People in prehistory drilled holes in a wide range of materials for a wide range of functions but the tools they used for the job rarely survive. By looking at the microwear analysis of prehistoric artefacts, archaeologists can look for clues to learn more about how these holes were made.
 
In the Bronze Age in Britain, we start to see evidence of mechanical drilling, which could be achieved with a bow drill or a pump drill. Em teaches her prehistoric jewellery workshops using these pump drills and you can now try drilling with them at home!
 
The drills are operated by twisting the wooden handle around the centre pole. Wrap the cord until it is tight, position your drill where you want to make a hole and then gently (but decisively) press the wooden handle up and down to rotate the drill bit. It takes a bit of practice, but once you get the hang of it, these tools have a good, even drilling action.
 
The drill is delivered unassembled and includes a lenght of black para-cord as a more durable alternative to the standard white cord. These will ware with use over time.
 
DRILL BITS ARE NOT INCLUDED WITH THIS DRILL and are only photographed for display purposes.
 
Drill dimensions: 34cm x 40cm