My dad was a telephone lineman for 40 years. I am now rebuilding his BELL SYSTEM tool box for him. When he unwrapped his BS 41y yankee drill, the first thing he immediately did was shake it to see how many bits were in the handle! He still remembered that
My dad also did 40 with Bell System, you must have a good collection of Klein tools also..i have several of the tool boxes.. Bell Systems became, New England Telephone became, AT&T became, Lucent Technologies.....
Back in 1962 I used one quite a bit (intended). I was a senior in high school and worked part time and weekends installing window blinds and shades for a furniture store. It was cordless, quiet and light weight, all the benefits of an up on a ladder hole driller for tiny screws. Yup, had the Yankee driver too. A few months ago I saw one online for $45 like new condition, complete with box and all bits. Did I need it? No! Do I love it? YES! The heart wants what the heart wants. Thanks for recognizing it’s greatness for all to see.
I own and love this tool, which was my father's. Been using it since I was a child. VERY handy for home repair/improvement projects, compact, batteries never need charging, Fits into many corners that a cordless drill cannot. Replacement bits are still available as well. On mine, nearly all the chrome is worn off. My father most likely purchased his in the late 40s when working construction, so about 75 years old, and working perfectly.
I am 71. Hired on with Pacific Telephone back in Los Angeles in '70 as a residential phone installer for a year then transferred to PBX installer. I still have my company issue Y41 with bits and it still works like new. The straight fluted bits were used for sheetrock/plaster walls and twisted flute for wood. Eventually and even though I carried an electric drill, then later battery drill, I always used my Y41 for small screws. Ya I've rarely used it since I retired..now I have a set of self centering bits (VIXBIT) for brackets and such and a very old ice pick I inherited from my father for all else. My oldest grandson gets my Y41 when I pass on.
I have 2 from my father. It says Bell System on it. He was a telephone repair and installer for Michigan Bell. All the tools in the house had Bell System on it. I was 19 before I found out that Bell System did not sell tools...
Amen, my dad even had tool boxs with the telephone logo on the ends, I have a crazy collection of Bell Systems Tools from files, hammers, hatchets, screwdrivers up the wazoo ,
My dad has one of those. I used to love using it. One time I used it to drill a hole straight through my finger. Thankfully, I was using a really small bit.
I just used mine (#44) this morning to drill a pilot hole for a screw eye. Only one hole needed and it was even more convenient than my cordless drill.
The first drill I was allowed to use as a child...have had on in my kit for more than forty years...as you've pointed out, it's perfect for small holes and it's even more well suited for holes in hard to reach spaces. Certainly, not in my top five required tools, but heads the "handy to have" list!
Mine is most likely a generation or 2 before the one you're showing, as the drill bits are accessible from the top. The top has holes around its edge for each drill bit. It rotates. One of the holes is the closed position so the bits don't come out. It was my dad's. It's a Stanley. It's probably 70 to 80 years old and still works.
I absolutely love this tool. I've had mine for several decades and it still works perfectly. The bits being stored in the handle is so perfect for me. I tend to lose stuff and the smaller the stuff, the greater my tendency for losing it. So very early on I just got into the habit of putting the bit right back in the handle aftere using it and after all these years, I still have the same number of bits that I started out with. This was one of best ideas Stanley ever came up with and they've come up with plenty of genius ideas. Find one at an estate or garage sale and get it dirt cheap. Although they're worth the $90.00 price tag they hang on 'em these days. Especially considering they're built like tanks to last a numerous lifetimes.
When I started in carpentry back in the 80"s I was given one of these by my dad. I used it when we were installing cedar clapboard siding to quickly drill holes in the edge by the but joints so the board did not split. It worked great especially while working on a ladder or scaffolding. I still own it!
I have 2 of these, one my dad gave me when I was a kid. That one's made out of plastic. When my dad died I inherited his metal one. I'm pretty sure he got it when he was an instrument mechanic in the RCAF in WWII. I carry the plastic one in my camping tool box and I often use the metal one in my shop. I didn't know you could still get bits for them. Thanks for that info.
Yankee drivers are great for rapidly removing panels held by multiple screws and for predrilling holes for finish or brad nails. You can purchase adapters to use regular drill bits or round and hex shaped driver bits. The adapter can be used with nut driver bits as well. No batteries or electrical cord to worry about.
My grandfather recently passed away and found several push drills and drivers in amongst his tools. I am electrician so I grabbed one of each but plan to use his driver to put in device cover plate screws
I just aquired a dunlop push drill i found this old mans garage when i was helping him clean it. I love it. I use it all the time. Also found some more radial arm saw attachments. Use it all the time.
Bought mine around 1977 at Sears for about 9$. Very handy drilling in tight spaces with limited space like putting up blinds inside window frames or cornices. The front end tip swivels freely as well as pulls forward to release/load a bit. Very often, I hold and steady the tip while pushing down to spin the drill, then I loosen my grip on the handle and hold the bit firm allowing the handle to reverse spin for the next push- This drilling method is a little more aggressive and only turns the actual “drill bit” in one direction. You need a secure grip on the business end of the tool. The last reverse can be a “pogo stick like” snap backward ejecting the tool (bit) from a hole quickly without risk if bending the bit if it is buried in the wood. …..kinda hard to describe but, easy to do…….
