a screwdriver, a drill bit, a vise, a screw extractor bit, a screw, a lubricant, and a pencil.
Safety Precautions
- Wear safety glasses, ear protection, and a dust mask while drilling.
- Make sure to unplug the drill before changing the drill bit.
- Do not exceed the maximum drilling speed and torque settings.
- Be aware of any flammable materials in the area when drilling in metal.
- Ensure that the drill bit is sharp and undamaged before use.
- Keep a fire extinguisher close by when drilling.
- Be aware of any hot metal shavings that may be created when drilling out a screw in metal.
Removing a Screw Without a Drill
Hammer and Screwdriver
Using a hammer and screwdriver is one of the simplest ways to remove a stripped screw without a drill. Place the screwdriver tip into the head of the screw and give the handle of the screwdriver a few sharp taps with the hammer. The impact should help to loosen the screw and allow you to remove it.
Pliers
If a hammer and screwdriver is not enough to loosen the screw, you can try using a pair of pliers. Place the jaws of the pliers around the head of the screw and turn it counter-clockwise. The pliers should help to grip the screw and loosen it enough to remove it.
Heat
Using heat is another way to remove a stripped screw without a drill. Heat helps to expand the metal and loosen the screw. Use a soldering iron or heat gun to heat up the head of the screw for about 30 seconds. This should be enough to expand the metal and allow you to remove the screw.
Drilling Out a Screw
Choosing the Right Drill Bit
The key to success when drilling out a screw is to choose the right drill bit. The type of drill bit you will need will depend on the type of screw you are trying to remove. For most screws, a standard twist drill bit will work. For harder screws, such as stainless steel or hardened steel, an HSS or Cobalt drill bit is recommended.
Drilling Out a Screw in Metal
When drilling out a screw in metal, it is important to ensure that the hole is the same size as the screw. Start by using a center punch to create a dimple in the center of the screw head. This will help keep the drill bit from slipping. Then, using a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the screw, begin to drill out the screw. Move the drill slowly, applying light pressure as you go. Once the screw has been drilled out, use a screwdriver to remove any remaining pieces of the screw.
Drilling Out a Stripped Bolt
If you are trying to remove a stripped bolt, the process is slightly different. First, use the center punch to create a dimple in the center of the bolt. Then, use a drill bit that is slightly larger than the diameter of the bolt. Drill slowly and carefully, making sure to keep the drill bit centered in the bolt. Once you have drilled through the bolt, use a screwdriver to remove the remains.
Drilling Out a Screw With No Head
If the screw head has broken off, you will need to use a left-handed drill bit to drill out the screw. Start by using a center punch to create a dimple in the center of the screw. Then, using a left-handed drill bit, begin to drill out the screw. Move the drill slowly and apply light pressure as you go. Once the screw has been drilled out, use a screwdriver to remove any remaining pieces of the screw.
Drilling Out a Broken Screw in Metal
When drilling out a broken screw in metal, you will need to use a left-handed drill bit. Start by using a center punch to create a dimple in the center of the screw head. Then, using a left-handed drill bit, begin to drill out the screw. Move the drill slowly and apply light pressure as you go. Once the screw has been drilled out, use a screwdriver to remove any remaining pieces of the screw. If the screw is deeply embedded, you may need to use a screw extractor to remove it.
Drilling out a stripped bolt can be tricky, but following these steps can help you get the job done quickly and easily. With the right drill bit and a steady hand, you can remove a stripped bolt and get your project back on track.
Removing Screws With a Drill
Using a drill is the most efficient way to remove a screw without a head. Here’s how to drill out a screw with no head:
- Secure the screw in a vice. Make sure the drill bit is lined up with the screw.
- Choose the correct drill bit for the job. If you’re using a metal screw, choose a high-speed steel bit. For wood screws, use a masonry bit.
- Start drilling into the screw head. Keep a steady hand and apply pressure as you go.
- Keep drilling until the screw is completely removed.
Once the screw is removed, use a screw extractor to take out any remaining pieces of the screw. Make sure to clean up any debris that may have been created during the drilling process.
Tips for Drilling Out Screws
- Choose the Right Drill Bit: Choose the right size and type of drill bit for your screw type. A larger bit will better fit the shape of the screw head and help prevent slipping.
