Best Reverse Drill Bit Sets for Removing Broken Bolts and Screws
The best reverse drill bit set depends on whether you need left-hand bits alone or a kit that also includes screw extractors. The VALYRIANTOOL 15-piece cobalt set offers a broad size range, while NEIKO is a high-speed-steel option for general repair work. For a combined kit, coobeast includes multiple extractor styles; VALYRIANTOOL’s short bits suit tight spaces. Compare the listed sizes and contents before choosing a set for a specific fastener.
| Set | Best For | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| VALYRIANTOOL 15-Piece | Broad bit-size selection | M35 cobalt steel; 1/16–3/8 inch |
| NEIKO 10037A | Home and automotive repairs | 15 titanium nitride-coated HSS bits |
| coobeast 35-Piece | Multiple extraction methods | Bits plus two extractor styles |
| VALYRIANTOOL 5-Piece Stubby | Restricted-access work | Short bits for tight spaces |
| Saipe 11-Piece | Compact extractor-and-bit kit | Includes quick-change adapter |
VALYRIANTOOL 15-Piece Cobalt Left-Hand Set
This set is best for buyers who want left-hand drill bits across a wide range of sizes without a separate extractor assortment. It contains 15 M35 cobalt steel bits sized from 1/16 to 3/8 inch. The 135-degree split point is designed to help center the bit and start drilling.
The manufacturer lists stainless steel and metals such as cast iron, titanium, bronze, and aluminum among its intended materials. Reverse rotation may help loosen a damaged fastener as the bit drills. Choose this set if broad bit-size coverage matters. A limitation is that the listed contents do not include screw extractors.
NEIKO 10037A Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set
NEIKO is best for home repair, automotive garage projects, and other general fastener-removal tasks where a 15-piece SAE bit set is suitable. Its high-speed steel bits have a titanium nitride coating, and the 135-degree split points are designed for self-centering and chip clearance.
The left-hand design is intended for use with a reversible drill and screw extractors when removing broken screws, bolts, or studs. Choose it if you want a familiar range of reverse-twist bits for repair work. Unlike the combination kits below, the listed product is a drill-bit set; screw extractors are not listed as included.
coobeast 35-Piece Bit And Extractor Kit
This kit is best for buyers who want several extraction approaches in one set. The listed contents include 16 left-hand cobalt drill bits, 13 multi-spline extractors, and six spiral screw extractors. Its extractors are described as Cr-Mo steel, while the bits have a titanium coating and 135-degree points.
The different extractor styles provide options for damaged fasteners, and the product description says the bits can be used with a reversible drill. Choose this set if variety is more important than a small, bit-only assortment. Its larger number of components may be unnecessary if you only need a few reverse drill sizes.
VALYRIANTOOL 5-Piece Stubby Cobalt Set
This is best for work in tight or hard-to-reach spaces. The five M35 cobalt bits are described as stubby, with lengths from 2-1/4 to 3-5/8 inches. Listed sizes are 1/8, 5/32, 3/16, 1/4, and 19/64 inch. The 135-degree split points are designed to support centered drilling.
The product description names stainless steel, cast iron, titanium, bronze, and aluminum as suitable materials. Choose these bits when access is the main concern. The trade-off is a smaller size selection than the 15-piece VALYRIANTOOL set, and the listing does not include extractors.
Saipe 11-Piece Screw Extractor Set
Saipe is best for buyers seeking a compact kit with both reverse drill bits and screw extractors. Its listed contents include five extractors, five left-hand drill bits sized from 1/8 to 19/64 inch, and a quick-change adapter. The bits are made from 6542 high-speed steel, and the extractors are described as CR-MO steel.
The 135-degree split-point bits are intended to start holes cleanly, while the spiral extractors grip damaged fasteners. Choose this set if the included adapter and matched bit-and-extractor approach fit your needs. The size range is narrower than sets with 15 or more drill bits.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A Reverse Drill Bit Set
Do you need bits only or a complete extraction kit?
Left-hand drill bits rotate in reverse and can sometimes help loosen a fastener while creating a pilot hole. Extractors are separate tools designed to grip a drilled fastener. Choose a bit-only set if you already own extractors or mainly need reverse-drilling capability. Choose a combination kit, such as coobeast or Saipe, if you want both components in one purchase.
Which material and bit sizes should you compare?
Check the listed bit material and size range against the fasteners and workpieces you expect to handle. The VALYRIANTOOL 15-piece set covers 1/16 to 3/8 inch, while the five-piece stubby set focuses on a shorter list of sizes. Cobalt and coated high-speed-steel options are both represented here, but product descriptions alone do not establish that a bit is appropriate for every material or drilling condition.
Will the set work in your drill and workspace?
These are left-hand bits intended for reverse rotation, so check that your drill can operate in reverse and follow the tool manufacturer’s instructions. For restricted access, consider the stubby VALYRIANTOOL set. For a broader range of tasks, compare the number and sizes of bits, extractor types, and any included adapter. Use appropriate eye protection and secure the workpiece before drilling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a reverse drill bit used for?
A reverse, or left-hand, drill bit cuts while rotating counterclockwise. It is commonly used to drill into a damaged fastener and may help turn the fastener out as it cuts.
Can a reverse drill bit remove every broken bolt?
No. Removal depends on the fastener, access, damage, and drilling conditions. Some cases may require a screw extractor or another repair method.
Do left-hand drill bits require a reversible drill?
They are designed for reverse rotation. Check that your drill supports reverse operation and consult its instructions before use.
Should I buy a set with screw extractors?
Choose a combination kit if you want extractors included for gripping drilled fasteners. A bit-only set may be sufficient if you already have compatible extractors.
What does a 135-degree split point mean?
It describes the geometry of the drill-bit tip. Product listings describe this design as helping the bit center and start drilling; actual results depend on the application and technique.