Awesome video I’m 68 I remember seeing them around when I was a child and if there’s no electricity around be prepared but Elwood Blues uses one in the movies how cool is that
Yes, I've used a Y41 and still do on occasion. Mostly I have used it before the advent of cordless drills. Getting out an extension cord and the drills and the drill, finding a plug close enough etc. made the Y41 the best alternative.
I have one of these that someone gave me many years ago. It had some missing and broken bits so I am glad to hear they are still available. I am going to make a point to get the bits replaced and work it into my workflow more often. Thanks!
I've had a couple of Yankee drivers over the years. The one I've hung onto, and still use occasionally, belonged to my great-uncle, who was a carpenter around the turn of the last century. He died in about 1919, long before I was born, but the driver came down in the family, including some of the bits, and ultimately ended up with me, as the only one doing woodwork. I've supplemented the bit collection some over the years. Years ago, it was still the best solution where you didn't have an outlet nearby. But, as I get older, I find I want to get the hole drilled or the screw in place faster, to get closer to the finish line, so don't tend to linger over my Yankee much anymore.
I have found one!!! Woooo-hoooo!!!!! Finally! It's unbelievable, just after a day or so, from my last comment about failing miserably. This one was the last one hanging on the shelf, so I even managed to strip the price down by 10%. It is retro-type with a wooden handles two-parts mechanism and naked helix. It has only one pointy bit or flute set already in the chuck, and it doesn't even have a manufacturer brand-name or country, exept under the top bar-code label. I carefully have to unlable it. On a price label it just says it is a mechanical drill for school. The drill seams thin and fragile, but man, I was almost jumping up and down out of happiness in the hardware/tool store. After ten years... It's like I found a Holy Grail. I understand now why kids love to work with those drills. Although, I'm a big kid. And when in tool store, or art-supply store it's like I'm a little kid in the candy-store. Hurray!!!😄
I worked for the New York telephone company for many years. That was one of our most used tool! The old “yankee drill”! I still a have a couple of them that I use all the time. …… starting to get low on bits. (I’ve been retired for over 25 years!)
I've had a cheap plastic-handled push drill for 20+ years, and still use it - always with a backer board to prevent tear-out. I've never yet broken a push drill bit, but have broken a couple of 1.5mm twist bits by letting an electric drill tilt slightly.
I have exactly the Stanley 41Y you show which I purchased new some 50 years ago. It's a great addition to a handyman's toolbox for general around the house trim and such. Would not use it on furniture projects because of the ability to move about when you push it.
I just picked up one of these at an estate sale. The first thing I did when picking it up out of the $1 bin (!!!!!) was to shake it to see if there were bits in the handle. I waited until getting home to open it up. Every slot had a bit in it. What a find!
I have several of the yankee hand drills. I have my grandfathers. its the original wood handled version from turn of the century passed to him. I got another one of same age before i got his.. but i also have a older 41y and i love the All metic construction.. i like the older ones with the twist chuck instead of the spring chuck.. the twist chucks are on the older varieties. I also like the yankee bits.. the tab on end secures them from spinning in chuck. The draw back is if you hit a hidden knot or metal in the wood you might snap the bit because of the torque being applied. You can find non fluted bits that work fantastic in this.. i got modern looking bit from a 1960s era NOS bag of bits off etsy. If you dont have bits, you can make your own with a hacksaw and file..
I played with my dad's Yankee drill as a kid. When he passed away, I inherited that 80 yr. old tool & several bits. The first thing I did was buy a set of new bits. It compliments my equally old eggbeater drill. No cords & you don't have to charge a battery before use.
I have one that looks just like yours. I got it when my folks passed. It was actually my Moms. My dad also had one. I had to find replacement bits and at the time they were a bit hard to find. I have found that pushing slowly with light pressure works better than working quickly. What a great tool, everyone should have one, if you work with wood. They're not made for metal work. I was a bit surprised, seeing this video, most people either don't know about the tool, or think it's junk. ;-)
FROM MY DAD I have amassed a pretty good collection of Yankee's . like 6 of the Stanley 130A, 135, 145, 30, a long handle 68-130 (130A) a pair of North Bros. 130 a pair of Miller Falls 188A, about 5 or 6of the 41y from Stanley, and a pair of Klein 53002 just like the 41y..much like @travisfamadventures9044 My Father also did 40 yrs with Bell System... I love the 41y when I am doing cabinets and want to hang the doors with hinges on them. it makes it so easy to line them up
I have one identical to the one you demonstrated and use it mostly for pilot holes for small screws, I’ve had it for 40 + years, it’s been a great tool!
I recently used a yankie screwdriver to work with some straight slot screws in a door. I was surprised at just how easy it made using these screw that I'd found a pain to use in the past.
