I Tested the Best Left Hand Drill Bit for Easy Screw Removal and Precision Drilling

AvatarByMaya Ellison

I’ve always found that the smallest tools can make the biggest difference, and the left hand drill bit is a perfect example. At first glance, it may seem like just another specialty bit, but it plays a surprisingly important role when standard drilling methods fall short. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn fasteners, broken screws, or precision repair work, this tool has a way of turning a frustrating problem into a practical solution. In this article, I’ll explore why the left hand drill bit deserves a place in any serious toolkit and why it’s often the unsung hero of tricky repair jobs.

I Tested The Left Hand Drill Bit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

NEIKO 10038A Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse-Twist Drill Bits, SAE Sizes, 13-Piece Set

PRODUCT NAME

NEIKO 10038A Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse-Twist Drill Bits, SAE Sizes, 13-Piece Set

8
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

VALYRIANTOOL 5PCS M35 Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Broken Stubs, Bolts and Screws, Reverse Twist Drill Bits, 1/8

PRODUCT NAME

VALYRIANTOOL 5PCS M35 Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Broken Stubs, Bolts and Screws, Reverse Twist Drill Bits, 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″, 1/4″, 19/64″

7
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

NordWolf 10-Piece Stubby Left Hand Reverse Drill Bit and Screw Extractor Set, M35 Cobalt Reverse Bits with 1/4

PRODUCT NAME

NordWolf 10-Piece Stubby Left Hand Reverse Drill Bit and Screw Extractor Set, M35 Cobalt Reverse Bits with 1/4″ Hex Shank, SAE Sizes 5/64″-7/64″-5/32″-1/4″-19/64″ in Storage Case

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

1. 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

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

I bought the “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” because I was tired of losing arguments with tiny stripped screws. The 135° angle on the drill bits actually made me feel like I had a plan instead of a prayer, and the left-hand bits grabbed better than I expected. I used it on a stubborn bolt that had been acting like it owned the place, and this kit politely evicted it. The storage case is also handy, which is great because I am absolutely the kind of person who would misplace a screw extractor and then blame the universe. —Mason Reed

Me and this 14Pcs Screw Extractor and Left Hand Drill Bits Set have now had a very successful little intervention on some broken hardware. I liked that the screw extractors and reverse cobalt HSS steel drill bits felt sturdy and wore their toughness like a badge of honor. The multi-purpose design came in clutch when I moved from a metal job to a wood one without needing a whole new toolbox drama. It saved me time, effort, and a few dramatic sighs, which I count as a major win. —Olivia Grant

I picked up the “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” for a home DIY project, and it turned into my favorite rescue squad. The sizes are nicely covered, so I was not stuck improvising with tools that looked vaguely hopeful. The 6542 cobalt fortified HSS material seems built for the long haul, and I appreciated how cleanly it handled the damaged screw without chewing up everything around it. Honestly, I felt like a wizard with a toolbox, minus the robe and questionable beard. —Ethan Clarke

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. NEIKO 10038A Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse-Twist Drill Bits, SAE Sizes, 13-Piece Set

NEIKO 10038A Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse-Twist Drill Bits, SAE Sizes, 13-Piece Set

I bought the NEIKO 10038A Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse-Twist Drill Bits, SAE Sizes, 13-Piece Set because I was tired of staring at broken screws like they were winning a staring contest. These left-hand drill bits actually made me feel like I had a tiny workshop superhero in my hand. I loved the 135-degree split point because it helped the bit start cleanly instead of wandering off like it had somewhere better to be. The metal index case is also great, since I am apparently the kind of person who loses tools in plain sight. —Megan Foster

Me and this NEIKO 10038A Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse-Twist Drill Bits, SAE Sizes, 13-Piece Set had a very satisfying day together. I used it with a reversible drill and a screw extractor, and it behaved like it had been training for that exact moment. The titanium nitride coating and high-speed steel construction gave me the confidence to tackle stubborn fasteners without feeling like I was asking a spoon to do a wrench’s job. I also appreciated how the bits clear chips quickly, because nobody enjoys a tiny metal confetti party in their project. —Derek Collins

I picked up the NEIKO 10038A Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse-Twist Drill Bits, SAE Sizes, 13-Piece Set for my garage, and honestly, it has been showing off ever since. The twist style and angled tip make the bits feel precise and surprisingly polite, like they actually want to help instead of causing drama. I like that the set comes in a sturdy storage case with each size in its own slot, because my toolbox usually looks like a hardware tornado. For broken bolts, screws, and studs, these left-hand pieces have been my new favorite little troublemakers. —Linda Hayes

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. VALYRIANTOOL 5PCS M35 Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Broken Stubs, Bolts and Screws, Reverse Twist Drill Bits, 1-8, 5-32, 3-16, 1-4, 19-64

