Dealing with a snapped or rusted bolt can quickly turn a simple repair job into a frustrating ordeal. When traditional methods fail, a specialized drill bit for drilling out broken bolts becomes your most valuable tool. These unique bits, often combined with extractors, are engineered to tackle fasteners that are stripped, seized, or broken flush with the surface. Choosing the right set means the difference between success and further damage. Our comprehensive guide reviews the top options available, helping you find the best drill bit for drilling out broken bolts to get your project back on track.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Drill Bit For Drilling Out Broken Bolts Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. HSS Steel Left Hand Reverse Drill Bits and Extractor Set for Broken Bolts
This 35-piece HSS Steel Left Hand Reverse Drill Bits and Extractor Set is a powerhouse for tackling stubborn broken bolts. Its comprehensive collection includes 16 left-hand cobalt drill bits and 13 multi-spline screw extractors, ensuring you have the right tool for various sizes and types of fasteners. The precision and sharpness, combined with robust materials, make it a top contender for any professional or serious DIY enthusiast looking for the best drill bit for drilling out broken bolts.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ VERSATILE COMBINATION: Includes 16 left-hand cobalt drill bits and 13 multi-spline screw extractors in one extensive kit.
- ✓ PRECISION & SHARP: High-speed steel (HSS) material with titanium coating enhances hardness and wear resistance, featuring a 135° angle for easier cutting.
- ✓ MULTI-SPLINE SCREW EXTRACTORS: Made of Cr-Mo for higher hardness and toughness, perfectly matched to the drill bit sizes.
- ✓ LASER ETCHED SIZES: Each tool is clearly marked, making identification and selection effortless during demanding tasks.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this set for its exceptional versatility and high-quality construction. The combination of left-hand drill bits and durable Cr-Mo extractors provides a reliable solution for even the most challenging broken bolt removal tasks. Its thoughtful design ensures efficient operation and a higher success rate, making it a valuable addition to any toolkit needing a dependable broken bolt extractor.
Best For
This kit is ideal for professional mechanics, serious DIYers, and anyone who frequently encounters seized, stripped, or broken bolts in automotive, marine, or general repair applications.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extensive 35-piece set covers a wide range of bolt sizes.
- Left-hand drill bits reduce the chance of tightening the broken bolt further.
- Titanium coating on drill bits enhances durability and cutting efficiency.
- Cr-Mo extractors offer superior strength and grip.
Cons:
- The large number of pieces might be overwhelming for beginners.
- Requires careful handling to avoid breaking smaller drill bits.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Had a seized 17mm oil drain bolt on my car that my former mechanic way overtightened and stripped the head as well. See photos, this set worked exactly as advertised. The sharp flutes gripped the ruined bolt head, and easily unscrewed it perfectly without messing up the pan’s threads, so I could dra”
Customer Review: “This is a great bolt extractor set! It helped me remove a completely stripped oil drain bolt that had a rounded-off head. Just make sure to hammer the extractor on firmly so it bites properly. I used the exterior hex drive with an adjustable wrench, and it backed the bolt out with no issues. Super s”
2. Reverse Drill Bit Extractor Set for Drilling Out Broken Bolts, with Left Hand Guides
This Reverse Drill Bit Extractor Set offers a well-rounded solution for stubborn fasteners. It combines 7 HSS left-hand drill bits, 7 spiral screw extractors, and crucially, 10 drill bit guides for precise operation. The inclusion of guides is a significant advantage, preventing slippage and ensuring your pilot hole is perfectly centered. For those seeking reliability and precision when using a drill bit for drilling out broken bolts, this set is an excellent choice.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ EFFICIENT COMBINATION: Features 7 HSS left-hand drill bits, 7 spiral screw extractors, and 10 drill bit guides for comprehensive bolt removal.
- ✓ CONVENIENT OPERATION: Left-hand drill bits create reverse torque, aiding in hassle-free fastener removal, while drill bit guides prevent slippage.
- ✓ TRUSTED QUALITY: All screw extractors are made of high-hardness Cr-Mo steel, superior in toughness to Cr-V, ensuring durability.
