I've watched a number of hand tool videos where the instructor uses a brace and bit to make a hole. I watched a 5/8" bit work through a 3" chunk of oak with relative ease.

This weekend I needed to drill a few 1/2" and 7/16" holes. I used good quality sharp (new) drills and I was surprised at how much time and down force it takes by comparison. I recall thinking that a brace and bit might actually have been faster. I've used twist, brad point and forstner style bits and all perform similarly in this respect.

Am I imagining things or is a bit faster (or at leaser as fast)? I know they go longer between charges

As I look at that auction site, braces seem plentiful and fairly cheap. The bits may be more of a challenge but I'm sure I can built a decent set. Sharpening bits seems fairly straight forward as well.