118 degrees.

To use a drill point angle gauge, follow these steps: 1. **Select the Gauge**: Choose a drill point angle gauge that matches the angle of the drill bit you are working with. Common angles are 118° and 135°. 2. **Prepare the Drill Bit**: Ensure the drill bit is clean and free from debris. This will provide an accurate measurement. 3. **Position the Gauge**: Hold the drill point angle gauge in one hand. The gauge typically has a V-shaped notch or a specific angle cutout that corresponds to the drill bit angle. 4. **Align the Drill Bit**: Insert the drill bit into the V-notch or angle cutout of the gauge. The bit should sit snugly without any gaps between the bit and the gauge. 5. **Check the Alignment**: Look at the alignment of the drill bit with the gauge. The cutting edges of the drill bit should align perfectly with the sides of the V-notch or angle cutout. If there is a gap or misalignment, the drill bit may need to be sharpened or adjusted. 6. **Adjust if Necessary**: If the drill bit does not align correctly, use a bench grinder or a drill bit sharpener to adjust the angle. Recheck the alignment with the gauge after making adjustments. 7. **Verify Symmetry**: Ensure both cutting edges of the drill bit are symmetrical. This can be checked by rotating the bit and repeating the alignment process on both sides. 8. **Final Check**: Once the drill bit aligns correctly with the gauge and is symmetrical, it is ready for use. Using a drill point angle gauge ensures that the drill bit is sharpened to the correct angle, improving drilling efficiency and accuracy.

The drill point angle is crucial because it directly affects the efficiency, accuracy, and quality of the drilling process. The point angle, typically measured in degrees, is the angle formed at the tip of the drill bit. It influences several key aspects: 1. **Material Compatibility**: Different materials require different point angles for optimal drilling. For instance, a 118-degree angle is standard for general-purpose drilling in softer materials like wood and plastic, while a 135-degree angle is better suited for harder materials like metal. The correct angle ensures efficient cutting and reduces the risk of damaging the material or the drill bit. 2. **Drilling Efficiency**: The point angle affects the cutting action and the amount of force needed to penetrate the material. A sharper angle (smaller degree) can cut more aggressively, which is beneficial for softer materials, whereas a blunter angle (larger degree) provides more strength and stability for harder materials. 3. **Heat Generation**: The angle influences heat generation during drilling. A proper point angle minimizes friction and heat, reducing the risk of overheating, which can lead to tool wear or material damage. 4. **Chip Removal**: The angle affects the size and shape of the chips produced during drilling. An optimal angle ensures efficient chip removal, preventing clogging and maintaining a clean hole. 5. **Hole Quality**: The point angle impacts the precision and finish of the drilled hole. An inappropriate angle can lead to inaccuracies, rough edges, or even hole deformation. 6. **Tool Longevity**: Using the correct point angle reduces wear and tear on the drill bit, extending its lifespan and maintaining performance. In summary, the drill point angle is vital for matching the drill bit to the material, optimizing performance, ensuring quality, and prolonging tool life.

Yes, a drill point angle gauge can be used for different types of drill bits, but with some limitations. Drill point angle gauges are designed to measure and verify the angle of the drill bit's tip, ensuring it is suitable for the material being drilled. The most common drill point angle is 118 degrees, which is suitable for general-purpose drilling in materials like wood, plastic, and soft metals. However, other materials may require different angles; for example, harder materials like stainless steel often require a 135-degree angle for better performance and durability. While a standard drill point angle gauge can measure these common angles, it may not accommodate specialized drill bits with unique angles or geometries, such as split-point, parabolic, or brad-point bits. Additionally, some gauges are adjustable, allowing them to measure a range of angles, while others are fixed and limited to specific angles. When using a drill point angle gauge, it's important to ensure that the gauge is compatible with the specific type of drill bit being used. For specialized or non-standard bits, a more versatile or adjustable gauge may be necessary. In summary, while a drill point angle gauge can be used for different types of drill bits, its effectiveness depends on the compatibility of the gauge with the specific angles and types of bits in question.

