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10 Best Drill Bit Sharpeners of 2024 

Updated
Sharp drill bits are safer and more efficient.

Thanks to the huge range of different drill bits that are available, modern power drills are among the most versatile tools in the world. However, even the best drill will be ineffective if the bit you are using becomes blunt.

While it is possible to buy replacement bits, this will be expensive, especially if you are a professional and use a drill regularly. It will be far more cost-effective to sharpen your bits, which can be achieved by using a drill bit sharpener.

To help you choose the right tool for the job, we have reviewed ten of the best drill bit sharpeners that are currently available. We chose these sharpeners for their size, material, power source, and how versatile they are.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Drill Doctor 500X
Best Automatic Drill Bit Sharpener
Drill Doctor 500X
  • 118 to 135 degrees
  • Sharpens split-point tips
  • Beginner-friendly
Product Image of the Tormek DBS-22 Sharpening Jig
Best Drill Bit Sharpening Jig
Tormek DBS-22 Sharpening Jig
  • High-precision
  • Very durable
  • 90 to 150 degrees
Product Image of the Drill Doctor 750X
Best Professional Drill Bit Sharpener
Drill Doctor 750X
  • Very user-friendly
  • Sharpens bits of 0.094 to 0.75 inches
  • 115 to 140 degrees
Product Image of the Tormek T-8 Water Cooled Precision
Best Premium Drill Bit Sharpener
Tormek T-8 Water Cooled Precision
  • Micro-adjustable
  • Water-cooled
  • Magnetic scraper
Product Image of the Drill Doctor DD350X
Best Value Drill Bit Sharpener
Drill Doctor DD350X
  • Simple to operate
  • 118-degree angle
  • Includes instructional DVD
Product Image of the Woodstock D4144 Drill Sharpener
Best Drill Bit Sharpener Tool
Woodstock D4144 Drill Sharpener
  • Can repeat angles
  • Simple design
  • 5 angle options
Product Image of the Sealey Multi-Purpose Bench Sharpener
Best Multi-Purpose Drill Bit Sharpener
Sealey Multi-Purpose Bench Sharpener
  • Dedicated slots for different items
  • Stable base
  • All-around sharpening tool
Product Image of the Darex V390 Drill Bit Sharpener
Best Industrial Drill Bit Sharpener
Darex V390 Drill Bit Sharpener
  • Very durable
  • 3-step sharpening
  • Borazon wheel
Product Image of the Portable Drill Bit Sharpener
Best Budget Drill Bit Sharpener
Portable Drill Bit Sharpener
  • Powered by a drill
  • Lightweight
  • Two-pack
Product Image of the Work Sharp Knife & Tool Sharpener
Best Multipurpose Drill Bit Sharpener
Work Sharp Knife & Tool Sharpener
  • Sharpens various items
  • 3 grades of abrasiveness
  • 12-volt power option

Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, we bring a hands-on approach to our analysis and evaluation of the best drill bit sharpeners on the market. Our professional team uses stringent criteria and benchmarks to measure and compare each product’s performance. We delve into the data, tracking the results of our research and assessments, and share our findings with you. We examine factors such as ease of use, durability, precision, and value for money. We evaluate design choices and their impact on users, providing firsthand evidence to help you make an informed decision. Our review process is thorough, ranking each product based on its standout features and overall score. Discover the drill bit sharpener that meets your needs with Sensible Digs.



The Best Drill Bit Sharpeners of 2024

Modern drills are among the most popular and versatile tools in the world, which means there is now a wide range of different sharpeners to choose from. To help you find the right one, we have reviewed ten of the best drill bit sharpeners you can buy today, chosen for their versatility, how they are powered, and how large they are.

Drill Doctor 500X Drill Bit Sharpener

Best Automatic Drill Bit Sharpener

Drill Doctor specializes in bit sharpeners, so it is no surprise that the brand appears on our list multiple times. This is Drill Doctor’s 500X model, which sharpens smaller bits and has fewer angle options, but it should still fulfill most of your bit-sharpening needs.

It can sharpen bits ranging from 0.094 inches to 0.50 inches, and you can set the point angle between 118 and 135 degrees. Another benefit of Drill Doctor tools is that they can sharpen split-point tips that walk less during use and help you drill more quickly.

