According to my 1/2 brother, this belonged to my father. It is made by"MARSHALL-WELLS" and has a patent date of "OCT 29 07" .
It doesn't look like it but I cleaned all the crud off it. Appears to have been chrome plated.
Should I have it re-plated? Maybe have the blade re-blued"
Is it worth it?
Any other suggestions?

 

 

 

 

 

Gene,

 

I would use and enjoy it as it is.

 

 

 

Edited September 8, 20196 yr by Larry Buskirk

I like it the way it is now.

 

Question- does the "wing nut" lock the blade at the desired angle?

 

 

 

Edited September 8, 20196 yr by Larry Buskirk

Thanks, Larry. My wife said the same. I guess it's unanimous.

Lew, Yep, it tightens really well. For the life of me, I can't figure how, though.

 

 

I'd say keep the vintage look too.

 

 

Edited September 8, 20196 yr by Larry Buskirk

Thanks for all your suggestions to keep it as is.

I put a little oil on it after cleaning and wire brushing it. It'll go in the drawer with the other lay out stuff and it'll be a "user".

I never knew my father. He and mom split shortly after I was born. This is the only tool of his I have. Neither of my 1/2 siblings are woodworkers, so he must not have had a lot of woodworking tools. There's no sentiment attached to the tool but it's age and uniqueness makes it a keeper.

Some antique tool guy has one for sale but it appears to be brass coated. In better cosmetic shape than mine. He's asking $40. I think Lee Valley (maybe) has a new one at about that price, also.

 

I like the style because the tightening screw doesn't get in the way if you need to flip it.

 

@Gene Howe

A blast from the past found in the old machinery archive.