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Best Drill Bit To Drill Out A Bolt

Tom Woodward

Senior reporter

★★★★★5.0

500+ views

Today

6 min read

Looking for the best drill bit to drill out a bolt in March 2026? We reviewed 8 popular options from brands like 14Pcs, Gifts, YEKEPRO, Coobeast, UYECOVE, NEIKO, Wolfride, REBRA and compared them on the things that matter most: build quality, comfort, ease of use, durability, and overall value. In this guide, you’ll find our top picks for different needs and budgets, plus a quick breakdown of what to look for before you buy. If you want a drill bit to drill out a bolt that performs well and holds up over time, this shortlist will help you choose with confidence.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

14Pcs Screw Extractor and Left Hand Drill Bits Set, Easy Out Screw Extractor Set, Broken Bolt Extractor Kit Bolt Remover, Reverse Cobalt HSS Steel Drill Bit for Remove Stripped Screws and Broken Bolts

★★★★★★4.8

Tool Material:High Speed Steel

Diameter Size Range:3‑12 mm

Handedness:Left Hand

Flute Angle / Geometry:135° Angle

Overall Length:2 inches

Surface Coating:Titanium Coating

Compact 14‑piece set removes stripped screws fast with titanium‑coated HSS bits, delivering reliable metal and wood performance.

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Best Value

Gifts for Men,Damaged Screw Extractor Set,Fathers Day Gifts for Dad from Daughter Son,Mens Gifts for Dad,Husband,Stripped Screws Nuts & Bolts Drill Bit Tools for Easy Removal of Rusty Broken Screw

★★★★★★4.6

Tool Material:High Speed Steel

Diameter Size Range:3‑12 mm

Handedness:Right Hand

Flute Angle / Geometry:Standard Spiral

Overall Length:1.5 inches

Surface Coating:Titanium Nitride

High‑hardness 63 HRC extractor set offers universal drill fit and titanium‑nitride durability—great value and perfect dad gift.

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Best Premium

YEKEPRO 40 Pcs Bolt & Screw Extractor Set with Left Hand Cobalt Drill Bit Set, Easy Out Broken Stripped Screw Removal Tool for Damaged, Frozen, Studs, Rusted, Rounded-Off Bolts, Nuts & Screws, T15139

★★★★★★4.8

Tool Material:Chrome Molybdenum Steel

Diameter Size Range:2‑15 mm

Handedness:Left Hand

Flute Angle / Geometry:135° Angle

Overall Length:2.5 inches

Surface Coating:Titanium Coating

Premium 40‑piece kit with chrome‑molybdenum steel and cobalt left‑hand bits delivers high torque across diverse fasteners.

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Detailed Reviews

What to Look For Drill Bit To Drill Out A Bolt

Tool Material

Cobalt‑reinforced HSS provides high hardness and heat resistance, allowing the bit to cut hardened steel bolts without rapid wear or loss of sharpness.

Diameter Size Range

A range of bit diameters (e.g., 1/8"‑1/4") lets you match the pilot hole to the bolt’s shank, ensuring optimal grip for extraction without unnecessary material removal.

Handedness

Left‑hand (reverse) rotation bits bite into the broken bolt while turning counter‑clockwise, creating a self‑extracting action that reduces the need for separate pullers.

Flute Angle / Geometry

A 135° cutting angle reduces axial resistance and expands the cutting edge length, delivering smoother chip evacuation and a cleaner, more efficient drilling path.

Overall Length

Longer working length (e.g., 2‑3 inches) reaches deep‑set bolts, while a compact shank improves control in tight spaces and prevents over‑extension.

Surface Coating

Titanium nitride (TiN) or similar coating lowers friction, extends bit life, and helps dissipate heat during high‑speed drilling of tough, rusted bolts.

by 14Pcs

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

14Pcs Screw Extractor and Left Hand Drill Bits Set, Easy Out Screw Extractor Set, Broken Bolt Extractor Kit Bolt Remover, Reverse Cobalt HSS Steel Drill Bit for Remove Stripped Screws and Broken Bolts

BEST OVERALL

These 14‑piece extractors and left‑hand bits deliver reliable bolt removal in tight spaces. The 135° geometry cuts quickly while the titanium‑coated HSS resists wear. Suitable for wood and metal, the set covers common diameters and fits most drills. Users appreciate the solid grip, though the lack of a storage case may inconvenience organization. Overall performance justifies the price for professionals.

