We’re giving away two $120 Amazon.com gift cards, with thanks to Drill Doctor, a company that specializes in drill bit sharpeners.
Post Update Details: This giveaway kicked off on 12/8/21 and was republished on 12/12/21 as a reminder that 12/13 is the last day to enter. There is also a minor correction to the rules – anyone in the USA can enter; as the prizes are e-gift cards, there is no reason to limit it to entrants with contiguous USA addresses.
Shown above is the latest Drill Doctor drill bit sharpening system – the Drill Doctor X2, which we posted about a few weeks ago.
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In case you’re not familiar with Drill Doctor, they offer several different drill bit sharpening systems that can all sharpen and revitalize dull drill bits that you would otherwise have to discard and replace.
The X2 is special, as it also incorporates a built-in knife and tool sharpener as well. This allows the X2 to serve double or triple-duty your workshop, providing greater functionality while only taking up a little more space.
Drill Doctor drill bit sharpeners can resharpen both twist and masonry-style drill bits. The standard machines (X2, 350X) can work with 118° drill bit point angles, and the more premium machines (500X, 750X) can sharpen to 118° and 135°. The most premium Drill Doctor (750X) can resharpen drill bit tips to any angle between 115° and 140°. The X2 can also sharpen tools and scissors.
Readers have always had good things to say about their Drill Doctor experiences, but I’ve been hesitant. I am admittedly a “use and replace my drill bits” kind of user, despite my inclination to sharpen or hone other types of cutting tools.
We had an advertising arrangement with Drill Doctor for the holidays – I’m sure you saw the X2 banner in some of our deal and gift guides – and I convinced myself to finally give them a try.
And – I just had a thought. Trying new tools is always fun, and I’d like to share that enjoyment. So, I’ve got (2) Amazon $120 gift cards to give away. Each prize should cover the full cost of the X2 plus tax, or you can apply it towards a different Drill Doctor drill bit sharpener of your choosing.
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(So far, I’m set on the Drill Doctor 500X for myself.)
If you win the giveaway, but the Drill Doctor isn’t for you or you already own one, you can use the gift card as you please.
Rules and Entry Information
The Prize: $120 Amazon.com gift card (each).
Winner Selection: (2) winners will be chosen at random.
Prize Fulfillment: ToolGuyd will send e-gift cards directly to the winners via email code.
Entry Details: In a comment, tell me what you think about Drill Doctor drill bit sharpeners. If you have one, what have your experiences with it been like? If you want one, tell me how you’d use it and why you haven’t purchased one yet. And if it’s not for you, tell me why!
Entry Period: 12/8/2021 thru 11:59pm ET 12/13/2021
Rules: Contiguous USA addresses only. Entrants must also fill out the following form, which will only be used for prize fulfillment purposes. One entry per person.
Rules Correction 12/12: Giveaway is open to anyone in USA.
If it helps, your entry comment should answer either of the following questions:
Have you used any Drill Doctor drill bit sharpeners before? What have your experiences been like?
Would you like to buy a Drill Doctor drill bit sharpener? Why?
AOD
I have always wondered if these are as useful as they claim to be. I can see the benefits, especially for the lower quality bits.
Daniel Wagner
Never used one but interesting to know more about them
William
Project Farm on YT did a great review on sharpeners. Def, take it a look when you have time!
Carl Fund
I love this tool.
Saves a ton of money .
Even broken off bits can be saved.
Lost mine in a move and haven’t been able to located one locally.
Saman P Perera
For sure to try and get some of my old drill bits to work again.
Scott F
I do not know which one my father had, but he has one for the last 15 years. I personally tried to use it once and failed horrible, but didn’t read any directions… Father used it all the time and loved it.
Can only imagine what they’ve added/improved over the last 15 years, but would love to give one a shot. I can’t help but pick up cheap USA bits from yard sales, so there are plenty to use this on!
Rock Hound
My neighbor has one, I have brought some of my bits to him to have them sharpened. I am not sure if it is any better than what I do with a grinding wheel, but it does seem to be quicker. I would at least consider buying one if I won the gift card, but I would probably wait until they went on sale on Amazon first. A lot of basic drill bits are so cheap during Black Friday sales that I usually just buy an extra set or two during that time, but I also tend to not throw them away unless they broke, so I could probably use one to clean up a bunch of bits.
rodtak
I have used a Drill Doctor for many years, primarily on bits under 1/2″ diameter. It is not foolproof, but if you know what a sharp bit should look like, you can make small adjustments to get the tool to do a good job. I use it in a work situation, but would probably buy one for personal use if I used more drill bits at home. Unfortunately, I use a lot of brad point bits for woodworking and the Drill Doctor can’t sharpen them.
Carlos
I have the 500x and it really does pay for itself in just a couple of years. I love that it also does masonry bits. Hell, it might have paid for itself just in tapcon bits alone
greg
I have multiple drill bit sets that only have one or two dull bits. I would use one to keep my sets lasting longer.
Andrew
Stuart,
I have owned a 750X for about 18 months. I purchased it to compliment a Dowelmax jig that I was using for my woodworking project joinery. After each project, a quick touch-up of the bit or bits used with the jig made it much more pleasant to use on the next project.
When I got the 750X, I also invested in a set of Norseman/Viking drill bits for non-Dowelmax tasks around the shop.
Overall, I’m happy with the 750X. I think the setup and the sharpening process are pretty quick, and I definitely notice a difference before and after.
I’ve moved from the Dowelmax to other joinery tools, but the 750X still has a place in the shop.
Happy Holidays!
Nathan S
Stewart, I think I align with your bit replacement tendencies, but in practice, I seem to need a bit when I’m working a project and not in the mood to run to the store to get a new one (or wait for shipping). Probably would be more important to sharpen expensive bits than to replace them, as well… are there limitations on what materials this can sharpen?
I’ve eyed the Drill Doctor before for these reasons, especially since I thought it was US made (is it still?). I also didn’t know they integrated a knife sharpener. It sort of looks difficult to sharpen a shorter EDC pocket knife with all that plastic housing. I have a Work Sharp knife sharpener that’s much narrower and does ok, but leaves marks on the blade further up (maybe I’m doing it wrong).
