Exploring the depths of the earth used to be a challenge for earlier well drillers, until the arrival of a specialized tool called the ‘tap wrench’. This powerful implement enabled them to penetrate into subterranean water sources that were out of their reach previously. The tap wrench featured a lengthy design and was made using tough materials, making it the ideal tool for drilling into the ground.
A tap wrench was a basic but essential utility tool. It featured a wooden handle that was securely connected to an all-steel head, which poined to a sharp tip. To use this wrench, one would need to take a hammer and strike the head’s surface. This action would cause the tool’s head to rotate, ultimately boring a hole into the ground below.
Early well drillers relied heavily on the tap wrench to reach areas of water that were otherwise off limits. Unfortunately, this tool was also incredibly hazardous – if it wasn’t secured correctly, the head could fly out, leading to dire consequences for anyone unfortunate enough to stand in its path.
Despite no longer being employed for well drilling, the tap wrench has persisted in plumbers’ and pipefitters’ profession for years. This handy device reminiscences of the challenging times of well drilling before, where the drillers’ abilities to handle this tool masterfully was essential for them to be successful.