Brace for large auger bits

[Harry]

I recently got a Irwin auger bit set at an auction that goes up to 26/16 [1 5/8" ]. The shanks on the larger bits are almost 1/2" And the tapered square end a bit larger than 1/2". What type of  brace was available to drive these larger bits?

[mikeswrenches]

A wimble brace or one with a 14" sweep would certainly make it easier to turn those big ones.  Have you tried them in a smaller size brace to see if they fit?

Mike

[Harry]

I did go out to garage and found a Stanley 923 12" brace that will take up to a 22 [ 1 3/8" ]. Most of the 10 in braces I have looked at will hold the 20, except for one unmarked 10 in brace I uncovered that has a chuck that will hold the 24 [1 1/2"]. I guess I'll keep on the lookout for a 14 in brace as it appears the larger swings have bigger chucks.

[john k]

Does anyone have one of the beam boring drills?   The folding ones of wood, with two cranks?   Don't they take a much larger tang than most braces?   I have seen them with up to a 3 inch auger bit.  Always wanted one but they are usually pricey.

[Lewill2]

The beam boring drills I have seen take a round shaft bit because they have a square head set screw to tighten the bit in place.