Not everyone has the time or inclination to go out and buy a new drill bit every time they need to sharpen theirs. In this article, we’ll show you how to easily sharpen your drill bits using just a few common household objects.
What is Drill Bit Sharpening?
Drill bits are typically sharpened on a manual grinder. This process of sharpening the bit cuts down on vibration and keeps the bit sharper for a longer period of time.
There are three main steps in sharpening drill bits- roughing, finishing and honing. Roughing is the first step and it’s where the bit is essentially flattened. Finishing is where the bit is rounded off and honed to its final shape.
Types of Drill Bits
Drill bits come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The type of bit that you need for a particular job will depend on the diameter of the hole that you’re trying to drill.
The most common types of drill bits are:
-Round bit: This type is used for drilling holes in metal, plastic, or other hard surfaces. It has a flat surface on one side and a round shape on the other.
-Tapered bit: This type is used to drill holes in soft materials such as wood or plastic. It has a rounded end that tapers down towards the point. This makes it easier to start the hole and prevents it from breaking when you start drilling.
-Angled bit: This type is used to create angled cuts in soft materials. It has an angled tip that helps it make precise cuts.
How to Sharpen Drill Bits
When it comes to drilling, the right bit is essential for a smooth and accurate experience. Whether you’re using a hand drill or a power drill, it’s important to keep your drill bits sharp. Here are four tips on how to sharpen drill bits:
1. Use A File
If you don’t have a sharpening stone or diamond sharpener, you can use a file to sharpen your drill bits. Simply hold the file at a 45-degree angle to the drill bit and use gentle circular motions to sharpen the bit.
2. Use A Sharpening Stone
You can also use a sharpening stone to sharpen drill bits. To do this, first wet the stone with water and then place the bit on the surface of the stone. Use circular motions to sharpen the bit.
3. Use A Diamond Sharpener
If you have a diamond sharpener, you can use it to sharpen your drill bits. To do this, first wet the diamond sharpener with water and then place the bit on the surface of the diamond sharpener. Use circular motions to sharpen the bit.
Tips for Choosing the Right Drill Bit Sharpener
When it comes to drilling bits, the right sharpener is essential for ensuring accurate and smooth performance. Here are tips to help you choose the best drill bit sharpener for your needs:
1. Consider the Size of Your Drill Bit
The size of your drill bit impacts the type and size of sharpener that you will need. For small bits, a small sharpener will suffice. For larger bits, you may need a more powerful sharpener.
2. Consider the Material of Your Drill Bit
Drill bits made from different materials require different sharpeners. Bits made of metal, for example, often require a more powerful sharpener than those made of plastic.
3. Consider the Sharpening Style You Use
There are two common styles of sharpening: manual and machine. Manual sharpeners use hand pressure to sharpen drill bits while machine sharpeners use electric motors to do the job. If you’re only going to use your drill occasionally, either style will work fine. But if you use your drill more frequently, a machine-style sharpener may be a better choice because it’s faster and easier.
Conclusion
If you’re a woodworker or metal worker, you probably know how important it is to have sharp drill bits. But if you don’t have time to go buy new drill bits every time your old ones start to lose their edge, then this guide will show you how to sharpen them yourself. By following these simple steps, you can keep your drill bits razor-sharp and able to handle any drilling task that comes your way.