- ✓ LEFT-HAND COBALT DRILL BITS: Provide enhanced durability and cutting performance for tough materials.
Why We Recommend It
The standout feature of this set is the inclusion of drill bit guides, which significantly improve accuracy and prevent common errors like off-center drilling. This added precision, coupled with the robust Cr-Mo extractors and left-hand cobalt drill bits, makes it highly effective and a smart investment for anyone needing to remove stripped bolts reliably.
Best For
This set is ideal for users who prioritize precision and ease of use, particularly when working with delicate materials or in situations where drilling accuracy is paramount to successfully remove a broken bolt.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Drill bit guides ensure accurate, centered drilling and prevent wandering.
- High-hardness Cr-Mo extractors are very robust.
- Left-hand drill bits can sometimes loosen bolts on their own.
- Good range of sizes for common broken bolt scenarios.
Cons:
- Fewer drill bit and extractor sizes compared to larger, more expensive sets.
- The drill bit guides might be specific to certain bolt sizes.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Hard and sharp. Pealed out a very stubborn spark plug.”
Customer Review: “I was astonished when I received and used the 24-piece easy out kit. To my surprise, every bolt I attempted to remove came out effortlessly. The kit includes reverse drill bits, enabling some bolts to be loosened by simply using the drill bit, while others required the assistance of an easy out. In “
3. Bolt Extractor Kit: Drill Bits and Guides for Removing Broken, Stripped, Rusted, Rounded-Off Bolts
This Bolt Extractor Kit is designed to offer a frustration-free solution for a variety of damaged fasteners, including broken, stripped, rusted, and rounded-off bolts. With its comprehensive selection of extractors and precise drilling capabilities, it aims to make the daunting task of drilling out broken bolts much simpler. The thoughtful design includes guides and lengthy extractor pins, making it accessible even in challenging work environments.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ FRUSTRATION-FREE EXTRACTION: A comprehensive set of extractors designed to easily find the perfect fit for any damaged bolt.
- ✓ CONVENIENT OPERATION: Easy-out spiral flutes embed themselves, increasing grip as resistance builds to remove seized bolts.
- ✓ DRILL ACCURATELY: Includes drill bit guides and lengthy extractor pins, perfect for difficult-to-reach and confined spaces.
- ✓ VERSATILE APPLICATION: Effectively removes broken studs, stripped screws, and rounded-off fasteners.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this kit for its focus on ease of use and versatility, particularly for those on a budget. The combination of drill bits, guides, and spiral extractors provides a complete system to tackle various damaged bolts efficiently. Its ability to work in confined spaces is a significant advantage, making it a strong contender for the best drill bit for drilling out broken bolts if you’re looking for value.
Best For
This kit is ideal for home mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone needing an affordable yet effective solution for occasional broken bolt removal tasks in tight spaces.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cost-effective solution for multiple bolt types.
- Drill guides enhance precision and ease of starting the hole.
- Spiral flutes provide excellent grip on damaged fasteners.
- Suitable for hard-to-reach areas.
Cons:
- Durability might not match premium cobalt sets under heavy industrial use.
- Material composition of the drill bits is not explicitly detailed.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This set really came complete very well built very durable but definitely recommend works Great the price was unbeatable. Thank you.”
Customer Review: “This set really came complete very well built very durable but definitely recommend works Great the price was unbeatable. Thank you.Read more”
4. Cobalt HSS Left Hand Drill Bits and Screw Extractor Set for Drilling Out Broken Bolts
This Cobalt HSS Left Hand Drill Bits and Screw Extractor Set is specifically engineered for maximum durability and effectiveness when confronting fractured fasteners. Featuring impact-resistant 35#Cr-Mo and 6542 HSS steel, this kit is built to withstand the rigors of tough jobs. It provides a robust solution for quickly and efficiently drilling out broken bolts, making it a reliable tool for any workshop.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ DIVERSE SIZES: A 10+4 piece extractor set with various working sizes for both drill bits and spiral extractors.
- ✓ EASILY REMOVE: Designed to quickly remove broken studs, bolts, socket screws, and fittings, whether embedded in wood or metal.