Callum
I’m skeptical about them, but I’d like to try one.
Paul C
I think the drill doctor is a great idea but I am skeptical. I don’t have any expensive tooling that can’t easily be replaced during a holiday kit special so the upfront cost to me is too great. One question I would love to see answered is how is works on coated bits like the TiN3 or Cobalt whatever… I am sure it sharpens them for a while but will the bit perform as well as before (albeit with more sharpening needed).
My grandfather was a machinist and had a slot machined into his bench grinder at just the right angle for sharpening bits. Everything he touched was scary sharp and I struggle to get my chisels even a quarter the sharpness he could do.
Jerry
I’ve got one. Don’t recall which model.
Take your time and follow the instructions, and with a little practice, it works quite well. I was able to make bits useable again that I thought were ruined.
Kevin
I’ve not used one personally but can see how it’d be handy for bits used regularly. I remember just upgrading my sets and I have my standard go-to quick access/release bits that I’ve had for years. I’m sure that they need a great trim/resharpening like any other edge. Thanks so much for the contest and hoping to win and keep my trusty bits moving!
Eric
I haven’t used one in years, but I remember having some trouble getting the bit lined up in the holder. Once that was done, it did a fine job of sharpening.
Dan D
I have only used one a couple of times on larger drill bits and was happy with its performance. Would love to grind split points on some of my drill bits, not sure if some of their units can do this, but would love to try one and see if it fits my needs.
Etienne
Given the near disposable pricing for cheap drill bits, not sure sharpening makes much sense for a DIYer like myself, but then I don’t need precision for most of my uses. That said, I do use a Jessem dowel jig, so I could actually see the use of a Drill Doctor for these more precision (and pricey) bits.
Leo B.
I would possibly be interested in trying a Drill Doctor. I have a nice set of Cle-line drill bits I got from a friend, and they aren’t the throwaway kind. I have others I reach for first, just to save the wear on the nicer ones, but some sizes aren’t available elsewhere. I’d like to have the ability to sharpen them, since it feels wasteful to do anything else. I hand sharpen my other tools, like chisels and knives, but I’d be open to trying a machine sharpening for the bits. Thanks for the opportunity to win! Hopefully your machine pans out well for your bits.
Dave the tool
In the past, I wouldn’t have taken the time to sharpen drill bits as it wasn’t economical for me. I usually purchase multiple drill bit sets when they go on sale including this current holiday season however with the current Washington DC admin we have all seen prices skyrocket with out of control inflation not seen since the 1970’s so sharpening drill bits may become more feasible.
John
Drill bit sets are on sale for the same $10 price they always have been, there is no change.
MM
You let me know where I can get a USA made cobalt steel drill set with wire gauge, letter, and fractionals for $10. I haven’t been able to find one under $250 for a decade.
Dan w
I have one at work and it works alright, you just have to follow directions and develop a feel for it. I’d be curious to see how the newer version compares. I have a few bits at home that could use freshening.
Dan
I have one I acquired on clearance and it is certainly a useful tool. There is a little bit of a learning curve to align the bit properly, it isn’t hard. While I still keep backup bits for when I break one it is night and day difference when you sharpen a dull drill bit.
Dean K.
I have always thought like you in that drill bits are disposable. Having inherited my tags expensive bit set, I now see the need for a dull doctor to preserve those bits!
Steve H
I’m interested and one and would use it. However, I primarily use brad point drills and forstner bits.
MikeC
I’ve never used a drill sharpener as don’t do enough volume to need it – particularly with wood drilling. Don’t doubt Drill Doctor would work well, but the cost to buy exceeds the cost of buying a few more bits for lower volume guys like me!
Matt W.
Personally, I’m not interested in purchasing a Drill Doctor. I use drill bits quite often but I’ve never felt the need to take the time to resharpen used drill bits. To me, most drill bits are disposable items similar to utility knife blades or sheets of sandpaper. The price point for drill bits is not so high that I would feel bad for throwing away dull drill bits and replacing them with new.
Andrew Holmes
I’ve considered buying a drill doctor for years but almost all of my drill bits are 135 degrees and the ones sold at my local hardware have always been the models that just do 118. But i have gotten my shop set up now and want to buy a nicer set of drill bits, and with that the idea of sharpening my bits is a lot more attractive.
mami2jcn
I’d like to gift one to my husband so he can use it for his many projects. I have never tried it.
Brandon B.
The concept is great. I imagine it’s way faster than sharpening by hand. I haven’t invested in one yet for a couple reasons: I use bits for steel and metal very rarely, and even a really dull 1/4″ bit makes it through wood fine.
Additionally, I buy cheap drill bits on sale. I’m talking 200-pack boxes for $30. Again, if I worked steel or aluminum more often I might make a bigger investment in my bits, but these cheap ones are great for wood and completely disposable.
I can also hand-grind a drill bit without too much trouble, as long as it’s ~1/4″+. Just takes longer than the Drill Doctor, I’m sure. So in my big packs, I reuse the bigger ones (since there are only a few of each of the bigger sizes) and dispose of the smaller ones (of which, many are included). Works pretty well for me!
Melvin
I will probably buy a 500X or 750X to sharpen my 135 degree bits when they dull. Have been breaking them more quickly than they dull though.
Matt O
We have one at work and it gets used weekly for smaller bits and seems to do a decent job. At home I simply just replace bits as needed.
John Neitzey
I am a technician in a new car dealer. I have always been intrigued by the thought of them. I have known one person, another tech, who had one and liked it. However he was very hesitant to let anyone else use it. So I have never tried it personally. Not sure why I have never bought one myself. Maybe being a tech and having a “tool truck account” it has always been easier to just ask for the new bits I need and have them put on my account rather than sharpening my dull ones. Waste full to be sure.
Jim Felt
I like so many others have always wondered about the effectiveness of these sharpening machines. And this is such a great opportunity to find out!