What We Like

Easy to Use

Simply slot the bit into the jig, attach the jig to the sharpener, and set the amount of material you want to remove. Then, set it to operate for 15 seconds and repeat the process on the other side of the bit. This is a very user-friendly tool.

Affordable

Some sharpeners are expensive but this one is reasonably priced, making it a sensible addition to any DIY enthusiast’s tool collection.

Great for Beginners

If you are getting started with DIY and need some beginner-friendly tools, this is a very good sharpener option. It will achieve excellent results with no experience required.

What We Don't Like

Rough Finish

Although this sharpener apparently has a 180-grit sander, it leaves the surface of the drill bit quite rough, which could impact your finish when drilling.

Lacks Finesse

This tool will sharpen your bits but don’t expect the same quality of finish as hand-sharpened bits. It will do a good job but having it professionally sharpened will make your bit sharper.

Product Specs

Weight 4.8 pounds
Dimensions (inches) 13.75 x 5.75 x 11.75
Angles 118 and 135 degrees
Drill bit sizes (inches) 0.094 to 0.50
Manual/electric Electric
Price $$
Warranty 3-year

Our Ratings

Sharpening Efficiency
4 / 5
Compatibility
4 / 5
Ease of Use
5 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

User Experience

My experience using this Drill Doctor has been quite an adventure, one that pleasantly surprised me with its impressive results. Initially, I was skeptical about the tool's ability to sharpen drill bits to my satisfaction, considering my professional background as a retired toolmaker. However, after using it on my dull drill bits, I was amazed at how efficiently it restored their sharpness, despite some cosmetic scratches on the ground surface. The sharpened drill bits, although not as aesthetically pleasing as those sharpened with professional machines, performed flawlessly, drilling accurate holes in metal with ease. This Drill Doctor has proven to be a valuable addition to my home workshop, allowing me to keep my drill bits in prime condition without the need to constantly purchase replacements.

Tormek DBS-22 Sharpening Jig

Best Drill Bit Sharpening Jig

If you spend extra money on a high-end drill bit sharpener, it should be precise and achieve a smooth finish. This Tormek jig uses a four-facet point sharpening action to extend the lifespan of your drill bits. This symmetrical grind action allows the bit to be self-centering and eliminates the need for pilot holes or punches.

It sharpens points to angles between 90 and 150 degrees, and the optimal clearance angle can be adjusted to 7, 9, 11, or 14 degrees.

What We Like

Precision

This jig avoids any guesswork to deliver precise results every time you use it. This accuracy will be reflected in the quality of the holes you drill.

Longevity

If you use this jig while sharpening your bits, Tormek claims you will be able to extend their usefulness by as much as 4 times longer than standard bits.

Versatile Sharpening

This jig can help you sharpen drill bits ranging from 0.125 inches to 0.875 inches, and you can set the grind angle clearance to 7, 9, 11, or 14 degrees.

What We Don't Like

Price

This jig is expensive. It costs more than some of the drill bit sharpeners we have reviewed, and this is only the jig, not the sharpener itself.

Requires Skill

Compared to some of the sharpeners we have looked at, which are very user-friendly and require no expertise to use, this jig requires some skill to operate.

Product Specs

Weight 16 pounds
Dimensions (inches) 14 x 7 x 3
Angles 90 and 150 degrees
Drill bit sizes (inches) 0.125 to 0.875
Manual/electric Manual
Price $$$
Warranty 1-year

Our Ratings

Sharpening Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
3 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Personal Perspective

This drill sharpening jig, the DBS-22, was a little tricky to get the hang of at first, but once I figured it out, it breathed new life into my worn-out drill bits. The jig's strength lies in its precision, delivering uniformly sharp cuts on both sides of the drill. While it required some trial and error to find the right settings for each facet, the end result was a smooth, polished cut that made drilling through aluminium and flatbar feel effortless. This jig is not cheap and the process isn't speedy, but the quality of the outcome and the promise of extended drill life make it a worthwhile investment for me.

Drill Doctor 750X Drill Bit Sharpener

Best Professional Drill Bit Sharpener

Drill Doctor is by far the most popular drill sharpener brand, helping you achieve excellent results with no prior experience. It can sharpen various drill bit types, from masonry and cobalt bits to high-speed steel.

