Recommendation? Old Hand Tools To Look Out For?

[ScarFoot]

I’ve noticed a lot of hand tools (including name brands) now days aren’t well made or don’t hold up very well. It seems the fine art of making hammers, files, punches, etc… has been lost to the ages. I’ve started buying old tools online when I can find them in good condition. New old stock files are one of the main things I’ve been looking for lately. I’ve also been keeping an eye out for good ball peen hammers too. Are there any other old tools or tools brands to look out for with respect to knife making?

 

[HSC ///]

i like Vaughan hammers for forging and they are reasonably priced. I prefer the 40 ounce ball peen

 

[ScarFoot]

Well after a month or so of “treasure hunting” here’s what I’ve come up with so far… The files are all new old stock Nicholsons expect for 2. One is a Dick and the other is a Swiss made Vigor. I promise I don’t just buy hammers on impulse, they generally are sold in lots. Anyway, I found a 25 oz Keen Kutter, 12 oz Williams, 12 oz Plumb, 8 oz Plumb, 5 oz Vlchek, 4 oz Wards-Master Quality, 4 oz Stanley and 2- 4 oz Plumbs. My main rule of thumb when buying old hammers is that if they mention safety gear anywhere on them they’re too new. I’m pretty sure the newest hammer in the group is at least 50 years old. I Need to re-hang a couple of them.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Listen Scarfoot, just because it isn't a Nicholson or a Vigor there is no need to call it a Dick.

 

[ScarFoot]

Listen Scarfoot, just because it isn't a Nicholson or a Vigor there is no need to call it a Dick.

Well it was proudly stamped on the tang….So, if the shoe fits…

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

To paraphrase - I don't know if any file is 100% a Dick.

OK, I'm done with that GotG play on words ... back to your regular programming.

 

[Jason Fry]

Dick files are actually useful for filing quite a few things.