The Retro Tools That Were Replaced By The Power Drill (& Where To Find One)

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Sooner or later, even people who like to keep DIYing to a minimum will need to drill a couple of holes or drive a few screws. So it's no surprise that a cordless drill driver tops the list of must-buy power tools for first-time homeowners. What did people use before we had power drills, though? The two options were a manual hand drill or a brace and bit.

You have to go quite a long way back to learn about these early drill options. The pistol-grip electric drill was introduced by Black & Decker in 1917, although it wasn't widely available until the late 1940s. However, back then, even a small ¼" model was over 20 bucks, which would be around $270 today. So plenty of people would have stuck with the retro tools that the power drill eventually replaced.

Back then, small- to medium-sized holes were made using a manual hand drill. These were sometimes called eggbeaters because they resemble the kitchen gadget you use to whisk by turning a handle. Larger holes were made with a brace and bit. These have a handle in the middle that you wind to turn the drill bit and a wooden pad at the back end that you guide it with. If you needed more force, you would rest the pad against your belly and lean in! 

Although there are several good reasons why it might be worth splurging on a quality cordless drill, some woodworkers simply enjoy using hand tools. Others choose these manual drills because they offer greater precision with the slower movements. They are popular with furniture restorers, for example.

There are a number of interesting antique tools available on eBay, and their simplicity means there's a good chance of finding something that works as well as it did when it was made. Retailers like Amazon also offer brand-new examples of both models starting at around $25 each. It is a good idea to check customer feedback before deciding, as some buyers are clearly disappointed. Additionally, you could find some antique tools worth buying at the thrift store.

If you're prepared to spend a little more, there are specialists who produce high-quality versions of these retro tools. The Truper 12" Professional Bit Brace gets good reviews and costs $41.00. Among other sources for well-made hand tools are Garrett Wade, Lee Valley Tools, and Highland Woodworking. Some of these retro tools can be very affordable, but others do come with premium price tags. Nevertheless, while it might be easier to use a cheap power drill, and some might feel these are old-school tools that went obsolete, there can be a great deal of pleasure in working quietly and with the care and skill that your ancestors did.