Craftsman  5 pc. Screw Extractor Set

I think it would work fine for bolts or screws that aren't stuck too tightly, because it bites well. However, I was astounded at how easily it shattered. I was using the smallest extractor, applying about the same amount of force I would use to open a lightly stuck jar, and SNAP! The tip broke off inside the bolt shaft- with no way to pull it out! I was using it when the work area was hot to the touch- maybe this weakened it? Still, the earlier comments about toughness make me wonder if quality may have declined in recent years. Also... contrary to an earlier review it is not designed for reverse-threaded applications. The cutting edges are angled like a pinwheel so the tool bites nicely when turned counter-clockwise (lefty) and releases when turned clockwise (righty).

Do not expect this tool to extract any hardened bolt or anything set into solid metal. The tool is cast (iron, I guess), which makes it very brittle. Cast metal anything is not hardened. It is good for some applications I guess but applied torque is not among the benefits. It will break under any pressure at all. I ordered this set but knew immediately when I got it I cannot use it for the purpose I bought it for. I needed to remove stuck brake bleeder valves. I won't use this tool for that purpose: it will break off and cause me further grief. Waste of money for my purposes. Don't waste yours. And frankly, I doubt it would remove a stubborn wood screw without snapping. As for a wood screw, to use this product you will first need to drill a hole in the screw, and then tap the correct extractor tool into the hole, and then use a drill to extract the screw. Whereas you have the danger that the bit will break anyway. Oh, and be sure to wear goggles if you try that, since a small shard of metal CAN blind an eye. Bottom line, do not buy this product for any purpose. It's made of inferior material and is insufficient to almost any purpose. Trust me. Find a titanium tool that promises the same thing, if such a tool exists. I'll just give up and replace the part I was trying to fix. Cheaper in the long run.

I bought these as the can be used no matter what direction the threads on a bolt are,left or right hand. I have used them numerous times with success. You have to be careful with them becasue they can break if you bind them, but the same could be said for the matco set I had before this. These were half the price with the same quality. Great buy! Great tool!

I had a 2001 ExplorerLImited with the V-8.  Due to road salt, I broke off the spark plug in cyl #2.  I was really worried I'd have to end up pulling the head. There was nothing to bite into.  Got this style extractor, used some "freeze- spray" and tapped this in...nothing to lose right?

Waited one hour, tapped it again and tried to turn it.  Viola!  It began to back out. 

Had never used this style before, but for bigger bolts, they are definitely more durable and since they have an "edge" to them, you actually drive it into the side wall of the bolt your removing so there is less slip. Highly Recommend!

Help up well under significant twisting force. Spiral extractors I've used in the past wouldve easily snapped under same torque. No lifetime on these (considered a consumable, I guess) so go easy on them.

Extracting bolts is never a fun task and I know newer products have hit the market and I've tried some with limited success, but if you can find or make the room to drill, these should work every time. Drill the hole, pound in the right one, turn it out with some vise grips Well worth the price Had my set for years never broke one and I'm certianly not easy on them