How to Keep Drill Bits Sharp and Make Them Last

Blunt Bits Cause Problems

A dull drill bit overheats, wanders, produces rough holes, and makes you push harder - which damages the bit even more. Proper care and occasional sharpening extends bit life dramatically and improves results.

Signs Your Bits Need Attention

• Requires more pressure than before
• Bit gets hot during drilling
• Holes have rough edges
• Bit wanders or chatters
• More smoke/burning smell when drilling wood
• Takes longer to complete holes

Preventing Bit Damage

Correct speed:

• Too fast causes overheating
• Large bits need slower speeds
• Hard materials need slower speeds
• Wood can handle faster speeds than metal

General speed guide:

• Small bits in softwood: high speed
• Large bits in hardwood: medium speed
• Metal: slow, with lubricant
• Masonry: medium speed with SDS action

Correct pressure:

• Let the bit do the work
• Firm, consistent pressure
• Too much pressure = overheating
• Too little = rubbing not cutting

Cooling:

• Retract periodically to clear chips and cool bit
• Use cutting oil for metal drilling
• Don't drill continuously without breaks in tough materials

Sharpening HSS Twist Bits

Most HSS (high-speed steel) bits can be sharpened:

Bench grinder method:

1. Set tool rest to 60° from wheel face
2. Hold bit at 59° angle to face
3. Light contact, rotating bit slightly
4. Maintain even angle
5. Equal grinding on both flutes
6. Cool frequently in water

Drill bit sharpener:

• Dedicated jigs make it easier
• Consistent results
• Worth buying if you go through bits

What to aim for:

• Both cutting edges same length
• Proper chisel angle at center
• Correct lip angle (usually 118° for general purpose)

Different Bit Types, Different Care

HSS twist bits:

• Can be resharpened multiple times
• Keep cool during use
• Use cutting oil for metal

Brad point bits:

• More complex geometry to sharpen
• Better sent for professional sharpening
• Keep point protected in storage

Spade/flat bits:

• Can be sharpened with file
• Maintain cutting edge angles
• File the spurs carefully

Forstner bits:

• Professional sharpening recommended
• Worth it for quality bits
• Handle carefully - teeth are delicate

Masonry bits:

• Carbide tips can be resharpened
• Diamond wheel required
• Usually easier to replace budget bits

SDS bits:

• Professional resharpening available
• Worth it for large expensive bits
• Keep clean and lubed (grease in shank)

Storage

How you store bits affects their condition:

• Keep in proper case or roll
• Don't let bits knock against each other
• Protect cutting edges
• Keep dry to prevent rust
• Light oil coating for long-term storage

Find quality bit sets and storage in our accessories range.

When to Replace

Some bits aren't worth saving:

• Badly chipped or cracked
• Bent (can't be straightened safely)
• Worn to the point cutting edges are gone
• Cheap bits where sharpening costs more than replacement

Quality Matters

Quality bits last longer and sharpen better:

• Better steel holds edge longer
• More precise geometry
• Worth paying more for frequently-used sizes
• Budget bits for occasional use or sacrificial work

The Bottom Line

Sharp bits work better, faster, and safer. Use correct speeds and pressure, cool them properly, and store them well. Learning to sharpen twist bits yourself saves money and means you're never stuck with dull bits. For specialist bits, professional sharpening services are worthwhile for quality tools.

Check our power tool accessories for quality drill bits.