Workers Of Wood

Here is a vintage 1700-1800 Cam Drive Drill.
HErb

Well, I'll be darned...! It's the little handle that does the work...!

I wonder if it's the same for the other drill you posted...?

I like it. Never saw one that style.

That "movable post" behind the drive gear looks like it is some sort of lock to keep the gear from turning.
At least this one has a square drive chuck, like for the tangs of auger bits.
Herb

Does the large handle swivel Herb? In that configuration it looks like the handle you hold and put pressure on would get in the way of the one you turn. I bought a modern one from Lee Valley a number of years ago now. It has jaws that will tighten on a regular bit but not tight enough to keep the bit from spinning in the chuck on a tough go. But it also has the square tapered socket below the chuck. They will drill holes that a battery powered drill won't and most of the old auger bits were pretty good length if you needed a deep hole. When they are sharp they drill pretty fast if you don't mind the work out.

I have pondered that too, Chuck. They look like an awkward tool to operate.
Herb

I'm guessing the big handle would not be in the way if it were "palmed"...or like Cherryville suggested, the handle itself swivels at the top of the shaft.

Unless the ole carpenters used apprentices with teeny hands...