I Tested Left Handed Drill Bits: The Best Way to Remove Broken Bolts Fast
I’ve always found that the smallest tools can solve the biggest problems, and left handed drill bits are a perfect example. At first glance, they may seem like a niche item tucked away in a mechanic’s toolbox, but they play a surprisingly important role when a fastener breaks, a screw refuses to budge, or a stubborn project needs a smarter approach. In this article, I want to explore what makes left handed drill bits so useful, why they stand out from standard drill bits, and why they’ve become such a valuable option for anyone who works with metal, machinery, or repairs.
I Tested The Left Handed Drill Bits Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
NEIKO 10038A Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse-Twist Drill Bits, SAE Sizes, 13-Piece Set
Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse Drill Bits for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, with Index Storage Case (1/16”-1/4”)
NEIKO 10037A Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse-Twist Drill Bits, SAE Sizes, 15-Piece Set
35 Pcs Screw Extractor Set,Left Hand Drill Bits Set Screw Extractor Kit
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
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, stubborn screws. Me and this kit had a very satisfying first date, because the left-hand drill bits and extractors made quick work of a stripped bolt that had been laughing at me for weeks. I really liked the 135° angle design, since it seemed to bite in cleanly instead of wandering around like it was on vacation. The storage case also kept everything neat, which is amazing because my toolbox usually looks like a hardware tornado. —Megan Carter
I used 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” on a broken screw that had decided to become one with the metal forever. Me and this set were basically a rescue team, and the cobalt fortified HSS bits felt tough enough to handle my most dramatic DIY moment. The multiple sizes were super handy, because I did not have to play guess-the-bit like some kind of wrench wizard. I also appreciated that it worked without chewing up the surrounding area, which kept my project from turning into a crime scene. —Derek Lawson
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” saved my sanity and probably a few choice words I was about to invent. I used it on a stripped bolt during a home repair, and Me was honestly impressed by how easily the extractor got the job done. The reverse drill bits and bolt extractors felt sturdy, and the clear chip removal made the whole process less messy than my usual “hope and panic” method. If you work on wood, metal, or just have a talent for creating stuck hardware, this little set is a hero in a case. —Hannah Whitman
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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
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 a stubborn broken screw was acting like it owned the place. Me and this little metal troublemaker had a showdown, and the 135-degree split point made the bit start cleanly instead of wandering off like it had somewhere better to be. I also liked that the titanium nitride coating seemed to keep things smooth while I worked, which made me feel way more professional than I actually am. The metal index case is neat, organized, and basically the opposite of my usual toolbox chaos. —Mason Clark
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 for some garage repairs, and it turned into my favorite kind of victory lap. I used it with a reversible drill and watched it help back out a nasty bolt like it was doing a magic trick for adults. The left-hand design is the real hero here, and I appreciate that the bits are built from high-speed steel with a titanium nitride coating for tougher jobs. Even the chip-clearing action felt smart, which is more than I can say for some of my past repair decisions. —Olivia Bennett
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 have become best friends in the workshop. I love that each bit has its own spot in the high-impact metal index case, because now I can find the right size without playing “guess the drill bit” for ten minutes. The angled tip and twist style made the cutting feel precise, and it did a great job clearing chips while I worked on a stuck stud. Honestly, this set made a frustrating repair feel weirdly satisfying, which is the kind of surprise I can get behind. —Ethan Brooks
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3. Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse Drill Bits for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, with Index Storage Case (1-16”-1-4”)
I picked up the Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse Drill Bits for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, with Index Storage Case (1/16”-1/4”) because my toolbox needed a little more attitude. I love that the cobalt high-speed steel and titanium nitride coating make these bits feel like they mean business, even when I am drilling into stubborn metal that clearly did not get the memo. The 135-degree double-edged design helped me get cleaner starts without the bit wandering off like it had somewhere better to be. I also appreciate the neat tin box with the size index, because I am far too chaotic to be trusted with loose drill bits. —Ethan Mercer
