An awl can take various forms, but typically consists of a slender spike and some form of handgrip (similar in design to a screwdriver). More of a tool than a weapon, it is traditionally used in handicrafts such as wood and leather working. During the 75th Hunger Games, Katniss obtained an awl from the Cornucopia and gave it to Mags. After the group realized that the trees in the arena were full of water, the awl was used to bore holes in the trunks in preparation for inserting the spile.