What makes this unit stand out is how simple it is to use, yet you can still set custom point angles between 115 to 140 degrees. It can sharpen drill bits from 0.094 inches up to 0.75 inches, and it allows you to set the amount of material you want to remove.

What We Like

Simplicity of Use

Like most Drill Doctor tools, this sharpener is very simple to use. If you follow the basic instructions, you will be able to sharpen your bits quickly and easily.

Versatile

This sharpener accommodates a very wide range of different drill bits. It can sharpen various materials and sizes ranging from 0.094 inches to 0.75 inches.

Excellent Price

For such a user-friendly tool, this sharpener is very reasonably priced. If you want a versatile sharpener at a low price point, this is a great option.

What We Don't Like

Build Quality Issues

Some customers have complained that this sharpener’s build quality feels on the cheap side. The unit is apparently quite flexible, which suggests that less durable materials have been used.

Imperfect Finish

This tool will sharpen your drill bits but won’t provide the same quality of finish as manual sharpening brings.

Product Specs

Weight 4.1 pounds
Dimensions (inches) 5 x 8 x 4.5
Angles 115 and 140 degrees
Drill bit sizes (inches) 0.094 to 0.75
Manual/electric Electric
Price $$
Warranty 3-year

Our Ratings

Sharpening Efficiency
4 / 5
Compatibility
5 / 5
Ease of Use
5 / 5
Durability
3 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

I'm pretty taken with this Drill Doctor. Initially, there was a bit of a learning curve; pinpointing the perfect alignment of the bit in the collet and mastering the grinding motion took some effort. But, once I overcame these hurdles, this tool delivered impressive results on my pile of dull drill bits. Just a word of caution though, always double check the grinding wheel is firmly attached to prevent any mishaps.

Tormek T-8 Water Cooled Precision Sharpening System

Best Premium Drill Bit Sharpener

Perhaps the first thing you will notice about this Tormek sharpener is that it is expensive, costing several times more than some of its cheaper alternatives. However, it is priced this way for a reason, as this is a premium drill bit sharpener that will help you achieve excellent results.

It includes various jigs for angles and flat edges, a honing solution that provides a mirrorlike finish, and two grindstone wheels that have a grit range of 220 to 1,000 for professional-quality results.

What We Like

Micro-Adjustable

The ability to adjust the angle and depth of the cut with great precision means this tool will help you achieve an ideal finish.

Water Cooled

However hard you work the Tormek, it will never overheat thanks to its water cooling system. This also means you can achieve a sharper edge on your drill bits without the risk of heat damage.

Magnetic Scraper

The magnetic scraper collects the metal particles that are removed as you sharpen bits. This gets them away from the grinding wheel, where damage could occur, and it makes it easier to keep the water trough clean.

What We Don't Like

Very Expensive

This is device is best suited to professional work, given its price. If you are an amateur DIYer, you are unlikely to use it enough to justify paying so much money for a sharpener.

Requires Skill

Unlike some sharpeners, this Tormek tool requires some knowledge and skill to use effectively. This is another reason that it is a better option for professionals rather than DIYers.

Product Specs

Weight 39.9 pounds
Dimensions (inches) 15 x 11.5 x 15
Angles Infinite
Drill bit sizes (inches) Universal
Manual/electric Electric
Price $$$$
Warranty 7-year

Our Ratings

Sharpening Efficiency
5 / 5
Compatibility
5 / 5
Ease of Use
3 / 5
Durability
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

First-Hand Impression

For anyone who's into tool sharpening and maintenance, this water wheel system is a substantial addition to the workshop. Once I got the hang of it, the system allowed me to sharpen knives, chisels, and even plane irons with precision. However, keep in mind that you'll need to invest in additional jigs and mats to make the most of the machine. The sharpened edges may not look uniform but they are extremely sharp, which is testament to the machine's effectiveness. Although the initial cost plus the extras can add up, the amount of tools this system can service makes it worth the investment. Personally, I find it efficient and reliable, enabling me to sharpen over 200 knives in a couple of hours.

