Strange Screwdriver Shaft, What is it?

[toolman]

Can anyone tell me what i have here with the shank protrusion? Double wood scales flat tip, single rivet 6 inches long. No Markings.

Thanks

[lptools]

That is a cool looking screwdriver!! I wonder if it was made by a previous owner? The shank looks like a bit for an air chisel!! Just my 2 cents, Lou

[toolman]

Thanks for the reply. It does indeed resemble an air chisel bit, but the size and shape are off. It appears to me it was factory made, and not re-purposed or home made. My wags have been, A possible captive screwdriver shaft with missing linkage, and a Possible special purpose factory, or machine repair (Special Purpose) tool, with the bulge being a stop or a guide???Don't Know! PS: will try to take and post side view soon.

[Papaw]

H D Smith made one similar in their Perfect Handle screwdrivers, I believe. Can't find mine, nor the photo .

[toolman]

Thanks Pawpaw, HD was my first thought as well. I'm still looking, but so far no cigar. I have another thought, based on the absence of markings, and that is possible military contracted tool ? Still Looking.

[Northwoods]

Because the tool is so short--but made for relatively heavy work--doesn't it seem that we have a crosspiece/guard that would serve the same purpose as that on a hunting knife?

[toolman]

Thanks,I  had not given any thought to that NW, but anything is possible. It could also be something as simple as decoration, or a thumb stop for leverage, i guess?
After collecting for many many years, i now seem to be drawn to the oddball ugly ducklings, as the research is the enjoyment for me. "Still Looking"

[mikeswrenches]

I had one like that a few years ago. Unfortunately I sold it so I can’t go look at it. I’m pretty sure it was not a Smith though.

Mike

[leg17]

That big rivet does not look like HDS.

[toolman]

Good to hear Mike, Thanks. At least i now know i don't have a freak or a one-off.

I agree Leg17, my long search (still active) has turned up nothing for HD.

Still Looking

[Northwoods]

Here is another.  Claims to be Smith Perfect Handle.
But also says it is unbranded.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-HD-Smith-Perfect-Handle-Style-6-1-2-Ornate-Screwdriver-Unbranded/114427138572?hash=item1aa463920c:g:r3EAAOSwnYdfbUAa

[toolman]

Great Find Northwoods, Thanks! I agree that H-D is waaayyy miss used, kinda like vintage verses antique is, Lol. What is your gut feeling on this (shank out cropping), for lack of better words? How about You Papaw? Anyone else?


Thanks

[Papaw]

I still think it is H D Smith, but can't prove that. The " outcropping " looks like a way to allow the user to put more downward force on a stubborn screw.

[wvtools]

I had another brand similar to Smith one time that I think had a shaft lift that one.  It is not coming to me.  i will try to forget about it.  That is when I usually remember the name.

[lptools]

Well, at least the ebay seller posted "H D Smith Perfect Handle STYLE"