Sharpening Screwdrivers / Cutters etc

[Dustydazzler]

Who still services and sharpens their tools rather than just binning them when they get a bit dull ?

I have a bunch of old screwdrivers that are a bit rounded and chipped , have been meaning to get the old file on them

Anyone still actual still bother servicing their gear ?

 

[telectrix]

Who still services and sharpens their tools rather than just binning them when they get a bit dull ?

I have a bunch of old screwdrivers that are a bit rounded and chipped , have been meaning to get the old file on them

Anyone still actual still bother servicing their gear ?

file is useless. you need a grindstone. fro screwdrivers. attempting sharpening sidecutters is like trying to save the Titanic with a tube of silicone.

 

[Dustydazzler]

You are correct Tel, tried several different metal files this morning and they didn't make any difference. I think a grinding wheel would probably work on some of the drivers.
I have several tin snips and cutters that are all dull but no amount of filing would get an edge back on them

 

[telectrix]

that's because they are hardened steel. same with my toenails. Clippers can't cope: snapped 3 over time. Bahco sidecutters work fine.

difficulty with screwdrivers on a grindstone is getting it straight. first 4 attempts you'll end up with a driver end like a plumber's arse.

 

[static zap]

I've used and angle grinder before ..but more for practice - than a good use of my time !

( Was going to try with less aggressive - Linishing / Flap disks ..TILL I saw one break up..)
...An engineer type told me they needed polishing -after or the Rust gets in -Pores..

..Flat bladed screw drivers .. (way too many angles -for side cutters..)

 

[Soi disant]

I have a bunch of old screwdrivers that are a bit rounded and chipped

Keep them for opening paint cans, or other levering purposes, impromptu scrapers/chisels....

 

[littlespark]

You can use a grinder for sharpening anything with practice.... but until you’re good at it, your screwdriver becomes 2 inches shorter than it was....

no good for Philips head though

paint stirrer, chisel or door wedge comes to mind.

 

[i=p/u]

Tried grinder few times on snips(£70), after blowing rubbish out of them, didn't work.. still wont throw.them out

 

[DPG]

Some of the higher end companies (Lindstrom for example) used to offer a reconditioning service. Sharpen the blades, check the pivot, fit new handles etc. Admittedly it was expensive.