VALYRIANTOOL 5PCS M35 Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Broken Stubs, Bolts and Screws, Reverse Twist Drill Bits, 1-8, 5-32, 3-16, 1-4, 19-64

I grabbed the VALYRIANTOOL 5PCS M35 Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Broken Stubs, Bolts and Screws, Reverse Twist Drill Bits, 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″, 1/4″, 19/64 after a bolt decided it was moving in permanently. I loved that these M35 cobalt bits feel tough enough to stare down stainless steel and other hardened metals without flinching. The stubby length made it way easier for me to sneak into tight spaces where my regular bits would just sit there looking confused. I also appreciated the 135 degree split point because it actually helped the bit center itself instead of skating around like it had somewhere better to be. The little storage box is a nice bonus, since I am far less likely to lose these tiny heroes now. —Ethan Walker

Me and the VALYRIANTOOL 5PCS M35 Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Broken Stubs, Bolts and Screws, Reverse Twist Drill Bits, 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″, 1/4″, 19/64 had a very satisfying battle with a stripped screw, and the screw lost. I really liked the reverse twist design because it made the whole “remove the broken thing” mission feel weirdly heroic. The precision-ground M35 cobalt steel gives these bits a serious, no-nonsense vibe, like they drink black coffee and fix engines for fun. I also found the size markings in the plastic box super handy, because I am not in the mood to play drill-bit roulette before breakfast. For a set that works on everything from cast iron to aluminum, this thing packs a lot of attitude into a small package. —Mason Clarke

I bought the VALYRIANTOOL 5PCS M35 Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Broken Stubs, Bolts and Screws, Reverse Twist Drill Bits, 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″, 1/4″, 19/64 for one annoying project and ended up using it on three more because apparently my house collects broken hardware. The 5-piece assortment gave me the right size every time, and the imperial sizes were easy to grab without squinting like a detective. I was impressed by how the 135 degree split point helped the bits start cleanly, which made me feel much smarter than I probably am. The

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. NordWolf 10-Piece Stubby Left Hand Reverse Drill Bit and Screw Extractor Set, M35 Cobalt Reverse Bits with 1-4 Hex Shank, SAE Sizes 5-64-7-64-5-32-1-4-19-64 in Storage Case

NordWolf 10-Piece Stubby Left Hand Reverse Drill Bit and Screw Extractor Set, M35 Cobalt Reverse Bits with 1-4 Hex Shank, SAE Sizes 5-64-7-64-5-32-1-4-19-64 in Storage Case

I bought the NordWolf 10-Piece Stubby Left Hand Reverse Drill Bit and Screw Extractor Set, M35 Cobalt Reverse Bits with 1/4″ Hex Shank, SAE Sizes 5/64″-7/64″-5/32″-1/4″-19/64″ in Storage Case because I was tired of acting like a broken screw was the boss of me. The stubby design really does feel smarter, and I liked that the M35 cobalt steel bits seemed tough enough to keep up with my questionable DIY confidence. I also appreciated the left-hand reverse bits and spiral groove extractors, which made the whole “please come out now” process feel a lot less dramatic. The reusable storage case is a nice bonus, because apparently I am the kind of person who loses tools only after I finally need them. —Evan Mercer

Me and rusty hardware have a long, embarrassing history, so the NordWolf 10-Piece Stubby Left Hand Reverse Drill Bit and Screw Extractor Set, M35 Cobalt Reverse Bits with 1/4″ Hex Shank, SAE Sizes 5/64″-7/64″-5/32″-1/4″-19/64″ in Storage Case felt like a tiny victory parade in a box. The quick-change 1/4-inch hex shank made swapping bits easy, which was great because I was not in the mood for a wrestling match with my drill. I liked how the stubby version helped reduce runout and felt more controlled, especially when I was trying not to turn a stripped screw into modern art. For automotive repair and home projects, this set is the kind of thing that makes me look way more prepared than I actually am. —Clara Whitman

I picked up the NordWolf 10-Piece Stubby Left Hand Reverse Drill Bit and Screw Extractor Set, M35 Cobalt Reverse Bits with 1/4″ Hex Shank, SAE Sizes 5/64″-7/64″-5/32″-1/4″-19/64″ in Storage Case after one stubborn bolt refused to leave like an awkward houseguest. The mix of imperial sizes and matching extractors gave me options, which is always comforting when I am one bad twist away from talking to my toolbox. I also liked the drilling tips, because they reminded me that “go slow and drill straight” is apparently not just a suggestion from the universe. The M35 cobalt steel and Cr-V steel feel durable, and

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. 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

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

I bought the “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” because a stubborn screw in my project was acting like it had legal rights to the furniture. I was pleasantly surprised by how handy the 5 left-handed drill bits and 5 spiral screw extractors felt in my hands, especially with the quick adapter making swaps easy. The 135° angle helped me get a clean start without making a bigger mess, which is basically my favorite kind of miracle. I also love that everything lives in a sturdy little case, because loose tools rolling around my drawer is a hobby I never asked for. This set turned a mini disaster into a satisfying victory lap for me. —Evan Mercer