Stuart I’d definitely use the coupon for the model that you chose.
Now maybe I’ll quit buying extra drill bit sets on sale and still finding I’ve not the correct size or type. Groan.
James R.
Never used one before, but I’ve seen them reviewed on Youtube. Seems like a really neat tool to have around. Not sure I’d buy one for myself though, under normal circumstances.
the 500X seems to be a nice sweet spot for more users.
Mike McFalls
As William stated, Project Farm did a nice review on the drill doctor. I was almost compelled to purchase one, however when I truly evaluated the need versus how often I would use the drill doctor and cost of new bits I felt the economics weren’t for me.
Good luck to all and happy holidays!
CHARLES STOPCZYNSKI
I am the owner of a Drill Doctor 250 Handyman. Probably close to 20 years old.
For an entry level drill bit sharpener it does an incredible job. My Drill Doctor has
saved me hundreds of dollars in replacement drill bit costs, it literally has paid for itself many times over.
I must say “my Drill Doctor is one of the best power tool investments I’ve ever made!”
Ed Sichler
My wife’s uncle had one that he let me use on several occasions and it did a great job on all of the drill bits. All including masonry came out sharper than new and it extended the life of them. He passed away and the tool went to his son who lives in GA and is an avid woodworker. He told me that along with some vintage hand planers and chisels it is the most used tool his father passed down to him.
I would love to win a gift card to use to buy the 500X model and dozens of drill bits in my tool chest would be sharpened to better than new.
MoogleMan3
Thanks for the giveaway! Much appreciated. 🙂
I haven’t used one before but would love to have one for some of my nicer, more expensive drill bits.
CurtR
Have used one off and on for years. Originally worked on restaurant equipment which required drilling tons of holes in stainless steel. Purchased one to keep bits sharp which dulled fast in the stainless. A little hard to get small bits lined up but worked fine for our needs. Helped save a lot of time.
Adam
I used one of the more higher end models to go through all the bits that had been collected over the years. I’m no pro sharpening things, but all became much more usable bits after figuring it out. At the time I would have liked the model for spade bits, but the one for twist bits served its purpose very well.
Peter Fox
I have always found spade bits are quite easy to sharpen by hand on a normal bench grinder. At least in my opinion they are probably the easiest to sharpen.
Jorhay
I bought one for my dad about 15 years ago. He doesn’t use it much, but it allows him to not throw out dull bits. I’ve been looking at them this week after noticing that several of my bits are unacceptably dull. I’ve touched up bits by hand before, but I’m not that good at it – accuracy or consistency, so I’ve really though about getting something that would let me touch them up more often.
Neil
I hope to pock one up soon, getting more life oit of oir buys would be a huge bonus and likely oay for the unit within a year.
Will
My dad passed me down one, think it’s around 40 years old, and I have never used it. I usually buy a pack of drill bits every year around the holidays since they’re so cheap. I should bust it out and give it a whirl.
Peter Fox
I have never had much interest in these consumer grade sharpeners. In my experience (the shop I work for has one) they require a fair bit of skill and understanding to get good results from.
If you know the angles and shape a good bit should have you can probably learn to freehand sharpen using a bench grinder or belt sander without much more difficulty. In both cases the results are usable but never a accurate as a new factory ground bit. For and low precision use either will be good enough. For anything that requires more accurate hole sizes you really need higher end sharpening equipment or to stay with good quality factory sharpened bits.
In the shop where I work we made the attempt to sharpen bit to save money. unfortunately we found that the time spent by suitably skilled person was more expensive that just replacing bits. In our case we primarily use smaller sizes (36, 29, 25, 21, and 7). Once you get to larger bits (1/4″ and up) the skill needed to sharpen free hand is to hard to aquire. Additionally in our case we use step drill bits more for larger hole sizes than twist bits so the need to sharpen larger bits is not as great.
In the end I have not seen a case where low cost drill sharpeners make sense. If you use a ton of bits and don’t need precision maybe but only if your time is inexpensive.
Travis D
I have used the drill doctor in the past it’s an older unit thats been used for work related bits.
First time I used one I didn’t readthe instructions so I didnt turn out very well 2nd time after instructions it seemed to work a lot better. Instructions highly recommended. I would like to get 1 for at home use
Eric
Having thrown away several bits recently, the Drill Doctor is something I’ve been considering. Not sure yet if it’s worth the money, but it wouldn’t be the most expensive tool I’ve bought that just collects dust.
Marc
I do not have one and have never tried one. Honestly I’m like you throw it out and buy a new drill bit. But for larger size drills it may be quite useful. Though the time to learn to use and correctly sharpen a drill bit may make it less useful. Really on the fence but leaning towards not for me.
Al
I wish my drill bits would stop growing legs and walking away. There are too many open spots in my index.
But _if_ I had a Drill Doctor, I’d be able to quickly tune up a bit instead of pulling out one oversize and one undersize to finish the job. Less chance of losing bits, because they’ll stay in the index.
Nathan
I’d be interested – I’ve never used one. I have a friend that swears by touching up bits on a grinder and he supposedly does this alot.
I find I break more bits than I have dulled bits – bit I have touched up a 3/8 on my bench grinder.
SO does the drill doctor allow for different angles for the tips or is it a set standard.
Michael Hook
Always appreciate your generosity Stu! As a tool room machinist, I always sharpened my drills. Being 10 years plus retired, I no longer have access to the privilege of putting an edge on my own cutting tools. That being said, I cannot sit idle in my retirment. But, there’s still stuff that needs sharpened. I never had a need for a drill doctor but I certainly do now. Through randon online auctions I occasionally pick up sets of drills. Its amazing to see how people punish cutting tools. This is pretty much a throw-away society with certain things. A Drill Doctor would allow me to put an edge on those beaten and worn drills.
Again, thank you for your generosity
Mick
Luke H
To be honest I didn’t know anything like this even existed until this post. I’ve been looking for a good knife sharpener to keep my trusty blades sharp (I BBQ/Hunt a lot and dull my blades pretty fast) and would love to not waste money on buying and throwing away drill bits any longer.
