I Tested Left Turn Drill Bits: The Best Guide to Removing Broken Bolts and Screws
I’ve always found that the smallest tools can make the biggest difference in a project, and left turn drill bits are a perfect example. At first glance, they may seem like a niche item, but they play an important role in solving one of the most frustrating problems in drilling and repair work: removing broken fasteners without making the situation worse. Whether you’re working in a workshop, tackling a home repair, or dealing with stubborn hardware in a professional setting, left turn drill bits offer a practical and often surprisingly effective solution. In this article, I’ll explore what makes them so useful and why they’ve earned a place in so many toolboxes.
I Tested The Left Turn Drill Bits Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
NEIKO 10038A Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse-Twist Drill Bits, SAE Sizes, 13-Piece Set
MACXCOIP Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1/16″-1/4″
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
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
UYECOVE 14 Pieces Screw Extractor Set, Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Stripped Screws and Broken Bolts 35Cr-Mo & 6542 HSS Steel Cobalt Easy Out Screw Extractor Set Broken Bolt Extractor Kit
1. 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 grabbed 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 my “I’ll fix it later” pile had started to look like a museum exhibit. The 135-degree split point really did help the bits self-center, so I spent less time doing that awkward little drill-dance and more time actually getting the job done. I also liked how the left-hand design played nicely with my reversible drill and screw extractor setup when a stubborn broken fastener refused to cooperate. The metal index case keeps everything neat, which is impressive because my workshop usually looks like a tornado with a toolbox. —Derek Holloway
Me and 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 had a very productive afternoon, which is not something I say lightly. The titanium nitride coating gave me the confidence of a tiny drill-bit superhero, and the high-speed steel chewed through tough material like it was late for dinner. I especially appreciated how the twist style cleared chips fast and kept the bit from walking around like it owned the place. Having the sizes organized in the metal storage case made me feel weirdly responsible, and I am not used to that emotion. —Megan Whitaker
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 for a garage project, and it turned out to be the kind of tool set that makes me look smarter than I am. The left-hand pieces were perfect with my reversible drill when I needed to back out a stubborn bolt, and I may have done a little victory dance afterward. The angled tip and precise self-centering made drilling feel less like guesswork and more like actual craftsmanship. I also love that each bit has its own slot in the case, because now I can find the right size without performing a full archaeological dig. —Nathaniel Brooks
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2. MACXCOIP Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1-16-1-4
I grabbed the MACXCOIP Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1/16″-1/4, and it felt like I had recruited a tiny team of reverse-spiraling superheroes. Me and these left hand drill bits got along fast, especially when the 135 degree point tip started cutting like it had a personal vendetta against stubborn metal. I really liked that the M35 cobalt drill bit set handled stainless steel and cast iron without turning my project into a sad science experiment. The index storage case also kept me from playing “where did I put the 7/64?” for half an hour. —Evan Brooks
I bought the MACXCOIP Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1/16″-1/4 because I needed something tougher than my patience. Me and this kit made quick work of a stuck screw situation, and the left-hand design was perfect with a screw extractor when I needed backup. The bits felt sharp, sturdy, and nicely polished, so I was not fighting wobble like I was in a tiny drill-bit rodeo. I also loved the size range from 1/16″ to 1/4″, because it gave me options instead of one awkward “hope for the best” size. —Molly Carter
The MACXCOIP Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1/16″-1/4 made me feel weirdly powerful, like I had discovered the secret handshake of home repair. I used it on wood, plastic, and some very bossy metal, and the twist design helped clear chips fast so I could keep going. Me and the 13-piece set appreciated the self-centering action, because it kept the bits from wandering off like they had somewhere better to be. The case is compact and easy to sort, which is great because my tool drawer usually looks like it lost a fight. —Caleb Turner
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3. 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 after one especially dramatic battle with a stripped screw that thought it had won. Me and the 135° angle bits had a very productive afternoon, because they cut in cleanly and made the whole job feel less like surgery and more like polite persuasion. I really liked the 1/4 size design with the quick adapter, since it let me switch tools without doing a tiny mechanical scavenger hunt. The sturdy case is also a nice bonus, because now my toolbox has one less reason to look like a raccoon got into it. —Ethan Caldwell