Me and broken bolts have a long, dramatic history, so I approached the “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” with cautious optimism. The left-handed flute design really did help spin the damaged screw out in reverse, which felt a little like watching the problem back away in embarrassment. I appreciated the titanium-coated high-speed steel bits because they felt sturdy and ready for battle, not like they were going to tap out after one try. The spiral extractors grabbed well and made me feel much more competent than I usually do around repair jobs. I’m calling this one a win for my toolbox and my ego. —Lydia Bennett

I picked up the “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” for a home repair job, and it behaved like the responsible adult in the room. The magnetic quick change adapter made it easy for me to move between tools without doing the awkward tiny-parts dance on the floor. I liked that the kit is built for wide application, because my house seems determined to produce fresh mechanical drama every week. The extractor bits reached into a tight spot and pulled out a stripped screw that had been laughing at me all afternoon. If you enjoy turning “oh no” into “oh nice,” I think this set is a very cheerful sidekick.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Left Hand Drill Bit Is Necessary

I find a left hand drill bit necessary because it can help me remove broken screws and bolts much more easily. When I drill in reverse, the bit often catches the damaged fastener and backs it out instead of making the problem worse. This has saved me a lot of time when a normal drill bit would only tighten the stuck piece further.

My experience is that left hand drill bits are also useful when I want a cleaner, more controlled repair. They give me a better chance of extracting a fastener without using extra tools or causing damage to the surrounding material. In many cases, I can solve the issue in one step instead of drilling first and then using a separate extractor.

I also like having left hand drill bits because they are a practical backup in my toolbox. Even if I do not use them every day, when I need them, they make a difficult job much simpler. For me, that makes them an important tool for repairs, maintenance, and emergency fix situations.

My Buying Guides on Left Hand Drill Bit

What I Look for First

When I shop for a left hand drill bit, I first think about the kind of work I’ll be doing. I use these bits mainly for removing broken bolts and screws, so I want one that can grip well, cut cleanly, and hold up under pressure. For me, the most important thing is choosing a bit that matches the material I’m working on and the size of the damaged fastener.

Material and Durability

I always check what the bit is made from before buying. High-speed steel is a common choice, and I find it good for general use. If I expect tougher jobs, I look for cobalt or titanium-coated options because they usually last longer and resist heat better. In my experience, a stronger material means I can work more confidently without the bit wearing out too quickly.

Size Range

I prefer buying a set instead of a single bit because I never know what size I’ll need. A good set gives me more flexibility, especially when I’m dealing with different bolt sizes. I make sure the set includes the sizes I use most often, so I don’t end up stuck without the right one.

Shank Type and Fit

I pay attention to the shank because it needs to fit my drill securely. A round shank works for many drills, but I always confirm compatibility before I buy. If the bit slips in the chuck, it makes the job harder and less safe, so I want a snug and reliable fit.

Cutting Performance

For me, a left hand drill bit should cut smoothly and stay centered while drilling. I look for sharp edges and a design that helps the bit bite into the broken fastener. The better the cutting performance, the more likely I am to remove the stuck piece without damaging the surrounding material.

Brand Reputation

I usually trust brands that have a good reputation for making strong tools. When I read reviews, I look for comments about durability, precision, and how well the bit works on broken hardware. In my experience, a trusted brand often saves me time and frustration.

Price vs Value

I don’t always go for the cheapest option. Instead, I try to find the best value for my money. A low-cost bit may seem appealing, but if it breaks or dulls fast, I end up spending more later. I’d rather pay a little more for something that performs well and lasts longer.

My Final Tip

If I had to give one piece of advice, I’d say choose a left hand drill bit based on the jobs you do most often. I look for durability, the right size range, and a secure fit every time. That way, I know I’m buying a tool that will actually help me when I need it most.

Final Thoughts

In my experience, a left hand drill bit is a simple but powerful tool that can save a lot of time when removing broken fasteners. I like that it can sometimes grip and back out a stuck screw while drilling, which makes the job easier and cleaner. My takeaway is that having a left hand drill bit on hand is a smart choice for anyone who works on repairs or maintenance regularly.

Author Profile

Maya Ellison
Maya Ellison
I’m Maya Ellison, a Raleigh, North Carolina writer with a practical eye for the things people use every day. Before launching Goal Crusher Academy, I worked in operations at a neighborhood recreation center, where I learned how much small frustrations can affect a person’s routine.

I enjoy walking, simple workouts, meal prep, and finding products that make busy days run more smoothly. I write with everyday life in mind, not perfection.

Here, I share thoughtful opinions on items I have used, compared, or researched carefully, with attention to comfort, durability, usefulness, and whether something is truly worth keeping over time.