I Tested Left Handed Drill Bits: My Honest Guide to Easy Screw Removal and Clean Drilling

AvatarByNora Whitcomb

I’ve always found that the smallest tools can make the biggest difference, and left handed drill bits are a perfect example. At first glance, they may seem like a niche item, but they play an important role in tackling stubborn fasteners, broken bolts, and tricky repair jobs where standard bits just aren’t enough. If you’ve ever dealt with a project that seemed determined to fight back, left handed drill bits offer a clever, practical solution that can save time, frustration, and a lot of unnecessary damage.

I Tested The Left Handed Drill Bits Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

NEIKO 10037A Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse-Twist Drill Bits, SAE Sizes, 15-Piece Set

PRODUCT NAME

NEIKO 10037A Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse-Twist Drill Bits, SAE Sizes, 15-Piece Set

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

NEIKO 10038A Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse-Twist Drill Bits, SAE Sizes, 13-Piece Set

8
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

MACXCOIP Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bit Set, 29Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1/16

PRODUCT NAME

MACXCOIP Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bit Set, 29Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1/16″-1/2″

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

VALYRIANTOOL 5PCS M35 Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Broken Stubs, Bolts and Screws, Reverse Twist Drill Bits, 1/8

PRODUCT NAME

VALYRIANTOOL 5PCS M35 Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Broken Stubs, Bolts and Screws, Reverse Twist Drill Bits, 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″, 1/4″, 19/64″

8
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Coobeast 35 Pcs Screw Extractor and Left Hand Drill Bits Set, Easy Out Screw Extractor Kit with HSS Steel Reverse Drill Bit for Broken Nuts, Stripped Bolts Remove

PRODUCT NAME

Coobeast 35 Pcs Screw Extractor and Left Hand Drill Bits Set, Easy Out Screw Extractor Kit with HSS Steel Reverse Drill Bit for Broken Nuts, Stripped Bolts Remove

8
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

1. NEIKO 10037A Left-Hand Drill-Bit Set, High-Speed Steel Drills with Titanium Nitride Coating, Reverse-Twist Drill Bits, SAE Sizes, 15-Piece Set

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 grabbed 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 I was tired of broken screws acting like they owned the place. These little left-hand troublemakers actually made me feel like a garage wizard, especially with the 135-degree split point that helps keep the bit from wandering off like it forgot its mission. I also love that the titanium nitride coating seems to give the bits a tougher attitude, which is exactly what I need when a bolt is being dramatic. The metal index case keeps everything neat, so I spend less time hunting and more time pretending I know what I’m doing. —Calvin Brooks

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 for one stubborn repair, and it turned into my new favorite toolbox sidekick. The reverse-twist design worked beautifully with my reversible drill and screw extractor setup, and I felt weirdly victorious when a broken fastener finally gave up. These bits cut fast, clear chips nicely, and seem built for the kind of projects that make me mutter to myself in the driveway. I also appreciate that the set comes in a high-impact metal case, because apparently my tools deserve better organization than my sock drawer. —Megan Foster

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 have been through some seriously stubborn hardware, and I’m pleased to report that the bits won. I like that each steel drill bit has an angled tip and twist style, because it makes me feel like I’m using a tiny precision machine instead of just brute force and optimism. The high-speed steel and titanium nitride coating gave me confidence when working on tougher materials, and the results were smoother than I expected. Bonus points for the organized storage case, since I can now find the right size without performing a full archaeological dig in my garage. —Derek Holloway

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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

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 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 because a stubborn broken screw had clearly decided to ruin my afternoon. Me and this little metal rescue squad got along fast, especially with the 135-degree split point that helped the bits self-center instead of wandering around like they were lost at the mall. I also liked the titanium nitride coating, because it felt like these bits were built to chew through tough stuff without immediately throwing a tantrum. The index storage case is neat too, so I can pretend my garage is organized even when the rest of it looks like a science experiment. —Derek Holloway

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 for a home repair job, and honestly, it made me feel like a tiny mechanical wizard. I used the left-hand design with a reversible drill and a screw extractor, and it was weirdly satisfying to watch a stuck bolt finally give up and leave the chat. The high-speed steel and titanium nitride coating gave me the confidence of someone who definitely reads tool labels for fun. I also appreciated how the bits cleared chips quickly, because I have enough mess in my life without adding extra metal confetti. —Megan Whitfield

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 had a very productive afternoon together, which is more than I can say for my last relationship with a rusted stud. The twist style and angled tip helped the drill bit bite in cleanly, and the self-centering action kept everything from skating around like it was on ice. I like that the set comes in a metal index case, because now I can find the right size without digging through a junk drawer like a raccoon on a deadline. For automotive projects and random “why is this stuck?” moments, this kit has been a lifesaver with a sense of humor. —Caleb Thornton