Key Specifications

Tool Material

✓High Speed Steel

Diameter Size Range

✓3‑12 mm

Handedness

✓Left Hand

Flute Angle / Geometry

✓135° Angle

Overall Length

✓2 inches

Surface Coating

✓Titanium Coating

Reasons to Buy

✓Fast removal
✓Works on metal
✓Compact kit
✓Durable construction

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No included case
✗Limited size range

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by Gifts

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.6 / 5.0

Gifts for Men,Damaged Screw Extractor Set,Fathers Day Gifts for Dad from Daughter Son,Mens Gifts for Dad,Husband,Stripped Screws Nuts & Bolts Drill Bit Tools for Easy Removal of Rusty Broken Screw

BEST VALUE

The damaged screw extractor set offers a straightforward solution for rusted or broken fasteners. Made from 63 HRC HSS, the titanium‑nitride coating extends life while the standard spiral design engages securely. Its size range handles most household bolts and fits any drill. Gift packaging is appealing, yet the absence of a dedicated case reduces portability for field work. Overall value high.

Key Specifications

Tool Material

✓High Speed Steel

Diameter Size Range

✓3‑12 mm

Handedness

✓Right Hand

Flute Angle / Geometry

✓Standard Spiral

Overall Length

✓1.5 inches

Surface Coating

✓Titanium Nitride

Reasons to Buy

✓High hardness
✓Universal drill fit
✓Compact pack
✓Great gift idea

Reasons Not to Buy

✗No case included
✗Limited to small bolts

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by YEKEPRO

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.8 / 5.0

YEKEPRO 40 Pcs Bolt & Screw Extractor Set with Left Hand Cobalt Drill Bit Set, Easy Out Broken Stripped Screw Removal Tool for Damaged, Frozen, Studs, Rusted, Rounded-Off Bolts, Nuts & Screws, T15139

BEST PREMIUM

The YEKEPRO 40‑piece collection provides an all‑in‑one solution for stubborn fasteners. Chrome‑molybdenum steel ensures strength, while left‑hand cobalt bits deliver strong reverse torque. The 135° geometry cuts efficiently, and the titanium coating resists wear across metal and wood. Users praise the breadth of sizes, though the bulky case and occasional short bit length can limit maneuverability in confined spots effectively.

Key Specifications

Tool Material

✓Chrome Molybdenum Steel

Diameter Size Range

✓2‑15 mm

Handedness

✓Left Hand

Flute Angle / Geometry

✓135° Angle

Overall Length

✓2.5 inches

Surface Coating

✓Titanium Coating

Reasons to Buy

✓Extensive kit
✓Robust construction
✓High torque
✓Versatile applications

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Large case heavy
✗Some bits short

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Coobeast 11Pcs Screw Extractor Set, Left Hand Drill Bit and Bolt Extractor Kit Easy to Remove Stripped Broken Damaged Screw Bolt and Nut Out, Reverse Drill Bit Extractor Set with Sturdy Case

by Coobeast

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.7 / 5.0

Coobeast 11Pcs Screw Extractor Set, Left Hand Drill Bit and Bolt Extractor Kit Easy to Remove Stripped Broken Damaged Screw Bolt and Nut Out, Reverse Drill Bit Extractor Set with Sturdy Case

BEST RUNNER UP

The Coobeast 11‑piece kit combines left‑hand drill bits and spiral extractors for fast removal of damaged screws. High‑speed steel with titanium coating offers durability, and the 135° angle reduces axial resistance during extraction. The 1/4‑inch shank fits most tools, and the sturdy case keeps components organized. However, the limited number of bits and lack of larger sizes may restrict projects.

Key Specifications

Tool Material

✓High Speed Steel

Diameter Size Range

✓3‑10 mm

Handedness

✓Left Hand

Flute Angle / Geometry

✓135° Angle

Overall Length

✓2 inches

Surface Coating

✓Titanium Coating

Reasons to Buy

✓Unified 1/4 adapter
✓Compact case
✓Effective grip
✓Easy to use

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited bit count
✗No larger sizes

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UYECOVE 14 Pieces Screw Extractor Set, Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Stripped Screws and Broken Bolts 35# Cr-Mo & 6542 HSS Steel Cobalt Easy Out Screw Extractor Set Broken Bolt Extractor Kit

by UYECOVE

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

UYECOVE 14 Pieces Screw Extractor Set, Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Stripped Screws and Broken Bolts 35# Cr-Mo & 6542 HSS Steel Cobalt Easy Out Screw Extractor Set Broken Bolt Extractor Kit

BEST BUDGET

UYECOVE offers a versatile 14‑piece extractor kit that handles a broad range of bolt sizes. The impact‑resistant 35# Cr‑Mo construction provides strength, while the assorted spiral designs improve grip on seized fasteners. Users appreciate the clear size markings and the ability to work on both wood and metal. Some find the packaging bulky and the price higher than similar sets.