- Use a Center Punch: Use a center punch to create a small dimple in the center of the screw. This will help guide the bit and prevent it from slipping.
- Start Slow: Start with a slow speed and gradually increase the speed as you go. This will help prevent the bit from slipping and damaging the screw head.
- Use Lubricant: Use lubricant such as WD-40 or oil to help reduce friction and heat buildup. This will help your drill bit last longer and make it easier to remove the screw.
- Use a Hammer: If the screw is still stuck in place, you can try tapping it gently with a hammer to help loosen it.
- Take Breaks: If you are drilling for a long time, take breaks to let the drill bit cool down and prevent it from overheating.
Drilling out screws is a common task when it comes to making repairs or just taking apart items. With the right drill bit, lubricant and caution, you can easily and quickly remove screws with a drill. Follow these tips for drilling out screws and you can get the job done in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of drill bit should I use to drill out a screw?
The best drill bit to use when drilling out a screw is a cobalt drill bit. Cobalt drill bits are made from high-speed steel and have a higher resistance to heat than standard drill bits. They have a longer life and are more resistant to wear and tear. Additionally, they are ideal for drilling hard materials such as stainless steel, hardened steel, and other metals. For softer materials, such as wood and plastic, a standard drill bit can be used.
How do I determine the size of the drill bit needed to drill out a screw?
Determining the size of the drill bit:
- Check the head of the screw to determine its size. You can use a ruler or a caliper to measure the diameter of the screw head.
- Once you’ve measured the diameter of the screw head, you can use a drill bit that is slightly larger than this size. A drill bit that is approximately 1/32″ larger usually works best.
- Select a drill bit that matches the size you determined. Drill bits come in a variety of sizes, so make sure to select the correct one.
Tips
- Make sure to wear safety goggles when drilling out a screw.
- Be sure to use a drill bit that is made of high-quality, hardened steel.
- If you’re drilling into metal, use a drill bit that is specifically designed for metal.
Is it necessary to lubricate the drill bit before drilling out a screw?
Yes, it is important to lubricate the drill bit before drilling out a screw. This will help the drill bit to move smoothly and avoid any possible damage to the drill bit or the screw head. Here are the steps to lubricate the drill bit:
- Apply a few drops of oil on the drill bit.
- Gently rub the oil across the bit.
- Use a clean cloth to wipe off any excess oil.
It is also important to lubricate the screw head before drilling it out. This will help reduce friction and make it easier to drill the screw out. Apply a few drops of oil on the screw head and gently rub it in using a clean cloth. This will help to loosen the screw head and make it easier to remove.
Can I use a hand drill to drill out a screw?
Yes, you can use a hand drill to drill out a screw. However, there are certain steps you should follow to ensure that you do the job correctly and safely. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to drill out a screw:
- Gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need a hand drill, a drill bit that is slightly bigger than the screw, safety glasses, and a damp cloth.
- Put on your safety glasses. This is an important step, as you do not want any metal shards to fly into your eyes.
- Position the drill bit over the screw. Make sure that the drill bit is slightly bigger than the screw.
- Turn on the drill and press it gently against the screw. Slowly increase the pressure as the bit drills into the screw.
- Once the screw is drilled out, use the damp cloth to wipe away any debris.
- Turn off the drill and remove it from the screw.
By following these steps, you can use a hand drill to drill out a screw quickly and easily.
Is it possible to drill out a screw without removing it from the surface?
Yes, it is possible to drill out a screw without removing it from the surface. Here is a step-by-step guide to do so:
- Take a drill bit that is slightly larger than the head of the screw.
- Secure the drill bit in the drill.
- Turn on the drill and make sure the bit is spinning fast enough.
- Position the drill bit directly over the head of the screw.
- Gently apply pressure to the drill bit and begin drilling into the screw.
- Continue drilling until the screw head is flush with the surface.
- Turn off the drill and remove the bit.
- Use a screwdriver to remove the screw from the surface.
Drilling out a screw without removing it from the surface is a great way to save time and effort while completing a project.
Conclusion
Drilling out a stripped or damaged screw is a task that can seem daunting at first, but by following the right steps and using the right tools, you can easily and quickly get the job done. Once you become familiar with the process and feel comfortable with it, you can save yourself time and hassle when dealing with stripped or damaged screws in the future.
