Kicked one under my bench over 30 years ago, from right side of screen, 3rd one in on the left. Went under there to retrieve it after watching your video. Another fine restro job on your part :)
Just happened on this video. My dad had two of these oval handled screwdrivers with the hexagonal section just below the handle, I just went out to the garage and checked, they're about 11" long and have "Ryan's/Made in USA" stamped on one of the facets. One lived in the tool box with his ratchet set and other wrenches and screwdrivers, you know, the box that if it closed on the first try one or more tools hadn't been put back, and the other was on the pegboard over the work bench in the basement. I was so impressed with his that wscrewdrivers from either Brookstone (when they were just a mail-order business) or Sporty's Tool catalog. Still have them and they live in my work van although for obvious reason they do not get much use.
Great job on a great tool. I see HTR may make a batch, I hope someone starts making them again. That shaft and blade is perfect. The handle is pretty but the shaft and blade really sell me.
Scout, I had to go back and comment here. You know, it's the story that sells this. If you don't know it, you don't give it the same value and you always give us the story. A couple months ago my wife was antiquing whilst I was rusty tool hunting (wife's outlook vs mine) and I saw one of these. I snatched it up realizing that if you had not given us this knowledge, I might have passed it by. $4 for this WWII Jeep kit screwdriver by Irwin. Brought it home, cleaned it up and gave it to a buddy of mine (along with the story) who is a WWII fan. It's now a treasured possession of his. He says the same also. If he didn't know the story, he couldn't give it the same value!
Hello Will! Wow! What a score! it happens all the time in the tool world! People see a rusty tool and think it's destroyed! I bought a huge Williams wrench for $8 because it was rusty.. The lady almost felt bad asking $8 for it! She had no idea... the wrench is about 20 inches long and heavy! I'm so glad you got the Irwin and I bet so is your friend! Thanks Will!
I got hooked on trying to restore some tools by watching your very good videos. I tried to restore my screw driver like this from your techniques. Even though mine looks better, has gouges in the metal and some deeper pitting. Any suggestions how to gently smooth those gouges out? Thx!
look gorgeous I would bet it would make a good plane cap screw screw driver. It might be a bit big who knows but the screw on the top of a plane's Iron cap is usually pretty big.
I hit the jackpot a couple weeks ago with a similar item. It was an 18 inch Irwin. Same color handle as that one. $5. I couldn't pull my money out fast enough haha
Just one word: WOW!!! That is THE-BAD-ASS-SCREWDRIVER!! I'd go out with that thing just to show it off and say: "Folks, do not ever try to screw up with me ha!!"
I was fine in my own world keeping my tools in top shape until I started watching your videos! Thank you for my new obsession!!!! Can’t say enough about the first rate job you do with your videos and the information/education associated. Thanks for all you do!!!
Hello Bob!! It's always nice to have friends with similar interests to push us to the next level! I'm really hoping this channel can inspire all of us to do better restorations and at least make us appreciate some forgotten tools!!!! Thanks so much!!!!!!
You made that screwdriver look brand new and beautiful. I especially liked the red. I appreciate the time you take to research and provide the history behind the tool. It all ties in together. I love your channel. It is also my favorite. Keep them coming!!
Hello Pops! Thanks so much for the kind words!!!! I love bringing these old tools back to life and introducing them to a whole new generation! I only hope they can appreciate and cherish them!!! Thanks again Pops!!!!!!
Hi Darren! I use Bullseye shellac and after shaking the can really good I just dip a small piece of old white sock (like 2" square) into the shellac and wipe it on.. Takes less then a minute and it dries to the touch in less then an hour! Great stuff! Look at my video "shellac why I love it and you should too". 😃👍
Wow that turned out nice! I restored one of these old Irwin scredrivers a couple of weeks back but the wood was not in as nice shape as on yours. It is really the perfect handle screwdriver, it just works and feel nice!
just got the last pair of gedore pliers, I've sharpen an old pair of diagonals -sear brand but made in japan certa 1980. They're good harden steel, used a Ken Onion belt sharpener. Cut awesome and held the edge.
Hello DH! That is awesome!!! He didn't have a lot of those Gedore left! They are really nice!!!! Super quality!!! Ken Onion is a legend in the knife world!!! Great stuff!!!!!! Thanks!!!!!
Awesome video. Thanks for your effort. I have an 18 inch Perfect handled screwdriver that is very rough. Because the wood is so roached out, I decided that I'm going to replace the scales. I have experience in knife making, so I'm pretty confident that I can get a good fit. Two questions. 1. Should I make an attempt to restore the original wood. 2. If I do replace the scales, should I go for a standard hardwood or a more figured hardwood. Thanks for your any help you can provide. BTW - It looks like the original scales were shaped, soaked in water or alcohol to soften the wood, and THEN pressed into place. Do you have any details about the fitting of the scales?
Hello BKF! There are still many NOS examples of these screwdrivers around so if I were you I would really enjoy myself with that screwdriver and put on some handles that YOU like! Forget about value, the original handles were nothing special, just a hardwood that fit the bill... Since you have dabbled in knife making you can really make some nice handles for this that will do it justice!!! I did one in Paduke years Babcock with brass bolsters! Awesome! As far as saturation of the wood, don't... It will swell the wood then when the wood shrinks it will have gaps! My buddy Joe from "Joe's workshop" on RUclips did a couple of these! Go check his channel out and tell him I sent you!!! Awesome project!!! Thanks!!!
Thanks! I appreciate the advice. I have some highly figured wood that I've stabilized with MinWax wood hardener. I'll find a couple of interesting pieces to use. My main concern was that I was completely destroying the historicity of the screwdriver - so thanks for putting that one to rest. Damn the torpedoes and full speed ahead!