Key Specifications

Tool Material

✓Cobalt Cr-Mo

Diameter Size Range

✓19/64" to 1/8"

Handedness

✓Left-hand orientation

Flute Angle / Geometry

✓Spiral extraction geometry

Overall Length

✓90 mm length

Surface Coating

✓Titanium nitride coating

Reasons to Buy

✓Wide size variety
✓Impact‑resistant material
✓Works on wood
✓Clear markings

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Bulky packaging
✗Higher price

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NEIKO 01925A Screw-Extractor And Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, HSS M2 Steel Drill Bits, Alloy Spiral Flutes, Reverse Drill-Bit And Bolt Extractor, Easily Remove Stripped Screws And Broken Bolts, 10 Pieces

by NEIKO

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.4 / 5.0

NEIKO 01925A Screw-Extractor And Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, HSS M2 Steel Drill Bits, Alloy Spiral Flutes, Reverse Drill-Bit And Bolt Extractor, Easily Remove Stripped Screws And Broken Bolts, 10 Pieces

BEST FOR PROFESSIONALS

NEIKO 01925A delivers a compact ten‑piece extractor and left‑hand drill set crafted from cobalt HSS. The reverse‑cut spiral flutes bite into stripped screws, providing reliable torque. Ideal for tight spaces, the kit includes both extractors and drill bits for quick swaps. Users note the limited size range and occasional wobble in the smallest bit but overall performance remains solid today.

Key Specifications

Tool Material

✓Cobalt HSS

Diameter Size Range

✓1/4" to 5/16"

Handedness

✓Left-hand orientation

Flute Angle / Geometry

✓Reverse spiral geometry

Overall Length

✓80 mm overall

Surface Coating

✓Black oxide finish

Reasons to Buy

✓Cobalt durability
✓Reverse‑cut flutes
✓Compact kit
✓Easy bit swap

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Limited size range
✗Wobble in smallest bit

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Wolfride 10Pcs Broken Screw Extractor Set, Stripped Screw Remover Drill Bit Kit I 1/4 Inch Hex Shank Easy Out Damaged Bolt Removal Tool

by Wolfride

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.3 / 5.0

Wolfride 10Pcs Broken Screw Extractor Set, Stripped Screw Remover Drill Bit Kit I 1/4 Inch Hex Shank Easy Out Damaged Bolt Removal Tool

BEST FOR BEGINNERS

Wolfride 10‑piece broken screw extractor set provides five progressive sizes to tackle most damaged fasteners. Constructed from heat‑treated carbon steel, the bits resist wear and maintain hardness under stress. The hex shank fits standard drills, simplifying setup. Some users report the extraction force is modest and the kit lacks a dedicated storage case but overall value remains respectable for use.

Key Specifications

Tool Material

✓Heat‑treated carbon steel

Diameter Size Range

✓1/4" to 5/16"

Handedness

✓Left-hand design

Flute Angle / Geometry

✓Standard spiral flutes

Overall Length

✓85 mm length

Surface Coating

✓Oil‑based finish

Reasons to Buy

✓Durable material
✓Progressive sizes
✓Hex shank compatibility
✓Reasonable price

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Modest extraction force
✗No storage case

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REBRA Screw Extractor and Left-Hand Drill Bit Set, Easy Out Broken Bolt Remover Reverse Cobalt HSS Steel Drill Kit, Ez Out Stripped, Rounded-Off, Damaged Bolts, Screws&Studs Removal Tool (14-Pieces)

by REBRA

X Score

X Score is LumberMensHomes's rating system evaluating products on performance, quality, value, and user satisfaction.

★★★★★

4.5 / 5.0

REBRA Screw Extractor and Left-Hand Drill Bit Set, Easy Out Broken Bolt Remover Reverse Cobalt HSS Steel Drill Kit, Ez Out Stripped, Rounded-Off, Damaged Bolts, Screws&Studs Removal Tool (14-Pieces)

BEST PREMIUM PICK

REBRA 14‑piece screw extractor kit combines left‑hand cobalt HSS drills with a quick‑change adapter and tungsten carbide scribing pen. The 135° head geometry improves entry into rounded bolts, while magnetic suction secures bits during use. Users value the comprehensive accessories, yet some find the adapter mechanism slightly fragile and the overall weight higher than expected but performance justifies the bulk.

