How to Remove a Stuck Drill Bit from Wood Without Damaging
It is a common thing that we face multiple problems during any project. Even an expert person can face these problems also.
So, don’t worry.
Today, I will talk about the stuck drill bit in the wood if someone is facing that problem and wants to know how to remove a stuck drill bit from wood. Then you are in the right place.
In this guide, I will discuss all the reasons and their solutions to those problems safely and effectively step-by-step.
So, keep reading.
Understanding the Problem
There can be several reasons behind the stuck drill bit in the wood
- Using the wrong type of drill bit.
- Wrong drilling technique.
- Excessive heat creation during the process.
- Tough knots in the wood.
- Doing Too deep bore and no room to remove the drill bit.
Note: Important is to identify the main cause behind it and solve it.
Necessary Tools and Materials
Here is the list of Tools and Materials that we require during the drill bit removal process.
- Pliers or vice grips
- Hammer
- Wooden block
- Left-handed drill bit set2
- Screw Extractor
- Drilling Oppositely
- Safety goggles
- Gloves
- Heat gun / Hairdryer
Techniques to Remove the Drill Bit
Here are four effective techniques to remove a drill bit from wood. Each can be used according to the facing situation.
- Using Pliers/Vice Grips
- Using Heat and Hammering
- Using Screw Extractor
- Using Opposite Drilling
1- How to Remove a Stuck Drill Bit from Wood Using Pliers / Vice Grips
When the drill bit is stuck in the wood, and you can see the spindle tip of the drill bit, we will use this simple method.
- First, we will hold a plier or vice grip with a locking mechanism and wide open its jaws to grab the spindle tip of the drill bit from the wood.
- Drop some drops of any transparent lubricant into the stuck drill bit hole.
- Press the plier handle and rotate it counterclockwise slowly again and again.
- Once the spindle tip comes out, we will pull it efficiently and remove it from the wood. But we will take care and avoid jerking because it can break the drill bit into small pieces.
2- How to Remove a Stuck Drill Bit from Wood Using Heat and Hammering
It is also an effective method if the drill bit is stuck due to compacted wood chips around it.
- First of all, we will take a heat gun or hairdryer.
- Turn On, and gently heat the wood surrounding the stuck drill bit.
- Be careful to apply the heat. The fibers of the wood should not be damaged.
- Heat will expand the wood and release the grip on the stuck drill bit.
- Now, Pick a wooden hammer, tap it carefully, pick the broken piece, and remove it.
3- How to Remove a Stuck Drill Bit from Wood Using Screw Extractor
Both ends of the screw extractor are functional, one end can drill, and the second end has threads on it and can extract the screw.
If we want to remove a drill bit that is very thin, then this method will not be applicable.
- First, we will choose the right size of the screw extractor tool from the screw extractor kit as per the broken drill bit.
- Put the Extractor end into the drill and Fit the extractor tool in a drill.
- We can drop a little oil for better cooling.
- Make a hole with the drilling end so that the extractor end can fit into the hole.
- Remove the extractor tool and put it back with the drilling end inside the drill.
- Keep the drill’s rotation direction reversed (Counter Clockwise)
- Put the extractor end into the drill bit hole, keep pressing inwards, and start the drilling slowly. It will rotate the broken bit out.
- Hold with pinch the broken drill bit and remove it.
4- How to Remove a Stuck Drill Bit from Wood with Opposite Drilling
It is a simple process to remove the stuck drill bit. The name shows its process. But we use this method only if we can access the other end of the stuck drill bit place.
Here is the step-by-step method.
- First of all, we will identify the place where the bit is stuck.
- We will draw a line towards the other end using any straight edge.
- Take a small diameter drill bit than the broken drill bit.
- Place the smaller diameter drill bit at the marked point of the opposite side of the broken drill bit.
- Start drilling slowly till the jammed end of the bit.
- Stop drilling, when it approaches the other end of the stuck drill bit.
- Now insert a metal rod into the grove and punch it slowly with a hammer to come out from the other side.
Conclusion
While a stuck drill bit can undoubtedly pose a challenge.
But with the right approach and tools, the hurdle can be overcome efficiently.
If you follow all the steps described in this article, you can confidently tackle any situation of a stuck drill bit.
But always keep in mind, be patient, and apply a systematic approach. It will make you succeed.
Thank you for your time.
Best Wishes
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my drill getting stuck in wood?
There is no problem in drill, but it can be with your drilling technique. You are applying too much pressure while drilling through a smaller hole. Using big size of bit through smaller hole and also applying extra pressure, can results in stuck drill bit.
Why does a drill bit get hot when turning in wood?
It is a common thing. When you drill, drill bit rotates creating friction with wooden fibers to soften the fibers and penetrate in the wood. Therefore, heat produces during the drilling process.
Is it better to drill fast or slow?
The simple answer is YES. Because drilling process produces heat, which dulls the drill bit efficacy. So, If you are drilling through a hard material for a long time, use it at slow speed, especially when you are working on metal like steel with larger drill bit.
What size drill is most useful?
The most common used drill has 3/8 inches chuck size. This chuck size can accept majority of drill bits.
Can you use water to cool drill bits?
Yes, you can use water to cool the drill bits after each use of some inches. Use a small container of cold water to dip and cool.