A large spindle for a bow drill. The cylindrical wooden shaft tapers towards the end that was held in a drill bearing. A small bone or antler peg has been inserted into that end, where it is held in place by a wrapping of sinew. This peg would have reduced wear on the spindle when it was rotated inside a bearing. The drill bit is an iron rod that has been beaten out into a diamond shaped point that has been filed sharp on the edges. In order to prevent the bit from splitting the spindle it is held in place by two pieces that were cut out of the spindle shaft and reinserted after the bit was put in place. A hide thong has been wrapped around this end of the spindle to keep these inset pieces and the tip securely in place.

FROM CARD: "ILLUS. IN USNM REPT, 1894; FIG. 110; P. 700."