Pro tip: that $30 router bit sharpener I bought off Amazon actually works

I was sure those little handheld sharpener doodads were scams. But after dulling my third $15 bit on a single maple run last month I figured why not try it. Ran my worn down flush trim bit through it 4 times and it cut like new on the next job. Has anyone else had luck with those or am I just getting lucky?

3 comments

3 Comments

the_hayden4d ago

That's good to hear yours worked. I heard those sharpeners can burn the carbide if you push too hard, but maybe running it through a few times light is the trick. Did you oil it up after or just run it dry?

brian_hart3d ago

Funny you mention that, a buddy of mine tried one of those carbide sharpeners on an old planer blade he had. He went at it dry and pretty aggressive, figured more pressure meant faster results. Ended up with a blue-ish tint along the edge and a blade that wouldn't hold a cut for five minutes. Had to send it out to a proper sharpening service to get it fixed, cost him more than buying a new set of blades would have. So yeah, I think that light touch and a little oil like blairm77 mentioned is the safe way to go.

blairm774d ago

Lube is a must for carbide. Dry runs create heat. Heat kills the edge. I hit mine with a drop of 3-in-1 before each pass. Keeps it cool, doesn't let the stone glaze over.