The trick with slotted screws is having a driver that fits the screw properly. Most don't. Basically if you can't get the screw to stick to the driver held horizontally the fit is poor.
Nice, I have one of these also, which I got from my Dad, so,it is special. It does work quite well, and not batteries or electrical plug is required. I also have a small egg beater drill, that also,has bit storage in its top handle, to store a few small bits. Cheers
Yes! I like the one I have. Was lucky enough to find one at the re-store cheap and it had all the bits it could hold in the handle and one in the business end. I found it useful working on repairs for my mom’s cupboards where it’s hard to get a drill to. Granted, it took me a while to get the hole in, but I don’t think I could’ve gotten an eggbeater drill in there and used both hands for it, and a power drill would’ve been awkward for other reasons. Quite a useful tool!
I have the same drill. Purchased new when I was a finish carpenter in late 70s and through the 80s before the ubiquitousness and reliability of battery powered tools. Easy to carry in the bags or whites! I still have it and gets used often in the shop even though I now have a small fleet of M12 Milwaukee cordless drills and drivers. Bits in the handle are great!
I have a 41Y (and 2 other Yankee Screwdrivers) - I never noticed that the 41Y is actually a drill (vs. a screwdriver). DUH!!! Now that I know, I'll be using it on projects!!!! And yes, it has all the drill bits in the handle...
I inherited my gandfather's Yankee driver, and for a while I enjoyed feeling like Elwood Blues; I hadn't quite put it together how I dislike it for driving screws but enjoyed drilling with it. The model I had only came with one bit; looks like something I should keep an eye out for at garage sales, going forward!
I have several of these. I have one dedicated for small screw pilot holes. It hangs by my bench with a 1/16" bit. I use it all the time. Faster than a gimlet as well.
Concerning the "egg beater" style drills, some, like the MIllers Falls, No.2 series store the straight, fluted bits in the handle. The cap is threaded and the handle hollow.
Great video! I have one of those, (never knew the model till now) my 'old guy' gave it to me it was his when he worked for the telephone company. I keep it in the tool box in my camper, and it has come in handy so many times. Nice to know I can still get the bits for it. Thankyou.
When I used to install ventilated shelving the yankee was the only drill we used. They are a lot easier to carry around than a battery drill and we were only using one size drill.
I bought mine back in the '70s before cordless drills were available to work on a boat at the dock where no power was available. Great to know you can still buy them.
I have one in every tool box and buy them for gifts whenever I find them. For most younger folks it is an undiscovered treasure and I use mine every day I am doing fabrication in the shop. It is the indisensible tool for pre-drilling screw holes, or even doing trim carpentry.
I have and use the 41Y; it is a useful tool. The bits are expensive and the small ones do break easily. A alternative is a short Yankee screwdriver with the hex bit adaptor from Lee Valley.This allows use of twist drillbits with 1/4" hex ends. These twist drills are readily avaiable and relatively inexpensive. There is also available a small three jaw chuck that fits a Yankee screwdriver; this allows use of ordinary twist drills.
Oh yeah, I just got one of those a few weeks ago and already it's come in handy several times. It says Yankee No. 41 North Bros. MFG. ...and whew, 😅 I thought it was missing 2 bits 😁
Wow, I picked one of these up on Monday and then I see this video. Glad to see the bits are still being made, mine came with a hodgepodge of straight and twist bits so I may look into getting some replacements.
Have had one for years, also have plenty of spare drills, in case one decides to take a walk. Best part is it saves my fingers, since my vision is impaired. Good to know spare bits are available. Great video, thanks for sharing.
I don't think many people know what these are, as I find them everywhere. I've got a North Brothers (before Stanley bought them) a Goodell Pratt, and a Stanley Yankee. I use mine to drill tiny pilot holes for brad nails. I make a lot of picture frames and that hardware can be really tiny.
I have the 3 screwdriver sizes and adapters for 1/4" bits and a chuck. And I have a few of the drills. The 41 works better than all the others for drilling. And I'm glad I have collected all I need and all the bits at yard sales. They're going up in $$
I've got an egg beater with a really fine chuck (0.75mm to 9.5mm), but have broken a few sub 2mm bits and produced some ugly fine detail with decorative latches and hinges. This would be a great addition. Cheers and $0.02
My father had a Yankee screwdriver and it was about all he used. I got to play with it as a child and never gave it another thought until I saw one at National meet in PA. I bought it and it was full of drill bits I had never seen before. I wonder if Pop hid ours so I wouldn't drill holes all over the house? 😅
Yea I have a very old working one and another about 25-30 years old then a 40+ year old great neck switchable version that has the twist on it and goes right left or locked and came with flat and Phillips bits as well as many twist bits
I've had one of those Yankee 41Y in my tool chest for about 15 years. And I agree. It's an absolutely awesome tool. Between that and the Yankee 1540 (the coolest little ratcheting eggbeater around!) I'm covered for all sorts of detail drilling tasks! I have one of the Yankee screwdrivers and equipped it with a Phillips head bit holder that was sold by Lee Valley. I don't use it as much as a 41Y but it's great for installing screws in hinges. Like for small boxes I like to make. However, if you want to talk about most used tools, I have a Goodall Pratt Eggbeater that has a countersink bit (almost) permanently installed in it. I use that CONSTANTLY!
