10 Best Drill Bit Sharpener Reviews – Sharpen & Save Money in 2020

Drill bits wear down and get dull away. It’s normal. The good news is that you can extend the life span of your dull and lifeless drill bits by using a proper sharpener. And we are going to help you find the best drill bit sharpeners out there!

Best Drill Bit Sharpeners Review in 2020

Our list of the top 10 drill bit sharpeners reviews of some of the most well-received sharpeners that can be your one-stop solution to extending the life of your drill bits.

1. Drill Doctor 500X Drill Bit Sharpener Review

 
The first one in our list is from Drill Doctor and is their 500X Drill Bit Sharpener. This is a good sharpener for the most standard-size drill bits.

The 500X Sharpener relies on an industrial grade diamond sharpening wheel that can easily sharpen most drill bits so they cut through anything as if it’s butter.

Speaking of drill bits, this tool can sharpen any high-speed steel, carbide, cobalt, titanium nitride (TiN)-coated, masonry, and split-point bits, and any standard twist bit as well!

The chuck sits easily, is easy to use and offers good adjustments through its guide, and features measurements for English, metric, and letter gauge drill bits.

This tool will take care of all the drill bits rusting away in your toolbox. Like most Drill Doctor drill sharpeners, the 500X is lightweight and compact. No other tools are needed in conjunction with this sharpener.

The 500X Bit Sharpener uses the most popular pre-set angles of 118° and 135°, and can sharpen drill bits from 3/32 of an inch to 1/2 an inch in diameter.

 

2. Drill Doctor DD350X Drill Bit Sharpener

 
The next one that we have in our list is also a winner. Drill Doctor produces some of the most popular and affordable drill bit sharpeners in the market, and the DD350X is another fine option.

All you have to do is plug it in and you are ready to start sharpening your drill bits. The DD350X Drill Bit Sharpener is super compact and lightweight. In fact, it is one of the more petite sharpeners we have reviewed so far!

However, don’t misunderstand its size. This tiny sharpener has sharp teeth! The DD350X Sharpener can sharpen most standard twist bits and masonry bits that range from 3/32 of an inch to 1/2 an inch.

Also, you can use it for high-speed steel, carbide, cobalt, and TiN-coated drill bits. It is set to an angle of 118°.

The DD350X electric drill bit sharpener is also very intuitive to use.

The chuck, which holds the drill bit and comes with all the necessary adjustments guides, moves up and down to ensure easy adjustments and can sharpen your worn drill bits comfortably. We understand why people like it so much.

 

3. Drill Doctor DD750X Electric Drill Bit Sharpener

 
All right then. If you think you are willing to upgrade from the 500X by paying some extra bucks, the DD750X Sharpener is exactly what you are looking for.

The DD750X Bit Sharpener, like most of Drill Doctor’s X series, is electronic and needs no additional power tools to do its work. It is very lightweight and compact so you will have no problem finding space for it in tool sheds and basements. In fact, it’s so small you can even carry it with you to the job site because it’s so lightweight.

The DD750X model uses an industrial-strength diamond sharpening wheel to shave and polish your drill bits to perfect sharpness.

Speaking of which, you can sharpen any bits including high-speed steel, cobalt, TiN-coated, masonry, carbide and split-point.

As for sizing, you can work with any standard twist bit or split-point bit as long as it is 3/32 of an inch to ¾ of an inch. The tool has guides to walk you through everything and offers good adjustability. It provides adjustable point angles from 115° to 140°.

The Drill Doctor DD350X is surely going to make you happy and this is one of the best electric sharpeners for drill bits. This sharpening tool does everything the others do, only better!

 

4. Woodstock D4144 Drill Sharpener

 
The next drill bit sharpener on our list is made by a brand name we hear often. It is the D4144 Drill Sharpener from Woodstock, and it is one of the most popular sharpening tools in the average price range.

The Woodstock D4144 Drill Sharpener is quite similar to the Drill master hand sharpener. It ct has to be used in combination with a vertical wheel bench grinder.

The great thing about this tool is that that you have the option to choose from various grinding stones instead of settling for one a manufacture-supplied one. In other words, you can experiment with grinding wheels of various grits and see what you prefer to use!

The Woodstock D4144 Drill Sharpener also allows you to sharpen your drill bits at five preset angles from 41°-88°too!

As for convenience, the tool itself, minus the bench wheel and all, isn’t all that big. It is in fact very compact and light weight enough to sit on the palms of your hands!

And last but not least, the Woodstock D4144 Drill Sharpener is great for sharpening bits from 1/8 of an inch to ¾ of an inch with great speed and smoothness. This is the first sharpener we have reviewed that sharpens bits below 3/8″, so if you drill a lot of small holes this may be the manual drill bit sharpener you need.

 

5. General Tools 825 Drill Grinding Attachment

 
The third brand name to make it on our list of drill bit sharpener is probably one of the more recognized brands in most tool sheds: General Tools. In this case, we’re reviewing the 825 drill grinding attachment.

The model 825 drill grinding attachment is made to attach to an electric bench grinder or a surface grinder. The tool itself is very compact and weighs no more than a few ounces.

However, you will be surprised at how brilliantly it works. It has an angle adjustable gauge that allows you to copy the angle point of almost any of your drill bit.

It can sharpen drill bits 1/8″-3/4′, #1 to #30, A to Z, and 3 to 19mm drill bits. The angle adjustment gauge allows you to match the point angle of most bits. It even works on countersink bits!

However, one of the most unique features of the model 825 drill grinding attachment is its pivoting neck. This allows you to grind and sharpen both sides of your drill bits without having to take the bit out and reposition it! This means it is faster and easier to sharpen your bits, and we couldn’t be any happier about that.

 

6. Grizzly G1081 Drill Length Sharpener

 
Alright, so the 6^th one that we have reviewed is the Grizzly G1081. The name itself is a hint identification of the power that this tool offers.

The unit can sharpen 1/8″ – ¾” drill bits, so it will be suitable for most general purpose needs. The weight is around 1.34 pounds and the price is very moderate.

There is a concept of relief angle that has been used in this tool. A relief angle makes sure that you are not into too much trouble when you are working on those tough edge and corners. You have to place the sharpener at different angles to cut perfectly and that’s when a tool like this comes handy. The rotational stop feature also helps a lot. It is a powerful tool.

 

7. Hand Drill Bit Sharpener for Sharp Edge – 5/64 in. to 1/2 in.

 
If you want an affordable and cheap solution, our 7th pick for the best drill bit sharpener is for you. This hand drill from Drill Master is probably the most basic, simple and easy to use sharpening tool on the market!

First of all, you need to know this is not a standalone piece of equipment. It is made to attach to a power drill that operates between 2000-3500 RPM. If you want to sharpen drill bits it stands to reason that you will have a drill, just make sure the RPMs are high enough to use this sharpening attachment. The rotation and torque of the drill is what spins the sharp, abrasive grinding stone of the Hand Bit Sharpener.

It comes with a 100 grit grinding stone, which should give you a smooth and sharp finish. Crank on the machine, insert the dull drill bit through the sharpener and restore your dull bit to perfect sharpness!

The Drill Master Hand Sharpener comes with built-in guides for easy ease of use. You can sharpen drill bits ranging from 5/64 of an inch to ½ inch sizes with an angle stop of 60° to the left. Simple, no-fuss and basic. Perfect for DIY-ers on a tight budget.

 

8. Multi-Sharp 2001 Multi Sharp Dual Purpose Drill Bit Sharpener

If you are looking for a drill bit sharpener that comes with twice and value and versatility, then look no further because the 2001 Multi Sharp Dual Purpose Sharpener from Multi-Sharp is exactly what you are looking for!

The Multi Sharp Sharpener is used with your drill. You know the hows and whys already. Attach the ATT2001 Multi Sharp Sharpener to mouth of the drilling machine and crank up the speed! Next, slowly shave and sharpen your drill bits through the bit insert. Simple.

It can work its magic on both HSS and masonry drill bits! And it includes 2 and 4-edged, SDS plus bits and Brad center point bits. It also sharpens scribers, bradawls, punches, cold chisels, TCT tile and laminate cutters. Oh, and it has a bit capacity of 3 to 13mm.

Apart from that, the nice thing is that this sharpener fits into almost any drill. And to add to all these, the grinding wheels are replaceable so you can keep change them whenever it’s necessary.

 

9. ARKSEN Multi Purpose Power Sharpener Drill Bit Kit

 
And the ninth name to make it to our list is the Multi Purpose Power Sharpener Drill Bit Kit from ARKSEN. It is electronic and requires no additional power tool in conjunction to do its job. This tool offers its service to a lot more than just drill bits.

You can also sharpen knives, scissors, chisels and planers. That’s a lot of sharpening done all by one tool.

Anyway, the housing looks robust and the grinding wheel sits inside it and can reach speeds of up to 6700 rpm! The sharpening mouth or insert can accommodate knives, chisels and planers that are ¼” to 2 ” wide. As for the drill bit mouth, you can sharpen almost any drill that is from 7/64 of an inch to 3/8 of an inch.

The ARKSEN Sharpener Kit is lightweight and is more or less compact as well. You have proper guidance and indicators marked all over so it’s pretty easy to use as well!

 

10. Neiko 10170A Electric Drill Bit Sharpener

 
If you prefer electronic standalone drill bit sharpeners, then the 10170A electric sharpener from Neiko is another option for you. All you have to do is just plug it in and crank up the power switch. However, the best and appealing part of this sharpener is that is comes with 2 sharpening heads.

There is a sharpening head for smaller bits, and a larger head for larger bits. Makes sense, right? The smaller head will sharpen drill bits from 1/8″ to 3/8″and the larger head accommodates bits that are5/16″ to 5/8″. The smaller heads reach and operates on 1420 rpm while the larger one runs on 1720 rpm. Different drill bit sizes need different speeds, and we are very much impressed with this small yet so significant detail.

You can sharpen carbon steel and high speed steel (HSS) drill bits, twist bits and split-point bits. Seriously, it doesn’t get any more versatile than the 10170A bit sharpener for its price range.

 

Best Drill Bit Sharpener – Buying Guide

Among lots of available electric and manual sharpener, getting the best drill bit sharpener seems a bit challenging Read our buying guide before you make a purchase. With all the different options available, we’ll help you figure out which is best for you

Drill Bit Size

Alright, this is important. None of these bit sharpeners will sharpen every possible size of drill bit. They are geared to the sizes most often used in construction and by home DIYers. If you routinely drill big holes over ¾” in diameter, you need a bigger, stronger, and more expensive sharpening tool. But for routine, everyday jobs, these sharpeners will make your work safer, easier, and save you the cost of buying new drill bits.

Size and Weight

The first and foremost thing to look for in a proper bit sharpener is its size and weight.

Now the thing is, no particular size or weight is always good or always bad. You simply have to pick one according to your needs.

If you are someone who has to sharpen drill bits and other tools on a regular basis, then we recommend that you opt for something a little more heavy-duty. These bits sharpeners also tend to be on the bulkier side, and heavier too. Make sure you have enough space on your workbench for it as well.

On the other hand, if you happen to be an infrequent user or need something for home use, then opt for smaller and lightweight drill bits sharpeners. The ones that attach to a bench will fit almost everywhere and are also easy to store. You may also find that the sharpeners that attach to a drill are a good choice for you, especially if you use the small to medium size drill bits and don’t need to sharpen them very often.

Drill Bit Material

One furthermore very important thing to look into is whether the drill sharpener you are buying will be able to sharpen the type of drill bit you have.

Chances are that the sharpener will sharpen drill bits of most materials, however, there may be a difference in finish and overall result. Most mainstream drill bits sharpeners will easily tackle bits made from steel and HSS, and many are made for the tough cobalt and titanium coated bits, too.

