How to Sharpen a Drill

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By Alden Witt
eHow Contributing Writer

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(4 Ratings)

Sharpen a Drill

With use, your drill bits will grow dull and will cut less effectively, put more strain on your tools, require more force and be more likely to break. With a little know-how, however, you can sharpen your drill bits with a grinding wheel.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Grinding wheel and fine-grit wheel
Heavy gloves
Face shield
Protractor (optional)

Step 1

Angles for Sharpening

Hold the drill bit parallel to the floor at a 59-degree angle to the edge of the grinding wheel (see image for reference). Use the protractor for greater precision if necessary.
Step 2

Hold the bit on your forefinger, with the cutting edge/lip horizontal.
Step 3

Move the bit in three distinct motions as you press its tip against the wheel: sideways against the wheel; counterclockwise; and downward toward the floor.
The bit should pass only lightly against the wheel and should never become too hot to touch.
Step 4

Repeat this process at 55 and 50 degrees. Be certain that cutting lips remain of equal length.

Tips & Warnings

Grinding at precisely 59 degrees by hand is difficult; simply try to be as precise as possible. Even if you do not sharpen the twist perfectly, it will still cut, though the hole might be slightly larger. The clearance angle (the angle of the tip of the drill) should remain at approximately 8 to 12 degrees. Generally, a greater angle is better for drilling harder materials.
Wear gloves and a face shield to avoid injury and burns.