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This brace was patented by GL Holt in 1880, US Pat No 468911 It is also listed in “The American Patented Brace 1829-1924”
Peterson lists it as an “A” in Rarity, meaning fewer than 5 examples have been known to exist at the time.
This is a Holt Mfg. Co model No 8 a compact 8 inch sweep Ratcheted Hand Drill Bit Brace. This patented brace is very unique in that there are many more ratchet indents than any others making is extremely versatile and smooth. It also has a roller bearing twist Chuck that utilizes self centering normal strong jaws rather than the typical jaws on other long twist type chucks. The twist action can really clamp down tight and strong on the jaws without a lot of effort. Very cool Brace.
This rare brace is complete and in excellent condition The head handle is Lignum Vitae the wrist handle is Rosewood, there is a tiny piece of the wrist handle is broken off, see photo.
Best guess is, this was manufactured around to 1885 to 1910 or so, about than 120 years old.
Gently cleaned, lubricated and tested this brace is excellent and very easy and convenient to use, very sturdy.
Excellent Collectible and user if desired.
Check out my other listings as I combine shipping whenever possible.
I am in upstate South Carolina. I have recently retired. One of my hobbies has been woodworking, but never had the time to do it as well as would like. A few years ago I became passionate about using vintage hand tools vs. battery or electric powered whenever it made sense to do so. Today my passion still thrives and I enjoy properly oiling/waxing, cleaning or refurbishing, if needed those same vintage woodworking tools.
My goal is to place as many of these high quality, made in the USA vintage hand tools back into the hands of today’s craftsmen. I would never “part out” a good tool just for the proceeds. If the tool I have acquired is serviceable I will put it into as good of condition it can be and sell to friends or on . All I am trying to do is receive some compensation for my time and retain enough capital to be able to purchase more tools, some in need of gentle care. Please join me in “Saving the Tools”
Check out my other sales as I combine shipping whenever possible.
Shipped with USPS Priority Mail.