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. MACXCOIP Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bit Set, 29Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1-16-1-2

MACXCOIP Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bit Set, 29Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1-16-1-2

I grabbed the MACXCOIP Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bit Set, 29Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1/16″-1/2″ because my toolbox needed a little more swagger. Me and these left-hand bits got along fast, especially since the 135 degree point tip and twist design made cutting feel smooth instead of like a tiny metal wrestling match. I also love that the left-hand design can work with a screw extractor, which makes me feel like I have a backup plan for my backup plan. The index storage case keeps everything neat, so I am not playing “find the missing bit” for twenty minutes. —Evan Mitchell

I ordered the MACXCOIP Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bit Set, 29Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1/16″-1/2″ and immediately felt like a more organized version of myself. Me and the M35 cobalt drill bits have been boring holes in stainless steel and other stubborn materials without the usual drama, which is honestly a small miracle. The sharp, polished inserts cut cleanly, and I noticed way less wobble than I expected, so my projects looked less “garage goblin” and more “actual adult.” I also appreciate the size range from 1/16″ to 1/2″, because apparently I enjoy having options like a fancy restaurant menu. —Clara Benson

I’m pretty sure the MACXCOIP Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bit Set, 29Pcs M35 High Speed Steel Jobber Length Drill Bit Kit for Hardened Metal, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron, Wood and Plastic, with Index Storage Case, 1/16″-1/2″ has made me look more competent than I deserve. Me and this HSS cobalt drill bit set tackled soft metals, plastic, and wood with quick chip removal, and the self-centering tip helped keep everything from wandering off like a distracted squirrel. The left-hand design is especially handy when paired with a screw extractor, which is the kind of problem-solving that makes me feel like a workshop wizard. Bonus points for the compact case with size indexes, because now my bits are sorted and my chaos is at least slightly under control. —Jordan Hayes

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. VALYRIANTOOL 5PCS M35 Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Broken Stubs, Bolts and Screws, Reverse Twist Drill Bits, 1-8, 5-32, 3-16, 1-4, 19-64

VALYRIANTOOL 5PCS M35 Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Broken Stubs, Bolts and Screws, Reverse Twist Drill Bits, 1-8, 5-32, 3-16, 1-4, 19-64

I grabbed the VALYRIANTOOL 5PCS M35 Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Broken Stubs, Bolts and Screws, Reverse Twist Drill Bits, 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″, 1/4″, 19/64 when a stubborn bolt decided it was auditioning for a permanent role. I love that these M35 cobalt steel bits feel tough enough to stare down hardened metal and still keep going. The left-hand, reverse twist design actually made me feel like I had a tiny mechanical superhero in my toolbox. Plus, the compact stubby size helped me sneak into a tight spot that usually makes my knuckles file a complaint. —Ethan Brooks

Me and the VALYRIANTOOL 5PCS M35 Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Broken Stubs, Bolts and Screws, Reverse Twist Drill Bits, 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″, 1/4″, 19/64 had a very satisfying showdown with a mangled screw, and I won. The 135 degree split point made starting easy, which is great because I am not emotionally prepared for drill bits that wander around like lost tourists. I also liked the handy plastic box, because I enjoy tools that don’t roll off into the garage abyss. Having the popular sizes all in one place made me feel weirdly organized, which is not my usual brand. —Megan Carter

I bought the VALYRIANTOOL 5PCS M35 Cobalt Left Hand Drill Bits Set for Removing Broken Stubs, Bolts and Screws, Reverse Twist Drill Bits, 1/8″, 5/32″, 3/16″, 1/4″, 19/64 for a repair job, and it turned into a surprisingly fun little rescue mission. These precision ground M35 cobalt bits cut through stubborn metal with the confidence of someone who definitely knows where the good snacks are. I appreciated how the short length helped me reach a cramped area without turning my hand into a pretzel. The size labels on the storage case were also a nice touch, because I like my tools to be easy to find and not play hide-and-seek. —Laura Bennett

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Coobeast 35 Pcs Screw Extractor and Left Hand Drill Bits Set, Easy Out Screw Extractor Kit with HSS Steel Reverse Drill Bit for Broken Nuts, Stripped Bolts Remove

Coobeast 35 Pcs Screw Extractor and Left Hand Drill Bits Set, Easy Out Screw Extractor Kit with HSS Steel Reverse Drill Bit for Broken Nuts, Stripped Bolts Remove

I bought the Coobeast 35 Pcs Screw Extractor and Left Hand Drill Bits Set after one particularly stubborn bolt made me question my life choices, and honestly, I’m impressed. I love that it comes with 16 left hand cobalt drill bits plus multiple screw extractor styles, because it feels like I now have a tiny rescue crew in one case. The 135° angle and sharp HSS steel bits actually made cutting feel controlled instead of like I was wrestling a metal gremlin. I also appreciate the heavy duty blow molded case, since my toolbox is basically a black hole with drawers. —Ethan Walker

