An awl is one of those overlooked tools that often gets dismissed as just a pointy metal thing. But if you’ve ever spent time working leather, marking wood, or fixing gear outdoors in New Mexico, you know this little tool earns its keep.
What is an awl look like?
This article explain what is the main purpose of an awl, different types, and share 10 highly practical uses specifically for New Mexicans.
So, what is the main purpose of an awl?
Table of Contents
What Is the Main Purpose of an Awl?
At its core, the main purpose of an awl is to create clean, accurate holes in various materials such as leather, wood, canvas, plastic, and more. It’s also great for marking, piercing, and even stitching.
In a state like New Mexico, where DIY projects, ranching, artisan leatherwork, and camping are woven into daily life, the awl is more than just useful, it’s essential.
From punching holes in a handmade belt at a Santa Fe market to repairing torn gear on a hike through the Gila Wilderness, the awl saves time and frustration.
It’s a tool that delivers function in a form so simple, it’s easy to underestimate until you need it.
What Is an Awl, Really?
An awl is a pointed steel tool with either a wooden, metal, or polymer handle. While it may seem like a glorified nail, the geometry of its tip often flat, round, chisel-shaped, or with a sewing hole makes it ideal for puncturing, scraping, and guiding thread through tough materials.
I first questioned my awl’s purpose beyond being a pointy thing. But after using it to poke holes in a leather belt, open stubborn packaging, and mark wood for carpentry, I realized why it’s a multitool essential.
In fact, I probably use the awl more than the main blade on some of my tools.
Types of Awls
Knowing the different types helps you use them to their fullest potential:
- Scratch Awl: Used to mark precise cut lines on wood or metal. Think cabinetry in Taos.
- Stitching (Sewing) Awl: Has an eyelet near the tip to guide thread. Perfect for leather repairs in Santa Fe.
- Bradawl: A flat-tipped awl for starting screw or nail holes in wood without splitting it.
- Punch Awl: Designed purely for punching holes. Doesn’t include a threading eye.
- Multi-tool Awl: Found on tools like Leatherman and Victorinox. Great for emergency fixes in the wilderness.
Check Out – 9 Best Awl Tool Sets for Leatherworking
Fun fact: Many folks confuse reamers and awls. A reamer enlarges existing holes. An awl can pierce, scribe, or sew depending on its form.
Why Awls Matter in New Mexico
New Mexico is a place where culture, utility, and wilderness converge—and the awl plays a quiet but vital role in all three. Here’s how:
- 🎨 Artists in Santa Fe use stitching awls to create detailed leather goods.
- Woodworkers in Ruidoso and Taos rely on scratch awls for layout and joinery.
- Backpackers and campers carry awl-equipped multi-tools for field repairs and survival.
- Ranchers and farmers around Silver City use them for fencing, boot repair, and saddle maintenance.
You’re a craftsman or survivalist? if you live in the Land of Enchantment, your toolkit should include an awl.
10 Practical Uses of an Awl
These real-life use cases are why New Mexicans swear by their awls:
- Punching Holes in Leather: Ideal for making belts, moccasins, saddlebags, or guitar straps for Taos musicians.
- Marking Wood or Metal: A scratch awl gives you precision when cutting or drilling timber for fencing or carpentry.
- Sewing Heavy-Duty Materials: Use a stitching awl to repair tents, backpacks, or even cowboy gear.
- Starting Holes for Screws/Nails: The bradawl prevents wood from cracking when working on furniture or fences.
- Cleaning Out Debris: Clear stones or packed mud from boot soles after exploring Carlsbad Caverns.
- Opening Containers: A sharpened awl easily pops open cans, crates, or packaging.
- Quick Field Repairs: In Chaco Canyon or the Jemez Mountains, punch holes to stitch torn gear.
- Fire Starting: Drill a depression in wood to anchor a bow drill spindle.
- Prying and Lifting: Gently lift gaskets or scrape off labels or stickers.
- Driving Screws in a Pinch: Use the flat end of a multi-tool awl as a makeshift screwdriver.
Top Multi-Tools with Awls
If you’re often outdoors or on the go, a quality multi-tool with an awl is a game-changer.
Here are my expert picks:
- Leatherman Surge: Tough, versatile, and includes a solid sewing awl. Ideal for heavy work in Roswell or the backcountry.
- Leatherman Signal: Geared toward survivalists and campers. Comes with a fire starter and an awl for gear fixes.
- Gerber Center-Drive: Built for field work and maintenance. Its awl handles hard plastics and wood.
These tools do more than save space they could save your gear, your project, or your hike.
Awl vs. Knife, Screwdriver or Reamer
Not all pointy tools are the same. Here’s how an awl compares:
- Knife: Cuts well but doesn’t pierce with control.
- Screwdriver: Drives screws but isn’t built for starting holes.
- Reamer: Enlarges existing holes; awls create them.
- Awl: Marks, punches, pierces, and sometimes sews. Versatile and simple.
Think of it this way: a knife is for cutting, a screwdriver is for driving, but an awl is for crafting and control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should an awl be sharp?
Yes, but not razor sharp like a knife. Most multitool awls have a steep grind that ends in a strong, defined point for piercing and scraping.
What’s better for leather an awl or hand needle?
Both work. An awl is often necessary to pre-punch holes in thick leather, especially for saddle stitching. You can’t sew full-grain leather without one.
Is a sewing awl good for real stitching?
Absolutely. Stitching awls can perform strong lockstitches if used properly. Many leather pros prefer them over basic hand needles.
Can I sharpen an awl?
Yes. Use a sharpening stone or file. Just don’t overdo it you want a point, not a blade.
Where can I learn more?
Visit awltool.com, where we review tools, offer tutorials, and help beginners and pros alike get the most from their awls.
Conclusion: What Is The Main Purpose Of An Awl?
When I first got a multi-tool with an awl, I wondered if I’d ever use it. Fast forward a few years I use it constantly. From cutting tape without gunking my blade to loosening rope knots and prepping firewood, my awl is now an irreplaceable part of my everyday carry.
In a state as wild, artistic, and hands-on as New Mexico, the awl earns its place in every toolbox, glove compartment, or bugout bag. Whether you’re crafting, hiking, building, or fixing this small tool offers big results.
If you’re interested in gear, be sure to check out our other articles: Best Awl Tool in 2025, How to Use an Awl Tool, and How to Make an Awl Tool.
📌 Bookmark this guide and share it with fellow DIYers and outdoor lovers.
Written by Nicolas, tool expert, outdoor enthusiast, and founder of awltool.com.