Bit Auger

Date1780-1840

MediumIron, steel, ash, and leather

DimensionsBit: 25 3/4" x 3 1/2" Handle: 17"

Credit LineGift of Robert E. Bernard

Object number2006-79

DescriptionLarge size bit auger for cutting 3 1/2 diameter holes. The shaft changes from round to octagonal in section as it approaches the cutting surfaces.
Label TextWith a centering bit to start the work, a vertical blade to cut the hole’s edge and a horizontal blade to shave out its center, this large auger bored 3 1/2” wide holes. In addition to twisting the tool with some muscle, the user would have had to put their weight into it.