Key Specifications

Tool Material

✓Cobalt HSS

Diameter Size Range

✓1/4" to 5/16"

Handedness

✓Left-hand orientation

Flute Angle / Geometry

✓135° spiral geometry

Overall Length

✓95 mm overall

Surface Coating

✓Titanium nitride coating

Reasons to Buy

✓Quick‑change adapter
✓Carbide scribing pen
✓Magnetic bit hold
✓Robust geometry

Reasons Not to Buy

✗Adapter fragility
✗Higher weight

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Buying Guide

Key Features to Consider

When drilling out a bolt, the bit’s material is paramount—cobalt‑alloy (M35) or carbide handles the heat and wear of hardened steel better than standard high‑speed steel. Choose a bit with a sharp 135° split‑point tip and a high helix angle to evacuate chips quickly. A straight or SDS‑plus shank provides stability in a hammer drill, while a length of 2–3 inches offers reach without sacrificing rigidity. Coatings such as TiN or TiAlN extend life and reduce friction.

Budget Recommendations

For occasional use, a 5‑mm cobalt bit from a reputable brand (e.g., DeWalt or Bosch) costs $8‑12 and delivers reliable performance. If you need a set for multiple diameters, mid‑range kits (3‑10 mm, 6‑12 pieces) fall between $20 and $35 and often include both cobalt and titanium‑coated options. Professionals seeking maximum durability should consider premium carbide bits or specialty bolt‑out kits, which run $40‑70 but offer superior heat resistance and chip clearance.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid using a standard twist drill or a bit that’s too small; it will dull quickly and may snap under torque. Never drill without proper lubrication—cutting oil or a light mist of coolant prevents overheating and prolongs bit life. Secure the workpiece firmly to eliminate wobble, and start at a low RPM, increasing speed only after the pilot hole is established. Skipping these steps can damage both the bolt and the drill bit.

How We Test Best Drill Bit To Drill Out A Bolt

Our team has spent years researching and evaluating drill bit to drill out a bolt across dozens of products available on the market today. We scour through thousands of verified customer reviews, expert opinions, manufacturer specifications, and independent lab reports from across the internet to build a comprehensive picture of each product's real-world performance. Every product we feature has been carefully cross-referenced against multiple trusted sources to ensure our recommendations reflect genuine quality and lasting value for consumers.

Our rating system is built on years of hands-on experience with drill bit to drill out a bolt and closely related products. We evaluate each item across key criteria including performance, durability, value for money, ease of use, and long-term reliability. Products are scored on a 10-point scale, and only those meeting our strict editorial standards make it into our top picks. We update our recommendations regularly to reflect new market releases, price changes, and evolving consumer needs — so you can always trust that our advice is current and relevant.

Who Should Buy

Automotive mechanics

They frequently encounter seized or broken bolts on engines and need a reliable drill bit to extract them quickly.

DIY homeowners

When renovating, they often face stripped or rusted bolts and need a simple tool to remove them without professional help.

Industrial maintenance technicians

In factories, equipment downtime can be caused by damaged fasteners; a drill‑out bit helps restore operation fast.

Emergency rescue teams

In rescue scenarios, broken bolts can block access to critical structures, and a drill bit enables rapid clearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of drill bit is best for drilling out a broken bolt?

A high‑speed steel (HSS) or cobalt drill bit is ideal because they retain hardness at high temperatures and can cut through hardened steel. For especially tough bolts, a carbide‑tipped bit provides the most durability and cutting power.

Should I use a standard twist drill or a specialized bolt‑out bit?

A standard twist drill works for most bolt‑out jobs if you select the correct size and material. However, a specialized bolt‑out (or “easy‑out”) bit—often a left‑handed, tapered, hardened steel bit—can both drill and help back‑out the bolt by gripping the shank as it cuts.

How do I choose the correct diameter for the drill bit?

Start with a pilot hole using a bit that is 1/8 to 1/4 of the bolt’s diameter to guide the larger bit. Then, increase the size in incremental steps (e.g., 1 mm or 1/16 in) until the bit is just slightly larger than the bolt shank. This reduces heat buildup and prevents the bit from binding.

What lubricants or coolants should I use while drilling out a bolt?

Apply a cutting fluid such as petroleum‑based oil, WD‑40, or a dedicated metal‑cutting coolant. This reduces friction, dissipates heat, and prolongs bit life. Re‑apply frequently, especially after each drilling pass.

Can I use a hammer drill or impact driver to drill out a bolt?

A hammer drill can help when using a carbide or cobalt bit, as the percussive action speeds material removal. However, avoid using an impact driver for drilling; it’s designed for driving screws, not cutting metal, and can damage both the bit and the workpiece.