Drill Doctor what's the good, bad and ugly?

watcher · #1 05/07/14, 04:16 PM

I've pretty much decided to buy a Drill Doctor so now I'm looking for input.

First off, what model? I don't do a lot of drilling so I don't need one that will handle hundreds of bits a year but I do want one which will last for a while.

Next, how much do they cost to operate? IOW, how much are the consumable parts and how long do they last?

Any other good, bad and/or ugly thing you can say about them?

ace admirer · #2 05/08/14, 09:03 AM

well if you follow the directions and set it up for the drill you have in hand, they work. but why not learn to sharpen free hand and be done in 10 seconds.

#3 05/08/14, 11:01 AM

I have had one for a few years . Don't know the model number right off the top of my head . I have probably about 100 drill bits . I think the drill doctor does a very good job when I need to sharpen a bit . Also very easy to use .

Pat32rf · #4 05/08/14, 04:39 PM

I'm with Ace on this, but finding someone to teach you can be like learning to sharpen a chainsaw. Once you get the basics there is nothing to it, until then total frustration.....

watcher · #5 05/08/14, 05:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ace admirer

well if you follow the directions and set it up for the drill you have in hand, they work. but why not learn to sharpen free hand and be done in 10 seconds.

I can sharpen or could sharpen bits by hand but age and failing eyesight makes it harder and harder. And when it comes to the smaller bits its almost impossible for me to do it any more.

Esteban29304 · #6 05/12/14, 06:47 AM

I have had the cheapest model for many years. Follow directions closely, especially with the smaller bits & you will like it.

plowjockey · #7 05/12/14, 06:26 PM

I have 500x middle model they have.

Only used it a few times, but it sharpens like new in seconds.

The wheel ids replaceable, but it seems you have to sharpen a lot of bits.

For the money, can't imagine using anything else.

plowjockey · #8 05/12/14, 06:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by watcher

I can sharpen or could sharpen bits by hand but age and failing eyesight makes it harder and harder. And when it comes to the smaller bits its almost impossible for me to do it any more.

Everybody sharpened drill bits by hand, because they usually didn't have much other choice.

If you want sharp drill bits, you won't be sorry, IMO.

flewism · #9 05/12/14, 07:30 PM

I have had a drill doctor xpk for a few years and I have no complaints. It only sharpens up to 1/2", but anything larger I can still do a decent job on the bench grinder.

watcher · #10 05/13/14, 09:40 AM

Thanks I'll start looking for one.