🔧 Don’t throw away your old screwdriver bit 🔩 without first seeing this brilliant idea 💡

Tips and tricks | May 22, 2026

How to resharpen a screwdriver tip with a bench grinder (like a pro)

Although most people discard screwdriver bits when they become rounded, you can restore them and make them functional (or better suited for specific tasks) using a bench grinder. Here’s how to do it correctly, with technical details.

🔩 Recommended tip type and angle

Sharpening angles vary depending on the type of point. Here are the most common ones:

1. Flat/Slotted Tip

  • Sharpening angle: 45° to 50° on each side (i.e., a total V-angle of 90° to 100°)
  • Tip: Make sure the edges are parallel to each other and that the blade is the same width as the screw slot where you will use it.

2. Phillips (cross) point

  • Total angle of the V: between 115° and 120°
  • You must restore the four conical sides, maintaining symmetry.
  • If the cross is too damaged, you can shape it into a cone and turn it into a precision punch.

3. Torx, Pozidriv or Allen

  • These types require more precise machinery to restore the exact geometry, but you can turn them into makeshift punches, chisels, roughers, or even extractors if you sharpen them at an angle of 45° to 60°.

🔥 Step-by-step procedure

  1. Hold the tip firmly, using gloves or tweezers if it is small.
  2. Gently bring the tip close to the grinder, without applying much pressure.
  3. Sharpen in short intervals (2-3 seconds) and cool immediately in water to prevent annealing of the steel.
  4. Check for symmetry visually. If you have calipers or a protractor, even better.
  5. Lightly sand with fine sandpaper or a stone to remove burrs and refine edges.

⚠️ Important precautions

  • Don’t let the tip turn blue or red: that indicates a loss of temper.
  • Always work in a well-lit place and wear safety glasses.
  • Make sure the grinder is properly leveled and the grinding wheel is balanced.

🧠 Extra tip: Is it worth it?

Yes, especially if you use good quality bits (S2 steel, chrome-vanadium, etc.). Even if it’s no longer suitable for screwdriving, you can repurpose it for:

  • Marking punch
  • Joint scraper
  • Tool for opening electrical connectors
  • Mini-chisel for mechanical cleaning

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