amfoto1 Loc: San Jose, Calif. USA

I agree!

In fact, don't ever use oil of any type (especially not penetrating oil like WD40). Chances are it will penetrate inside the lens and end up on the optics, requiring disassembly to clean it properly.

After you remove the filter, you might try rubbing paraffin, such as a candle, gently on the threads to lubricate them slightly. That can help. Graphite is another possibility, but has to be used VERY carefully because the fine powder can end up where you don't want it. Rubbing the threads with a soft, graphite pencil might be safer than using graphite lubricants (power or in liquid, like lock lubricants).

One of the reasons I mostly use B+W filters is their brass frame, which is less likely to gall and get stuck on lenses with metal threads. Aluminum is the worst, especially when the lens barrel is also aluminum. Many lensese these days use plastic filter threads, which are much less prone to getting stuck. And a few filters use Teflon on the threads to help prevent sticking.

I think that "slim" filters are also more prone to getting stuck, perhaps because their frames flex slightly, and avoid using them unnecessarily.

The rubber band trick usually works. I've also used rubber "bottle cap" grippers from the kitchen. Or "dental dams" that are made of latex and help get a good grip lens and filter (also can be used to protect the optics when straightening a dent, as described below).

But sometimes in worse cases a pair of filter wrenches may be necessary.

At the most extreme, I've occasionally had to very carefully break the glass out of a filter, cut partway through it's frame several places around the perimeter with a hack saw, and then use a large wrench to "collapse" the filter.... all without doing any damage to the lens, of course!

If you don't want to buy the filter wrenches and there's a local camera repairer, they probably would have the tools and can remove it for you for a couple $.

After removing it, check that the barrel around the filter threads isn't dented in any way. Even slightly out of round it can cause filters to get stuck all too easily. There are special tools to repair out of shape, metal lens barrels, too. I've used those at times, but also have made some tools in various sizes out of hard wood and hard plastic that are used to "push" or very gently tap out dents. This too has to be done very carefully, to avoid damaging the lens.... If at all in doubt, have a professional repairer work on it for you.

10MPlayer Loc: California

Worst case: Get a slip joint pliers and try to twist it off. If that won't work use the same pliers to crush it. It's a risky operation but sometimes it is all there is. I wouldn't advise using Wd40. It would most likely ruin the coatings on the lens.

I had to do the pliers thing on my macro and it worked fine. No lasting damage to the lens.

(Download)

Peanut_the_cat Loc: Bradenton, Florida

Give the lens a good bang on a hard surface or run very hot water over it. If that doesn't work boil some water and pour gently over the filter. These suggestions should get the filter off but assume you do not want to use the lens or filter again.

Pilot

I've used the rubber sole of my sneakers. No damage to the filter...so far.

frankie c Loc: Lake Havasu CIty, AZ

Don't you hate when that happens :( Been there. I wound up using a pair of Chanel lock pliers and a cloth. It gave me enough torque to do the job. It ain't elegant but got the job done. I didn't break anything. GOOD LUCK :)

tropics68 Loc: Georgia

They are dirt cheap and work like a champ. I bought enough to do 36mm to 95mm and I use them frequently. Filters seem to glue themselves to lenses. The ones I have have tiny serrations on the ID and grab the serrations on the filter like a pit bull. They may all have the same thing. Good luck.

GalaxyCat Loc: Boston, MA

Good grief and good luck! I can't get a lens hood off. Can anyone help me with that?

aellman Loc: Boston MA

Do not let WD-40 within 20 feet of your camera.

aellman Loc: Boston MA

One thing to try. Assuming the hood is metal, not plastic, heat it with a hair dryer. Not hot to the touch, but fairly warm.
This will cause the hood to expand and possibly loosen it. Worth a try. >Alan

aellman Loc: Boston MA

One solution may be to not leave the filter on for long periods of time. Remove it when not using it.
Doesn't give it as much of a chance to get stuck on. >Alan

mcveed Loc: Kelowna, British Columbia (between trips)

Great idea but it won't work on a polarizer.

wdross Loc: Castle Rock, Colorado

I've used a filter wrench and I have used the rubberband with success three times. But using a rubber and using the can opener that was pictured sounds like a great idea.

pmorin Loc: Huntington Beach, Palm Springs

Brent, you could try a filter wrench also. Since your lens is a 95mm, you will need something large for the consistent, even pressure required. PM me if you want some help. I’m here in HB today.

Dennis833 Loc: Australia

Grip the filter with your thumb and four finger and gently squeeze and twist in ever position around the circumference of the filter. If the filter is slightly out of shape it will release when you find the right position.

Peterff Loc: O'er The Hills and Far Away, in Themyscira.

A filter wrench set is the best way to go, they are not expensive, and easy to travel with.