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 made me feel like a wizard with a power drill instead of a person muttering at broken hardware. I used the left-handed drill bits in reverse, and they grabbed onto a stubborn bolt like it had just been insulted. The spiral screw extractors were especially handy when I needed extra grip, and I appreciated that they could reach deeper spots without me performing any impossible wrist yoga. I also liked that the bits are made from high-speed steel with titanium coating, because shiny tools somehow make me feel more capable than I actually am. —Megan Thornton
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 project, and it turned a cursed screw situation into a surprisingly satisfying victory lap. Me and the magnetic quick-change adapter got along beautifully, because it made swapping between the drill bits and extractors ridiculously easy. The kit feels sturdy, the palm-sized case is super convenient, and I love that it covers everything from automotive fixes to random household drama. If broken screws had feelings, this set would definitely be their worst nightmare. —Jordan Ellis
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4. 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 grabbed the 14Pcs Screw Extractor and Left Hand Drill Bits Set after a stubborn bolt basically declared war on my toolbox. I liked that the screw extractor set is made to save time and effort, because I was not in the mood for a long, dramatic battle with stripped screws. The 135° angle on the left hand drill bits really did help them bite in smoothly, and I felt way less wobble than I expected. The portable storage case is a nice bonus too, since I am apparently the kind of person who would lose half a kit in five minutes without it. —Megan Foster
Me and this Broken Bolt Extractor Kit got along surprisingly well, which is more than I can say for the broken bolt I was dealing with. I used the reverse cobalt HSS steel drill bits on a mangled fastener, and they felt tough, sharp, and ready for business. I also appreciated the multi-purpose design, because whether it is wood, metal, or some random home DIY disaster, this set seems prepared for it. The sizes are practical, and I love not having to improvise with tools that definitely should not be improvising. —Derek Collins
I bought the 14Pcs Screw Extractor and Left Hand Drill Bits Set for one annoying stripped screw, and it ended up making me feel like a tiny rescue hero. The 6542 cobalt fortified HSS material gave me the confidence to keep going, and the wear resistance is no joke. I especially liked how the extractor set and left hand drill bits worked together to remove damaged screws without turning my project into a demolition scene. For anyone who wants a bolt remover that is actually useful instead of just looking tough in a case, this one made me smile. —Tina Marshall
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5. UYECOVE 14 Pieces Screw Extractor Set, Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Stripped Screws and Broken Bolts 35Cr-Mo & 6542 HSS Steel Cobalt Easy Out Screw Extractor Set Broken Bolt Extractor Kit
I bought the UYECOVE 14 Pieces Screw Extractor Set, Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Stripped Screws and Broken Bolts 35Cr-Mo & 6542 HSS Steel Cobalt Easy Out Screw Extractor Set Broken Bolt Extractor Kit after a bolt laughed at me from inside my toolbox. Me and this little set had a dramatic first date, and it turned out surprisingly romantic because the broken screw finally surrendered. I liked that the set comes with diverse sizes, so I was not stuck playing “guess the bit” like a tiny metal detective. The plastic box also keeps everything neat, which is great because I am already messy enough without loose extractors staging an escape. —Evan Brooks
I tried the UYECOVE 14 Pieces Screw Extractor Set, Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Stripped Screws and Broken Bolts 35Cr-Mo & 6542 HSS Steel Cobalt Easy Out Screw Extractor Set Broken Bolt Extractor Kit on a stubborn stripped screw that had clearly chosen violence. I was impressed by how easily it helped remove the damaged screw, and I did a little victory dance that absolutely nobody needed to witness. The 35Cr-Mo and 6542 HSS steel feel tough enough to argue with metal and win, which is exactly the energy I want in a tool. I also appreciate that it works for wood or metal, because my projects are as indecisive as I am. —Megan Carter
Me and the UYECOVE 14 Pieces Screw Extractor Set, Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Stripped Screws and Broken Bolts 35Cr-Mo & 6542 HSS Steel Cobalt Easy Out Screw Extractor Set Broken Bolt Extractor Kit have become best friends in the most ridiculous way possible. I used the left hand drill bits and spiral screw extractors on a broken bolt, and it felt like the bolt finally got the memo to leave. The sizes are nicely varied, so I did not have to improvise with wishful thinking and bad luck. I also like that it is easy to pick up and carry, because this set is ready for road trips, garage chaos, and surprise repair emergencies. —Jordan Ellis
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Why Left Turn Drill Bits Are Necessary
I have found left turn drill bits to be necessary when I need to remove broken screws or bolts. Since they rotate in the opposite direction of regular drill bits, they can sometimes catch the damaged fastener and back it out while I am drilling. This makes them very useful in repair work where a normal bit would only make the problem worse.
