Where to find awl in Escape from Tarkov

TL;DR

  • Awls spawn in technical supply crates, wooden toolboxes, and general barter spots across all maps
  • Shoreline’s Scav Island and Customs’ Stronghold offer highest concentration of spawn locations
  • This non-consumable tool enables Lavatory construction and multiple armor/rig crafts
  • Always check garages, lockers, and sports bags during routine looting runs
  • Consider trader barters if RNG proves unfavorable for direct finding

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The awl represents one of Escape from Tarkov’s essential barter items, introduced during the significant 0.12.12.30 update. This specialized leatherworking tool serves as a mandatory component for establishing your Hideout’s Level 1 Lavatory facility. Many players encounter substantial difficulty locating this seemingly simple implement due to its specific spawn parameters and relatively low drop rates compared to more common items.


Beyond its primary function in Hideout development, awls facilitate numerous critical armor and rig crafting recipes at the Lavatory workstation. Understanding that this item functions as a non-consumable resource means you’ll only require acquisition once for permanent access to these crafting options, making the initial search effort well justified for long-term progression.

As a general-purpose crafting component, awls appear across standard world barter locations where fabric, sewing implements, and basic tools typically generate. Strategic looting should prioritize garages, workbenches, industrial storage lockers, sports bags, and hidden Jaeger stashes, as these locations maintain the highest probability for successful acquisition.

However, dedicated technical supply containers and reinforced wooden toolboxes consistently yield superior results for targeted awl farming. These substantial wooden crates contain diverse assortments of tools, construction materials, and electronic components, making them prime hunting grounds. Below are the most reliable map locations for encountering these valuable containers:

  • Scav Island on Shoreline – Multiple crate spawns with minimal initial competition
  • Swamp Village on Shoreline – Dense concentration of lootable objects in compact area
  • Stronghold complex on Customs – Both interior and perimeter positions contain technical crates
  • Library adjacent areas on Customs – Often overlooked but consistent spawn points
  • Coastal Village on Lighthouse – Requires careful navigation but offers rich rewards
  • Train station exterior and underground on Reserve – High-risk, high-reward environment
  • Sunken Village on Woods – Remote location with multiple container opportunities
Technical supply crate. Source: https://escapefromtarkov.fandom.com

Technical supply crates distinguish themselves as the most efficient awl sources due to their specialized loot tables favoring tools and construction items. These containers appear as large, dark wooden boxes with reinforced metal corners, typically positioned in industrial zones, construction sites, and technical areas. Learning to identify these crates visually can significantly reduce search time during raids.

For optimal farming efficiency, establish routes that connect multiple technical crate spawns within single raids. Shoreline’s resort area combined with Scav Island creates an excellent circuit, while Customs’ Stronghold to Library path provides concentrated opportunities. Always approach these locations with tactical awareness, as other players often target these high-value loot spots.

Intermediate players should prioritize night raids or low-population servers to minimize PvP encounters while farming. Bringing minimal gear reduces financial risk if unsuccessful, though adequate protection remains advisable given these areas’ popularity.

When direct looting proves frustratingly unsuccessful, consider alternative acquisition pathways. Traders occasionally offer awls through barter deals, though these typically require rare items themselves. The flea market provides another option, though prices often reflect the item’s scarcity and demand.

Seasoned operators recommend always checking potential spawn locations during normal gameplay rather than dedicated farming sessions. This approach reduces frustration while gradually increasing acquisition chances through consistent exposure. Remember that once obtained, your awl permanently unlocks its associated crafts, making the effort ultimately worthwhile.

Inventory management proves crucial – once you secure an awl, transfer it immediately to your Hideout to prevent accidental loss during subsequent raids. For comprehensive gameplay enhancement, consult our Complete Guide to master other essential game mechanics.

Understanding that awls serve multiple crafting purposes beyond just the Lavatory should motivate persistent searching. These crafts become increasingly valuable as you progress, making early acquisition strategically advantageous for long-term development.

Action Checklist

  • Prioritize technical supply crates on Shoreline and Customs during initial searches
  • Systematically check wooden toolboxes in garages and industrial areas
  • Monitor trader inventories for potential awl barters
  • Secure acquired awl in Hideout immediately to prevent raid loss
  • Utilize awl for Lavatory construction and armor crafts

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