A Simple Drill Bit Maintenance Log That Can Reduce Unnecessary Purchases
The Bit Brief · Planning & Logistics
When replacement decisions are based on memory, usable tools may be discarded and worn tools may accidentally return to the rig. A small drill bit maintenance log can improve both purchasing discipline and field readiness. You do not need specialized software to begin.
What a useful bit record looks like
Track each tool with an ID that stays with it across service cycles. The minimum columns are:
| Field | Example of what to record |
|---|---|
| Bit ID | Internal unique number or tag |
| Manufacturer and model | As stamped or confirmed |
| Type and diameter | DTH button bit, size and shank |
| Last drilling job | Site, rock conditions and rig |
| Footage or meters | Total and since last service |
| Inspection status | Ready, needs assessment, retired |
| Visible damage | Face flats, gauge wear, missing buttons |
| Service details | Dates, proposed work, approved cost |
| Logistics | Shipping or pickup details and return date |
| Final outcome | Returned to service, rejected, replaced |
Add a quick field-inspection checklist
At planned changes, ask the crew to capture a face photo, side photo, unusual wear or chipping, estimated drilled footage and any penetration changes. Track safety-critical concerns separately and remove suspect tooling from operation pending qualified assessment. Use the OEM's published wear and retirement criteria rather than a team-invented universal rule.
Mark readiness clearly
Three labels often work well: READY for tools that have passed relevant checks, HOLD FOR REVIEW for bits awaiting inspection or service, and RETIRED for tools that must not return to work. The ready rack should never be a place to store unknown worn bits.
Review the data once a month
A short purchasing review should answer: How many bits were newly purchased? How many serviceable bits returned after sharpening? What did each group cost? How much usable footage was obtained? Did one bit model, formation or operator show an unusual wear pattern?
Even if the first month contains incomplete records, trends become more useful as the same tools are tracked over time. Where possible, compare similar jobs and geological conditions instead of pooling all bit types together.
Use the log to trigger maintenance
Set inspection checkpoints from your specific equipment and bit guidance. Sandvik advises proactive resharpening before severe wear and also at certain observed damage indicators. A record helps distinguish scheduled care from emergency repairs. It can also create a winter refurbishment list before the summer work calendar fills up.
What to attach to a service request
When contacting a refurbishment shop, send the bit ID, make/model, diameter, quantity, clear photos and deadline. That information reduces back-and-forth and makes it easier to reconcile returned tooling against the shipped list.
If your log reveals an eligible batch needing attention, explore DG Carbide's carbide button sharpening and request a coordinated service estimate. Based in Saugerties, NY, we welcome inquiries from local crews and businesses shipping from across the country.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need expensive software to track bit life?
No. A shared spreadsheet or paper-based log can work if bit IDs, wear, footage and service history are consistently recorded.
How does recordkeeping save money?
It improves decisions about when to service or replace, supports cost-per-foot comparisons and prevents uninspected bits from being counted as ready inventory.
Continue researching
- How Much Can Carbide Bit Sharpening Save Per Year? A Contractor’s Formula
- Drill Bit Cost Per Foot: The Metric Purchasing Teams Should Track
- 7 Ways to Make Carbide Button Drill Bits Last Longer
See DG Carbide's related service or send your bit details for an assessment.
Before you buy another bit, ask DG Carbide.
Sharpening, refurbishment and eligible carbide button replacement from Saugerties, New York. Serving local contractors and accepting nationwide mail-in inquiries for compatible bits.
Technical decisions depend on the bit maker's limits, equipment conditions and inspection. Savings examples are illustrative and are not DG Carbide pricing or customer results.
Technical references: Sandvik rock-tool resharpening guidance. Follow the guidance for your specific bit and equipment.