Abstract: A device and method for forming a hole in the surface for subsequent insertion of a tack into the hole is disclosed. The device including a housing having a base receiving portion, a detachable hole forming rod member held within the housing, a mechanism for turning the hole forming rod member and a mechanism for urging the hole forming rod member out of the housing to form a hole in the surface, wherein the hole is formed substantially perpendicular to the surface. The device further includes a base moveable within the housing and adapted to be retractable into the base receiving portion as the hole forming rod member is urged forwardly to form the hole in the surface.