Brian
I don’t have a bit sharpener – I’ve inherited several dozen over the years and really hadn’t had a need. I would like to try one though…
Uncle Ralph
I, too, am a ‘use and throw away’ my drill bits person when I can no longer eke them along. My brother-in-law and I just had a discussion about the Drill Doctor, he is a big fan and is thrilled with his. I now have it on my wish list!
David N.
My dad had one of these maybe 20 years ago and it seemed to hardly work at all. Maybe it was improper use, maybe it was just an early version, or maybe both. Currently, I feel like I have no use for really nice bits, which seems to be the main purpose for these, to sharpen used bits that are much more expensive to replace. I can buy one of the holiday promo’s from Milwaukee or some big brand and get many bits for ~$20 which covers replacing anything I ever need.
But I’ve always been interested in one since my initial impression of them so many years ago!
db
I used one for 10 years. Follow instructions and it works fine.
Needs a better holder for small bits.
Matthew Schulz
I don’t use drill bits enough to justify buying a drill doctor. I have broken a few drill bits and am curious if anyone has tried sharpening a broken bit.
Blythe
I don’t have one, and have to admit I’m a skeptic. I look forward to your thoughts
Chris
Still rocking my original, and love it.
Clay
I have not ever tried the Drill Doctor. Would love to try one of these out. I have a large number of old drill bits that were my grandfather’s that are very dull but I am sure are made of good steel.
Tracy Atkin
I wouldn’t mind trying one out, I have a lot of kitchen knives, other knives, drill bits etc…
Mike
I’ve used one a hand full of times. They do work to resharpen bits. IDK if I’d buy one for myself TBH. I don’t use drill bits enough at home on things that dull them out faster than I lose the dang bit.
Norm
I’ve seen a commercial or infomercial about it years ago. I mentioned to people at work, and they said they had one, didn’t work. Understandable really. Industrial setting. We drill mostly through stainless steel.
Matt
I have a Drill Doctor and love it. Great time saver and I also believe it lengthens the life of my drill bits by only taking the least amount required to get the drill bit sharpened.
Steve
I had one 20 yrs. ago that I couldn’t make work (probably didn’t have or read the instructions). I bought the 750x this year and it works real well. Like any sharpening there is kind of an art or feel to it that you have to learn and this feels kind of funky because you turn the bit in kind of a warp fitting that moves it up and down as you turn.
I can free-hand a bit on a grinding wheel and make it work sometimes like I can sharpen a pocket knife on a stone, but with the drill dr. you can restore the bit and that is terrific.
Best use is when you are working on whatever and find you have a dull bit. Lowe’s is 8 mile away. No problem.
I also notice I’ve quit buying cheap bits. When I can sharpen them right I don’t mind the price of the good ones.
Col. Bud
My wife gave me a Drill Doctor for Christmas about 20 years ago. I use it infrequently, but when I do it generally does a great job of restoring sharp edges to my drill bits, even broken ones. The only negative comment I’ve got is that it won’t do very small diameter bits or bits with specialty tip profiles. Maybe the latest models address these limitations.
Bottom line is I’d buy another when my current one craps out.
David Smith
Just last night I helped my friend wall mount a tv. I didn’t have any tools with me so I used his non-brand name set of drill bits. Turns out that he had metal studs in his wall… Well the bits weren’t made for metal and just dulled out on the first stud. It was a disaster and made me think about how many sets of drill bits I have gone through as I’ve always just bought new. On average I buy a new set every 1-2 years despite the fact that I do use premium brand name bits. I clicked on the link to this article because I was interested in learning more about re-sharpening drill bits after what happened last night. $120 is a bit expensive but about what I spend on drill bits per 1-2 years. If it could save me from having to replace my drill bits for a year or two that would definitely be a savings. If it could save me from having to run to get replacement bits in the middle of a project and save me time, that would be even better.
Johann
Honestly, I’ve not really considered it, but thinking about it now… I would absolutely tune up some bits where I’m looking for a very clean hole. I sort of ‘deal with’ there being some imperfections in the hole but being able to true up a bit immediately before a project sounds good.
Only gap I can think of is that I have a number of Dewalt pilot point bits that I quite like for reducing the chance of the bit walking on me. I doubt these tools will sharpen those.
David VandeBerg
I’ve got the 750 Tradesman and if I remember to use it, is a great tool.
Kurt
I had the first drill doctor model , purchased years ago. I found it didn’t work well for the small bits =<.125" I use and wear out the most.
I'm hoping the new version works for those, as that would be very handy.
James Vis
I can see the value if you are constantly using bits or if you have several more expensive bits and don’t want toss them. Having the ability to sharpen other tools gives it a lot more functionality that makes it more appealing.
Since I am a casual DIY guy, I would probably not use it. So for me it isn’t worth it. But I would still take a gift card and go buy that new cordless circular saw I have been eyeing for awhile now.
JoeM
I don’t qualify for the contest, but I do have an opinion on the Drill Doctor. If that means this comment gets deleted for convenience, I’m okay with that.
I have a similar product, the Dremel 6500 Sharpeming Station. What the two product families have in common is what I dislike most about these machines. They are limited by how small they are capable of going. The vast majority of the drill bits I’ve used enough to require sharpening are too small for these machines.
Size limitations. That’s about it. If not for that factor, I would own several of these, for various drill bits I use. Some I have so few of, or are so expensive, that I am genuinely afraid to use them, lest they dull or snap without a way to continue working. It is absolutely why I relegated my sharpening station to the back of my workbench area. If I absolutely need to put a proper edge back on a damaged knife, or I get a new knife that requires that shipping-safe edge to be turned into something useful, then I will dig up the sharpening station to get the heft of the work done, before I hone it manually to perfect it.
If you use Drill Bits… We live in a time when machines like these are worth their weight in Gold. As long as you use a size they can work with, you need one. I need one that is tiny, for jeweller’s drills. When they make an adapter for, say… a #000 bit. That will be the point when I drop the cash on the station itself. Especially the ones where you can get different grits for different stages of sharpening. That would be indespensible for me.
