Tool Talk

General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: mikeswrenches on April 29, 2019, 10:53:48 AM

Title: P A Gladwin Tool Handle
Post by: mikeswrenches on April 29, 2019, 10:53:48 AM
    I started collecting tool handles probably 10 years ago and have quite a few... some common, some not so common. This particular one falls into the 'not so common' area. It has been on my want list for quite some time, but usually either the price is too high or the condition is poor. This one checked both boxes, condition is good and price was ok, so now it sits on our coffee table.

The original patent(April 9, 1878 no. 202,109) was for one made of wood. This style, made of cast iron, was available in a jappaned finish as well as the nickel plated version. They did not come with a knob so I made several, since I think it gives it a more finished look. They apparently came with 7 tools, but were made to accept most anything out there. The claim was they would hold a pin...I have not tried that, but since I had a bunch of extra tools I put some of them with it.
Length is 5 in. by 1 1/4 in. the plane iron is 1 in.

The box I found at a flea market several years ago. I had no use for it at the time, but the quality was exceptional. It is made entirely of stainless steel and brass with the dividers hand soldered into place. I had to add some spacer blocks in the bottom to get it up to a convenient height. I still need to rig up something inside to hold the tools in place, although that isn’t  really high on my "to do" list.

Mike
Title: Re: P A Gladwin Tool Handle
Post by: mikeswrenches on April 29, 2019, 10:56:29 AM
Here are the box pictures. Not enough room in the original post for them.

Mike
Title: Re: P A Gladwin Tool Handle
Post by: Bill Houghton on April 29, 2019, 01:13:50 PM
Now, that's multipurpose!
Title: Re: P A Gladwin Tool Handle
Post by: Papaw on April 29, 2019, 01:36:11 PM
That is outstanding !
Title: Re: P A Gladwin Tool Handle
Post by: coolford on April 29, 2019, 03:03:54 PM
That is a cool tool! :grin:
Title: Re: P A Gladwin Tool Handle
Post by: Plyerman on April 29, 2019, 05:10:41 PM
Wowwwww! <slobber slobber drool> That's a sweet combination of tools. Congrats for finally landing your white whale!

The only tool handle I can think of that even comes close to comparing is the Millers Falls "Alford." Do you already have one of those Mike?
Title: Re: P A Gladwin Tool Handle
Post by: mikeswrenches on April 29, 2019, 05:37:49 PM
    I do have one of the Alford’s  but it’s not a very good example. It’s missing most of the tools.
I found a complete one  at a flea market about 10 years ago and didn’t recognize what it was so I didn’t buy it. Guy wanted 35 bucks for it. I’ve kicked myself ever since. It was complete and in good condition too.
They come up reasonably often at Donnelly’s auctions. One of these days I’ll get another one.

Thanks to all for the nice comments!!

Mike
Title: Re: P A Gladwin Tool Handle
Post by: lptools on April 29, 2019, 05:38:01 PM
Hello, Mike. That is a beautiful looking tool, and box!! Great job!! Regards, Lou
Title: Re: P A Gladwin Tool Handle
Post by: Yadda on April 29, 2019, 11:09:08 PM
Oh my..........that checks all the boxes on the desirability scale, multi tool, gizmotic, great design, storage box, multiple versions, and rarely seen.  The wood handles are fantastic.  Great job!
Title: Re: P A Gladwin Tool Handle
Post by: mikeswrenches on April 30, 2019, 10:22:28 AM
Thanks guys!! Much appreciated!

Mike