Breast drill

Breast Drill

A breast drill is a type of hand drill primarily used in the woodworking and metalworking industries. The name "breast drill" derives from the fact that the user presses a plate against their chest in order to apply additional force and control while drilling.

History

The breast drill was first introduced in the Industrial Revolution, as a more efficient alternative to the traditional bow drill. It was commonly used in various industries, including shipbuilding, carpentry, and blacksmithing.

Design and Operation

The breast drill consists of a drill bit, a crank, and a plate that is pressed against the user's chest. The drill bit is attached to the crank, which is turned by the user. The plate provides a stable base against which the user can apply force.

The drill bit is interchangeable, allowing the user to switch between different types and sizes of bits depending on the task at hand. The crank mechanism multiplies the force applied by the user, making the breast drill more efficient than a simple hand drill.

Applications

Breast drills are primarily used for drilling holes in wood and metal. They are particularly useful for tasks that require precision and control, such as cabinet making and jewelry making. Despite the advent of electric drills, breast drills are still used in some industries due to their reliability and ease of use.

See Also

• Hand drill
• Bow drill
• Auger (drill)
• Drill bit