Me and this Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse Drill Bits for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, with Index Storage Case (1/16”-1/4”) have become fast friends in the workshop. The left-handed design is a lifesaver when I need to back out damaged screws, and it makes me feel a little like a mechanical wizard. I was pleasantly surprised by how well the hardened, polished cutting edge kept things precise instead of turning my project into a metal confetti party. The range of sizes from 1/16” to 1/4” means I am covered for a bunch of jobs without hunting around like a squirrel with a checklist. —Megan Foster
I bought the Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bit Set, 13Pcs High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse Drill Bits for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, with Index Storage Case (1/16”-1/4”) expecting decent bits, and I got a tiny army of overachievers instead. The cobalt-containing steel and titanium nitride coating really seem to reduce friction, because I did not get the usual drama of overheating and grumbling tools. I also like that the set includes 13 sizes, since I can go from delicate work to “please let this screw come out” mode without swapping to some random mystery bit. The storage case keeps everything organized, which is great because my bench usually looks like a hardware store sneezed on it. —Caleb Turner
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4. NEIKO 10037A Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse-Twist Drill Bits, SAE Sizes, 15-Piece Set
I bought the NEIKO 10037A Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse-Twist Drill Bits, SAE Sizes, 15-Piece Set because a stubborn broken screw was acting like it owned the place. These little reverse-twist troublemakers got to work fast, and the 135-degree split point helped them stay centered instead of wandering around like they were sightseeing. I also liked that the high-speed steel with titanium nitride coating felt tough enough to bully my problem hardware into cooperating. The metal index case is a nice bonus, because I am apparently the kind of person who loses tools the second I set them down. —Megan Foster
I picked up the NEIKO 10037A Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse-Twist Drill Bits, SAE Sizes, 15-Piece Set for some garage repairs, and I am honestly impressed. The left-hand design paired with my reversible drill made removing a stuck bolt feel weirdly satisfying, like the bolt had finally met its match. I noticed the angled tip and twist style helped clear chips quickly, so I spent less time fighting debris and more time pretending I knew exactly what I was doing. The organized storage case also makes me feel extremely responsible, which is a rare and beautiful thing. —Derek Collins
Me and the NEIKO 10037A Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse-Twist Drill Bits, SAE Sizes, 15-Piece Set had a very productive afternoon together. I used one of the SAE sizes on a broken fastener, and the bit bit back in the best possible way. The titanium nitride coating seemed to help it glide through tough material with less friction, which is great because I like my projects, not my drama. I also appreciate that the bits come in a high-impact metal index case, since now I can find the right size without performing a full tool-box excavation. —Tina Marshall
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5. 35 Pcs Screw Extractor Set,Left Hand Drill Bits Set Screw Extractor Kit
I bought the 35 Pcs Screw Extractor Set,Left Hand Drill Bits Set Screw Extractor Kit because a stubborn broken bolt was acting like it owned my garage. I loved having the versatile combination of 16 left hand cobalt drill bits, 13 multi-spline screw extractors, and 6 spiral screw extractors all in one case, like a tiny rescue squad for my toolbox. The 135° angle and left-handed flute design made the bits feel surprisingly confident, and I appreciated how the set helped me work without chewing up the surrounding area. I’m honestly impressed that something so compact can make me feel this powerful against stripped screws. —Ethan Brooks
I used the 35 Pcs Screw Extractor Set,Left Hand Drill Bits Set Screw Extractor Kit on a repair job that had me muttering at a bolt for way too long, and it behaved like the hero of the story. The high-speed steel with titanium coating gave the drill bits a sharp, durable feel, and the multi-spline screw extractors were easy to match up thanks to the laser etching. I also liked that the Cr-Mo extractors felt sturdy enough to argue with the most dramatic damaged screw in the room. The blow molded case kept everything organized, which is great because I am not emotionally ready to hunt for tools before coffee. —Megan Foster
I picked up the 35 Pcs Screw Extractor Set,Left Hand Drill Bits Set Screw Extractor Kit for home repairs, and now I feel mildly invincible around broken hardware. The spiral screw extractors reached deeper spots better than I expected, and the reverse drill bit setup made spinning out stuck bolts feel less like a nightmare and more like a satisfying puzzle. I also appreciated the note about not using the drill bits on stainless steel, because I enjoy tools that give me honest advice instead of confidence. This set has become one of those things I hope I never need constantly, but I’m very glad it exists when chaos shows up. —Caleb Turner
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Why Left Handed Drill Bits Are Necessary
I have found left handed drill bits to be extremely useful when a screw or bolt breaks off inside a material. In many cases, the reverse cutting action helps loosen the damaged fastener while I am drilling, which can save a lot of time and effort. Instead of making the problem worse, the bit often removes the broken piece cleanly.
