🧰 Xcat – DIY Help, Tool Advice & Real Solutions
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Hi everyone,
I’ve been sorting through some of my workshop tools recently and realised I’ve accumulated quite a few dull drill bits over the years.
Some people say it’s worth resharpening drill bits on a grinder, while others say modern bits are cheap enough that it’s easier to just replace them.
I’m curious what others here do.
Do you:
• sharpen drill bits yourself
• use a drill bit sharpening tool
• or simply replace them when they go blunt?
I mainly drill wood and mild steel, so nothing too extreme, but I do notice bits getting dull after a while, especially when drilling harder materials.
Also, for those who do sharpen bits — is it easy to keep the correct angle, or does it take a lot of practice?
Would be interested to hear what methods people use and what tools... guides i might need?
A lot of people still sharpen their own drill bits, especially larger HSS bits where replacement costs start adding up.
Freehand sharpening on a bench grinder definitely takes some practice though, particularly keeping the correct angle and both cutting edges even.
If you only sharpen bits occasionally, a drill sharpening jig/guide can make the process much quicker and reasonably accurate without needing years of experience.
They’re especially useful when you’re in the middle of a project and don’t have time to go out buying replacement bits.
For anyone interested, we do stock a handy drill bit sharpening attachment designed for use with an angle grinder here:
👉 https://xcatalogue.co.uk/product/drill-bit-sharpener-attachment/
Useful little workshop tool for bringing worn drill bits back to life 👍