Sharpening for Control: Making a Precision Chamfer from a Twist Drill

In this video, Brian demonstrates how to convert a standard twist drill into a precise chamfering tool by grinding an 82° included angle and tuning the relief for control rather than aggression. Instead of relying on specialty chamfer bits—which are limited in size, difficult to sharpen, and often inconsistent—you’ll see how to customize a drill bit to match the fastener you’re using and the result you want. The focus isn’t speed, but feel. Brian explains how lip angle, relief angle, and symmetry influence entry, exit, and surface quality, then walks through grinder setup, angle control, and a practical way to check that both cutting edges are working evenly. The result is a clean, controlled chamfer with minimal tear-out and a level of precision that off-the-shelf bits rarely achieve. This approach reflects a broader philosophy of adapting tools to the task at hand—skills that extend far beyond this single operation. This video is an excerpt from the Boggs Timber Frame Table course, where Brian walks through the full process of building the table while teaching the deeper thinking behind precision, tool control, and adaptable shop techniques. #Brian Boggs #boggsbench #woodworking #toolsharpening #precisionwoodworking #drillbitsharpening #shopskills #finewoodworking