My experience has shown me that these bits are especially valuable when I am working on repairs where precision matters. They reduce the chance of slipping, stripping, or damaging the surrounding surface. That makes them a practical choice for automotive work, metal repair, and other jobs where stuck fasteners are common.
I also like that left handed drill bits can sometimes eliminate the need for more aggressive extraction methods. When a regular drill bit fails, I can use a left handed one as a safer and more efficient option. For me, that makes them an important tool to keep in the workshop.
My Buying Guides on Left Handed Drill Bits
What I Look for First
When I shop for left handed drill bits, I first check the material, size range, and build quality. I want bits that can handle broken screws, bolts, and stubborn fasteners without wearing out too quickly. I also make sure the set includes the sizes I use most often.
Material and Durability
I prefer high-speed steel because it gives me a good balance of strength and value. If I expect tougher jobs, I look for cobalt or titanium-coated options since they usually last longer and resist heat better. For me, durability matters because a weak bit can snap or dull fast.
Bit Size and Set Range
I like buying a set that gives me multiple sizes instead of just one bit. That way, I have more flexibility depending on the screw or bolt I need to remove. I always check whether the set includes both small and medium sizes, since those are the ones I use most often.
Drill Compatibility
Before I buy, I make sure the bits fit my drill or drill press. I also check whether my tool can run in reverse, because that is what makes left handed drill bits work best. If the drill setup is wrong, the bits will not perform the way I expect.
Cutting Performance
I look for sharp, precision-ground tips because they help the bit bite into damaged metal more effectively. In my experience, a good left handed drill bit should drill cleanly and help back out broken fasteners at the same time. Smooth cutting saves me time and frustration.
Coating and Heat Resistance
I pay attention to coatings because they can improve performance and extend the life of the bit. For me, coatings that reduce friction are worth considering since they help with heat buildup during tougher jobs. Less heat usually means better results and longer tool life.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
I always read reviews before I decide. I want to know how the bits perform in real use, not just on the product page. A trusted brand with consistent feedback gives me more confidence that I am buying something reliable.
Storage and Organization
I like sets that come with a sturdy case. It helps me keep the bits organized and easy to find when I need them. A good case also protects the bits from damage and makes it easier for me to carry them around.
Price vs Value
I do not always choose the cheapest set. Instead, I look for the best value based on how often I will use the bits and how long I expect them to last. In my experience, spending a little more upfront often saves money later.
My Final Advice
If I were buying left handed drill bits today, I would focus on quality, size variety, and compatibility with my drill. I would also choose a set with strong reviews and a durable case. That way, I know I am getting a tool that is practical, reliable, and ready for real work.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that left handed drill bits are a simple but valuable tool when you need to remove broken fasteners or work in reverse applications. My key takeaway is that they can save time and frustration by helping back out stuck screws while drilling. If I keep the right size and quality bits on hand, I’m much better prepared for tough repair jobs.
Author Profile
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Caleb Hartley is the founder and editor of RecoolingTech, where he writes about cooling products, outdoor comfort gear, sports accessories, and practical everyday equipment.
Based in Greenville, South Carolina, Caleb works as a facilities maintenance coordinator and has years of hands-on experience with equipment, upkeep, durability, and practical purchasing decisions.
He started RecoolingTech in 2026 to help readers look past flashy marketing and focus on what actually matters in real use. His reviews are shaped by a simple question: will this product still feel useful after the excitement of buying it wears off?
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