Magnificent ! The biggest advantage to that shaft style on the Irwin is that you can use a wrench with it for added torque. That is the purpose of the hexagonal section of those other models you pointed out as well.
I have one of these that I found when cleaning out an old supply shed when I was stationed in Germany in 1978. It is a beast and works great as a prybar.
Awesome screwdrivers! I look for the wood handle screwdrivers mostly made by Snap On or other big company. I have some Grace screwdrivers I use for my muzzleloading adventures. I am liking the Shellac for the handles. I thought of using Helmsman spar coating.
Hello Aaron! My two favorite coatings are Shellac and Spar varnish!!! The shellac was very close to original on this one! If you look at my video titled "100 year old cedar chest" you will see how much I love spar varnish!!!!! =) Thanks so much!!!!!!
I did see that and it's beautiful. I love restoring old tools and such. But my A.D.D. I tend to get most of the job done before I see a bright shiny object! LOL
You have created a thing of beauty. The square shank to allow the use of a spanner is brilliant. I am extremely envious. Take care and best wishes from across the pond.
Sometimes on old tools, especially wood boring bits, the numbers were an indication of size and could mean number of 16ths or 32nds or whatever. So a "Number 5" tool might mean it's blade was 5/16" for example. A #4 would be a 1/4" tool and so on.
This was one of the first videos I've watched before subscribing, I was doing some research on these screwdriver and came across your channel. I knew I would love your videos! Great job and thanks for sharing!
Hello Jonathan! Don't let the "beat up" appearance fool you! Underneath all those years of use is a beautiful usable tool just waiting to be unveiled!!! 😃👍. Thanks!!!!
I look forward to these videos like a 10 year old waiting for something to arrive in the mail. This one was especially good. You taking the time to not only clean this beauty, but giving us all the history is awesome. I am forwarding it to several jeep guys I know. That means I know that they are going to 1) be on eBay all weekend, and 2) be watching some of your other videos while waiting on their bids!
Hello Will! Ever since we were kids every one I know has wanted a Willys jeep! They were always just the epitome of cool! Thanks so much Will, I really appreciate that!!! 😃👍
Hi Jack, I'm sorry I don't know that one.. I do know that many of these were made for the Govt. in tool rolls and auto kits. I guess they figured they had to be super strong to survive a soldier! =D
Wow! That is gorgeous brother! Great video. Love all the history in this video. I have so much fun on your channel and now im pulling out buckets of antique tools from my swapmeet trailer so i can restore some old tools. Thanks!
WOW ! Talk about the best video to stumble across late at night. I collect any of these "Perfect" screwdrivers that I can afford as I believe they not only look great but they are also very comfortable to use. As many of their blades are worn, it's the perfect reason to reface & refinish them to suit old world screw heads - either machine head square slotted screws or old 'V' slotted wood screws. That's how I can justify to the wife why I have to have so many of these drivers as they suit different sized screws 😏😏😊😊. Thank you for the "perfect" video. 🇦🇺
Hello Tim! It's a shame more people don't have the opportunity to hold one of these and see just how perfect they really are!!! Thanks so much for your feedback!!! 😃👍
Good video. I just found one of these that has a Phillips head I bought for a $1. It's not Irwin bc it reads Made in Taiwan on it but it's solidly built and very beefy.
The Imported ones are very well liked by people who reviewed them, the only complaint is that they seemed a little unfinished but with a little elbow grease they come out great! Phillips is a real nice one to have! Thanks!!!!!!!!
GREAT Restoration!! FANTASTIC History and Information Session!!! And, I've never seen that wingtip model design!! Far Out!! Thanks Again! You Hit it Outta de Park!!
Hello Bill!! I am so glad you liked this video!!!! That Wingtip design is so cool but it makes for a harder restoration because you have to work around the wings! I need to restore that because the handles are shot!! Thanks so much!!!!!!
After seeing this video Scoutcrafter I kept my eyes peeled for one of these on ebay and scored one this week for 12 bucks.....I thought that was fair considering Ebay. Very similar condition to yours. My polish came out sweet but the handle is stained and sand as I might.....that's just deep in there.....More coats of shellac tonight! Love it! Thanks for the heads-up!
Wow! You're right - this is the most awesome screwdriver ever made! It's Gorgeous. You did such a nice job on restoring this very special tool. Now I need to go buy one! ^5
Hello Skippy!!! Once you hold it in your hand you will be glad you have one!!! I got this on eBay for $25- shipped... expensive but so nice!! Thanks very much!!!!!!
I said it before about the mini vice, but it kinda haunts me to know the history of each indivual tool. Who passed them down to next generation. Stories of lost and found etc. If they truly could talk. You honour every tool and therefore its legacy, when you bring it back to life. Cheers my friend, for these little heart warming moments that would mean so much to all the generations of previous owners and does, to us too.
Hello Keith! What I really enjoy is when people leave me comments that say "Thanks to you I am restoring my Grandfathers old tools" It's wonderful to know people are looking at old tools in a new way and appreciating their wonderful history! You are so right, every one of these gems have a story to tell... Thanks very much Keith!!!!!
i dont know man. a lot of them probably spend vast amounts of times at a bottom of a box then occasionally unearthed by a big greasy man then get dunked in paint lol
Hello TheRaven078! I’m very happy that the channel is growing but I’m even more pleased that we are getting a Quality audience! Everybody is nice and enjoys old tools! Hardly any Trolls! Thanks very much!!!!!