I used to think they were a gimmick until I give it a chance and learnd ti use it, I love them now, got 4, with some modern bit adapters, my granda give me his one a few weeks ago, he had it for 50 years.
I have one I inherited from my brother. Like you I thought it was for screws, but it's not really great for that. But then I thought I'd try out the drill bits that were also in the handle and lo-and-behold, it works wonderfully. Didn't know about the availability of new bits: I thought I'd have to trawl used tool shows if I ever wanted new bits. Thanks!
Wood By Wright How To, That drill WILL rotate both ways. I used several Yankees over 32 years as a telephone man. I drilled thousands of holes in wood and masonry. When using small masonry bits in brick or mortar, you can push the bit retaining collar forward with your non drilling hand and the bit will turn both ways. It will do it with wood bits also but to no effect. In masonry, it drills faster going both ways. Thanks for bringing back memories.
@@WoodByWrightHowTo It always rotates in both directions. You can't make it stop. Push, and it rotates to the right. Release and it rotates to the left but does not cut because you are releasing pressure.
@@WoodByWrightHowTo The 41Y is a Yankee Drill, not a driver. It should always turn both ways. If it doesn't, it may be broken. When you push it, it will rotate clockwise and cut. When you release it, it will rotate counter clockwise and not cut because you have released pressure. If you are drilling masonry, maintain pressure on the bit collar with your off hand and it will cut when you release pressure on the drill handle resulting in a little faster cut. It does the same on wood but to a lesser degree. Try it.
i see what you are saying. I was refering the the yanky drivers where you can switch their direction. where they can rotate tot he right or to the left on the push stroke.
I inherited my fathers' tools that he used working in the shipyards during wwII. In one of his tool boxes there are two of the yankee type drivers. I hardly ever use them but will keep them in good condition to pass on to my son.
Found one at salvage today for $3. Came with 4 bits inside the handle. I noticed there was a hole labeled OIL when you drop down the handle. Thinking about putting a drop or two of 3-in-1 multi-purpose in there. Some of the screws are hard turn so I might chase out the threads a bit if some paste wax doesn’t make it easier to turn. What would you use to get it operating in peak condition?
My dad called it a pogo stick. He had a couple. I bought a pile of them on Ebay on one bid. I only wanted the 41Y but got several more because the price was right.
I was given one of these along with a selection of random woodworking tools ranging from the early 1900's to a Stanley #5 from the 60's . I was wondering what the heck that thing was. Never used it mind you but I might start knowing what it is and how to use it... When I get the rust off it that is.
Tool Company Garrett Wade sells both the drill and replacement bits…brand new and fine for your vintage tool. You can buy separates or drill with bits as set.
I remember playing as a kid with the one my dad had, 40 years ago. I have been meaning to get one just for nostalgia, but now I know they are actually still made and hopefully good quality.
My dad was a telephone lineman for 40 years. I am now rebuilding his BELL SYSTEM tool box for him. When he unwrapped his BS 41y yankee drill, the first thing he immediately did was shake it to see how many bits were in the handle! He still remembered that
My dad also did 40 with Bell System, you must have a good collection of Klein tools also..i have several of the tool boxes.. Bell Systems became, New England Telephone became, AT&T became, Lucent Technologies.....
Back in 1962 I used one quite a bit (intended). I was a senior in high school and worked part time and weekends installing window blinds and shades for a furniture store. It was cordless, quiet and light weight, all the benefits of an up on a ladder hole driller for tiny screws. Yup, had the Yankee driver too. A few months ago I saw one online for $45 like new condition, complete with box and all bits. Did I need it? No! Do I love it? YES! The heart wants what the heart wants. Thanks for recognizing it’s greatness for all to see.
I own and love this tool, which was my father's. Been using it since I was a child. VERY handy for home repair/improvement projects, compact, batteries never need charging, Fits into many corners that a cordless drill cannot. Replacement bits are still available as well. On mine, nearly all the chrome is worn off. My father most likely purchased his in the late 40s when working construction, so about 75 years old, and working perfectly.
I am 71. Hired on with Pacific Telephone back in Los Angeles in '70 as a residential phone installer for a year then transferred to PBX installer. I still have my company issue Y41 with bits and it still works like new.
The straight fluted bits were used for sheetrock/plaster walls and twisted flute for wood. Eventually and even though I carried an electric drill, then later battery drill, I always used my Y41 for small screws.
Ya I've rarely used it since I retired..now I have a set of self centering bits (VIXBIT) for brackets and such and a very old ice pick I inherited from my father for all else. My oldest grandson gets my Y41 when I pass on.
I have 2 from my father. It says Bell System on it. He was a telephone repair and installer for Michigan Bell. All the tools in the house had Bell System on it. I was 19 before I found out that Bell System did not sell tools...