Do you use twist bits? Split-points? Both? Make sure your bit sharpener is made to sharpen all the bits you use; there is no sense buying two tools for different kinds of bit points. However, if you have any special drill bits made of a specialty material, we always recommend that you look closely the specs of your preferred sharpener before making a purchase.

Almost all packaging will let you know the type of drill bits the sharpening tool is compatible with. If they don’t mention on the packaging, check the instruction manual, or go online and ask the manufacturer’s Customer Service or Help department.

The Grinding Element

The grinding element is one of the most important parts of any bit sharpener. And the reason why we are calling it an “element” is because these grinders come in many forms. It could be a grinding stone, or something closer to a grinding wheel.

Whatever it is though, the important thing is that you get a grinder element that is sharp and very abrasive. Make sure you know the grit size of the grinder. Most commonly, sharpener will use a 100 grit to or even as high as 180 or more. The higher the number, the more abrasive and sharper the texture.

Speaking of which, try and get your hands on a diamond grinding wheel. Diamond is the hardest, sharpest stone in the world, after all! Grinding wheels or stones are also replaceable, saving you the cost of buying another drill bit grinding machine. When replacing an element, make sure you know the brand, model number and grit size you prefer as the elements come in different sizes.

How To Use a Drill Bit Sharpener?

Drill bit sharpeners come in various forms. Needless to say, the operating instructions vary from one to the next. However, there are 2 very basic and common types of drill bit sharpeners and we’ll explain how you use them next.

In Conjunction with Another Tool

The most common and affordable sharpeners have to be used in conjunction with another tool, usually a power tool. This could be a drill or a bench saw. If you will be using it with a drill, you first attach the chuck of the sharpener to the chuck of the drill machine.

Turn on the drill machine at high speed and then insert the drill bit through the bit insert. And finally, shave away your dull drill bit at your preferred angle and to your desired degree of sharpness. When using a bench saw, attach the sharpener to the rotating element of the saw. Pull and lift the rotating head to sharpen.

Independent Tool

Independent bit sharpeners do not need any other tools to help them sharpen drill bits. They work on their own and are usually electronic. These types of sharpeners are much easier to use and need their own power supply, so they are therefore a tad bit more expensive.

You just plug in the power cord, adjust the sharpener to the angle you desire, start the tool and insert your drill bit through the insert. You must keep your hand steady and have a good grip on the bit holder. Push gently, and voila! No fuss, no problems. It’s fast and easy.

What is the difference between the 118° and 135° point angles?

The 118°point angle is for drill bits that drill into soft surfaces and materials like aluminum, wood, etc. The 135° angle is for drilling into harder materials like stainless steel, and are often used on glass drill bits and tile drill bits as well.

Benefits To Using A Drill Bits Sharpener

There are some awesome benefits to using a good drill bit sharpener.

Extends the Life Cycle of Old Drill Bits

We understand what it feels like to have to throw away old, chipped and dull drill bits which you once bought for a high, premium price. They worked well, but now their time is up. Right?

Not at all. Did you know that you can sharpen, revive and bring back life to these “throw away” drill bits with the use of a bit sharpener? Well, now you do! A sharpener is a knight in shining armor for your old bits.

This tool or device uses a very abrasive element, usually a grinding stone, to scrape off the tips of your dull or chipped drill bits. As a result, the outermost layers of the bit are ground to reveal a smoother and sharper tip.

Now, you can once again use your favorite and expensive drill bits as if they were brand new again. You might even get better results!

Cost-Effective

The cost of rill bit sharpeners will vary depending on the size of the bits they can sharpen, the quality of their components and, of course, their performance. You can easily get sharpeners that cost as low as 10 bucks, however, there are ones that will also come with price tags as high as a couple of hundred dollars, or more!

If you aren’t running a tool shop, don’t bother paying for a fancy, commercial and expensive sharpener. You can easily get quality drill bit sharpeners for much less money. And although, one could argue that having them sharpened at a tool store is cheaper, this is only true in the short term. However, in the long run, when you have to sharpen your drill bits regularly, it is much more economical to invest in a sharpener. And if you use your drill for work, you can keep your sharpener with you to use on the job when you need it, and save the time and frustration of having to run to a store every time you need to sharpen your drill bit.

