Left Hand Drill Bits vs Screw Extractors: Which Works?
By Drill Hog® | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: Comparisons
Compare left hand drill bits and screw extractors for removing broken bolts. Learn when each tool works best and which method saves time and frustration.
Quick answer
For most broken bolt removal, start with a left hand drill bit set — it often backs the bolt out on its own. If the bit won't grip or the bolt is seized, switch to a screw extractor like the #7 Spiral Easy Out.
Why left hand drill bits work first
Left hand drill bits rotate counter-clockwise, the same direction you turn to loosen a bolt. As you drill into the broken fastener, the cutting action can grab and spin the bolt out without any extra tool. This is the cleanest outcome — no extractor needed, no risk of breaking a tool inside the hole.
When a screw extractor becomes necessary
If the bolt is rusted, torqued extremely tight, or made of hard steel, a left hand bit may not generate enough torque to back it out. That's when a spiral screw extractor steps in. You drill a pilot hole first, then insert the extractor and turn counter-clockwise. The spiral flutes bite into the bolt walls and apply strong removal force.
Left hand drill bit vs screw extractor: trade-offs
- Start with a left hand drill bit: Drill into the broken bolt center using a left hand bit. The counter-clockwise rotation often backs the bolt out without needing a second tool. If it doesn't, you already have a pilot hole for the extractor. Always try this first — it's the fastest method when it works.
- Switch to a screw extractor if the bolt won't budge: Insert the extractor into the pilot hole and turn counter-clockwise. The spiral flutes grip the bolt walls. The #7 size handles bolts from 7/8" to 1-1/8" and 1/2" pipe. Use a 17/32" drill bit for the pilot hole. Choose an extractor size that matches your bolt diameter.
- Combine both tools for stubborn bolts: Use a left hand bit to drill the pilot hole, then follow with the screw extractor. The bit's split point keeps the hole centered, and the extractor applies the extra torque needed for seized fasteners.
Products at a glance
- Drill Hog® 5 Pc Left Handed Drill Bit Set Niobium Nb41 with Free Cutting Oil Sample: Niobium Nb41 steel, left hand threads, screw machine length, split point design. The split point prevents walking on curved or uneven bolt faces, and the stubby length gives you control in tight spaces.
Drill Hog® 5 Pc Left Handed Drill Bit Set Niobium Nb41 with Free Cutting Oil Sample - #7 Spiral Easy Out Round Screw Extractor Drill Hog®: HI-Molybdenum M7 steel, spiral round flute design, left hand spiral flutes, 4 flat sides on the shank. The flat shank won't spin in the chuck — you can even use a wrench on it for extra torque when the extractor is fully seated.
#7 Spiral Easy Out Round Screw Extractor Drill Hog®
Which approach fits your job?
Best for
- DIYers and mechanics who want a one-tool solution for common broken bolts
- Jobs where the bolt isn't rusted or over-torqued and you have room to drill straight
Not for
- Extremely hard or case-hardened bolts where drilling is nearly impossible
- Bolts smaller than 1/8" where a pilot hole is too small for an extractor