Amen, my dad even had tool boxs with the telephone logo on the ends,
I have a crazy collection of Bell Systems Tools from files, hammers, hatchets, screwdrivers up the wazoo ,
My dad has one of those. I used to love using it. One time I used it to drill a hole straight through my finger. Thankfully, I was using a really small bit.
I just used mine (#44) this morning to drill a pilot hole for a screw eye. Only one hole needed and it was even more convenient than my cordless drill.
The first drill I was allowed to use as a child...have had on in my kit for more than forty years...as you've pointed out, it's perfect for small holes and it's even more well suited for holes in hard to reach spaces. Certainly, not in my top five required tools, but heads the "handy to have" list!
Mine is most likely a generation or 2 before the one you're showing, as the drill bits are accessible from the top. The top has holes around its edge for each drill bit. It rotates. One of the holes is the closed position so the bits don't come out. It was my dad's. It's a Stanley. It's probably 70 to 80 years old and still works.
I absolutely love this tool. I've had mine for several decades and it still works perfectly. The bits being stored in the handle is so perfect for me. I tend to lose stuff and the smaller the stuff, the greater my tendency for losing it. So very early on I just got into the habit of putting the bit right back in the handle aftere using it and after all these years, I still have the same number of bits that I started out with. This was one of best ideas Stanley ever came up with and they've come up with plenty of genius ideas. Find one at an estate or garage sale and get it dirt cheap. Although they're worth the $90.00 price tag they hang on 'em these days. Especially considering they're built like tanks to last a numerous lifetimes.
Yankee drills were the original cordless drills. In 1982 I bought mine to install cabinet hardware. It still works like new today.
When I started in carpentry back in the 80"s I was given one of these by my dad. I used it when we were installing cedar clapboard siding to quickly drill holes in the edge by the but joints so the board did not split. It worked great especially while working on a ladder or scaffolding. I still own it!
Awesome contraption! Never heard of or saw one of these before and I love learning about different tools ❤
I have 2 of these, one my dad gave me when I was a kid. That one's made out of plastic. When my dad died I inherited his metal one. I'm pretty sure he got it when he was an instrument mechanic in the RCAF in WWII. I carry the plastic one in my camping tool box and I often use the metal one in my shop. I didn't know you could still get bits for them. Thanks for that info.
Yankee drivers are great for rapidly removing panels held by multiple screws and for predrilling holes for finish or brad nails. You can purchase adapters to use regular drill bits or round and hex shaped driver bits. The adapter can be used with nut driver bits as well. No batteries or electrical cord to worry about.
My grandfather recently passed away and found several push drills and drivers in amongst his tools. I am electrician so I grabbed one of each but plan to use his driver to put in device cover plate screws
I just aquired a dunlop push drill i found this old mans garage when i was helping him clean it. I love it. I use it all the time. Also found some more radial arm saw attachments. Use it all the time.
Ive had mine for almost 45 yrs and I still use it along with my yankee ratchet with a phillips tip
My neighbor gave me his father's Bell toolboxes. Two Yankees inside. I love them.
Bought mine around 1977 at Sears for about 9$. Very handy drilling in tight spaces with limited space like putting up blinds inside window frames or cornices. The front end tip swivels freely as well as pulls forward to release/load a bit. Very often, I hold and steady the tip while pushing down to spin the drill, then I loosen my grip on the handle and hold the bit firm allowing the handle to reverse spin for the next push- This drilling method is a little more aggressive and only turns the actual “drill bit” in one direction. You need a secure grip on the business end of the tool. The last reverse can be a “pogo stick like” snap backward ejecting the tool (bit) from a hole quickly without risk if bending the bit if it is buried in the wood. …..kinda hard to describe but, easy to do…….
Awesome video I’m 68 I remember seeing them around when I was a child and if there’s no electricity around be prepared but Elwood Blues uses one in the movies how cool is that
I bought one of these when I watched the Scout crafter video of his. I have used this a lot more than I ever thought I would.
Great video, thank you! It's nice to see a video where the presenter is both articulate and knowledgeable...
Yes, I've used a Y41 and still do on occasion. Mostly I have used it before the advent of cordless drills. Getting out an extension cord and the drills and the drill, finding a plug close enough etc. made the Y41 the best alternative.
They have been used in telecommunications for years. I carried one when I did networking, even had and used a masonry bit.
I have one of these that someone gave me many years ago. It had some missing and broken bits so I am glad to hear they are still available. I am going to make a point to get the bits replaced and work it into my workflow more often. Thanks!
I've had a couple of Yankee drivers over the years. The one I've hung onto, and still use occasionally, belonged to my great-uncle, who was a carpenter around the turn of the last century. He died in about 1919, long before I was born, but the driver came down in the family, including some of the bits, and ultimately ended up with me, as the only one doing woodwork. I've supplemented the bit collection some over the years. Years ago, it was still the best solution where you didn't have an outlet nearby. But, as I get older, I find I want to get the hole drilled or the screw in place faster, to get closer to the finish line, so don't tend to linger over my Yankee much anymore.