Awesome as usual! Yet another tool for me to buy! Hey, I was wondering if you own a Cochran Speednut wrench. I’m looking at them on eBay. I was wondering if you happen to know how they work, and if you’ve restored one yet. Also, there is a Speednut wrench branded “David”. Any idea what the differences are and which is more desirable? Thanks so much!
Hi Scott!!!! I did a video titled "1916 SPEEDNUT wrench restoration" That is one of two I have! You will get a kick out of where I got it!!!!! I don't know of the other brands although they look similar! BTW anytime you have a question bicycleuy@aol.com Thanks Scott!!!!!
Hello 357!!! That US of A really made me want this screwdriver! The square shaft was so heavy duty! These screwdrivers have always been somewhat collectable and you don't see too many around anymore! However they are always on eBay! =) Looking forward to your next video!!!!
ScoutCrafter Not so many as before. I gave a few away to a friend a couple years ago. Jim Thompson and Scott Grandstaff on the Old Tools Mailing List got me started looking at them. It was a short step from looking to owning. 😈 As an electrician I don't use them for a lot of projects. The steel butt on them is a bit too conductive. The most of mine hang on a rack and look pretty. 😇😇
I know I'm late to the party, but I just acquired a German Perfect Handle screwdriver. It is in most excellent condition, but it is small. The overall length is only 4". Any interest in this, John?
Thanks for the video. I'm a huge fan of the old HD Smith Perfect Handle tools. I grab every one I see (that is reasonably priced). The square shank ones were advertised as machinists or mechanic screw drivers whereas the round shank were simply screwdrivers in an early ad I have.
Hello GunPilot! That is awesome! As you know they aren't as common a sight nowadays as they were years back... They are such iconic classic designs!!!! Thanks so much!!!!!!
Yes Sir, I never set out to have a certain number, so I wasn't counting as I built up a pile of Perfect Handle tools over the years. I'd guess I probably have 100 or so now. But, even with that approximate number (more than enough), I still can't pass one up. No particular logic behind the why, I guess I'm obsessed.
Hello Frank! Sooner or later everyone has to come across one of these and at least hold it for themselves and see just how perfect they feel! Thanks so much Frank!!! 😃👍
Love seeing a new sc restoration vid pop up!! Beautiful work as per usual and a great history lesson on this little know tool! Really Serious amount of metal on that screwdriver!
Hello Kevin!!! Me too! They make nice stuff now but it costs a fortune! Like Knipex! The best part is we can go back and make our own!!!! lol Thanks!!!!!
I have heard the Knock-offs are crude but with a little work can be made serviceable. The problem always with Chinese tools is consistency, you can get a really good batch that is really nice and the next week you can get really screwed up batch! Even their heat treating can vary from batch to batch... Taiwan however isn't putting out any junk!! Thanks!!!!
That's true. Metallurgy prior to the Space Race was pretty hit and miss then too though. Survivorship bias distorts our perception about the quality of old tools. We only get to see the good examples today. Because most of the bad ones got binned years ago. That gives us a false view that old tools were better than they actually were.
Hello Shannon! I have a couple dozen old saws and I can tell you as much as I love old tools, old saws are nowhere as good as the new saws they make today! I did a video comparing the old to the new and you will be surprised at how great the new saws work!!!! They just look like crap! Lol Thanks so much!!!!!
Great work . I still haven't restored my perfect handle screwdriver. I will just have it round up and new scales. Do u think I should have it polished or keep the old petina look that it has
Eliseo, Your perfect handle screwdriver is in Awesome shape! Definitely polish it since the scales are off already! Then just add new handles and you have a perfect screwdriver! =)
The Amber shellac is the perfect shade for this project! It is sort of a yellowish brown and really looks sharp!! I'm so glad you liked the project! Thanks very much!!!
Hey Scout, One of my fav's... I have one I'm restoring now labeled "Federal". They remind me of a good ol' chisel like the Stanley SweetHeart where the force of the blow goes straight through to the business end, even though a screwdriver is for turning screws 😉 😉
Hello Michael, The preferred way to prepare wood is to scrape it, when you scrape the wood you are literally shaving off a thin layer... When you sand something you are roughing up the fibers and creating small burrs that is like tearing at the surface... Just like if you use a plane to smooth a surface, with a good plane you don't have to do anything else where as with sandpaper you have to keep going up in grip to smooth out the teared up surface you made from the grit before! The Razor blade is your best friend!!!! =) Thanks!!!!!!
scraping with something like a razor blade is much quicker, its more aggresive. but at the same time doesnt leave leave deep marks like corase sand paper unless you scrape at too extreme angle which tends to just jump the blade and dig into the wood. which is very damaging so you gotta take your time and be careful. long explenation but if youre interested lol
Hello Nick!!!! Beautiful Ireland!!!! My Sister just returned from there and couldn't stop raving about how wonderful her trip was!!! Thanks so very much!!!!!!!!
Like everyone else here I loved the video and the final result was amazing... I'm sure i watched it a dozen times. I do have a question though... when you were showing the different variations of perfect handle screwdrivers in your collection, tbere was one that was missing... Have you seen an H.D. Smith with a "spoon" shaped in dent in the shaft right above the handle? It would have a large "S" logo in the circle spoon portion... similar in look to the wing tip screwdriver you showed but that version was not incased in the wood in that area but rather exposed metal connecting to the shaft... I think it was called model 660
Hello David! I have a lot of my other tools upstairs in a special cabinet I made! I have to do a video on it I know you would like it!!!! Thanks very much!!!!