Drill Doctor DD350X Drill Bit Sharpener

Best Value Drill Bit Sharpener

This is the smallest sharpener in the Drill Doctor range and has the least angle capacity at just 118 degrees. However, it can still handle drill bits ranging from 0.094 inches to 0.50 inches and it is very simple to operate.

Insert the drill bit and turn the chuck an even number of half-turns to achieve a perfect 118-degree tip angle. You can sharpen cobalt, high-speed steel, and masonry drill bits. If you have been left with a lot of blunt drill bits over the years, this tool could be the sharpening solution you need.

What We Like

Simplicity

With zero user expertise, this tool will sharpen a drill bit in a matter of seconds. You can do this repeatedly to renew any worn bits in your collection.

Budget-Friendly

This sharpener is among the cheapest we have seen. It is much more affordable than premium sharpeners and costs less than half of what you would pay for some of the more expensive Drill Doctor models.

Instructional DVD

To ensure you understand how to use this sharpener, Drill Doctor includes an instructional DVD with your purchase.

What We Don't Like

Limited Use

If you have drill bits with 118-degree tips, this is an ideal tool. However, it can’t be used to sharpen other angles, which will limit its usefulness.

Build Quality Issues

Some users have reported issues with the motor burning out after prolonged use. They also claim that some of the components feel cheaply made, which is unsurprising given the sharpener’s budget-friendly price.

Product Specs

Weight 2.29 pounds
Dimensions (inches) 12.5 x 4.5 x 6.75
Angles 118 degrees
Drill bit sizes (inches) 0.094 to 0.50
Manual/electric Electric
Price $
Warranty 3-year

Our Ratings

Sharpening Efficiency
3.5 / 5
Compatibility
3 / 5
Ease of Use
5 / 5
Durability
2.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

User Experience

I'm impressed with this tool's ability to restore and sharpen larger drill bits with ease. Initially, I noted that it grinds a broader chisel tip on smaller bits, which alters their original pointed shape, but they still remained sharp. The instructions were a bit tricky due to their not-so-great writing, but once I got the hang of it, the results were pretty good. It's crucial to note that the end product might appear rough due to the grinding process, but it cuts well through steel. This tool might not be the fastest, but it does the job and has saved me from buying new bits every time they dull out. Some might find it challenging to use, but I found it easy and effective after a few trials.

Woodstock D4144 Drill Sharpener

Best Drill Bit Sharpener Tool

This tool is designed to be used alongside a bench grinder. You position it next to the grinder and it holds the drill bit at the required angle as you sharpen it.

It can be set to five different angles, ranging between 41 degrees and 88 degrees. It can hold drill bit sizes from 0.125 inches to 0.75 inches, which covers the majority of standard bits, and it is easy to sharpen multiple bits once you have set up the tool.

What We Like

Set and Forget

Once you have set the sharpener to the required angle, you will be able to use it repeatedly, which makes this tool ideal for sharpening several bits in a single session.

Simple Design

This tool’s design is very simple, which means it is easy to use and there is very little that can go wrong with it. With so few moving parts, this is a sharpener that should serve you admirably for many years.

Low Price

This is one of the best budget options we have discovered during our research. This is largely due to it being an attachment rather than a complete sharpening solution, but it is an excellent sharpening tool if you already have a bench grinder.

What We Don't Like

Bench Grinder Required

To use this sharpener, you will also need a bench grinder, which is an expensive tool. This is only an affordable option if you already have a grinder in your tool collection.

Requires Skill

To effectively use this tool, you will need an understanding of how to sharpen drill bits with a grinder. This is particularly important as the product doesn’t include any instructions.

Safety Issues

While this tool provides a safer way of sharpening bits with a grinder, you can’t use it if the grinder’s safety guard is attached. Removing the safety guard increases the injury risk while using the tool.

Product Specs

Weight 1.37 pounds
Dimensions (inches) 7.8 x 5.2 x 1.9
Angles 5 angle settings
Drill bit sizes (inches) 0.0125 to 0.50
Manual/electric Manual
Price $
Warranty 1-year

Our Ratings

Sharpening Efficiency
3.5 / 5
Compatibility
3.5 / 5
Ease of Use
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

My experience with this tool was initially challenging due to its complex setup and vague instructions. With time, I managed to sharpen a variety of drill bits, but it was tricky to handle the longer ones. Notably, the fixture's thumb screws were somewhat small and rough, prompting me to replace them with larger, brass ones for smoother operation. The tool's function improved after these adjustments, allowing me to sharpen a broken 25/64" drill bit successfully. However, I believe the tool's design could benefit from modifications to accommodate shorter bits and enhance overall user-friendliness.

