How to Tell If a Drill Bit Is Worn Out? How Can You Fix a Drill Bit?

Jun 18, 2025

On tasks related to construction projects, it is extremely important to have the right set of tools. At the time of the time, the drill bit is the most important item in the toolbox. Unfortunately, drill bits even though the best quality ones can get worn. Learning how to identify a drill bit that is worn out and then how to fix it will not only save you time but also money. The main focus of the discussion centers on how to tell if the drill bit is worn and how to find the solution.

diamond drill bit

Signs of a Worn-Out Drill Bit

Less Productive Cutting: One of the signals that the drill bit has been taken is the drop in productivity. When you feel that the time for drilling certain materials – for example, concrete, or stone – becomes prolonged, you are most likely dealing with a worn-out bit.

Greater Friction and Heat: The extreme heat generated while drilling reflects the fact that the drill bit has lost its sharpness. The worn drill bit is exposed to the material and encounters increased heat. Excessive heat is a solid sign that the drill bit is worn out.

Obvious Flaws: Apart from feeling the edges carefully, it is necessary to carry out the visual check-up of the drill bit for damage (such as scrape primers, braking equipment, or missing sectors). With the use of diamond core drill bits as an example, the diamond segments are checked for loss of material on the diamond. If there are no flat spots and only outlines are shown on the surface of the diamond, it is high time that you think about a new one.

Lack of Holing Skills: At the instance when the holes drilled are patchy, asymmetrical, or in any case, the edges are sharp, then the bit is worn. High-quality drills have the ability to create holes that are clean-cut and accurate.

Vibration During Use: Too much vibration, while drilling a hole, indicates that the drill bit is disconnected from the surface or is not in proper alignment. The most common cause is sharp or damaged cutting edges.

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How to Fix a Worn-Out Drill Bit

If it is determined that your drill bit is worn, there are multiple methods to fix it. Here’s what you can do:

1. Sharpening the Bit

Some kinds of drill bits, high-speed steel (HSS) ones in particular, can be sharpened so that their performance at cutting is restored. Nevertheless, diamond core and stone core bits are not likely to be able to be sharpened because of their composite nature.

2. Replacing the Bit

If your drill bit is too worn, the most effective and reliable solution is to buy a new one. At ChinShine, we sell a vast selection of diamond core drill bits, which includes among others, those for concrete and for stone drilling. In terms of design, our concrete core drill bits are both long-lasting and high in performance.Indeed, these are the best bits to handle extremely difficult materials, such as brick and rock.

3. Using a Drill Bit Extension or Adaptor

A functional drill bit that does not reach the required depth can be made possible with a drill bit extension or adapter. You do not have to replace the bit, only utilize a suitable drill bit extension or adapter and you will be able to reach desired drilling depth.

4. Proper Maintenance

Extending the life of drill bits, therefore, taking care of them properly. Below are some useful techniques:

Clean the Bits: After using the drill bits, it is advisable that you clean them to take away all the dirt, dust, etc. and that can be done preferably through water washing and drying to eliminate any dust before you store them. For that matter, always use a wet cloth to clean the holes.

Maintain Properly: Keep your drill bits safe by storing them in a protective case.

Select the Right Bit for the Application: Make sure you use the correct drill bit that is suitable for the material that you are drilling. For example, when cutting through concrete and stone, you may want to use diamond core drill bits for efficiency.

conclusion

In conclusion, recognizing the signs of a worn-out drill bit is crucial for maintaining efficiency in your projects. Whether you choose to sharpen or replace your drill bits, investing in high-quality options like ChinShine’s diamond core drill bits will ensure you achieve the best results. If you’re looking for reliable, durable, and high-performance drill bits, contact us today for a quote and discover how our products can enhance your drilling experience!