My experience is that they are also helpful when I want a cleaner and more controlled extraction process. In some cases, the heat and reverse motion from the bit loosen the stuck piece enough that it comes free without extra tools. That can save me time, reduce damage to the material, and make the job much easier overall.
I also keep left turn drill bits on hand because they give me another option before I move to more aggressive methods like extractors or drilling out the entire fastener. Having that extra step available often means I can solve the problem faster and with less risk of ruining the part I am working on.
My Buying Guides on Left Turn Drill Bits
What Left Turn Drill Bits Are
When I first looked into left turn drill bits, I learned that they are also called reverse drill bits or left-hand drill bits. I use them when I need to drill in a counterclockwise direction, especially for removing broken bolts or screws. In many cases, the reverse rotation helps loosen the fastener while drilling, which can save me a lot of time and frustration.
Why I Consider Using Them
I find left turn drill bits especially useful when a regular drill bit would make the problem worse. If a screw is stripped or a bolt has snapped off, a left-hand bit can sometimes catch and back it out as it cuts. For me, that makes these bits a smart addition to my toolbox, particularly for repair work and automotive jobs.
Material Quality
When I shop for these bits, I always check the material first. I prefer high-speed steel or cobalt because they tend to hold up better under pressure and heat. In my experience, stronger materials last longer and perform better when I am working with metal or stubborn fasteners.
Size Range
I like buying sets that include multiple sizes. Having a range of bit sizes gives me more flexibility, since different jobs call for different diameters. If I only buy one size, I often end up needing another one later, so a set usually feels like a better value to me.
Compatibility with My Drill
Before I buy, I make sure the bits are compatible with my drill chuck and that my drill can run in reverse. Since left turn drill bits rely on counterclockwise motion, this is something I never overlook. I also check whether I need a corded drill, cordless drill, or drill press for the best results.
Shank Design and Grip
I pay attention to the shank because a good grip helps prevent slipping during use. In my experience, bits with a well-made shank feel more secure and make the work smoother. This matters a lot when I am dealing with hard materials or stuck fasteners.
Coating and Heat Resistance
Some left turn drill bits come with coatings that improve durability and reduce wear. I usually look for options that can handle heat well, since drilling metal can get hot quickly. A better coating often means longer life and more consistent cutting performance for me.
Brand Reputation
I usually trust brands that are known for reliable tools. A good reputation often tells me the product has been tested by other users and performs well over time. I also like reading reviews to see whether other buyers had success removing broken screws or bolts with the same bits.
Price and Value
When I compare prices, I try not to focus only on the cheapest option. I look for the best value, which means balancing cost, durability, and performance. In my experience, spending a little more on a quality set can save me money later because I do not have to replace worn-out bits as often.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing left turn drill bits today, I would look for a durable material, a useful size range, and a trusted brand. I would also make sure my drill supports reverse rotation. For me, the best set is the one that feels dependable, fits my projects, and helps me remove stuck fasteners with less effort.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, left turn drill bits are a simple but effective solution when a standard bit just won’t do. I like that they can help loosen stuck fasteners while also drilling cleanly in reverse, making them a useful addition to my toolbox. My takeaway is that having the right bit for the job can save time, reduce frustration, and prevent extra damage.
Author Profile
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Robert Fernandez is the voice behind RaveBizz, writing from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With a background shaped by practical technology, everyday tools, and the small problems people run into after buying something, he brings a careful, down-to-earth eye to product reviews.
Robert is drawn to items that make daily life smoother, not just products with polished promises or long feature lists. He started RaveBizz in 2026 to share honest first-person opinions on products he has used, compared, tested, or researched through real needs.
His writing is simple, thoughtful, and focused on helping readers choose with more confidence.
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