Here's a quick tip to bring in the new year. A novel way to remove a stripped or stubborn machine screw using a vise.

The idea is simple, a stripped screw tends to lead to problems with the screwdriver "camming out". To prevent this, pinch the screw and the screwdriver (or in this case, the screwdriver bit or "blade") between the jaws of a vise. Keep the jaws just tight enough to prevent the screwdriver from camming out as it turns. As the screw starts to rotate, loosen the jaws slightly to allow for it to extract.

Here's a quick video of the process in action.

In situations where it's hard to grip the handle of the screwdriver (because it's in a vise) I recommend using a screwdriver with a square or hex shank so you can get a wrench on it for leverage, or use a bit or blade like I show in the picture and video. Don't try vise grips on a round shank screwdriver, you'll just muck it up. Some screwdrivers have a round shank with hex portion (called a "hex bolster") where the shank meets the handle. This little hex bolster is ideal for getting a little extra leverage when needed.

Screwdrivers with a hex bolster come in handy more often than you might think … if you remember to use it! I've started replacing all my cheap, damaged, or worn out screwdrivers with better ones that have a hex bolster near the handle. Here's a nice set on Amazon by Klein (click image).

There are obviously other methods of removing a stripped screw. Two of which have already been mentioned in responses to this video on YouTube. For instance, one viewer suggested cutting a slit in the head of the stripped screw to use a flat blade screwdriver, while another viewer suggested using an impact wrench (or the impact setting on a cordless drill)  which I have used with great success also.

Lets see how many other ways we can think of to remove a stripped screw. If you have a method, please leave it via a comment on the forum (see link below).

And Happy New Year!

So apparently I'm going to have to track down a manual (smack-with-a-hammer style) impact driver. I've never seen one before. I've only ever used an electric or pneumatic impact wrench. But since so many of you mentioned that they work well I'll have to find one and keep it for the next time I have a stuck screw. Thanks!