Hello my friend to Tell you the truth I never had a screwdriver like this but I observed this type of handle (wood with rivets) in some old carpenter tools. In this case this military grade screwdriver looks wonderful after the restoration!!!!!! Part of the history tools well made that survive the pass of century that's awesome!!! Waiting for your next video
Hello Victor! Absolutely, I have been trying to incorporate one or two tips in every video but I think a dedicated video is needed! Thanks so much!!!!!!!
Hi! i bought a nice monkey wrench i want to restore, mentionning loose wooden inserts for the handle, how would you go about fixing that? i was thinking maybe make it sit in oil or something like that to swell the wood
Hello Martin! The loose handles are a bear to fix, They are either shrunken and dried out or the pins are loose... Either way most people remove and either replace the originals after refinishing or replace with new! Then oversized pins! Nothing I know will expand the wood enough o tighten them up!! Thanks!!!!!
Thank you, keep on saving those tools and history. I was asking myself why i have seen some of these here in France, here comes the reason : american surplus !
Oh you are so right!!! I did one years back with Paduke scales and Brass bolsters! Came out nice!!!! I would like to do one in Orange G-10 scales!!!! Sweet!!!! Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!
I have that exact same screw driver. Mine has a nice 'patina'.I just sprayed some shellac on it and it came out pretty good. It's too big to use on anything so it just sits there.
How awesome is this screwdriver!?!? Yes it is too big for just about any screw today but the tool is like having a piece of history!!! I bet in some areas it would be considered a weapon! Lol I'm so glad you have one and know how great it is!! Thanks so much!!!!!!!
I have one of the first ones but the tip is busted off. I have considered welding on some metal to the tip to repair it. What is your thoughts on that?
Hello Time Table! That is a hard one! Can it be re-ground? Even if it's an inch shorter it will still be great!!! Unless more then an inch is gone I would try to re-grind it.. If the front half is missing then just cut off and weld a new piece of square stock on! These were so nice and strong you can't go wrong!!!!! Thanks!!
Time Table That's a tough one...unless you're an ace welder (I'm passable...) you won't get a great result in a tool that's subject to a load of torque. Answer...and I've done it a few times now; a sizable gas torch, re-form the blade tip and re-temper. A very satisfying job too.
ScoutCrafter well after watching this I went on the hunt for it as I have buckets of screw drivers(most old plastic handles) and it is not as bad as I remembered. The tips mostly still there. Just the corner is chipped off and it has a little bend to it as if someone was using it as a pry bar. But the wood is gone. It’s there but loose and weathered hard
Hello Hughes Home Improvements SP ! I'm so glad you enjoyed the video! These are very affordable for many newer collectors or enthusiasts! Thanks so much!!!
Hello Kato!!! These screwdrivers have such great possibilities with different wood types.. I did one years ago with Paduke and brass bolsters and it came out great!!
![Noob To Max With DRAGON REWORK In Blox Fruits [FULL MOVIE]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LnBMOinoOvA/mqdefault.jpg)
Kicked one under my bench over 30 years ago, from right side of screen, 3rd one in on the left. Went under there to retrieve it after watching your video. Another fine restro job on your part :)
Yes that may be the most awesome screwdriver ever! Man that amber shellac really made that handle pop! Very cool restoration that you for sharing it.
Love these! I am in the process of having a run of these forged.
Hand Tool Rescue for sale?
Hopefully one day.
Hand Tool Rescue get em in time for Christmas.
Much prefer to ask for one of those rather than receive more socks.
Awesome!!!!!!!!!!!
Did you get them?
Just out outstlanding. The balance and red is perfect. Very good stuff
Hello Betty!!!! Thanks so much!!! I'm so glad you appreciate the RED!!! I love Red and always try to add it in somehow! Thanks again!!!
Beautiful John and educational. Thank You for sharing
Just happened on this video. My dad had two of these oval handled screwdrivers with the hexagonal section just below the handle, I just went out to the garage and checked, they're about 11" long and have "Ryan's/Made in USA" stamped on one of the facets. One lived in the tool box with his ratchet set and other wrenches and screwdrivers, you know, the box that if it closed on the first try one or more tools hadn't been put back, and the other was on the pegboard over the work bench in the basement. I was so impressed with his that wscrewdrivers from either Brookstone (when they were just a mail-order business) or Sporty's Tool catalog. Still have them and they live in my work van although for obvious reason they do not get much use.
They do look awesome though!!!!!
Great job on a great tool.
I see HTR may make a batch, I hope someone starts making them again.
That shaft and blade is perfect.
The handle is pretty but the shaft and blade really sell me.
These are beauties. Wish had them in my country. Thanx for showing them.
Hello SS! Thanks so much! I'm so glad you liked the project!!!
@@ScoutCrafter your video on C clamps encouraged me to restore a bent one & make it reusable. U r doing gr8.
Scout, I had to go back and comment here. You know, it's the story that sells this. If you don't know it, you don't give it the same value and you always give us the story. A couple months ago my wife was antiquing whilst I was rusty tool hunting (wife's outlook vs mine) and I saw one of these. I snatched it up realizing that if you had not given us this knowledge, I might have passed it by. $4 for this WWII Jeep kit screwdriver by Irwin. Brought it home, cleaned it up and gave it to a buddy of mine (along with the story) who is a WWII fan. It's now a treasured possession of his. He says the same also. If he didn't know the story, he couldn't give it the same value!
Again, $4! (they didn't know the story...)
Hello Will! Wow! What a score! it happens all the time in the tool world! People see a rusty tool and think it's destroyed! I bought a huge Williams wrench for $8 because it was rusty.. The lady almost felt bad asking $8 for it! She had no idea... the wrench is about 20 inches long and heavy! I'm so glad you got the Irwin and I bet so is your friend! Thanks Will!
