Removing Camera Mount Screws: A Step-By-Step Guide

Removing a screw from a camera mount can be a tricky task, especially if the screw is stripped or broken. Here are some methods that might help you remove the screw:

- Using a screwdriver: If the screw head is intact, try using a correctly sized screwdriver to unscrew it. You can also try rocking a slightly larger flat-head screwdriver back and forth in the screw head to create a groove and then carefully unscrew it.

- Rubber band method: Place a rubber band flat over the screw head, providing enough friction to unscrew it.

- Pliers: Use a pair of pliers to grip the screw head and turn it.

- Drilling: Drill a small hole in the centre of the screw and use a screw extractor to remove it. Be careful not to drill into the camera body.

- Gluing: Apply a small amount of adhesive or epoxy to the screw head and attach a bolt. Let it harden and then use the bolt to unscrew the broken piece.

- Cutting: Use a Dremel tool with a cut-off disc to cut a straight slot in the broken screw, then use a flat-head screwdriver to unscrew it.

Characteristics of removing a screw from a camera mount

Try using a screwdriver to prise it out

If your camera mount screw is stuck, you can try using a screwdriver to prise it out. This method is recommended by several online forums and is a good option if you don't have access to a camera shop or more specialised tools.

Firstly, it's important to note that you should use a JIS (Japanese Industrial Standard) screwdriver when repairing Japanese camera equipment. Standard Phillips-head screwdrivers are not suitable and can damage your gear. Vessel is a good brand to try.

If the screw head is stripped, you can try slotting the screw with a Dremel, and then using an oversized flathead screwdriver to slowly prise it out. Alternatively, you can use a thin, flexible material like a rubber band or a piece of paper placed over the screw head to provide extra friction and help you get a grip.

If you are prising out a screw from the bottom of your camera, be careful not to stab yourself or drop your camera. It may be a good idea to get someone to hold the camera while you work.

If the screw is very small, you can try using a pair of tweezers or small pliers to grip and turn it.

If the screw is stuck inside the camera, you may need to remove the bottom plate of your camera to access it.

Use a wrench to remove it

If the screw is stuck, you can try using a wrench to remove it. Here's how:

First, get two nuts that fit the threads on the screw. Screw them both onto the screw shaft, tightening them against each other. This will protect the screw from deformation and provide a large, flat edge for your wrench to grip onto. Then, use a wrench to grip the bottom nut and turn it counter-clockwise to unscrew. This method, known as the "jam nut" method, is a reliable way to remove stubborn screws without damaging them.

If you don't have a wrench, a pair of locking pliers or channel lock pliers can also be used to grip the bottom nut and turn it. Alternatively, you can try placing duct tape around the screw to protect it and provide a better grip for the pliers.

If the screw is not too tight, you may be able to simply use a wrench or pliers to grip the wider part of the screw and turn it counter-clockwise without needing any additional tools or preparations.

Try a pair of pliers

If the screw is stuck and won't turn, try using a pair of pliers to grip the screw head and turn it out. If the screw head is stripped, you can try to make a new groove on the screw head with a single-point cutter or marking pen. If the screw is stuck inside the camera, you can try to remove the bottom plate of the camera to access the screw. However, this may require specialised tools and mechanical knowledge, so it is recommended to take the camera to a repair shop if you are uncomfortable with this procedure.

Drill a hole in the screw

If you are unable to remove a stuck camera mount screw, you can try drilling a hole in the screw. This method will destroy the screw but should allow you to remove it.

Firstly, you will need to select a drill bit that is smaller than the screw. You should drill into the screw at a very slow pace. Drilling too fast may damage the camera. Once the drill bit has made its way into the screw, you can increase the speed.

If you do not have access to a drill, you could try using a Dremel tool. However, this method may cause more damage to the camera casing.

Take it to a repair shop

If you're not confident in your ability to remove a stuck screw from your camera mount, or you don't have the right tools to hand, it's best to take it to a repair shop.

Repair shops will have the right tools and expertise to remove the screw without damaging your camera. They will also be able to assess whether there is any other damage to your camera and advise on any further repairs that may be needed.

It's worth shopping around and getting a few quotes from different repair shops, as prices can vary. Some repair shops may also offer a faster service for a higher price, which could be useful if you need your camera back quickly.

While it may be more expensive than fixing it yourself, taking your camera to a repair shop can give you peace of mind that the job will be done properly and safely.

Frequently asked questions