Unscrewing a filter that refuses to budge

OK - I assume you have tried all the suggested methods, apart from smashing the glass.. Using a metal object- heavy pair of scissors for example, gently but with some firmness, tap the filter rim around the circumference. The small shocks free the "stiction" in the threads.

The problem in most cases is that the filter ring flexes and distorts with uneven pressure applied when trying to remove it. Use a camera strap or belt to wrap fully around the ring and then pinch the strap to tighten it where the belt/strap comes togethe as you unthread the filter. Do not grasp the strap in a way that exerts uneven pressure. By wrapping a strap around the filter and pinching it you are applying pressure almost perfectly evenly around the filter ring. Heating the filter will probably cause it to expand and cause it to bind even more. Coolness such as C02 or butane lighter fluid sprayed on the filter ring only will cause it to shrink and will allow the ring to come off as well.

In rare instaces my polarizing filter gets stuck. Without a filter wrench, sidewall of a tire, freezer, or similar available I resorted to a shoe lace. I wrapped my boot lace around the filter, tightened it by twisting the shoe lace (using a pencil) and gently turning the filter. After a bit of wiggling and turning it came of nicely. Edited September 10, 2017 by cegeiss