Most screwdrivers will have their size number printed on the handle. Hold the head of the screwdriver up to the one-way screw head until you find a size match.
If you don’t file flat portions into the screw head, your pliers may just slip off when you try to remove the screw.
Purchase locking pliers at a local hardware store. These pliers are called “locking” because one of the arms contains a knob which, when turned, sets how far the pliers can open. The other arm contains a bar that, when clenched against the arm of the pliers, will “lock” the head of the pliers in place.
If the screw slips out from the head of the pliers, simply put the pliers back in place and continue unscrewing. If the screw continues slipping out from the pliers, place a rubber band around the head of the screw. Then try to use the pliers again. The rubber will help the pliers better grip the screw. [5] X Expert Source Lui ColmenaresHandyman Expert Interview. 18 August 2020.
One-way extractor tools may be difficult to find. If they’re not in stock at your local store, try to find a tool through major online retailers or at large home-goods supply stores. A extractor tool costs about $25 USD.
Keep in mind that, while they’re a useful tool, extractor tools are not guaranteed to work. For example, if the screw was driven into wood or screwed in with a power driver, you probably will not be able to remove it with the extraction tool. Try drilling through the head to remove the screw.
Once you’ve extracted the screw head by about 1⁄2 inch (1. 3 cm), you may be able to grab it with your fingers and finish unscrewing by hand.
If you don’t have a power drill and drill bits, you can purchase them at a local hardware store. [12] X Expert Source Barry ZakarHandyman Expert Interview. 16 July 2020.
This process is messy and will leave a pile of metal shavings below the spot where you’re drilling.
Clean up any mess made from drilling once you’ve extracted the screw.
