formariz 11,987 #1 Posted January 18, 2021 (edited) Most drilling here is done by hand , mostly with braces. However large bits such as this 1-1/2” auger require serious effort specially in very hard woods. For that there is a special brace called a Whimble Brace. It’s different from a regular brace by having the upper part longer than a regular brace. Using this brace one uses both hands to crank the bit. It creates a lot more torque and drills faster specially large holes. It is however a bit more difficult to start the hole since one is not putting downward pressure directly on the bit such as in a regular brace. It is also much larger and heavier. Once mastered, it is however indispensable. Edited January 18, 2021 by formariz 3 5 1 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Skwerl58 704 #2 Posted January 18, 2021 I enjoy you sharing your wood working tools with us. My Dad, who just turned 86 gave me his brace and bits this past year. I remember him using it a few times when we were building stuff. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
squonk 41,165 #3 Posted January 18, 2021 Looking at that makes the arthritis in my hands flare up! 2 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
oldlineman 1,481 #4 Posted January 18, 2021 In outside electrical linework we called that type of brace a Double Sweep. I have used both types on poles, but not that often thank goodness! Very common 30's, 40's, 50's, and even 60's. 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Ed Kennell 38,259 #5 Posted January 18, 2021 Leverage....lift the world and drill large holes. 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites