Here is the link to the lazy machinist.
Well I had a nice explanation typed up until my page refreshed..
when drilling through different types of steel it’s important to watch your chips. Nice curly chips are what you’re after. Powdery type chip are a sign of too much speed/pressure On the bit. Controlling those variables is a bit difficult though when it comes to using a hand drill and working in out of position situations. In a shop setting you’d be able to dial in your feed/speed for maximum tool life. In the driveway, most people give it all they’ve got and hope for the best haha
Most people run bits too fast from what I’ve seen. I have had pretty good results with a drill dr once I learned how to use it. I have also found a fine grinding wheel works much better for sharpening.
I'm definitely a too fast guy..I have learned a little oil and a big reduction in rpms really extends the life of the bits.
I always tell folks that a drill bit is a cutting tool, not a grinding tool.
I often tell them "you hear that high pitched squeal while your drilling?" Yeah, you're fucking the bit and work hardening the material. Now you are really going to dull a bit trying to get through.