Sealey Multi-Purpose Bench Sharpener

Best Multi-Purpose Drill Bit Sharpener

If you want a multi-purpose sharpener that can accommodate HSS drill bits, chisels, straight-edged knives, and other sharp implements, this is a great choice. It has a drill bit station, a plane and a chisel station, and a knife and scissor station.

For all-around practicality, this Sealey sharpener is tough to beat. It can be mounted onto your worktop for greater stability but it is also possible to use it as a portable multi-purpose sharpener, wherever it is needed.

What We Like

Versatile

With 3 slots dedicated to various tools, this sharpener is very practical and user-friendly. You won’t need to adjust settings to sharpen different objects and it is clearly marked to ensure you use the right slots.

Beginner-Friendly

This sharpener is very self-explanatory, which means beginners will be able to use it to achieve positive results.

Excellent Price

Considering how versatile this sharpener is, it is also priced very competitively. You are unlikely to find another all-around sharpening tool that is this budget-friendly.

What We Don't Like

HSS Drill Bits Only

You will only be able to sharpen high-speed steel drill bits with this tool. If you need to sharpen tougher bits such as cobalt and titanium, you will need to look elsewhere.

Lacks Accuracy

This tool sharpens drill bits well but it is less accurate than Drill Doctor products and other dedicated sharpeners. It is a good general-purpose sharpener but doesn’t excel in any area.

Product Specs

Weight 4.07 pounds
Dimensions (inches) 7.87 x 7.87 x 7.87
Angles Not stated
Drill bit sizes (inches) 0.118 to 1.89
Manual/electric Electric
Price $$
Warranty 1-year

Our Ratings

Sharpening Efficiency
3.5 / 5
Compatibility
3 / 5
Ease of Use
4.5 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

Community Feedback

I'm a bit frustrated by my recent experience with this product. I was unaware it came from the UK, so imagine my surprise when I couldn't plug it in due to the different outlet type. I've now had to go out of my way to find an adapter for it. This situation has caused a delay in my ability to use the product. It's a minor snag, but it's definitely something to consider before purchasing.

Darex V390 Drill Bit Sharpener

Best Industrial Drill Bit Sharpener

If you use your drill bits frequently and need a tool that can handle bulk sharpening, this Darex model is an excellent option. It is robust enough to sharpen up to 2,000 drill bits with a single abrasive wheel. That is a lifetime’s worth of drill bits.

This sharpener is a substantial size and will be at home on the benches of professional workshops. It can sharpen drill bits ranging from 0.125 inches to 0.75 inches, which covers the majority of sizes you are likely to need. Thanks to its easy 3-step sharpening system, you will be able to sharpen your bits in less than a minute.

What We Like

Durability

The durability of this Darex sharpener means you will be able to sharpen dozens of drill bits every week. If you own a professional workshop, adding this tool could save you a great deal of money in the long term.

3-Step Sharpening

This sharpener is very user-friendly. By following three simple steps, you will be able to get a sharp split-point drill bit again in under a minute.

Borazon Wheel

Borazon is one of the hardest substances in the world, which is why the wheel on this Darex tool is so durable. You will be able to use it to sharpen thousands of drill bits before it needs replacing.

What We Don't Like

Very Expensive

This is a powerful sharpener that should last you a lifetime. However, its price reflects that and makes it one of the most expensive sharpeners we have seen. This is why you are likelier to see it in an industrial setting rather than a home workshop.

Weighs 25 lbs

This Darex sharpener is an excellent tool with high-quality construction but it is also heavy at 25 pounds. It isn’t a sharpener you will want to carry with you to job sites if you can avoid it.

