The smallest 3D-printed drill in the world is useless but beautiful

 By 
Jenni Ryall
 on 
Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

A man has just created the world's smallest 3D-printed working drill and it is perfect.

Lance Abernethy is a maintenance engineer from New Zealand who has an obsession with small things. It was this obsession that led him to create the tiny tool, according to 3D Print.

The maker of small things drew up the plans off his regular-sized drill using CAD software OnShape before using his personal 3D printer, on a very slow speed, to create the miniature design -- which measures 17mm tall, 7.5mm wide and 13mm long.

“I wanted to make it as small as possible so I cramped all my parts as tight as possible,” Abernethy told 3D Print. “It took me 3 hours to solder and try and squeeze [the parts] in ... The wires kept breaking off when I was trying to connect them and it was a nightmare trying to hold them in place and try to not short the battery."

The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
These newsletters may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. By clicking Subscribe, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!