I've never seen one before, but now I NEED one!
Got mine from my Dad as well, who also worked for Ma Bell. Use it a few times a year and find it to be a great addition to the toolbox.
I have found one!!! Woooo-hoooo!!!!! Finally! It's unbelievable, just after a day or so, from my last comment about failing miserably. This one was the last one hanging on the shelf, so I even managed to strip the price down by 10%. It is retro-type with a wooden handles two-parts mechanism and naked helix. It has only one pointy bit or flute set already in the chuck, and it doesn't even have a manufacturer brand-name or country, exept under the top bar-code label. I carefully have to unlable it. On a price label it just says it is a mechanical drill for school. The drill seams thin and fragile, but man, I was almost jumping up and down out of happiness in the hardware/tool store. After ten years... It's like I found a Holy Grail. I understand now why kids love to work with those drills. Although, I'm a big kid. And when in tool store, or art-supply store it's like I'm a little kid in the candy-store. Hurray!!!😄
I worked for the New York telephone company for many years. That was one of our most used tool! The old “yankee drill”! I still a have a couple of them that I use all the time. …… starting to get low on bits. (I’ve been retired for over 25 years!)
Thanx. I didn't know bits were still available. I inhereted my 41Y many years ago. Great for drilling the holes for hanging blinds, etc..
I have this exact one and it was my Dad's. Love this thing! Good to know I can get more bits!
I've had a cheap plastic-handled push drill for 20+ years, and still use it - always with a backer board to prevent tear-out. I've never yet broken a push drill bit, but have broken a couple of 1.5mm twist bits by letting an electric drill tilt slightly.
I have exactly the Stanley 41Y you show which I purchased new some 50 years ago. It's a great addition to a handyman's toolbox for general around the house trim and such. Would not use it on furniture projects because of the ability to move about when you push it.
I just picked up one of these at an estate sale. The first thing I did when picking it up out of the $1 bin (!!!!!) was to shake it to see if there were bits in the handle. I waited until getting home to open it up. Every slot had a bit in it. What a find!
I have several of the yankee hand drills. I have my grandfathers. its the original wood handled version from turn of the century passed to him. I got another one of same age before i got his.. but i also have a older 41y and i love the All metic construction.. i like the older ones with the twist chuck instead of the spring chuck.. the twist chucks are on the older varieties. I also like the yankee bits.. the tab on end secures them from spinning in chuck. The draw back is if you hit a hidden knot or metal in the wood you might snap the bit because of the torque being applied.
You can find non fluted bits that work fantastic in this.. i got modern looking bit from a 1960s era NOS bag of bits off etsy.
If you dont have bits, you can make your own with a hacksaw and file..
I've got a little cheapy do yankee driver, and I love it. It doesn't get as much use as my other manual drills, but it works well when I need it.
Was a standard issue Bell system tool for a long time. Days when installers installed. Lol
That's how I got mine. Things fell off the truck. It's now hanging on the pegboard along with extra bits.
I played with my dad's Yankee drill as a kid. When he passed away, I inherited that 80 yr. old tool & several bits. The first thing I did was buy a set of new bits. It compliments my equally old eggbeater drill. No cords & you don't have to charge a battery before use.
I have one that looks just like yours. I got it when my folks passed. It was actually my Moms. My dad also had one. I had to find replacement bits and at the time they were a bit hard to find.
I have found that pushing slowly with light pressure works better than working quickly.
What a great tool, everyone should have one, if you work with wood. They're not made for metal work.
I was a bit surprised, seeing this video, most people either don't know about the tool, or think it's junk. ;-)
Bought a Craftsman Yankee screwdriver back in 1966. Used it to drive screws on electrical outlet cover plates. Still have it.
FROM MY DAD I have amassed a pretty good collection of Yankee's . like 6 of the Stanley 130A, 135, 145, 30, a long handle 68-130 (130A) a pair of North Bros. 130 a pair of Miller Falls 188A, about 5 or 6of the 41y from Stanley, and a pair of Klein 53002 just like the 41y..much like @travisfamadventures9044 My Father also did 40 yrs with Bell System... I love the 41y when I am doing cabinets and want to hang the doors with hinges on them. it makes it so easy to line them up
I have one identical to the one you demonstrated and use it mostly for pilot holes for small screws, I’ve had it for 40 + years, it’s been a great tool!
I recently used a yankie screwdriver to work with some straight slot screws in a door. I was surprised at just how easy it made using these screw that I'd found a pain to use in the past.
The trick with slotted screws is having a driver that fits the screw properly. Most don't. Basically if you can't get the screw to stick to the driver held horizontally the fit is poor.
Nice, I have one of these also, which I got from my Dad, so,it is special. It does work quite well, and not batteries or electrical plug is required. I also have a small egg beater drill, that also,has bit storage in its top handle, to store a few small bits.