Product Specs

Weight 25 pounds
Dimensions (inches) 17.4 x 15.4 x 12.3
Angles 118 and 140 degrees
Drill bit sizes (inches) 0.125 inches to 0.75 inches
Manual/electric Electric
Price $$$$
Warranty 1-year

Our Ratings

Sharpening Efficiency
5 / 5
Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
4.5 / 5
Durability
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.75 / 5

First-Hand Impression

Best choice for those who frequently use drill bits and crave a sturdy, efficient sharpening tool. This Darex model stands out with its capacity to sharpen an astounding 2,000 bits with just one abrasive wheel. Its hefty size, suitable for professional workshops, handles a wide range of bit sizes from 0.25 to 0.5 inches. I appreciated the easy 3-step sharpening system, allowing me to get my bits ready in under a minute. But be warned, it's quite an investment and carries a hefty weight of 25 lbs.

Portable Drill Bit Sharpener

Best Budget Drill Bit Sharpener

This sharpener’s price is the reason we chose it as our best budget model, but its compact size and portability also make it stand out. Despite its small size and low price, it can still sharpen bits ranging between 0.08 inches to 0.49 inches.

It can only sharpen iron-based drill bits, so it won’t be suitable for cobalt or HSS bits. For the price, this isn’t unexpected. This product contains a pair of sharpeners, making it even better value for money.

What We Like

Budget-Friendly Price

This sharpener is very competitively priced, so it is an easy choice to add to your tool collection.

Ideal for Novices

If you are a beginner at sharpening drills and want a sharpener that is affordable and easy to use, this is a great option.

Portable

This is a small, lightweight tool. As it doesn’t require an electrical supply, you can take it anywhere. All you will need is a handheld drill to spin the grinding stone.

What We Don't Like

Lacks Precision

This tool is less precise than the higher-end sharpeners on our list, but this is unsurprising given its low price.

Build Quality Issues

User reviews mention that this sharpener feels cheap to use. It probably won’t be durable enough for frequent use.

Limited Uses

This device only sharpens iron-based drill bits, which means it won’t be able to sharpen a large percentage of popular drill bits today. If you have cobalt, titanium, or HSS drill bits, you will need to find a different sharpener.

Product Specs

Weight 6.4 ounces
Dimensions (inches) ‎9 x 6 x 1
Angles 135 degrees
Drill bit sizes (inches) 0.08 to 0.49
Manual/electric Manual (requires a power drill)
Price $
Warranty Money-back guarantee

Our Ratings

Sharpening Efficiency
2 / 5
Compatibility
2 / 5
Ease of Use
3.5 / 5
Durability
2.5 / 5
Total Rating
2.5 / 5

User Experience

My experience with this drill bit sharpener has been a mixed bag. On the upside, it's lightweight, easy to handle, and can really whip your dull drill bits back into shape. However, the description can be misleading as it does not come with extra sharpening wheels as advertised. Its usage was puzzling at first due to the lack of instructions, but once figured out, it performs decently for an inexpensive option. Be cautious though, this sharpener won't work on damaged, broken, masonry or spade bits, and if used improperly, could even ruin a good drill bit.

Work Sharp Knife and Tool Sharpener

Best Multipurpose Drill Bit Sharpener

This is a very versatile sharpening tool from Wood Sharp. It will sharpen drill bits but also knives, scissors, and garden shears. It includes 3 abrasive belts, with a coarse 80-grit belt, a medium 220-grit, and a fine 6,000 grit for the smoothest finish possible.

As it is a belt sander, you can hone your drill bits to whatever angle you want. It also has a precision sharpening guide to sharpen at the same angle each time. It can be powered by a 12V power inverter so you can connect it to your RV or truck for mobile sharpening.

What We Like

Versatility

This is a versatile tool that will sharpen various implements. It not only works with drill bits but also knives, scissors, and various other items.

3 Grades of Abrasiveness

The coarsest grade will strip the most material from the drill bit, while the medium and fine grades will help you refine it to achieve a professional-quality finish.

12-Volt Option

If you need to take your drill with you to jobs, this sharpener can accompany you to sharpen anywhere. It can run on a 12V inverter, which makes it possible to power it using an RV or truck.

What We Don't Like

Requires Skill

Like any grindstone or belt sander, you will need some expertise to achieve an accurate finish when using this sharpener.

General Sharpener

This is a general-purpose sharpener rather than a dedicated drill bit sharpener. It is a great option to have in your home to sharpen various implements but you might prefer a specialist bit sharpener if you are serious about drilling.

