It happens to every wine drinker at least once. After agonizing over the perfect bottle to crack open, you realize the corkscrew has gone AWOL. Luckily, there are plenty of other tools you can use to get into (and to the bottom of) your favorite bottle of wine.

Step 1: Prep the Area

Give yourself enough room, the first time can be messy.

Although this method is a reliable way to uncork a bottle, it's not always the cleanest. Before getting started make sure your uncorking area has enough room for a wide, arching release when the cork finally gives. Also, a few standby towels couldn't hurt.

Step 2: Twist the Screw Into the Cork

Be careful not to drill through the bottom of the cork!

After removing the foil from the top of the bottle, use the screwdriver to gently twist the screw into the center of the cork. The goal is to get enough in to be able to yank the cork out cleanly, so make sure to stop about 3/4ths of the way through the cork. When you're done most of the screw should be securely embedded, with just enough sticking out from the top to grip with the hammer.

Step 3: Scoot the Hammer Into Place

A ball hammer won't cut it. Always go for the claw.

Grab the hammer and grip the exposed portion of the screw between the claws. Again, the goal here is getting a solid grip without loosening the screw.

Step 4: Yank The Cork

Don't go crazy with the yank -- keep it smooth.

With the bottle held securely into place, it's time to apply the muscle. One long, smooth tug away from the body should be enough to free most corks. Don't get overzealous though. No bottle of private reserve is worth a hammer to the face.