A bradawl is a small, pointed hand tool that is used in woodworking to make small holes in wood or other materials. It consists of a sharp, tapered metal point that is mounted on a handle, usually made of wood or plastic.
Bradawls are commonly used to start holes for screws or nails, as well as for marking out points for drilling or cutting. They can also be used for creating small pilot holes for dowels or other small fasteners.
To use a bradawl, the woodworker simply presses the pointed end of the tool into the wood and twists it slightly to create a small hole. The depth of the hole can be adjusted by applying more or less pressure to the tool.
Bradawls come in a variety of sizes and shapes, depending on the specific application. They are often included in woodworking tool sets or can be purchased individually. They are a simple, but essential tool for any woodworker, and are often used in combination with other hand tools, such as hammers and chisels.