Sharpening Drill Bits

[Dave]

Recently my dad bought a drill bit sharpener but it doesn't sharpen larger sized bits. He has some large bits that are dull and doesn't want to spend the cost to replace them. Is there anyone who has knowledge of how to sharpen drill bits. Any info would be helpful.

[rrich]

Dave,
I've had two different "Drill Sharpeners" and not much luck with either.

If you spend a few minutes looking at a drill I think that you could figure the sharpening thing out.

There are two angles to be considered. The first is the point of the drill itself. Most attempts at sharpening make the drill end too pointy. Second is the angle of attack or cutting angle.

I've usually gotten best results using a grinding wheel rather than the drill sharpener. Put water on the bit before you start grinding, during grinding and immediately after grinding to keep it cool.

One tip, I use the SIDE of the grinding wheel to sharpen the bits and grind both angles simultaneously.

For shapening drill bits you don't need a fancy grinder or set up. Mine (I kid you not!) is an old washing machine motor with a shaft extension to hold the grinding wheel (100 grit) housed in a wooden box that I built. The motor is probably close to 50 years old and I've been using the set up for almost 30 years.

There is a forgiving side to sharpening drill bits. If you mess up, just keep grinding until you get it right as there is a lot of material to work with.

Rich

[joeirish]

I believe you are asking about the angle that is on the bits.
Try setting up a jig with 57 degrees, and yes use the side of the grinding wheel.