Product Specs

Weight 1.9 pounds
Dimensions (inches) 5 x 9 x 5
Angles 40 – 50 degrees
Drill bit sizes (inches) Universal
Manual/electric Electric
Price $$
Warranty 1-year limited

Our Ratings

Sharpening Efficiency
4 / 5
Compatibility
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
3.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Personal Perspective

My experience with this sharpening tool from Wood Sharp has been nothing short of impressive. The versatility it offers is exceptional, not only catering to drill bits, but also effectively sharpening knives, scissors, and garden shears. The inclusion of three abrasive belts of varying grits lets me choose the level of finish I desire for my tools. The belt sander feature is a bonus, allowing me to hone my drill bits to my preferred angle. I also appreciate the precision sharpening guide, which ensures consistency in sharpening angles. The added feature of being able to power it using a 12V inverter makes it a handy companion for mobile sharpening during my RV trips.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Weight Dimensions Angles Drill bit sizes Manual/electric Warranty
Drill Doctor 500X Automatic 4.8 lbs 13.75 x 5.75 x 11.75″ 118 & 135° 0.094 to 0.50″ Electric 3-year
Tormek DBS-22 Sharpening Jig Sharpening Jig 16 lbs 14 x 7 x 3″ 90 & 150° 0.125 to 0.875″ Manual 1-year
Drill Doctor 750X Drill Bit Sharpener Professional 4.1 lbs 5 x 8 x 4.5″ 115 & 140° 0.094 to 0.75″ Electric 3-year
Tormek T-8 Water Cooled Precision Premium 39.9 lbs 15 x 11.5 x 15″ Infinite Universal Electric 7-year
Drill Doctor DD350X Value For Money 2.29 lbs 12.5 x 4.5 x 6.75″ 118° 0.094 to 0.50″ Electric 3-year
Woodstock D4144 Drill Sharpener Sharpener Tool 1.37 lbs 7.8 x 5.2 x 1.9″ 5 angles 0.0125 to 0.50″ Manual 1-year
Sealey Multi-Purpose Bench Sharpener Multi-Purpose 4.07 lbs 7.87 x 7.87 x 7.87″ N/A 0.118 to 1.89″ Electric 1-year
Darex V390 Drill Bit Sharpener Industrial 25 lbs 17.4 x 15.4 x 12.3″ 118/ 140° 0.125 to 0.75″ Electric 1-year
Portable Drill Bit Sharpener Budget Pick 6.4 oz ‎9 x 6 x 1″ 135 deg 0.08 to 0.49″ Manual Money-back guarantee
Work Sharp Knife & Tool Sharpener Multipurpose 1.9 lbs 5 x 9 x 5″ 40 – 50 deg Universal Electric 1-year limited

Do I Need a Drill Bit Sharpener?

A drill is only ever as effective as the drill bit it holds, so it is important to keep your bits sharp. If you frequently drill into tough materials, your bits could blunt quickly, especially if they aren’t very durable. This will also affect the quality of your finish.

Drill bits can be expensive, especially bits from the leading brands, so the cost of replacing dull bits will quickly add up. Once you have a sharpener, sharpening your bits will essentially be free, so you could save a lot of money in the long term.

It is possible to use manual tools to sharpen bits by hand but a drill bit sharpener will help you do it far more quickly. You will probably also achieve better results by using a sharpener, so it is well worth the investment if you need to drill holes regularly.

How Do Drill Bit Sharpeners Work?

A drill bit sharpener is effectively a portable grinder encased in a device that enables you to set the cutting angle and the amount of material you want to remove. This avoids any guesswork and means even beginners can achieve excellent results.

Drill Doctor is one of the leading sharpener brands and its tools are very easy to use. The drill bit is inserted into a jig, which is then inserted into the drill bit sharpener. The jig and the sharpener are aligned by lining up the white markers.

This lets you be confident that the drill bit is locked in the correct position and is aligned with the setting markers. You then need to select the amount of material to remove and set the angle. Turn on the machine and allow it to run for 15 seconds. Stop it, turn the bit over, and repeat the process.

Once you have done this, you will be left with a sharp, effective drill bit.

What Is the Best Angle to Sharpen a Drill Bit?