Hi! Thanks for your videos! Man you found a beauty! I like the way you didn’t change the handle for new wood. Also how you painted the lettering red!
I got hooked on trying to restore some tools by watching your very good videos. I tried to restore my screw driver like this from your techniques. Even though mine looks better, has gouges in the metal and some deeper pitting. Any suggestions how to gently smooth those gouges out? Thx!
Enjoyable, thank you for sharing your time and knowledge with everyone.
look gorgeous I would bet it would make a good plane cap screw screw driver. It might be a bit big who knows but the screw on the top of a plane's Iron cap is usually pretty big.
I hit the jackpot a couple weeks ago with a similar item. It was an 18 inch Irwin. Same color handle as that one. $5. I couldn't pull my money out fast enough haha
Just one word: WOW!!!
That is THE-BAD-ASS-SCREWDRIVER!!
I'd go out with that thing just to show it off and say: "Folks, do not ever try to screw up with me ha!!"
I was fine in my own world keeping my tools in top shape until I started watching your videos! Thank you for my new obsession!!!! Can’t say enough about the first rate job you do with your videos and the information/education associated. Thanks for all you do!!!
Hello Bob!! It's always nice to have friends with similar interests to push us to the next level! I'm really hoping this channel can inspire all of us to do better restorations and at least make us appreciate some forgotten tools!!!! Thanks so much!!!!!!
You made that screwdriver look brand new and beautiful. I especially liked the red. I appreciate the time you take to research and provide the history behind the tool. It all ties in together. I love your channel. It is also my favorite. Keep them coming!!
Hello Pops! Thanks so much for the kind words!!!! I love bringing these old tools back to life and introducing them to a whole new generation! I only hope they can appreciate and cherish them!!! Thanks again Pops!!!!!!
how do you apply the shellac to your tools? love watching your restorations
Hi Darren! I use Bullseye shellac and after shaking the can really good I just dip a small piece of old white sock (like 2" square) into the shellac and wipe it on.. Takes less then a minute and it dries to the touch in less then an hour! Great stuff! Look at my video "shellac why I love it and you should too". 😃👍
Wow that turned out nice! I restored one of these old Irwin scredrivers a couple of weeks back but the wood was not in as nice shape as on yours. It is really the perfect handle screwdriver, it just works and feel nice!
Beautiful work
just got the last pair of gedore pliers, I've sharpen an old pair of diagonals -sear brand but made in japan certa 1980. They're good harden steel, used a Ken Onion belt sharpener. Cut awesome and held the edge.
Hello DH! That is awesome!!! He didn't have a lot of those Gedore left! They are really nice!!!! Super quality!!! Ken Onion is a legend in the knife world!!! Great stuff!!!!!! Thanks!!!!!
Scout, this one is your masterpiece.
Awesome video. Thanks for your effort.
I have an 18 inch Perfect handled screwdriver that is very rough. Because the wood is so roached out, I decided that I'm going to replace the scales. I have experience in knife making, so I'm pretty confident that I can get a good fit. Two questions.
1. Should I make an attempt to restore the original wood.
2. If I do replace the scales, should I go for a standard hardwood or a more figured hardwood.
Thanks for your any help you can provide.
BTW - It looks like the original scales were shaped, soaked in water or alcohol to soften the wood, and THEN pressed into place. Do you have any details about the fitting of the scales?
Hello BKF! There are still many NOS examples of these screwdrivers around so if I were you I would really enjoy myself with that screwdriver and put on some handles that YOU like! Forget about value, the original handles were nothing special, just a hardwood that fit the bill... Since you have dabbled in knife making you can really make some nice handles for this that will do it justice!!! I did one in Paduke years Babcock with brass bolsters! Awesome! As far as saturation of the wood, don't... It will swell the wood then when the wood shrinks it will have gaps! My buddy Joe from "Joe's workshop" on RUclips did a couple of these! Go check his channel out and tell him I sent you!!! Awesome project!!! Thanks!!!
Thanks! I appreciate the advice. I have some highly figured wood that I've stabilized with MinWax wood hardener. I'll find a couple of interesting pieces to use. My main concern was that I was completely destroying the historicity of the screwdriver - so thanks for putting that one to rest. Damn the torpedoes and full speed ahead!
Whe had these in Shop class in junior high school and high school in Charleston Wv in the 70's ( Doug in GA ) thanks
Magnificent ! The biggest advantage to that shaft style on the Irwin is that you can use a wrench with it for added torque. That is the purpose of the hexagonal section of those other models you pointed out as well.
Hello Progressive Prepper! You are so right! I always loved square shank screwdrivers for just that reason! Thanks very much!!! 😃👍
I have one of these that I found when cleaning out an old supply shed when I was stationed in Germany in 1978. It is a beast and works great as a prybar.
Jay- You are so right, it's a BEAST!!!!! =D
Awesome screwdrivers! I look for the wood handle screwdrivers mostly made by Snap On or other big company. I have some Grace screwdrivers I use for my muzzleloading adventures. I am liking the Shellac for the handles. I thought of using Helmsman spar coating.
Hello Aaron! My two favorite coatings are Shellac and Spar varnish!!! The shellac was very close to original on this one! If you look at my video titled "100 year old cedar chest" you will see how much I love spar varnish!!!!! =) Thanks so much!!!!!!
I did see that and it's beautiful. I love restoring old tools and such. But my A.D.D. I tend to get most of the job done before I see a bright shiny object! LOL
You have created a thing of beauty. The square shank to allow the use of a spanner is brilliant. I am extremely envious. Take care and best wishes from across the pond.
Hello Tony!!!! This is a real classic from another era where tools were made really well!!!! Thanks so much!!!!!
