Tool Talk

Woodworking Forum => Woodworking Forum => Topic started by: jimwrench on November 17, 2011, 05:25:08 PM

Title: my oldest screwdriver
Post by: jimwrench on November 17, 2011, 05:25:08 PM
 This is my oldest screwdriver. Patent Dec 12,1882 #268938 by H.A. Reid of Philadelphia,Pa. Although its around 110-120 years old it still works quite well. Hope I work that well at that age. Tricky guy that Archimedes. Ive owned it about 6 hours so its an old favorite.
Title: Re: my oldest screwdriver
Post by: Stoney on November 17, 2011, 07:49:59 PM
Wow I can see how it could become a favorite.  Thanks for showing.
Title: Re: my oldest screwdriver
Post by: rusty on November 17, 2011, 08:23:19 PM
Very nice :) I love the wood handle , amazing it is still in such nice condition...


Did you read the operating instructions in the patent?
You need three hands to use that thing ; P


"In operating the device the operator, grasping the
sleeve F in one hand, holds and steadies the instrument
 and directs the tool to the desired point. He then applies
 the pressure of his remaining hand or his body to the head D,
and, holding the same against rotation, forces the same forward,
 causing the sleeve to slide over the spindle and impart thereto
 and to the tool a forward rotation. Relaxing his grasp upon the
 head D and drawing outward upon the head E, he causes the
sleeve to slide out-ward to its original position, the sleeve, in so doing,
 revolving loosely in the head E and around the spindle, permitting
the latter and  the tool therein to remain at rest.

It will be seen that in this manner the tool is driven intermittingly in
one direction, instead of being turned alternately forward and backward.
Title: Re: my oldest screwdriver
Post by: JessEm on December 06, 2011, 10:05:31 PM
Cool screwdriver. I like it.