Anyone else into the tools our fathers, or better yet, our grandfathers used? I'm only 28, so I missed out on these tools being used on the regular by a long time, but I've got somewhat of a soft spot for "vintage" hand tools.
Without sounding sappy, I think it was a neat way to do things, by hand. Took longer, yes, and was more laborious as well, but in my mind, could have led to a fantastic finished product in the right hands.
The best part of the manufactured planes? All stamped MADE IN USA. Tough finding that anymore.
Here's a few pics of them lined up at attention. I can get more detailed ones if anyone would like, as I just took a few at first to get this up.
Left to right is a wooden, I would assume block plane. Not quite sure of the age.
Next is a Stanley Bailey No. 4. I did some research and have this figured to be a Type 16 which was produced between 1933-1941.
Next to that is a Millers Falls No. 18C which was produced between 1929 and 1967. This is the equivalent of a Stanley No. 6C.
These three were given to me today by my girlfriend's grandfather. The pictures don't do them justice. They are in fantastic shape.
Next to that is another Stanley Bailey. This one is a No. 6 as well. This was given to me by my uncle back in the summer. He found it in his old house in Zelienople (near Pittsburgh) and toted it with him from there, back to NEPA, and then again to SEPA.
I did some research on that one, and have it pegged at a Type 9. It's got two Patent dates on it, Mar 25-02 and Aug 19-02. This was produced between 1902-07. This one must be able to tell some awesome stories.
This was rusted to all hell when he handed it to me. I did some research and picked up a product called Evapo-Rust at HF. Took the plane apart, covered it in product, let it sit a couple hours and it came out looking like new.
The final wooden one was my first purchase. I found it on eBay and probably overpaid for it, but it was cheap enough. The description said it was from the 1920's or so, but who knows.
I'm lucky enough that my girlfriend let's me display the wooden ones around the apartment, along with some other knick-knacks. :thumbup: The rest of them will be getting some use once I get the irons sharp.