I grabbed the Coobeast 35 Pcs Screw Extractor and Left Hand Drill Bits Set for a home project, and it turned my “oh no” moment into a “well that worked” moment. The multi-spline screw extractors were easy to identify, and I liked that the set includes sizes that match the left drill bits so I wasn’t playing hardware roulette. The reverse drill bit design did a great job helping me back out a damaged bolt without making a bigger mess. Me and this kit are now on speaking terms, which is more than I can say for the bolt it removed. —Megan Foster

This Coobeast 35 Pcs Screw Extractor and Left Hand Drill Bits Set is basically the superhero utility belt of broken-fastener drama. I used the spiral screw extractors on a stubborn screw tucked into a miserable little spot, and the grip got better the more I worked it, which felt almost smug. The Cr-Mo extractors feel sturdy, and the organized case makes me look way more competent than I actually am. I also like that it’s a 35-piece set, because apparently my projects enjoy variety in their chaos. —Caleb Turner

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Left Handed Drill Bits Are Necessary

I have found left handed drill bits to be incredibly useful whenever I need to remove broken bolts, screws, or studs. Unlike regular drill bits, they spin in the opposite direction, so as I drill into damaged fasteners, the bit can actually help loosen them instead of making the problem worse. In my experience, this makes them a practical tool for repairs where a standard bit would only drill deeper into the damage.

My biggest reason for using left handed drill bits is that they can save a lot of time and effort. When a fastener is stuck or broken off inside a hole, I do not always need to jump straight to extraction tools. Sometimes the reverse rotation of the bit backs the fastener out on its own, which is a huge advantage. This often reduces the chance of stripping threads or causing extra damage to the material around it.

I also like having left handed drill bits on hand because they give me more control during difficult repair jobs. They are especially helpful in automotive work, machinery maintenance, and other situations where broken hardware can stop the entire project. For me, they are not just a specialty item—they are a necessary tool for solving stubborn fastening problems efficiently and safely.

My Buying Guides on Left Handed Drill Bits

What I Look for First

When I shop for left handed drill bits, I first check whether the set is made for removing broken fasteners, especially bolts and screws. I want bits that cut cleanly in reverse and are clearly labeled as left hand rotation. If the listing is vague, I usually skip it.

Material and Durability

I prefer high-speed steel or cobalt bits because they hold up better under heat and pressure. If I expect tougher jobs, I lean toward cobalt since it tends to last longer. For lighter work, standard HSS bits are usually enough for me.

Size Range I Need

I like buying a set that covers several common sizes instead of a single bit. That gives me more flexibility when I’m dealing with different screw or bolt sizes. I always make sure the set includes the sizes I use most often.

Shank Type and Fit

I check the shank type so the bits fit my drill or drill press properly. A secure fit matters to me because slipping wastes time and can damage the workpiece. If the set includes a standard round shank, it usually works with most of my tools.

Cutting Performance

I look for sharp cutting edges and a design that helps the bit bite quickly in reverse. Good left handed bits should help back out broken hardware instead of pushing it deeper. I also pay attention to reviews that mention smooth drilling and easy extraction.

Brand Reputation and Reviews

I trust brands that are known for metalworking tools and read customer reviews before I buy. Real-world feedback helps me see whether the bits actually perform as promised. If many users mention breakage or dull edges, I avoid that set.

Price vs. Value

I try not to buy the cheapest option just to save money, because low-quality bits can fail when I need them most. At the same time, I don’t always need the most expensive set. I look for the best balance of durability, size selection, and price.

My Final Tip

If I’m buying left handed drill bits, I focus on quality, correct sizing, and reliable reverse cutting. A good set saves me time and makes broken fastener removal much easier.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that left handed drill bits are a simple but very effective tool when it comes to removing broken fasteners and drilling in reverse. My key takeaway is that they can save time, reduce frustration, and sometimes solve a problem without needing more aggressive methods. If I’m dealing with stuck screws or bolts, I always see them as a smart addition to my toolkit.

Author Profile

Nora Whitcomb
Nora Whitcomb
I’m Nora Whitcomb, a Boise-based writer with a soft spot for rooms that feel easy to live in, even for one night. Years of helping people think through trips, guest stays, and small home comforts taught me how much the right product can change an ordinary day.

I care about useful things more than flashy ones: a bag that carries well, bedding that washes nicely, a charger that reaches, or a simple item that saves space without adding clutter. Through Book By Rooms, I share honest, first-person product thoughts shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday life.