What should be done if the drill bit shows visible damage?

If a drill bit shows visible damage, the appropriate action is to replace it with a new one. Using a damaged drill bit can lead to several issues, including subpar performance, inaccurate drilling, and even potential safety hazards. A damaged bit may not hold the proper cutting edge needed for effective drilling, resulting in increased friction, overheating, and the risk of breaking during operation, which can cause injury or damage to the workpiece.

While sharpening the bit on-site might seem like a quick fix, it is not always practical and requires the right tools and skills to ensure that the bit is properly restored to a usable condition. Additionally, using a damaged bit for softer materials compromises the quality of the work and can still lead to unsafe conditions. Therefore, the best practice is to replace the damaged drill bit entirely to maintain safety and quality in the assembly process.