Old
Hand Tools Make Terrific Collector Items
Before
electric power, all woodworking was done
with hand tools. These old hand tools are now
antiques or at least sought as collectibles.
In additional to their aestetic value as nostalgia
from an earlier time, many of these tools are
still excellent to use for their original purpose,
which is working wood. Old hand tools are
functional and intriquing collectibles.
Most
of the early woodworking antique tool makers
in the U.S. were located in the eastern part
of the country. These tool makers designed and
hand crafted tools such as saws, planers, scrapers,
brace and bits and other tools using designs
reminiscent of European tools. Eventually these
tools makers developed their own designs and
catalogs of tools. There are a number of online
antique tools museums and listings of old manufacturer’s
catalogs from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
An
Old Hand Planer Is An Example Of An Antique
Tool
An
old hand planer is an interesting item for
collectors. The hand planer, which is still
made today, is a handy tool for shaving off
layers of wood. These tools have been made
from a variety of materials and are nearly
indestructible. Early hand planers were made
from a wooden block with the adjustable cutting
blade set into the block. Later designs were
made from metal. These old tools represent
an era of hand craftsmanship that spoke of
quality and durability.
Another interesting and highly collectible antique
hand tool is the hand saw. Old saws come in a
wide variety of designs and teeth arrangements.
They were used for ripping and for finish work.
Perhaps one of the most distinquishing characteristics
of these old saws were the handles. The handles
were often decorative and uniquely shaped. Long
before the word ergonomic was coined, craftsman
understood that they would be using their tools
for long periods each day and that they must
be comfortable to hold and to use.
Most old hand tools are collected for the uniqueness
and nostalgic qualities given to them. Most do
not have great monetary value, like other antiques.
Still, they are fun to collect. They can be found
in antique stores, flea markets, estate auctions
and backyard sales. They are also available on
the Internet. One advantage to buying old tools
on the Internet is that you can find greater
variety, including many old hand tools from various
countries around the world.
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