Performance Power Gimlet - 70mm
Best current price£3.28from B&Q
Best offers
Shopping.co.uk recommended and popular offers
B&Q£3.28Visit shop B&Q - Red & Black Gimlet 70mm
Visit shopB&Q£3.28Visit shop One Offer
1 offer from £3.28
View price history by clicking the chart icon.
Product Information
Full details
The Performance Power Gimlet (70mm) is a essential manual hand tool designed for woodworkers, DIY enthusiasts, and hobbyists who require high precision when creating pilot holes for screws. By manually drilling a starter hole, it prevents wood from splitting and ensures accurate fastener alignment, though it requires physical effort and is limited to softer wood types or thin materials.
All features
| Model Part Number | 70mm |
|---|---|
| Brand | Performance Power |
Extended Product Information
FAQs
Can I use the 70mm gimlet on metal?
No, this tool is specifically hardened for wood and similar soft materials; attempting to use it on metal will ruin the tip.
How do I know how deep to drill?
You should drill deep enough to accommodate the threaded portion of your screw, generally stopping before the screw head meets the surface.
Is this tool dishwasher safe?
No, you should never expose woodworking hand tools to water or high humidity as it will cause rust.
Can children use this tool?
The gimlet is a sharp hand tool and should only be used by children under strict adult supervision.
Does it come in other sizes?
This guide covers the 70mm variant specifically; check the packaging for information on other available sizes.
Troubleshooting
Tool is hard to turn in the wood
Ensure you are using the tool on soft or medium density woods; apply slightly more downward pressure while twisting.
Tip is becoming dull
Avoid using the tool on knots in the wood or unintended materials like metal; a fine-grit metal file can occasionally be used to touch up the tip.
Hole is not straight
Check your alignment from two angles (90 degrees apart) before beginning to twist the gimlet.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Prevents wood splitting by creating clean pilot holes
- Lightweight and portable for on-site adjustments
- Requires no battery or power cord
- Provides high degree of control over hole depth
- Simple to maintain and store
Cons
- Requires manual effort compared to power drills
- Not suitable for dense hardwoods or thick metal
- Limited to a specific hole diameter
- Requires hand strength for consistent use
Setup, Compatibility & Care
There is no complex setup required; the tool is ready for use immediately upon unboxing. It is compatible with all soft-to-medium density woods including pine, cedar, and plywood. To maintain your gimlet, always wipe it clean after use to remove wood dust and residue. If you are working in humid environments, apply a light coat of machine oil to the steel shaft to prevent oxidation. Store the tool in a dry place, ideally in a toolbox, to ensure the sharp tip remains protected from blunt force impacts.