The best angle to sharpen a drill bit is between 55 and 60 degrees. This refers to the angle of the chisel edge in relation to the cutting edge. This angle will ensure your bit makes smooth, straight holes.

How to Choose a Drill Bit Sharpener

Size

Drill bits are usually small objects but bit sharpeners can be surprisingly large, so check the size before buying one. The last thing you need is a large sharpener taking up all your available worktop space.

The sharpener’s size will also influence its weight, which is important if you take it with you to sharpen bits while working on job sites.

Most importantly, check which drill bit sizes the sharpener can accommodate. For example, the Drill Doctor 350X has a smaller size range than the 750X, so a larger range is better for professional use.

Material

Look for a drill bit sharpener that contains cast aluminum or silicon carbide as part of its material. These two elements are extremely durable and will help prolong your sharpener’s lifespan. If you can find a sharpener with a borazon grinding wheel, it will be even better. Borazon is one of the hardest substances that are currently known to exist.

Power Source

Sharpeners can be either manual or electric. Electrical models are far more popular but you will be limited to working near an electrical outlet. This will be fine if you do most of your work indoors, such as in a workshop. However, if you are often somewhere without an easily accessible power source, you might be better served by a manual sharpener.

Versatility

Your priority will probably be sharpening drill bits but some tools will also be able to sharpen other implements. These include knives, shears, and scissors, all of which will require maintenance to keep them working properly. By choosing a multifunctional sharpener, you will be able to enjoy much better value for money.

You should also consider the types of drill bits the device can sharpen. Look for one that grinds cobalt, HSS, and titanium drill bits, so you won’t be left unable to sharpen your bits.

FAQs

Why Do Drill Bits Dull So Fast?

Drill bits are a common tool used in woodworking and other DIY projects, but they can quickly become dull due to frequent use. This is because they are made of hardened steel, which wears away from contact with various surfaces over time.

The material being drilled and the type of drill bit used can also affect how quickly it becomes dull; for example, softer materials like aluminum will cause the bits to be dull faster than harder materials like steel.

Regular maintenance, such as sharpening and replacing worn parts, can help keep your drill bits from becoming dull too quickly.

What is the Easiest Way to Sharpen a Drill Bit?

The easiest way to hone your drill bit is by using a bench grinder or belt sander.

Bench grinders are more precise than belt sanders, so they’re the tool of choice for intricate sharpening jobs. Just secure your bit in the arm of the grinder or sander and make sure it’s securely fastened.

Then, turn on the machine and carefully grind against the edge of your drill bit until you get the level of sharpness you want. Work slowly and carefully because it could damage the drill bit if you do it too quickly or with too much pressure.

How Do You Prevent a Drill Bit From Overheating During Sharpening?

Take precautions when sharpening drill bits to prevent them from overheating. Ensure the bench grinder or belt sander is properly equipped with a water reservoir beneath the grinding wheel to keep it cool.

Use a sharpening stone and plenty of lubricants (or water) while sharpening, which will help to reduce friction and further relieve heat build-up.

Avoid using too much pressure. This can cause excessive heating in the bit, so always use light and steady pressure when sharpening it.

How Do You Tell If a Drill Bit Is Sharp?

You can tell a drill bit is sharp by examining the cutting edge of the bit. It should appear smooth and free of burrs, chips, or cracks. Try testing its sharpness by lightly running your finger along the cutting surface; it should feel smooth and not snag on your skin.

You can use a light test to check how well it cuts through the material – if the bit is dull, it will take more force to push it through any material than when it was freshly sharpened.

What is the Best Drill Bit Sharpener?

The Drill Doctor 750X is the ideal sharpener for any drill bit because it offers you a way to customize and refine the point angles with exact accuracy. It’s highly reliable, with an adjustable angle range of 115° to 140°.

Create new split points or relieve existing ones on the same bit in a single step. Its compatibility with a wide range of bits makes it an ideal tool for any professional workshop or job site.


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About the Author

Mark Weir

Mark spent 24 years working in real estate, so he knows his way around a home. He also worked with contractors and experts, advising them on issues of planning, investments, and renovations. Mark is no stranger to hands-on experience, having renovated his own home and many properties for resale. He likes nothing better than seeing a project through to completion.