MetalworkingFun Forum

Here's a quick video showing how to grind a sheet metal drill, also known as a brad point or spur point drill that will drill perfectly round holes in sheet metal or wood.

Tom

I didn't know brad point bits could be used to drill sheet metal. Great tip (pun intended)!

Ed

Tom,
The people who make Whitney punches are not going to be very happy with you......
You make it look so easy, yes I've tried I spend so much time getting even, now the wood spade bits I sharpen no problem.
How do you sharpen your end mills? (hint hint next video) Have you sharpen the spot weld remover drills? I'm thinking these s/m drills would work rather well?
Thanks for sharing your talents! you deserve a

Another great video Tom, Thanks Will have to give this one a try. Been using a step drill on sheet metal this would be a lot better.

Something didn't sound right, but it took a few minutes (ok a hour or so) for me to remember. sheet metal bits are sold with 135 point angle, that and 50 cents might get you a cup of coffee (I don't drink it) But I can see that the pilot style drill like you have would work nicely.

Thanks guys.

Ed: Yes, they work great for sheet metal. In wood, if you are going all the way through, you should stop short and finish from the opposite side to get a clean hole all the way through.

OG: Punches are quicker, but more costly. These work just as well in a pinch. Sorry but sharpening end mills require a tool grinder, sharpening them by hand is not practical. It might be possible to sharpen the ends (I've never tried it), but the flutes require a tool grinder.

Greg, I've never been a fan of step drills. They work well, but seem to require a lot more effort than should be needed to drill a simple hole.

Tom

Thanks Tom

Two great videos and it looks very straightforward.
I will dig some old drills out and have a play.

Cheers

Paul

I just inherit a pretty good size collection of drills like that, so I won't have to grind any for awhile. Nice to know they can be used for sheet metal, I never knew that.

hi well in the uk you can by drills already that shape will post a pic as i have sum

Yeah, you can buy them here as well, but that's no fun.

Tom