- ✓ DURABILITY: Made from impact-resistant 35#Cr-Mo and 6542 HSS steel, offering high strength, toughness, and excellent process performance.
- ✓ LEFT-HAND DESIGN: Utilizes left-hand drill bits which can sometimes loosen the bolt as you drill, saving time and effort.
Why We Recommend It
The strength and durability of this set are its primary advantages. The use of Cobalt HSS for the drill bits means they can handle harder materials and generate less heat, prolonging their life. Combined with the impact-resistant Cr-Mo extractors, this set is a solid choice for those who need a heavy-duty screw extractor kit for persistent problems.
Best For
This kit is best suited for experienced users and professionals who regularly deal with stubborn, high-torque broken fasteners in heavy-duty applications, such as automotive repair or machinery maintenance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cobalt HSS drill bits are highly resistant to heat and abrasion.
- Impact-resistant Cr-Mo extractors provide exceptional strength.
- Effectively removes broken and rusted bolts.
- Good range of sizes for common tasks.
Cons:
- May be overkill or too expensive for very infrequent use.
- User technique is crucial to prevent drill bit breakage, especially with cobalt.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Recently I picked up an older 1999 Toyota 4runner from my buddy who had bought it new and finally bought a new car. He didn’t want the 4runner any more and just gave it to me. I always like it so I thought this will be fun to bring back to like new shape. Truthfully it was really well maintained by”
Customer Review: “I had a valve cover blot snap off in my engine block. The ultimate horror. It was well below the surface of the mating surface of the valve cover and so I had no choice but to try to extract it.I saw a few reviews about this product breaking and so I was worried but ordered anyway as it had the high”
5. 14Pcs Reverse Cobalt HSS Left Hand Drill Bits and Screw Extractor Kit for Broken Bolts
The 14Pcs Reverse Cobalt HSS Left Hand Drill Bits and Screw Extractor Kit provides a balanced set of tools for efficiently dealing with various broken fasteners. Its unique 135° angle design on the drill bits ensures easier cutting and reduced axial resistance, which is crucial when drilling out broken bolts. This multi-purpose kit is a valuable addition for both wood and metal applications, promising to save time and effort in frustrating situations.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ SAVE TIME AND EFFORT: Designed to quickly remove stuck, broken, or stripped tools and fasteners.
- ✓ UNIQUE DESIGN: Drill bits feature a 135° angle, promoting easier cutting into the workpiece with less axial resistance.
- ✓ MULTI-PURPOSE: Versatile bolt extractors suitable for removing broken screws and bolts from both wood and metal.
- ✓ COBALT HSS CONSTRUCTION: Offers superior hardness and heat resistance for drilling tougher materials.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this kit for its efficiency and intelligent design. The 135° angle on the cobalt HSS drill bits allows for more aggressive and easier cutting, which is critical when attempting to drill into hard, broken metal. It’s a reliable option for those seeking a general-purpose yet robust damaged bolt extractor set.
Best For
This kit is excellent for general home repair, light automotive work, and hobbyists who need a dependable set for occasional extraction tasks in various materials.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- 135° drill bit angle enhances cutting performance and reduces effort.
- Cobalt HSS material provides good durability for drilling hard metals.
- Effective for both wood and metal applications.
- Compact and easy to store for quick access.
Cons:
- The number of included sizes might be limited for highly specialized jobs.
- Less comprehensive than larger, more expensive sets.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Worked perfectly for the job I needed it for. Not sure how strong the metal is had the screws been rusted and stuck… but it worked very well for somewhat looser screws that were stripped an embedded in wood (countersunk) without reach to pull or unscrew them out. Drilled the stripped hole a littl”
Customer Review: “The relief and happiness that’s felt when you realize that you are finally getting the remainder of a broken bolt out is difficult to explain. These extractors have helped me on two different occasions in removing broken bolts.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Drill Bit For Drilling Out Broken Bolts
Choosing the best drill bit for drilling out broken bolts isn’t just about grabbing the first set you see. It requires understanding the nuances of these specialized tools to ensure you get the job done right without causing further damage. Here’s what to consider:
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting a broken bolt extractor set, several factors come into play. First and foremost is the material of the drill bits. Cobalt drill bits (M35 or M42) are highly recommended because they contain a higher percentage of cobalt, making them more resistant to heat and abrasion, ideal for drilling into hardened steel bolts. High-Speed Steel (HSS) with titanium coating is a good alternative for general use, offering decent durability. The type of extractor is also crucial: spiral extractors provide excellent grip, while multi-spline extractors are designed for specific engagement. Look for left-hand drill bits, which can sometimes loosen the bolt as you drill, and consider sets that include drill guides for precise centering, preventing the drill from wandering. Finally, ensure the set offers a wide range of sizes to cover various bolt diameters you might encounter.