Sometimes on old tools, especially wood boring bits, the numbers were an indication of size and could mean number of 16ths or 32nds or whatever. So a "Number 5" tool might mean it's blade was 5/16" for example. A #4 would be a 1/4" tool and so on.
This was one of the first videos I've watched before subscribing, I was doing some research on these screwdriver and came across your channel. I knew I would love your videos! Great job and thanks for sharing!
I have the smaller one in my grandfathers old tool box. Looks the same but the tip is a little beat up.
Hello Jonathan! Don't let the "beat up" appearance fool you! Underneath all those years of use is a beautiful usable tool just waiting to be unveiled!!! 😃👍. Thanks!!!!
Great work on that one
I look forward to these videos like a 10 year old waiting for something to arrive in the mail. This one was especially good. You taking the time to not only clean this beauty, but giving us all the history is awesome. I am forwarding it to several jeep guys I know. That means I know that they are going to 1) be on eBay all weekend, and 2) be watching some of your other videos while waiting on their bids!
Hello Will! Ever since we were kids every one I know has wanted a Willys jeep! They were always just the epitome of cool! Thanks so much Will, I really appreciate that!!! 😃👍
Was wondering if you know what time frame did IRWIN tools use the US of A stamp on their tools? I have a few and some are US of A and some USA
Hi Jack, I'm sorry I don't know that one.. I do know that many of these were made for the Govt. in tool rolls and auto kits. I guess they figured they had to be super strong to survive a soldier! =D
Wow! That is gorgeous brother! Great video. Love all the history in this video. I have so much fun on your channel and now im pulling out buckets of antique tools from my swapmeet trailer so i can restore some old tools. Thanks!
Wow very nice, if you only had a matching set even with a phillips would look so nice on the wall of your shop......
Hello Abdulah!!! I have never seen a Phillips in that type screwdriver! I do have another of the same! Lol I left that unrestored! Thanks so much!!!!
WOW ! Talk about the best video to stumble across late at night. I collect any of these "Perfect" screwdrivers that I can afford as I believe they not only look great but they are also very comfortable to use. As many of their blades are worn, it's the perfect reason to reface & refinish them to suit old world screw heads - either machine head square slotted screws or old 'V' slotted wood screws. That's how I can justify to the wife why I have to have so many of these drivers as they suit different sized screws 😏😏😊😊. Thank you for the "perfect" video. 🇦🇺
Hello Tim! It's a shame more people don't have the opportunity to hold one of these and see just how perfect they really are!!! Thanks so much for your feedback!!! 😃👍
Good video. I just found one of these that has a Phillips head I bought for a $1. It's not Irwin bc it reads Made in Taiwan on it but it's solidly built and very beefy.
The Imported ones are very well liked by people who reviewed them, the only complaint is that they seemed a little unfinished but with a little elbow grease they come out great! Phillips is a real nice one to have! Thanks!!!!!!!!
GREAT Restoration!! FANTASTIC History and Information Session!!! And, I've never seen that wingtip model design!! Far Out!! Thanks Again! You Hit it Outta de Park!!
Hello Bill!! I am so glad you liked this video!!!! That Wingtip design is so cool but it makes for a harder restoration because you have to work around the wings! I need to restore that because the handles are shot!! Thanks so much!!!!!!
After seeing this video Scoutcrafter I kept my eyes peeled for one of these on ebay and scored one this week for 12 bucks.....I thought that was fair considering Ebay. Very similar condition to yours. My polish came out sweet but the handle is stained and sand as I might.....that's just deep in there.....More coats of shellac tonight! Love it! Thanks for the heads-up!
Wow!
You're right - this is the most awesome screwdriver ever made!
It's Gorgeous.
You did such a nice job on restoring this very special tool.
Now I need to go buy one! ^5
Hello Skippy!!! Once you hold it in your hand you will be glad you have one!!! I got this on eBay for $25- shipped... expensive but so nice!! Thanks very much!!!!!!
I said it before about the mini vice, but it kinda haunts me to know the history of each indivual tool. Who passed them down to next generation. Stories of lost and found etc. If they truly could talk. You honour every tool and therefore its legacy, when you bring it back to life. Cheers my friend, for these little heart warming moments that would mean so much to all the generations of previous owners and does, to us too.
Hello Keith! What I really enjoy is when people leave me comments that say "Thanks to you I am restoring my Grandfathers old tools" It's wonderful to know people are looking at old tools in a new way and appreciating their wonderful history! You are so right, every one of these gems have a story to tell... Thanks very much Keith!!!!!
i dont know man. a lot of them probably spend vast amounts of times at a bottom of a box then occasionally unearthed by a big greasy man then get dunked in paint lol
thats the sad part of their story, but the lucky ones meet the Scoutcrafter, and are saved
lol. yeah. well theres a LOT of tools out there so should be plenty saved
Man that is slick! Why cant we still have stuff like that today??? Almost to 7k subs already!! Another fine video. Thank you sir.
Hello TheRaven078! I’m very happy that the channel is growing but I’m even more pleased that we are getting a Quality audience! Everybody is nice and enjoys old tools! Hardly any Trolls!
Thanks very much!!!!!
Awesome as usual! Yet another tool for me to buy! Hey, I was wondering if you own a Cochran Speednut wrench. I’m looking at them on eBay. I was wondering if you happen to know how they work, and if you’ve restored one yet. Also, there is a Speednut wrench branded “David”. Any idea what the differences are and which is more desirable? Thanks so much!
Hi Scott!!!! I did a video titled "1916 SPEEDNUT wrench restoration" That is one of two I have! You will get a kick out of where I got it!!!!! I don't know of the other brands although they look similar! BTW anytime you have a question bicycleuy@aol.com Thanks Scott!!!!!
