Drill bits are so low-cost that when one is too chowdered up to keep working, we normally just toss it out. So you might expect a video on sharpening drill bits to be somewhat irrelevant, but [This Old Tony] makes it work.
The reason this video is worth enjoying is not just that you get to learn how to sharpen your bits, although that’s an vital metalworker’s skill. Where [This Old Tony]’s video shines is by describing why a drill bit is shaped the way it is, which he does by fabricating a rudimentary twist drill bit from scratch. Seeing how the flutes and the web are formed and how all the different angles interact to cut material and carry the swarf away is fascinating. and as a bonus, knowing what the angles do allows you to customize a grind for a special job.
[This Old Tony] may be just a person messing around in his shop, but he’s got a wealth of maker shop knowledge and we always look forward to seeing what he’s working on, whether it’s a homemade fly cutter or a full-blown CNC machine.