Antique Goodell-Pratt Hand Drill

This Goodell-Pratt No. 5½ hand drill is a remarkable example of late 19th-century American toolmaking, offering both functional utility and display-worthy craftsmanship.

Manufactured in Greenfield, Massachusetts, USA, and stamped with Patent Date: March 31, 1896, this drill showcases the ingenuity and quality of the pre-electric tool era. The two-speed gearing mechanism, labeled “FAST” and “SLOW,” allowed users to switch between higher torque and faster rotation — a forward-thinking innovation in hand tools at the time.

Key Features:

• Manufacturer: Goodell-Pratt Company, Greenfield, Mass., U.S.A.
• Model: No. 5½
• Patent Date: March 31, 1896
• Likely late 19th/early 20th century
• Type: Dual-speed crank-operated hand drill (aka “eggbeater” drill)
• Materials: Cast iron frame, steel gears and chuck, brass gear housing, painted steel wheel, hardwood handles
• Color: Red/orange gear wheel and handles with black body
• Include printed care sheet

Markings and Labels:

• Side plate reads (partially legible):

“GOODELL-PRATT COMPANY / GREENFIELD MASS. U.S.A. / PAT. MAR. 31 1896 / NO. 5½”

• Chuck is marked:

“GOODELL-PRATT / GREENFIELD MASS. / PAT. AUG […]”

• Gear wheel retains original paint and gold decal, reading:

“AMERICAN MANUFACTURE / GOODELL-PRATT COMPANY / GREENFIELD, MASS. U.S.A.”

• Selector knob engraved: “FAST” / “SLOW”

Condition: This tool is in excellent vintage condition with authentic wear and patina. The mechanism turns freely, and both gear settings function as designed. Paint wear on the gear wheel and body is consistent with use and age, and the decals are partially intact — a rare find. One wooden handle has an age crack (see photos), and there is moderate paint loss on the drive wheel.

This drill was likely used by a craftsman in the late 1800s or early 1900s, and now it makes a perfect collector’s piece, conversation starter, or wall display for vintage tool lovers, woodworkers, or American industrial history enthusiasts.

Dimensions (approximate):

• Length: 12 in
• Wheel Diameter: 4.75 in
• Weight: 1.75 lbs

Great for:

• Collectors of antique hand tools
• Vintage decor (garage, shop, man cave)
• Woodworking enthusiasts
• Historical re-enactments or film props
• Gifts for tool lovers or vintage collectors

Ships from Ballwin, MO. Please feel free to message me with any questions or to combine shipping on multiple tools.