Hey ScoutCrafter! I sent you an email, but it got kicked back. I’m not sure your email address is spelled out right on here! 😆
That "US of A" is hot! I just picked up a perfect handle screwdriver at a flea market last weekend!
Hello 357!!! That US of A really made me want this screwdriver! The square shaft was so heavy duty! These screwdrivers have always been somewhat collectable and you don't see too many around anymore! However they are always on eBay! =) Looking forward to your next video!!!!
HI ScoutCrafter. Another fine restoration.
Hello Mr. Sneelock!! Thanks so much!!! I know you have a bunch of these!!!! Lol!!! 😃👍
ScoutCrafter Not so many as before. I gave a few away to a friend a couple years ago. Jim Thompson and Scott Grandstaff on the Old Tools Mailing List got me started looking at them. It was a short step from looking to owning. 😈
As an electrician I don't use them for a lot of projects. The steel butt on them is a bit too conductive.
The most of mine hang on a rack and look pretty. 😇😇
LOL. If you use one of these for electrical work you would look like Art Garfunkle! 😂😂😂
That screwdriver should be in the Irwin factory museum. Maybe they would want to buy it from you for that purpose. Good job as always.
Hello aldonco! The funny thing is there are so many of these around in NOS condition! They must have made a ton of them! Thanks so much!!! 😃👍
I know I'm late to the party, but I just acquired a German Perfect Handle screwdriver. It is in most excellent condition, but it is small. The overall length is only 4". Any interest in this, John?
Thanks for the video. I'm a huge fan of the old HD Smith Perfect Handle tools. I grab every one I see (that is reasonably priced). The square shank ones were advertised as machinists or mechanic screw drivers whereas the round shank were simply screwdrivers in an early ad I have.
Hello GunPilot! That is awesome! As you know they aren't as common a sight nowadays as they were years back... They are such iconic classic designs!!!! Thanks so much!!!!!!
Yes Sir, I never set out to have a certain number, so I wasn't counting as I built up a pile of Perfect Handle tools over the years. I'd guess I probably have 100 or so now. But, even with that approximate number (more than enough), I still can't pass one up. No particular logic behind the why, I guess I'm obsessed.
Great restoration. You’re an encyclopedia of tools!
Hello Frank! Sooner or later everyone has to come across one of these and at least hold it for themselves and see just how perfect they feel! Thanks so much Frank!!! 😃👍
Beautiful restoration! Thanks for sharing this. They are really cool looking screwdrivers.
Hello John! Such a bulletproof design... Really heavy duty! Thanks so much!!! 😃👍
Love seeing a new sc restoration vid pop up!! Beautiful work as per usual and a great history lesson on this little know tool! Really Serious amount of metal on that screwdriver!
Hello Adam!! This Screwdriver feels like a weapon more then a tool! LOL It is really substantial!!!!! Thanks so much!!!!!!!!
Gorgeous drivers!
Nice touch with the red lettering. Need to dot that more often IMHO
As usual, a thing of beauty brought back to life. Thanks.
Hello Edward! She really is a beauty!!! Too bad there aren't any screws around big enough!! lol Thanks so much!!!!!!!
Isn't there a new version of this? I've seen an unboxing somewhere. I think it was even made of titanium or something.
Museum quality, lovely work my friend. Beautiful tool
Beautiful beautiful work I wish they made tools like that now
Hello Kevin!!! Me too! They make nice stuff now but it costs a fortune! Like Knipex! The best part is we can go back and make our own!!!! lol Thanks!!!!!
I've seen modern Chinese knock offs of this style screwdriver. Harbor Freight had them. So your wish has come true.
I have heard the Knock-offs are crude but with a little work can be made serviceable. The problem always with Chinese tools is consistency, you can get a really good batch that is really nice and the next week you can get really screwed up batch! Even their heat treating can vary from batch to batch... Taiwan however isn't putting out any junk!! Thanks!!!!
That's true. Metallurgy prior to the Space Race was pretty hit and miss then too though. Survivorship bias distorts our perception about the quality of old tools. We only get to see the good examples today. Because most of the bad ones got binned years ago. That gives us a false view that old tools were better than they actually were.
Once again..say no more..great job..enjoyed the ride....History lesson amazing...
Hello Blackie! This screwdriver is just a throwback to things that were made to last a few lifetimes! You have to admire that!!! Thanks so much!!!! 😃👍
WHEN WILL THE SCOUT MUSEUM OPEN???...ENOUGH STUFF, TO DO SO..
Fantastic video, it was what I needed to know how to recover the tools that were from my grandfather!
Hello Amaurieduardo Linke! That is great! It's even better when the tools belonged to a family member!!! Thankyou very much!!! 😃👍
SC- Restore the saw from the buffing wheel cleaning! :-) You are my favorite channel. Keep em coming.
Hello Shannon! I have a couple dozen old saws and I can tell you as much as I love old tools, old saws are nowhere as good as the new saws they make today! I did a video comparing the old to the new and you will be surprised at how great the new saws work!!!! They just look like crap! Lol Thanks so much!!!!!
ScoutCrafter how much to the small one been looking for a good one most ive seen are smashed up bad
That turned out absolutely amazing. Great job!
Thanks so much!!!! I really think this screwdriver is the Cat's Pajamas!!!! LOL
Great work . I still haven't restored my perfect handle screwdriver. I will just have it round up and new scales. Do u think I should have it polished or keep the old petina look that it has
Eliseo, Your perfect handle screwdriver is in Awesome shape! Definitely polish it since the scales are off already! Then just add new handles and you have a perfect screwdriver! =)
Beautiful. I love the look of amber shellac. That screwdriver is a nice piece.
