Is it possible to fix a screw that has been stripped? It is not an uncommon problem to run into when you are into the DIY projects. I personally have come across this quite frequently. I would like a solution that would be permanent, and one that doesn't involve buying new screws. How do I do this?
I'm not asking how to remove them, as asked How to remove screws with stripped heads?. I want to know how to fix it.
You can repair many small metal parts using a micro welder. Alternatively (and probably far more commonly) some people use a vice and a hammer to form the damaged head into a suitable shape for the next stage ...
You can re-cut a drive slot using a suitable tool. For slotted screws this would be a file intended for that purpose
For machine bolts, threads can be repaired using dies or helical inserts. I'm not aware of anything equivalent for things like wood-screws.
I admit I can't imagine any circumstances where I would not just drive to the store and buy a new screw (and probably a better screwdriver to match).
I found this on the web a few weeks ago. This could have saved me many times. I plan on purchasing one. http://www.amazon.com/home-improvement/dp/B002L6HJAA