Rob
I’ve never used one but I’m curious to see if they’re as useful and effective as claimed
josh
I hear the newer ones are pretty good but I have never tried one out. I have tried sharpening on a bench grinder and probably 1 out of 10 works for me but that could help a lot
bob
recently bought the 750x. figgered out how to use, on the 1st bit. proceeded to sharpen all my used bits 3/8 and up. (over 200). considering the cost of larger bits, a bit sharpener is worth it
Frank D
I have entertained getting a drill dr a few times, as I have a growing box of dull bits and keep buying new sets; but always get scared away by the price, various models ( which bits do I have? which model should I get? does it work? is it worth the price? ) and the wife acceptance factor of another stationary powertool.
Jeremy
I have been interested in the drill doctor, but it’s always seemed like a cheesey gimmick that might not work. I would love to try one though, because hate our throw away society. It would be nice to extend the life of another consumable.
Jerrick
Grinder has always worked for me, but I have other Darex/Worksharp items that have never disappointed.
James
I have never used a drill bit sharpener. I have always been skeptical about how well they work. If I win, I’ll buy one and give i5 a chance.
MattW.
I have alot of old usa jobber bits that could use some love! It’s taken me a long time to get them even remotely dull but this would help.
Garrett
I’ve not used one, but am definitely interested in giving one a try. I’ve got quite a few dull bits sitting around waiting for when I get around to buying one.
Rich
I have looked at them repeatedly but never got one, mostly due to the cost. But I most definitely would be in favor of resharpening tools than chucking them and buying new ones.
MFC
I dont use my small drill bits very often. I primarily use spade bits or hole saws on rough in for plumbing or electical. It is an interesting idea and would be good for someone drilling a lot with smaller bits.
Seth
I’ve had one for the last 15 years or so. Not sure it’s paid for itself in dollars, but maybe time.
It certainly beats another trip to the hardware store in the middle of a project. I also tend to quickly hose my bits drilling into our old plaster walls so a quick and easy sharpening helps my bits last way longer than they would otherwise.
Rusty B
Until reading the comments, I had no idea That they could sharpen masonry bits!
That def changes my opinion from meh to boy I could use that!
I may be converted 🙂
Chris
I’ve always been in defense of them, saying that if you learn how to use it right they can be good. A lot of the people I’ve seen complain about them just had no idea how to use them.
Personally, I advocate for learning to sharpen them by hand with a bench grinder. Alternatively, I do occasionally use a jig that you use with a bench grinder if the angle on the drill is really messed up, just to get the grind back somewhat even.
Michael
Never considered it really. Always have been a use-and-throw away kind of person. But might give it a try if I win, because why not
dll932
I had a chance to use one. Once I figured it out, I was impressed with the results.
conor
I haven’t used one in a decade, but at the time didn’t find them helpful, as the one we had was quite limited in the sharpening angles it could grind. I’d be interested in giving them another shot, though, now that I’m sharpening general use and masonry bits more than drills for brass and steel.
Jason Lin
I have never used a drill bit sharpener. I have used a grinder to sharpen a 1/2 inch bit but the result was not great, I have watched several videos of drill doctor sharpeners on youtube and I am interested in getting one to sharpen quite a few dull bits. If I win, I’ll buy one 750x.
DRT42
I have an older Drill Doctor 500X. It works pretty good, but you really have to follow the instructions. I just save up dulled bits and have a sharpening festival once a year. In the past, I tried sharpening by hand, but at my skill level, the DD wins hands down. Would be interested in trying some of their other products.
Todd N
I have not used one but I’m interested. I’ve been looking to pick one up when I find a deal on it.
dave
Sure.
I have not as the things are stupidly more expensive than perceived worth. That is when I dull a dollar bit I briefly consider spending spending a hundred dollars on a drill doctor with poor reviews to fix that bit. And I go to a big box store and pickout a small cheap package of gold plated diamond tipped depleted-radium cobalt drill bits in the size I need.
SamS
Norseman Black and Gold drill bits have been my preferred for drilling through Stainless Steel. Even with cutting fluid the bits get dull eventually. The Drill Dr 750X has resharpened a lot of these bits for me and saved me a bunch on replacing bits.
I’ve also used it for hammer drill bits.
The X2 looks like a nice improvement
Jordan
I have never used one, but I have alway thought they would be benefit to have. I did watch same testing done with one or two of the models they seem to do well, and confirms that it would be a benefit to get one.
Ryan
I have had an older drill doctor in my tool box at work for several years now and occasionally use it. Takes a few minutes to get set and make sure the drill bit properly positioned. It does a decent job. However, a few seconds at the bench grinder can do a decent job as well.
Joe L
I’ve not used a drill doctor before. But if I were to, I would try the 500X or 750X for masonry bits. Those are fairly expensive.
YJ
This would allow giving a second life to older bits. The up front cost makes it a bit hard to swallow. If there were a money back guarantee I would be more open to try.
George
I’ve been eyeballing one of these to sharpen the bits I’ve used most without buying whole new sets. I also ran across my old set of bits I bought long ago and wanted to remove the rust and sharpen those. They’re old B&D bits made in West Germany which I figure might be worth keeping.
Isaac
We had an older model Drill Doctor in our shop at a previous job. It worked great, but was more time consuming than the bench grinder.
Brian M
I don’t really see the purpose of the entry level model, 135-degree bits are the ones that I always have to sharpen. I’ve considered buying one of the premium models but I haven’t pulled the trigger yet.
Jonathan
i have the 750x. Thought id use it alot more. but with quad edge bits dont see a point.
Tom H
Someone gave me a Drill Doctor about 15yrs ago. I use it all the time. It works fantastic. If you go a long time between uses, there is a short learning curve, but once you are straight… It’s pretty damn simple. Bits come out sharp and ready to use.