Cheers
Yes! I like the one I have. Was lucky enough to find one at the re-store cheap and it had all the bits it could hold in the handle and one in the business end. I found it useful working on repairs for my mom’s cupboards where it’s hard to get a drill to. Granted, it took me a while to get the hole in, but I don’t think I could’ve gotten an eggbeater drill in there and used both hands for it, and a power drill would’ve been awkward for other reasons.
Quite a useful tool!
I have the same drill. Purchased new when I was a finish carpenter in late 70s and through the 80s before the ubiquitousness and reliability of battery powered tools. Easy to carry in the bags or whites! I still have it and gets used often in the shop even though I now have a small fleet of M12 Milwaukee cordless drills and drivers. Bits in the handle are great!
I have a 41Y (and 2 other Yankee Screwdrivers) - I never noticed that the 41Y is actually a drill (vs. a screwdriver). DUH!!! Now that I know, I'll be using it on projects!!!! And yes, it has all the drill bits in the handle...
I love mine also and I find a satisfying feeling when I use this tool versus an electric drill.
Great video, thanks for sharing. 😃
I inherited my gandfather's Yankee driver, and for a while I enjoyed feeling like Elwood Blues; I hadn't quite put it together how I dislike it for driving screws but enjoyed drilling with it. The model I had only came with one bit; looks like something I should keep an eye out for at garage sales, going forward!
No need to wait….Just google Garrett Wade which sells brand new replacement bits as well as entire tool and bits for the 41Y drill.
My father had a couple when I was a kid. And I did like drilling with it.
I have several of these. I have one dedicated for small screw pilot holes. It hangs by my bench with a 1/16" bit. I use it all the time. Faster than a gimlet as well.
Concerning the "egg beater" style drills, some, like the MIllers Falls, No.2 series store the straight, fluted bits in the handle. The cap is threaded and the handle hollow.
Great video! I have one of those, (never knew the model till now) my 'old guy' gave it to me it was his when he worked for the telephone company. I keep it in the tool box in my camper, and it has come in handy so many times. Nice to know I can still get the bits for it. Thankyou.
I have a Yankee drill and a driver. I love the drill for hinges. I use the driver mostly on steel screws. Brass by hand.
I have a 41y and use it all the time for hardware holes and pilot holes in boxes and chests.
When I used to install ventilated shelving the yankee was the only drill we used. They are a lot easier to carry around than a battery drill and we were only using one size drill.
I bought mine back in the '70s before cordless drills were available to work on a boat at the dock where no power was available. Great to know you can still buy them.
I have one in every tool box and buy them for gifts whenever I find them. For most younger folks it is an undiscovered treasure and I use mine every day I am doing fabrication in the shop. It is the indisensible tool for pre-drilling screw holes, or even doing trim carpentry.
I have one made by Merit tools. It's not something I use all of the time, but when it is most appropriate I'm always amazed at how well it works.
One of these have been in my around the house family toolbox ever since I was a kid growing up. It's a lot of fun to use.
I have and use the 41Y; it is a useful tool. The bits are expensive and the small ones do break easily. A alternative is a short Yankee screwdriver with the hex bit adaptor from Lee Valley.This allows use of twist drillbits with 1/4" hex ends. These twist drills are readily avaiable and relatively inexpensive. There is also available a small three jaw chuck that fits a Yankee screwdriver; this allows use of ordinary twist drills.
Oh yeah, I just got one of those a few weeks ago and already it's come in handy several times. It says Yankee No. 41 North Bros. MFG. ...and whew, 😅 I thought it was missing 2 bits 😁
Wow, I picked one of these up on Monday and then I see this video. Glad to see the bits are still being made, mine came with a hodgepodge of straight and twist bits so I may look into getting some replacements.
I have that exact same one in my everyday tool bag. sooooo handy!
I buy Yankee drills every time I see one at a yard sale. I have my grandfather’s 131a. They are very useful tool.
Used a 41 to drill my first hole as a kid. Nice tool.
Have had one for years, also have plenty of spare drills, in case one decides to take a walk. Best part is it saves my fingers, since my vision is impaired. Good to know spare bits are available. Great video, thanks for sharing.
I don't think many people know what these are, as I find them everywhere. I've got a North Brothers (before Stanley bought them) a Goodell Pratt, and a Stanley Yankee. I use mine to drill tiny pilot holes for brad nails. I make a lot of picture frames and that hardware can be really tiny.
I have the 3 screwdriver sizes and adapters for 1/4" bits and a chuck. And I have a few of the drills. The 41 works better than all the others for drilling. And I'm glad I have collected all I need and all the bits at yard sales. They're going up in $$
Just picked one of these up at a local flea market just for this purpose!
I've got an egg beater with a really fine chuck (0.75mm to 9.5mm), but have broken a few sub 2mm bits and produced some ugly fine detail with decorative latches and hinges. This would be a great addition. Cheers and $0.02
Own one, shop would not be right without it. Great review of a timeless tool.
For smaller than 1/16", I use a plastic egg beater (fiskars or used surgical tool). I break them with the regular egg beater or the electric.
