Forstner drill bit edges

The absolute best source for sharpening this tool is Leonard Lee's book, The Complete Guide to Sharpening, Chapter 15. (This is a must-have for any sharpener's library.)

Other notes :

• Rims
• Ensure both rims are the same height.
• Rims can be sharpened using a round or half-round file. I have also used a small sanding drum in a Dremel-style device when the drill bit was badly dulled.
• Sharpen the inside of the bevel (nearest the point), and not the outside. Sharpening the outside would reduce the bit's overall diameter.


• Chipping Bevels
• Ensure both chipping bevels are the same height.
• The chipping bevels should be at the same height as the rims. If there is a significant gap, the drill bit should be replaced.
• Sharpen the throat of the bevel using a flat file, and not the other side. Sharpening the side opposite the throat would reduce the chipping bevel's height.

It's the little details that make something look handmade. Unknown



• Point
• DO NOT change the center point of the drill bit.
• Grind the minimum off the point.
• Ensure the point extends beyond the rims by at least 0.005".


• DO NOT change the diameter of the drill bit.