Christian F
I’ve never used one myself, but I have heard that there is a learning curve before you are seeing consistent results. I’d definitely like to give it a try and see what all the hype is about!
Joatman
It would be nice to be able to salvage my dull bits instead of throwing them away.
Scrappy
Id probably give it a go, but not for $100. Bits are relatively cheap, they either break or get dull, so I toss them, have plenty more on hand.
Brandon
My father had one that he used to use regularly, but it broke and was never replaced. Maybe that says something in and of itself. It performed well, and made each bit last much longer than it would have without sharpening. However, most of our usage is in a business setting where it seems to generally be more time/cost effective to just grab a new bit and get back to work for the smaller size bits that the drill doctor could handle. The only way I could see it being cost effective for an individual would be someone with a very serious machine-shop hobby.
Bottom line – not for me, but can be useful and money saving in the proper setting.
Mike
To be honest, I had completely forgotten about these Drill Doctor sharpeners since they were first introduced and saw their commercials all the time. It seems like it would be a nice, money-saving tool to have around in the long run. Other tool purchases, however, are taking higher priority over this one. That being said, I wouldn’t mind trying this sharpener out at some point during my tool-addicted travels.
Adam M.
I’ve always wanted to give one of these a try.
I’ve kind of been in the habit of just buying new bits when mine get dull, which is super wasteful.
Jeremiah
Iv tried of junking my bits after a couple uses I have tried a couple different sharpener but no luck yet
Emptys
I first used the drill doctor at a body repair shop; we were drilling out welds, It worked great, and cut down on the number of drills we needed to have on hand.
when i saw the X2 posted here, it prompted me to buy one! now its here in my workshop, to help whenever i need it…
SAM
I like the idea of sharpening drill bits. I have tried it on a bench grinder, with minimal success. I would like to try a Drill Doctor someday.
Juxtapose
I’d love the ease instead of sharpening by hand, which is what I do currently.
Eric B
I’ve seen them before, but have never bought. I’m similar to you probably, being a use and replace person. I am intrigued by them though, and would consider it in the future.
Thomas
Super useful if you use them right. I have the 750x and find it works well on masonry bits and my cobalt bits that I use on metal. Its pretty hard to torch the bits in the drilldoctor over a grinder wheel and takes the guess work out of manually doing it.
Michael Welch
I’ve had the drill doctor 750 on my wish list for awhile now. Multiple drill
bits that are dull. It takes me a least 30 minutes to get to a store with drill bits
so having one would save me time and money.
KeithinKC
I have been eyeing the Drill Doctors for a few years now. The cost of the top model has kept me from pulling the trigger. Like others, I also tend to break bits more than dull them, or at least I thought so. I just went and looked through a lot of my bits that are not in their original packaging and most of those are pretty dull. I bet I would have a few hours work to put a Drill Doctor through on the first day.
Brent Leiterman
I have never used the drill doctor drill bit sharpener and have always repurposed dull drill bits into either flat boring bits or sheet metal bits/ brad point style bits using a bench grinder. I do occasionally try to sharpen bits with the bench grinder but find it difficult to get good results.
Tom P
I’ve always wondered whether these worked well. I would be interested in giving it a try on my next big project.
Scott K
I had never heard of this until I read your post. My first thought was that this seemed gimmicky, but it makes sense. I’m undecided as to whether this would encourage the purchase of higher or lower quality bits. I would be very interested in trying this because my current bit set either needs to be sharpened or trashed. I’ve sharpened knives and my mower blade- so, why not bits?
Kg
I’ve always wondered if these are a gimmick or legitimately bring basic machine shop sharpen-ability home for twist bits. I’ve always assumed it’s more gimmick than revelation but would love to be wrong and stop treating these bits as disposable when just the very leading edge erodes
MM
The Drill Doctor isn’t as precise or as capable as a real toolroom drill sharpener but they are surprisingly good.
I first learned to sharpen bits on a pro toolroom machine, it was about the size of a washing machine. The grinder was on top, the “washing machine” base was a large cabinet with every conceivable size of collet to hold the bits for sharpening. Metric, fractional by 64ths, wire gauge, letter, etc. When I left the university which had that machine I ended up trying a drill doctor a friend had. I fully expected it to be worthless and that I could do a better job freehand on a belt sander but no, it actually worked very well, and honestly it had a much easier learning curve than the professional machine did. For basic everyday bit sharpening I’d honesty rather have the drill doctor.
The advantage that the pro machine had was that it was very easy to grind any arbitrary angle you might want so you could make very acute pointed bits for plastic or flat-pointed bits for square-bottom holes and every angle in between. It was also easy to make split and brad points, and it was especially useful for relieving the backside of the flutes. It would also work with 3 and 4 flute drills which the drill doctor does not handle. But those are fairly obscure applications and you have to shell out a great deal more money for a machine like that.
BuildingMech
Skeptical that it would work well as a bit, knife and tool sharpener, however if it does in fact reasonably sharpen masonry bits, I’m a player.
MarkC
I would like to try this sharpener, I have been using my sander to touch up my bits.
Scott Selzer
I own 2 Drill Doctors. One I purchased in 2004, which was under water for 3 days, dried out by a friend, and returned to me. This one I use daily at work and it hasn’t failed me yet. It is the 500 model and I added a larger chuck to sharpen bits up to 3/4″. My second one is my, “at home” bit sharpener. It is the 750 model. This one serves me when I do my scrap metal projects. I would highly recommend any of the drill bit sharpeners. I have also been challenged to sharpen a bit and compare it to a free hand sharpened bit…..no contest! If you don’t own one, buy one, it will save you money.
Matt the Hoople
Had one for about 15 years now. It doesn’t get a lot of use but is easy to find se and works well. It’s a bit fiddly, to try and use on smaller bits just beck cause of the way it indexes them, there’s not much flute width to index on. For bits from 1/8 up, it works well.
Peter Antonvich
I have one – don’t use it a lot – so always have to re-read the instructions but it’s so much quicker to sharpen up them go to the hardware store to get a new bit. Also if you are using really long or stubby bits that you might not find local…
It also allows you to grind bits to different angles for different materials – and do split points.
