Hidden Use of Spade Drill Bit Key Revealed After 64 Years
Hidden Use of Spade Drill Bit Key Revealed After 64 Years

A special key used for DIY has a hidden function that many people are only just discovering after 64 years. The tool, known as a spade drill bit, is traditionally used in carpentry for drilling round shapes in wood. However, the hole in the key serves an important additional purpose: it allows for a pin to be inserted, transforming the key into a compass for drawing perfect circles.

The Discovery

On X, the popular account Today Years Old, which has over 1 million followers, shared a clip demonstrating this feature. The post asked: "How old were you when you discovered what this is for?" Since being shared, it has racked up 1.6 million views, 7,000 likes, and over 600 retweets from equally amazed users.

How It Works

The video explains that by inserting a pushpin or small nail through the keyring hole, the key can be anchored firmly to the centre of the material. A pencil placed at a set distance from the centre can then be used to draw a perfect circle. This DIY gem showcases just how handy the key can be, as someone completes an impeccable circle with the aid of this feature.

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Reactions

Clearly, this was news to many, as a host of comments showed users couldn't believe they hadn't realised this before. One wrote: "I was 64 when I learned." Another added: "Well, it was today. So that's how old I was." And a third confessed: "About 15 seconds into this video." Someone else commented: "What? No way!"

Steps to Use the Key as a Compass

Try these easy steps to set it up:

  1. Secure the centre point: Place the key flat on your material, add a pushpin, small nail or tack through the keyring hole to anchor the key firmly to the exact centre.
  2. Measure your radius: Take a rule and measure from the centre of the key's hole to the tip of the pencil. This determines your circle's radius.
  3. Lock the pencil distance: While holding the key securely in place, trace the arc around the centre pivot point using the pencil.

This little-known purpose of the tool key reveals how a simple hole can work as a brilliant DIY compass to draw the perfect circle.

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