GG's,
A "Whatzit Mystery" for your consideration.
I recently bought two mystery tools at a local Flea. ( Observation on that,
later. )
They appear to be large triangular burnishers. Envision a 12" triangular
tapered file without teeth nor any sign that it ever had teeth. It's in a 5"
wooden handle with a brass ferrule that's made of simple brass tubing. ( Tool is
17" LOA ).
The edges are slightly rounded and the sides are flat. This pretty much ruled
out a "bearing scraper", as bearing scrapers have sharp edges and a concave
relief on each side.
The tip shows some signs of corner-rounding, but only for about 1/4" back from
the tip.
All three sides have a trademark just above the tang. ( i.e. in the same
position as a file would be stamped. ). Why would the maker stamp all three
sides?
The mark is "J & F" enclosed in an ellipse. "Made in USA" is wrapped around the
exterior of the eclipse.
My speculations run toward a folding or creasing tool for bookbinding. Second
most likely seems to be leatherwork.
Now, that observation I hinted at: The mere fact that I bought two tools without
knowing what they are is a symptom of the disease we all have!
John Ruth
Metuchen, NJ
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