General 818 Scratch Awl 6.5 in Steel Shank Wood Handle

Product Description

The GENERAL 818 is a scratch awl designed for marking, scribing, and piercing in trade and shop applications. The tool features a steel shank with a hardwood handle and measures 6.5 inches overall length. It is a hand tool used to scribe layout lines on metal, wood, and similar materials prior to cutting, drilling, or assembly. The compact, balanced design makes it suitable for HVAC sheet metal layout, plumbing rough-in marking, electrical panel work, and general fabrication tasks. At 0.188 pounds, it is lightweight enough for extended one-handed use.

The GENERAL 818 scratch awl is suited for residential and light commercial trade work where accurate scribing and hole-starting are needed. HVAC technicians use scratch awls to mark ductwork and sheet metal. Plumbers and electricians use them to mark layout points on framing, panels, and conduit runs. The tool is equally at home in a shop environment for general fabrication and layout work.

Key Features

• Steel shank for durability and resistance to bending under scribing pressure
• Hardwood handle provides a comfortable, secure grip during use
• 6.5 inches overall length balances reach and control
• Lightweight at 0.188 pounds for reduced hand fatigue
• Single-piece construction suitable for repetitive layout and marking tasks

Compatibility

Designed as a general-purpose scratch awl suitable for use across HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and fabrication trades wherever scribing, marking, or piercing of materials is required.

Installation Notes

A scratch awl is a hand tool requiring no power source or special installation. Keep the tip protected when not in use to prevent injury and tip damage. Use appropriate personal protective equipment, including gloves, when working with sharp layout tools. Inspect the handle for cracks or looseness before each use and replace the tool if the shank is bent or the tip is broken.