Budget Planning
The price of a drill bit for drilling out broken bolts set can vary significantly. Entry-level kits might range from $20-$40, offering basic HSS bits and extractors suitable for occasional use on softer materials. Mid-range sets, typically $40-$80, often feature cobalt HSS bits, a broader selection of sizes, and improved extractor designs, ideal for regular DIYers. Premium sets, costing $80+, will include high-grade cobalt drill bits, durable Cr-Mo extractors, precise drill guides, and comprehensive size ranges, targeting professionals who demand the utmost in performance and longevity. Investing in a higher-quality set often pays off by preventing frustration and potential damage to your workpiece.
Final Thoughts
Before purchasing, consider the types of bolts you’ll primarily be dealing with and the frequency of use. For hardened, rusted, or high-torque bolts, a robust cobalt set is indispensable. For lighter tasks, a quality HSS set might suffice. Always read customer reviews to gauge real-world performance and durability. Remember, the right tool for the job can save you immense time and effort when confronted with a stubborn broken bolt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a left-hand drill bit and why is it used for broken bolts?
A: A left-hand drill bit is designed to cut when rotating counter-clockwise (in reverse). When drilling out a broken bolt with a left-hand bit, the reverse rotation can sometimes apply enough counter-torque to loosen and remove the broken bolt without needing to use a separate extractor. This is a significant time-saver and can prevent further damage to the bolt or threads.
Q: Can I use a regular drill bit to drill out a broken bolt?
A: While technically possible, it is not recommended. Regular drill bits are right-hand cutting and will try to tighten the broken bolt further if it has any remaining grip. They are also typically made of standard HSS, which might not be hard enough to drill through a hardened steel bolt, leading to dulling or breaking the bit. Specialized cobalt drill bits or HSS with titanium are designed for this tough application.
Q: What’s the difference between a spiral extractor and a multi-spline extractor?
A: Spiral extractors (often called “Easy Outs”) have a tapered, reverse-threaded design that bites into the drilled hole of the broken bolt. Multi-spline extractors have straight, tapered splines that are hammered into the drilled hole, offering a stronger, more direct grip. Both are effective, but multi-spline extractors are generally preferred for extremely tight or hardened broken bolts due to their robust engagement.
Q: How do drill guides help when extracting broken bolts?
A: Drill guides are crucial for precision. They provide a centered, stable channel for your drill bit, preventing it from wandering off-center when starting the pilot hole. An off-center hole can make the extraction process much harder, potentially damaging the surrounding threads or breaking the extractor. Guides ensure accuracy, especially when dealing with bolts broken flush with the surface.
Q: What drill speed should I use when drilling out a broken bolt?
A: Always use a slow drill speed when drilling out broken bolts. High speeds generate excessive heat, which can quickly dull or break your drill bit, especially cobalt or HSS bits. Slow speeds, combined with adequate lubrication (like cutting oil), help maintain the bit’s sharpness, reduce friction, and make the drilling process more controlled and efficient.
Successfully tackling a broken bolt requires patience, the right technique, and most importantly, the right tools. Our comprehensive review of the best drill bit for drilling out broken bolts highlights sets that offer durability, precision, and ease of use, ensuring you’re well-equipped for any challenging extraction job. Whether you’re a professional mechanic or a dedicated DIYer, investing in a high-quality bolt extractor kit will save you time, frustration, and potential costly repairs. Explore our top recommendations and make the smart choice to confidently handle those stubborn broken bolts. Check out our top pick on Amazon today!
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
