Antique English Hand Gimlets c. 1880-1930 | Set of 3 Vintage Woodworking Tools

For the craftsman … a handsome trio of English hand gimlets dating to around 1880–1930, ranging from 7 to 8-1/8 inches long and fitted with turned wooden T-handles (likely beech). The group includes a large general-purpose or spike gimlet with a barrel-shaped handle, a gouge gimlet marked “F.H. Myers” with a waisted handle, and a smaller No. 6 twist gimlet.  All three are in very good antique condition, with a warm, attractive patina to the handles, and would display well on a gentleman’s desk or workshop shelf.

Gimlets were used to bore small holes in wood by hand, particularly for screws and other fasteners. The two twist gimlets here use threaded points and spiral cutters to draw themselves into wood and remove waste, while the F.H. Myers example has a gouge-type blade for cutting or enlarging a hole without a screw-fed point. The largest tool was designed for heavier general-purpose work or larger fasteners, while the numbered No. 6 example is a more conventional woodworking size.

Gimlet #1 (Barrel Handle): 8-1/8” long, 3.2 oz.
Gimlet #2 (Waisted Handle, FH Myers): 7-1/4” long, 2.0 oz.
Gimlet #3 (Waisted Handle): 7” long, 1.5 oz.

Weight: 1.1 oz.

Condition Notes: Very good antique condition overall. Turned wooden handles show expected surface wear, small marks, and darkening consistent with age and use, with warm patina throughout. Steel blades have been cleaned and polished to remove surface grime; some age-related tarnish and discoloration remain, with no active rust noted. Gouge gimlet shows a small amount of white residue near tip, possibly old glue or paint. Threaded points and spiral cutting sections remain intact on both twist gimlets. Gouge-type blade remains complete, with no visible breaks or major losses. Handles remain firmly attached to shafts. Gouge gimlet marked “F.H. MYERS” (likely an owner’s name); smaller twist gimlet marked “6” and has traces of an additional illegible mark on the handle. Other items in photos not included.

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