What is a gimlet?
A gimlet is a small hand-operated boring tool used to pre-drill small holes in wood. It consists of a screw-shaped boring tip and a crosswise T-handle, allowing you to turn an accurate hole with little effort, for example to set a screw or nail without splitting the timber.
Construction and operation
The gimlet has a short, twisted or screw-threaded steel tip that pulls itself into the wood as it is turned. At the top sits a handle, usually a T-shaped or bar handle of wood or metal, which is rotated between thumb and forefinger. Because of the self-feeding screw point, only light pressure is needed.
Unlike a power drill, the gimlet works entirely by hand, giving the user precise control over depth and direction.
Use in carpentry
The gimlet is mainly used for small, fine work:
- Pre-drilling pilot holes for wood screws so the timber does not split.
- Starting holes for screw eyes, hooks and small fittings.
- Creating starter holes in hard-to-reach places.
- Light assembly work in thin battens and panels.
A pre-drilled pilot hole keeps the screw running straight and makes the joint stronger.
Related terms
- Auger
- Hand drill
- Nail set
- Awl
- Screw
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