As a DIY enthusiast, it’s common to encounter unusual product designs. One such item is a tri-wing screw, also known as the triangular slotted screw, which is not very common.
As the name suggests, it is a screw with three wings and a triangular-shaped hole in the center. If you encounter a tri-wing screw in any device, it’s understandable to wonder how to remove a tri-wing screw?
It’s easy to remove a tri-wing screw, provided you have a suitable device. Some devices you can use to remove this pesky screw are as follows:
- A tri-wing screwdriver
- A knife
- A plier
- A coin
A tri-wing screw is often used in devices to deter people from opening it. So, if you encounter this screw in any project you’re working on, you must be sure you know what you are doing so you don’t ruin it.
In this article, we will elaborate on four different ways to remove a tri-wing screw.
4 Ways To Remove a Tri-Wing Screw
A tri-wing screw is a fastener with three offset slots that don’t intersect the center. This fastener can come in a left-hand thread and a right-hand thread.
The left-hand thread is called an Opsit screw, where unscrewing requires you to turn the screwdriver clockwise.
Whichever type of tri-wing screw you have, removing it may seem difficult if you have never drawn one before. However, below are four tricks you can use to remove a tri-wing screw.
1. Using a Tri-Wing Screwdriver
The best way to remove a tri-wing screw is with a tri-wing screwdriver. A tri-wing screwdriver is designed to unscrew a tri-wing screw. Usually, you should find the tri-wing screwdriver in screwdriver bit kits.
However, if you don’t find one in your kit, you can buy the tri-wing screwdriver at a local hardware store near you.
With a tri-wing screwdriver, fit it into the tri-wing screw and unscrew it. Ensure that the bit size of the screwdriver you get is the right size for the tri-wing screw. And when unscrewing, turn it counterclockwise first.
If you feel the screw getting tightened, then turn it clockwise.
2. Using a Knife
Another way to remove a tri-wing is with a knife. This method is best when you don’t have a tri-wing screwdriver. The best knife for this task is one with a pointed tip.
For example, a hunting knife or a pocket knife should do the trick to remove a tri-wing screw.
To use a knife to remove a tri-wing screw, place the pointy end between all three wings simultaneously, and push down against them while pulling the entire piece towards you simultaneously.
A side of the tri-wing screw should pop out relatively quickly if done right. Repeat the step for each flap until you’ve removed the circumference and are broken free.
3. Using a Plier
Also, a plier can come in handy when removing a tri-wing screw. The plier can get between the tiny points of the tri-wing screw and give you enough force to remove it.
When using a plier, grab all three points simultaneously. Since the plier has rigid surfaces, it provides a good grip and doesn’t require too much effort from you.
When grabbing the tri-wing screw with a plier, hold it as close to the body as possible. Apply pressure on the plier and pull back until the screw head snaps.
You can use the remaining bits of the screw as a wingnut to twist the screw off without needing a screwdriver.
4. Using a Coin
A coin can also do the trick to remove a tri-wing screw. A cent or dime will work best if you want to use a coin to remove the tri-wing screw. Think of the coin like a flathead screwdriver.
Using a coin works best when you have a large tri-wing screw. Fit the coin in the grove of the tri-wing screw, press it downwards, and turn it counterclockwise.
It may take several tries to get the screw out, especially if it is fitted tightly.
Conclusion
As you can see from this guide, if you encounter a tri-wing screw on any device, it’s best to remove it with a tri-wing screwdriver.
If you don’t have a tri-wing screwdriver, other methods exist to remove the tri-wing screw.
But note that other methods may require you to damage the tri-wing screw. So, unless you don’t intend to fasten the device back together or have a tri-wing screw replacement, it’s best to stick with a tri-wing screwdriver.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Tri-Wing and Tri-Groove Screws the Same?
No, tri-wing and tri-groove screws are different types of screws. Although both screws have similar designs, as they have three offset slots, the difference is in the size and angle of the slots.
The recess on tri-wings slots has three radial wings and a small triangular hole. The recess on tri-wings slots has three radial wings and a small triangular hole.
Is a Tri-Wing Screw a Security Screw?
To a certain degree, a tri-wing screw is a security screw. But getting a hold of a tri-wing screwdriver is not all that difficult, which defeats the idea of a security screw.
