I recently had the pleasure during a day off, of being able to head down to a small town in the area that has an "antique walk" - a collection of small antique stores scattered throughout its streets. Like the usual antique "mauls", condition and pricing don't seem to have much to do with each other. But amongst the overpriced, completely rusted metal planes, and wooden planes with blown cheeks and cracked soles I discovered a couple of gems.
For the same price that most wanted for their
junktiques, I found a pair of wooden jointers (a 20" and a 24") in beautiful condition. Razor sharp irons
I couldn't pass them up. They came home with me. Price tag: $60 each.
However, the planes themselves, have no makers mark. No users mark. They are a mystery to me that I would like to find additional information on. From the type of wood, to the possible maker. Construction of the two planes is almost identical. The only difference I've been able to find is on the back of the wedge - the relief hole for the chip breaker screw is not identical. I am not sure if this identifies it as a user made plane, or if it is a user modification.
The only identifying marks I have been able to find are:
- Both Chip Breakers: + Robt Sorby Sheffield
- One iron: Auburn Tool Co., Thistle Brand, Auburn N.Y.
- One iron: Spear & Jackson, Warranted, Cast Steel
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