How to Sharpen Twist Drill Bits

Twist drill bits can be sharpened when they are dull.

Twist drill bits are common bits used to drill into many types of material, such as wood, metal and concrete. When the lip of a twist drill bit becomes dull, the process of drilling a hole takes longer and uses more of your cordless drill's battery power. You don't have to throw away a twist drill bit that's become dull. You can sharpen the bit using a few tools.

Things You'll Need

• Bench grinder
• Dull twist drill bits
• Adjustable protractor

Instructions

1. Remove the twist drill bit from the drill. If you will be sharpening multiple bits, organize them on the workbench.

2. Place the adjustable protractor against the grinding wheel of the bench grinder. Adjust the protractor to the degree of angle that you will hold the twist drill bit when sharpening. You will begin sharpening the bit at an angle of 59 degrees.

3. Adjust the angle of the protractor to find 55 degrees, then 50 degrees. Set the protractor aside.

4. Turn on the bench grinder. Hold the drill bit in your hand, carefully placing your forefinger near the tip of the bit. Adjust the drill bit so that the tip is horizontal to the grinding wheel and is at an angle of 59 degrees.

5. Press the drill bit against the grinding wheel. Start turning the bit clockwise and downward. Adjust the bit to an angle of 55 degrees and continue turning until you end up at an angle of 50 degrees. Repeat this step two to three times until the bit is sufficiently sharpened.

6. Repeat Steps 4 and 5 to sharpen additional twist drill bits.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from flying sparks.

References

• WoodCraft: Twist Drill Sharpening Tips