I’ve been happy with my purchase.
Wish mine had the knife sharpener…
Marko
I usually break my bits before using them up so I would not buy a sharpener. However, I would not refuse a gifted one!
Allen
I have the one that sharpens spade bits, I use it a lot. A good sharp spade bit does a good job.
monanoke12
My father has had one for years and considers it the bees knees
John
I haven’t used a drill doctor before but I am curious. I can sharpen bits by hand on a grinder but they never come out accurately enough to be really usable, like they’ll work on wood but I mainly work with steel and for that if it isn’t sharpened consistently you’ll get a inaccurate hole and it’s slow.
Will
I work as a plumber, and in my area we do a lot of work on old Tudor houses with stucco siding. This means we’re drilling pilot and other holes through steel mesh as well as the stucco itself, and I go through/wear down drill bits like crazy. I don’t like the idea of just throwing away bits that could last for years, but I just can’t seem to get a good grind on bits when I attempt to sharpen them on my bench grinder. I think this this machine could help me save money in the long run, and would love to give it a chance.
Charles Embich
I love my Drill Doctor it has saved me many times! A lot quicker then running to the store and cheaper than buying a new one! Looking to buy a new one.
Adabhael
I’m intrigued but never used one. My grandfather (a machinist) always sharpened by hand on a grinding wheel. In spite of his best efforts in ever mastered that, and for years treated bits as consumables. However, as I am setting up a more permanent shop, and upgrading, I’m interested to try my hand at sharpening again.
Ben G
I love the idea and have almost purchased twice in the past, then the Misses reminds me that I don’t burn thought that many bits. The last time I went to purchase one, I instead got a mega pack of drill bits at my local warehouse store and still haven’t gone through those. That was 6 years ago…looks like my payback time would be a couple decades. On the other hand, I have impending projects that will burn through masonry and cobalt bits; so I am shopping for a Drill Doctor again.
Eric S.
Bought the DD750 years ago. Not easy to use as it has some quirks to it. Not that long after I bought it the “new & improved version came out. Lesson learned. If you have the time & patients it does a good job!
Chris
I’ve seen them but never pulled the trigger on one. It would be cool to see how well it works on all my dull bits though
Jon Yoder
I’ve watched several videos of the drill doctor and think it’s designed well and works good, but I don’t do enough metal fabrication to justify the ~$100 purchase. Most of my work is with wood, so I’m using other types of bits. If I ever saw a lightly used one for cheap locally though I’d buy it.
Keith Truman
I have not used one but I am interested in trying one to see if they really work. I might put the Drill Doctor on my Christmas list.
Ezzy
I’ve never really seen the use in these. I get bits cheap on sale and tend to break them after awhile on jobs. Not worth the cost or time to sharpen them.
Allan
Have always wanted one but never purchased one. I have a few dull bits that I would like to try resharpening with the drill doctor to see if it’s worth while. Thanks for the opportunity to win a gift card and find out.
alex huber
I do a lot of metal work from my house. I would love to get more use out of my bits if i could sharpen them
Jbongo
I’d be up for trying it. I’ve never taken the time to sharpen my drill bits, though it’s generally been pretty easy to replace the few I use or those that disappear.
Brandon
We’ve used a Drill Doctor drill bit sharpener for years and have had good success. We’ve been able to reuse lots of bits instead of replacing them.
It’s me
Seems like it might be useful if I never left my wood shop, but I generally wear out drill bits at the worst possible time to stop and mess around with sharpening them.
it’s_jake
to date ive purchased 2 drill doctor (750?) for my workplace. we are bike mechanics but we have a revolving cast of 2000ish bikeshare bikes and have to drill a lot of shit out. plus the station techs like to borrow twist drills from the bike mechanics. ive thought some of them that if their concern is that after the drill bit gets red it stops cutting, that is 100% on them. ive taught feed and speed. but at the end of the day field work eats drills and we don’t need anything long. i can only sharpen bits ~3/8” and up by hand and even then it’s iffy. the drill doctor lets them keep their own fleet of 5 or 6 bits in their most used sizes, wreck themselves (WITHOUT turning them red now) and get through the seized stainless on stainless they need to, then sharpen before the next install/relocation job. i used to use their drill doctor but i work super remote now so i’d love to get my own drill doc and perfect the technique!
Rob H
I have wondered how the drill doctor works but have never had cause to spend the $$ on one. If I had one I know I would use it, but I can’t really justify buying one “just because.”
ken
I have owned one for about 20 years. It does take a little practice but I can cut a bit in half and resharpen it! I can also make split point 135 degree points out of standard 120 degree points. The only downside is spending the time to sharpen all your bits. It doesn’t take long to sharpen a bit but if you are doing fifty thats another story. I would recommend this tool to anyone that has multiple bit sets and uses their drill bits often. For a homeowner who does a few things a year it is not appropriate.
bigiron
I haven’t really seen a convenient way to resharpen bits, but this seems to be a viable option. Definitely would give this a try and the form factor looks nice. Resharpening would be a nice way to avoid having to keep buying assortments to get one or two worn down sizes replaced.
Rob
Most old timers I know can sharpen off of a grinder without a rest or a jig. I could probably do it by hand on stones or with a rest in a Tormek. Most of my twist bits (the ones without brad points that is) are way too hard for the methods I’m any good at. This, I wouldn’t be adverse to trying the little machine. I know I’ve destroyed a couple of knifes on the cheaply made work sharp, but that’s a totally different operation.
Mikeee
Never had a drill bit sharpener. Interested to finally try one
Dean
These have been around for a long time. We used them like 15 years ago in a maintenance shop. On a slow day we would sharpen the bits from the “dull” bin. It worked really well. A few years later we began using pilot hole bits (not sure of correct name) where there is a smaller guide bit that projected off the top of the bit. Now years later I’m back using standard bits but this article brought back some great memories of that shop. Gift card would come in handy after emptying my account on the kiddos Christmas gifts. Fingers crossed it’s a win for me but best of luck to all who have entered. Happy Holidays!
