In 1961, it introduced the first cordless electric drill, powered by a nickel-cadmium battery. Meanwhile, Black + Decker contracted with Martin Marietta to design tools for NASA, including a zero-impact wrench that turned bolts without spinning the astronaut.

Who had the first cordless drill?

In 1961, Black & Decker introduced its first cordless drill. "It was very successful, in a small way," Mr. Decker says. But the silver-cadmium batteries it used cost $50, and that drove up the retail price.

How were holes drilled before electric drills?

While the pump-drill and the bow-drill were used in Western Civilization to bore smaller holes for a larger part of human history, the Auger was used to drill larger holes starting sometime between Roman and Medieval ages. The auger allowed for more torque for larger holes.