DIY Angle Grinder Stand

Sharpen blades or tools with an angle grinder stand.

The angles on various types of cutting tools and implements are not merely happenstance -- they are calculated for each specific tool. Blade angles can be steep or shallow depending on the how the tool is to be used. For example, typical chisel blades have a 30-degree angle. Other angled cutting surfaces, like some drill bits, have shallow 15-degree angles. Regardless, the tool or blade should be maintained so that the cutting edge retains its original angle. Cut a small block with a given angle to use as a stand to place your tool, bit or blade at the right angle every time.

Things You'll Need

• Wood block, 2 1/2-by-2 1/2-by-10 inches
• Bench grinder
• Miter saw

Instructions

1. Stand the block up in front of a grinding wheel, just barely touching the left side of the wheel. The grinder should be off.

2. Hold the bit, blade or tool against the front of a grinding wheel. The block should be directly to the left, almost touching the tool. Look straight down at the point where the beveled angle touches the wheel. Tilt the tool until the angled part is flush against the wheel.

3. Hold the tool steady at that angle with your left hand. Reach under the tool and trace a rough line on the block indicating the angle of the tool. It doesn't have to be perfect, it's just a starting point.

4. Place the block on a miter saw. Swing the blade over the block to align it with the line you drew. Turn on the saw and cut through the block on the line.

5. Stand the block up in front of the wheel with the angle facing out. Place the tool on the angled part of the block you just cut. Slide the tool up to the wheel. Check the angle. If it's not perfect, tilt the tool up or down until the angle matches. Look at the difference in the block's angle and the angle of the tool. Try trimming the block's angle sharper or more shallow on the miter saw and check again.

6. Repeat the previous step, recutting the angle on the block until the tool angle is flush against the wheel when it is flat on the angled block's surface. Turn on the grinder and use the block to sharpen the tool, maintaining the angle by holding it on the block stand.

Tips & Warnings

• Some tools work better with this type of stand than others. While drill bits work well, larger items, such as lawnmower blades, might be better off without a stand. Experiment to find what works best for your tools.

• Wear safety glasses when grinding or cutting with a miter saw.