My father had a Yankee screwdriver and it was about all he used. I got to play with it as a child and never gave it another thought until I saw one at National meet in PA. I bought it and it was full of drill bits I had never seen before. I wonder if Pop hid ours so I wouldn't drill holes all over the house? 😅
Yea I have a very old working one and another about 25-30 years old then a 40+ year old great neck switchable version that has the twist on it and goes right left or locked and came with flat and Phillips bits as well as many twist bits
I have a Craftman model, same as the Stanley but with twist drill bits, use it all the time.
Klein Tools markets one!! I own two of the original Stanley Yankee ones, though mine aren't as shiny as yours!! Amazing little tools!!
My grandfather had one of those. Pretty clever. His version showed the fluting on the outside.
Didn’t even know such a tool existed, but now I need one it’s perfect small bits are sweet.
I've had one of those Yankee 41Y in my tool chest for about 15 years. And I agree. It's an absolutely awesome tool. Between that and the Yankee 1540 (the coolest little ratcheting eggbeater around!) I'm covered for all sorts of detail drilling tasks! I have one of the Yankee screwdrivers and equipped it with a Phillips head bit holder that was sold by Lee Valley. I don't use it as much as a 41Y but it's great for installing screws in hinges. Like for small boxes I like to make. However, if you want to talk about most used tools, I have a Goodall Pratt Eggbeater that has a countersink bit (almost) permanently installed in it. I use that CONSTANTLY!
I used to think they were a gimmick until I give it a chance and learnd ti use it, I love them now, got 4, with some modern bit adapters, my granda give me his one a few weeks ago, he had it for 50 years.
I have one I inherited from my brother. Like you I thought it was for screws, but it's not really great for that. But then I thought I'd try out the drill bits that were also in the handle and lo-and-behold, it works wonderfully. Didn't know about the availability of new bits: I thought I'd have to trawl used tool shows if I ever wanted new bits. Thanks!
I have the same one and very seldom use it
Wood By Wright How To, That drill WILL rotate both ways. I used several Yankees over 32 years as a telephone man. I drilled thousands of holes in wood and masonry. When using small masonry bits in brick or mortar, you can push the bit retaining collar forward with your non drilling hand and the bit will turn both ways. It will do it with wood bits also but to no effect. In masonry, it drills faster going both ways. Thanks for bringing back memories.
A lot of them will rotate both directions. But the 41y is just the one direction. You can't switch its rotation.
@@WoodByWrightHowTo It always rotates in both directions. You can't make it stop. Push, and it rotates to the right. Release and it rotates to the left but does not cut because you are releasing pressure.
@@WoodByWrightHowTo The 41Y is a Yankee Drill, not a driver. It should always turn both ways. If it doesn't, it may be broken. When you push it, it will rotate clockwise and cut. When you release it, it will rotate counter clockwise and not cut because you have released pressure. If you are drilling masonry, maintain pressure on the bit collar with your off hand and it will cut when you release pressure on the drill handle resulting in a little faster cut. It does the same on wood but to a lesser degree. Try it.
i see what you are saying. I was refering the the yanky drivers where you can switch their direction. where they can rotate tot he right or to the left on the push stroke.
I inherited my fathers' tools that he used working in the shipyards during wwII. In one of his tool boxes there are two of the yankee type drivers. I hardly ever use them but will keep them in good condition to pass on to my son.
Found one at salvage today for $3. Came with 4 bits inside the handle. I noticed there was a hole labeled OIL when you drop down the handle. Thinking about putting a drop or two of 3-in-1 multi-purpose in there. Some of the screws are hard turn so I might chase out the threads a bit if some paste wax doesn’t make it easier to turn. What would you use to get it operating in peak condition?
Mine is black plastics with aluminum cap.
It was Dads.
My dad called it a pogo stick. He had a couple. I bought a pile of them on Ebay on one bid. I only wanted the 41Y but got several more because the price was right.
I recently got a 41Y. Haven't had a chance to use it, but looking it over it is a tool made by a craftsman
I love millsfall’s push drill. It’s almost same but with wooden handle!!!
I have several. They often go cheap at estate sales. I use them the same way you use them.
I was given one of these along with a selection of random woodworking tools ranging from the early 1900's to a Stanley #5 from the 60's . I was wondering what the heck that thing was. Never used it mind you but I might start knowing what it is and how to use it... When I get the rust off it that is.
Thank goodness now I know what I got in a group purchase. Couldn't really seen how it works. It'll get quite a few workouts.
I find it a very useful tool. It sometimes is the only tool that will reach in tight spots. I love mine!
Tool Company Garrett Wade sells both the drill and replacement bits…brand new and fine for your vintage tool. You can buy separates or drill with bits as set.
That sounds smart bit of tool. Might be handy for me to get one drilling holes sight loss is a nightmare at times.
i would love to find one of those for my increasingly "unplugged"shop
I remember playing as a kid with the one my dad had, 40 years ago. I have been meaning to get one just for nostalgia, but now I know they are actually still made and hopefully good quality.