Drill point angle gauges are typically made from materials that offer durability, precision, and resistance to wear. Common materials include: 1. **Stainless Steel**: Known for its corrosion resistance and strength, stainless steel is a popular choice for drill point angle gauges. It provides durability and maintains accuracy over time, even in harsh environments. 2. **Hardened Steel**: This material is used for its toughness and ability to withstand repeated use without deforming. Hardened steel gauges are often heat-treated to enhance their hardness and wear resistance. 3. **Aluminum**: Lightweight and resistant to corrosion, aluminum is sometimes used for drill point angle gauges. While not as durable as steel, it offers ease of handling and is suitable for less demanding applications. 4. **Plastic or Composite Materials**: For applications where cost is a concern or where the gauge does not need to withstand heavy use, plastic or composite materials may be used. These materials are lightweight and resistant to corrosion but may not offer the same level of precision or durability as metal options. 5. **Brass**: Occasionally used for its non-sparking properties, brass is suitable for environments where flammable materials are present. It is also resistant to corrosion but is softer than steel, which may affect long-term precision. Each material choice depends on the specific requirements of the application, including the need for precision, the working environment, and budget considerations.

To read a drill point angle gauge, follow these steps: 1. **Identify the Gauge**: Ensure you have a drill point angle gauge, which typically has a protractor-like design with a pivoting arm or a fixed angle slot. 2. **Prepare the Drill Bit**: Clean the drill bit to ensure accurate measurement. The bit should be free of debris and burrs. 3. **Position the Drill Bit**: Place the drill bit into the gauge. If the gauge has a slot, insert the bit into the slot. If it has a pivoting arm, align the bit with the arm. 4. **Align the Cutting Edges**: Ensure the cutting edges of the drill bit are parallel to the reference lines or edges on the gauge. This alignment is crucial for an accurate reading. 5. **Read the Angle**: Look at where the cutting edge aligns with the angle markings on the gauge. The angle where the cutting edge aligns is the drill point angle. Common angles are 118° and 135°, but verify against the gauge's scale. 6. **Check Symmetry**: For accuracy, check both cutting edges. They should align with the same angle marking. If not, the drill bit may need re-sharpening. 7. **Verify with Specifications**: Compare the measured angle with the specifications for the material you are drilling. Different materials may require different angles for optimal performance. 8. **Adjust if Necessary**: If the angle is incorrect, adjust or re-sharpen the drill bit to achieve the desired angle. By following these steps, you can accurately read a drill point angle gauge and ensure your drill bits are properly prepared for use.

You can buy a drill point angle gauge from the following places: 1. **Online Retailers:** - **Amazon:** Offers a wide range of drill point angle gauges from various brands with customer reviews and ratings. - **eBay:** Provides both new and used options, often at competitive prices. - **Walmart:** Sells tools and gauges online, sometimes with in-store pickup options. - **Home Depot and Lowe's:** Both have online stores where you can find drill point angle gauges, often with the option to check local store availability. 2. **Specialty Tool Stores:** - **Grainger:** A supplier of industrial tools and equipment, offering a selection of precision measuring tools. - **MSC Industrial Supply:** Provides a variety of gauges and precision tools for industrial use. - **McMaster-Carr:** Known for a comprehensive catalog of tools and equipment, including drill point angle gauges. 3. **Local Hardware Stores:** - Check local hardware stores or tool supply shops, as they may carry drill point angle gauges or can order them for you. 4. **Manufacturer Websites:** - Some manufacturers sell directly through their websites, offering detailed product information and sometimes exclusive deals. 5. **Industrial Supply Distributors:** - Companies like Fastenal or Motion Industries may have physical locations or online stores where you can purchase these gauges. 6. **Second-Hand Marketplaces:** - Websites like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace may have listings for used drill point angle gauges at lower prices. 7. **Trade Shows and Expos:** - Attending industry-specific trade shows can provide opportunities to purchase tools directly from manufacturers or distributors. Consider checking product specifications and reviews to ensure the gauge meets your requirements before purchasing.