Art Vandalay
I have one still in the box for the past 6 years. I’ve never had time to take the plunge
Brien
I’ve never tried one but I would be interested in trying one, especially on masonry bits.
Dale
I’ve had a 350 for several years and it has done everything i’ve asked of it. I’d be interested in trying out one of the more premium models.
John
Looks like a nice tool. I haven’t gone through dulling a ton of bits so haven’t justified buying one on cost alone. I like the added benefit for scissors and knives, it isn’t immediately obvious what grit this sharpens tools to, I’m sure that matters for the edges.
Distephano
I’ve always been a use until worn and discard person too. I always figured it would be a purchase that would take up room in my shop and I would never recoup the purchase price.
With that being said, those that use them seem to be happy with the results.
David the brave
I find myself very much the same as you. Interested in it, even researche sand read reviews on one but such a throw it out when it’s full kinda guy that I never actually bought one
Popgun42
Never tried one. Can teach an old dog new tricks???
Mac
Always dulling bits so this would be something nice to try …other than touching them up on the grinder by eye.
Mickey O
FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS. I got one at an estate without the instructions, tried it and wasn’t impressed, mentioned that to someone who asked if I followed the instruction because they had great results. Found a video on youtube, followed the instructions, the Drill Doctor works great.
Mac
I’d give it a whirl. I’ve only had a few bits sharpened though. I just accepted that most are disposable items. I could accept reusing them longer. Really wouldn’t hurt my feelings
Tim E.
I’m also a use and replace type, especially with cheap bits. I’m always careful to use a cheap bit if I’m making an “unknown” hole, that way they get damaged and not my good norseman or viking bits. Also have some ancient craftsman HSS bits from the 70s, use them all the time in wood and they have never been sharpened. Don’t know that I’d trust myself to put them in a drill doctor, at least without a lot of practice on cheap bits first. But maybe just in touching up damaged or worn out cheap bits will be worth it since I go through a case or two a year it seems like (mainly because it makes more sense to get a new set than replace an individual broken bit).
Mopar
Ya know, we had one of these around the shop at work. Nobody ever used it. I guess that in and of itself is some sort of opinion?
Dunno why, but I haven’t even seen it in a decade now that I think about it. Wonder if it got tossed, or stolen?
Matt J.
I’ve previously been a use-and-replacer as well, but I finally invested in a good drill index and am now finding some dull bits I’m less enthushed to replace. I’ve played with a drill doctor previously and they seem to work well enough. Certainly easy enough to take away my laziness excuses. Wish the build quality was better, but haven’t had hands on a higher-end model.
Ben
I have the 750x and while it’s great at touching up dull bits it’s far from a professional tool. Lots of plastic,, the motor is kinda weak, noisy, and the accuracy leaves a lot to be desired. With that being said, it’s nice to have around if you are in the middle of a project and need a quick touch up. Would I put a nice Cleveland or Chicago-Latrobe in there? Probably not.
herbsandspices
The main reason I’m considering a Drill Doctor is to revive an old drill bit set that was a gift from my father. While I’ve since upgraded to newer bits (Norseman and Fuller), they still hold sentimental value to me and I’d like to revive them and continue on their tradition of drilling holes in stuff.
Sal Colon
Used something similar some years ago. Not completely sold, simply because it appears to not give consistent results. The Drill Doctor itself, I have not tried. But would not mind trying it out.
DC
I have an old Drill Dr., 15+ years old and it’s obsolete. Nonetheless, it works great and keeps my bits sharpen. Sharpens very easily and angles (adjustable) are spot on for drilling into wood and metal. I used them when my bits start to struggle. Use it on HSS, colbalt and Ti Nitride bits.
15 years plus and still going strong.
Tyler
I don’t keep a bench grinder out all the time so dressing up my bits usually ends up being neglected. I’m thinking having one on the bench would make me more apt to keep my bits sharp instead of just trying to suffer through the hole and end up breaking the bit.
John Figlioli sr
I’ve used the Drill Doctor before show me that I borrowed off of a friend I was amazed at what a great job it done I would love to get one of my own as I have many many drill bits to shopping Drill Doctor is a great product!!
Clayton
I’d definitely would like to have one, especially now that they are more versatile. I’d really like to get one for my dad though as he has unlimited old drill bits that are all dull, but he refuses to get new ones
Jerry
Used a Drill Doctor with good results but don’t own one. Have a friend who let me use it and it worked well.
Erik
I have not used a Drill Doctor but I’ve been saving my old drill bits for when I end up getting a sharpener.
I’ve been deciding between the Drill Doctor 750X or buying the drill attachment for when I get a Tormek sharpener for other non-drill sharpening.
The Drill Doctors are about half the price of just the Tormek drill attachment, and seem to be a bit quicker to use. The Tormek solution looks like its more time consuming but should produce better cut quality when I drill in wood or plastics due to the higher grit abrasives used.
Ron Kellis
It’s like any tool, you have to invest a bit of time to learn how to use it correctly. Think of it like a biscuit cutter. Don’t use it for a year and it pays to review the instructions. I use mine a lot, including an hour ago. Took me maybe 3 minutes from start to finish. Less time than fooling around trying to force a dull bit through 4 each 1/8″ thick pieces of black iron pipe fittings.
Mine is parked right next to the grinder, right next to the drill press, and the drill bit drawer.
Josh Anderson
I realized I forgot to post my comment earlier.
In the right application, a Drill Doctor works really well. Growing up, Dad had one that we used with the drill bits we used alongside all of our lathe work.
For the everyday drill bits, I don’t usually worry about trying to sharpen them unless it’s the bigger ones.
In my experience though, they are pretty straightforward to use once you get the hang of it. Like others have said, you just can’t use a DD with split point bits.
Thanks for the opportunity to win one (or a rather a gift card for one)!
Brad Justinen
I have a massive bit collection and use one all the time. Saved so much money. Really works well with the smaller bits that are hard to sharpen by hand.