Sharpening for Newbies

Okay, here’s the thing. You can sharpen your drill bits just as well by hand without using a drill bit sharpener. However, it takes years and years of practice and experience, and it takes longer.

Experts and tool veterans can use simple things like a sharpening stone, bench, etc., to sharpen up their dead drill bits so they’re like new again. However, that isn’t everybody’s cup of tea. If you are fairly new to the scene, we recommend you stick to a good old bit sharpener to avoid ruining your bits. Also, a sharpener can be preset for the angles you need for your drill bit, and that’s a lot harder to achieve when you’re sharpening your bits by hand.

Can be Multifunctional

A drill bit sharpener will sharpen old, dull drill bits. However, did you know that there are sharpeners that can be used for other purposes too?

Yes. Drill sharpeners can also sharpen other tools and accessories such as knives, chisels and planers. Look through our list of bit sharpener reviews and consider taking a look at these types of sharpeners.

Keep in mind that these types of drill bit sharpeners will, of course, cost a little more and have a bulkier body. However, it is totally worth it when you can easily sharpen the other tools in your home for a fraction of the price, quickly and easily.

Care of Drill Bit Sharpeners

1. Always pull out the power plug of yoursharpener after use. You may find that the tool gets warm when it is plugged in even if it is not in use.
2. If it gets too hot, let it cool down and wipe it with a damp piece of rag or cloth.
3. Do NOT insert your fingers through any of the drill holes or try to adjust any internal parts while the sharpener is plugged in.
4. If your sharpener tends to wobble, we recommend that you place a damp rag under the tool to stabilize it. Or, try attaching adhesive pads under it. You can easily buy them from Amazon.
5. Get a storage bag for your sharpener, or keep it in its protective case if it has one. This helps to protect it from external debris and damage.
6. Don’t try to sharp your bolt or screw extractor using a sharpener.

FAQs About Drill Bit Sharpeners

What is the best drill bit sharpener?

There are some good brand in the market. But Drill Doctor is the leader. Try this one: Drill Doctor 500X Drill Bit Sharpener.

Is it worth sharpening drill bits?

Yes, it is money and time worthy.

Will Drill Doctor sharpener cobalt bits?

Yes, definitely.

Are drill doctor any good?

Drill doctor is the boss in this sector. You should purchase a bit sharpener according to your needs.

How long does the grinding wheel last?

Well, that’s a tricky question since it depends on the type of grinding stone and the type of bits you are sharpening; the stronger the bit is, the harder it is to sharpen and the more it will wear down the grinding element. However, on average, a grinding stone should last you from 200 to 300 uses.

How can I clean it afterwards?

Good question. First of all, begin by unplugging the tool from the power source. Then, let it cool since it is likely to be a little hot. After it has cooled, use take a vacuum cleaner to clean it out.

Can I replace the grinding wheel or element with a different grit size?

As far as we know, you should be able to change to a different grit size as long as the element fits your drill bit sharpener. However, keep in mind that the grit size will determine the type of finish you get from different types and sizes of drill bits. Many people therefore choose to stick to the factory-chosen grit size.

Is it normal for drill bit sharpeners to overheat?

Yes. There is a usually a very powerful motor rotating the grinding wheel so it is very normal for it to create some heat from the friction of the drill bit hitting the sharpening element. Be careful; you don’t want to destroy your drill bit sharpener from overheating.

Do drill bit sharpeners really work?

Yes. There is no doubt.

Conclusion

This is the end of our best drill bit sharpeners review. Drill bit sharpeners are an excellent way to bring back life into your old, dull lifeless drill bits. It is a great way to extend the life span of your current drill bits and save the cost of buying more drill bits. Needless to say, having a great sharpener is important.

These reviews have equipped you with everything you need to know in order to pick a good sharpener for your needs.

We hope you enjoyed our reviews and find our article useful the next time you are shopping for this staple and must-have tool. Until next time. Good luck!