Auger Bits

Auger Bits were developed originally for use with a Carpenter's Brace and have a Tapered Square Shank. They are drawn into the wood by their screw tips and usually have two spurs which sever the wood grain to help drill a neat hole.

Two designs of Auger were developed in the 19th Century: Jennings Pattern (patented by Russell Jennings in 1855) and Irwin Pattern (patented by Charles Irwin in 1885). Modern designs are now available which are suitable for use in Portable Electric Drills and these have a Hexagonal Shank. Most Auger Bits can be sharpened using a file.

'T' Handled Hand Augers and large Post Hole Borers' operate on the same genereal principles.