Drill Bow

Date1775-1810

MediumSteel, iron, wood and brass

DimensionsLength: 20 1/4"

Credit LineGift of Mrs. Martyl J. Pollak in memory of Emil S. Pollak.

Object number1996-57

DescriptionBow drill of sword-like form, with a ratchet tencioning mecahnisim at the base of the blade and a tapered wooden handle mountited with a brass ferrule.Label TextDelicate and intended for drilling small holes through metal, this bow drill employs a key-wound ratchet to tension the string. Well-made imported tools like these were sought after by Revolutionary era armourers and gunsmiths, as well as other specialized metal workers.Mark(s)"16" is stamped on the central hub of the rachet.ProvenanceFrom the collection of Emil S. Pollak.