The Amber shellac is the perfect shade for this project! It is sort of a yellowish brown and really looks sharp!! I'm so glad you liked the project! Thanks very much!!!
just artistic even before restoring
Hey Scout,
One of my fav's... I have one I'm restoring now labeled "Federal". They remind me of a good ol' chisel like the Stanley SweetHeart where the force of the blow goes straight through to the business end, even though a screwdriver is for turning screws 😉 😉
Another great, great video. Question - why do you use a razor blade to clean the wood instead of sandpaper or emory cloth?
Michael Bradley
Hello Michael, The preferred way to prepare wood is to scrape it, when you scrape the wood you are literally shaving off a thin layer... When you sand something you are roughing up the fibers and creating small burrs that is like tearing at the surface... Just like if you use a plane to smooth a surface, with a good plane you don't have to do anything else where as with sandpaper you have to keep going up in grip to smooth out the teared up surface you made from the grit before! The Razor blade is your best friend!!!! =) Thanks!!!!!!
scraping with something like a razor blade is much quicker, its more aggresive. but at the same time doesnt leave leave deep marks like corase sand paper unless you scrape at too extreme angle which tends to just jump the blade and dig into the wood. which is very damaging so you gotta take your time and be careful.
long explenation but if youre interested lol
Regards from Ballycastle, N Ireland. Love your restorations ScoutCrafter, keep up the good work.
Hello Nick!!!! Beautiful Ireland!!!! My Sister just returned from there and couldn't stop raving about how wonderful her trip was!!! Thanks so very much!!!!!!!!
Are all perfect handle screwdrivers flat heads?
Hello TS! The early ones were but later on they did make some Phillips heads too!
Like everyone else here I loved the video and the final result was amazing... I'm sure i watched it a dozen times.
I do have a question though... when you were showing the different variations of perfect handle screwdrivers in your collection, tbere was one that was missing... Have you seen an H.D. Smith with a "spoon" shaped in dent in the shaft right above the handle? It would have a large "S" logo in the circle spoon portion... similar in look to the wing tip screwdriver you showed but that version was not incased in the wood in that area but rather exposed metal connecting to the shaft... I think it was called model 660
Awesome job. When will you show the whole collection?
Hello David! I have a lot of my other tools upstairs in a special cabinet I made! I have to do a video on it I know you would like it!!!! Thanks very much!!!!
I have to agree that is the most beautiful screwdriver there is!!
Hello William!!! It feels just as good in the hand! A real heavy duty tool!!! Thanks so much!!!!!
Outstanding job ScoutCrafter!! You make it look so easy and I know it’s
not!! 👍👍👍😎🇨🇱
Great looking screw driver, I started using empty bird seed bags today for a "drop cloth" . That was a great "helpful hint" Thanks for the tip !.
Hello Ernie! That is great! They are much too heavy duty to just throw away! Like mini-tarps! Lol. Thanks so much!!! 😃👍
Yep I definitely would appreciate that in my tool role.
What a beauty...
Hello Tony! You are so right! It belongs in a Tool Roll for sure!!!!! Along with my Plierench! LOL Thanks!!!!!!!!
Wow that old saw would make a beautiful saw restored 😥
Hello my friend to Tell you the truth I never had a screwdriver like this but I observed this type of handle (wood with rivets) in some old carpenter tools. In this case this military grade screwdriver looks wonderful after the restoration!!!!!! Part of the history tools well made that survive the pass of century that's awesome!!! Waiting for your next video
Hello wladimir! I'm so glad you enjoyed the restoration! We love the Heavy Duty construction of this wonderful tool! Thanks so much my friend!!! 😃👍
thanks for the info, i've never seen or even heard of the wing tip screwdriver, they look cool.
Hello carlotta folli ! The wing-tip is a real beauty! They are harder to restore though because of the wings! Thanks so much!!! 😃👍
Can you do a video on different wirewheels and buffing wheels(and their aplications)?
Hello Victor! Absolutely, I have been trying to incorporate one or two tips in every video but I think a dedicated video is needed! Thanks so much!!!!!!!
Yes. Would love to see this as a topic
Does the square shaft allow an open end wrench to grip it for torque assistance?
Bob and Kim Rivard
Can do! Hence I associate them with mechanics and engineering rather than woodworking.
I enjoyed the history of these screw drivers. That one came out very well.
Hello Wyatt! Most Awesome Screwdriver Ever!! LOL I almost want to make a holster for it and carry it around!!! =D Thanks very much!!!!
That is a nice screwdriver I can't find good things like that.
Hi! i bought a nice monkey wrench i want to restore, mentionning loose wooden inserts for the handle, how would you go about fixing that? i was thinking maybe make it sit in oil or something like that to swell the wood
Hello Martin! The loose handles are a bear to fix, They are either shrunken and dried out or the pins are loose... Either way most people remove and either replace the originals after refinishing or replace with new! Then oversized pins! Nothing I know will expand the wood enough o tighten them up!! Thanks!!!!!
thanks!
The wide blade and old harder metal used is why there so good . Just don't make em like they used to
Much better than plastic handles, wish I had some of my Dad's old ones.
Hello Nitro Max! You have to pick up one just to keep next to the workbench as a keepsake!!!! You will love it!! Thanks so much!!!!!!
I agree: that is the most incredible screwdriver ever. Nice job!
Hello P-P! Designed by someone who wanted it to last forever!!! =D Thanks so much!!!!!!!!!!
Another brilliant restoration and great video keep up the great videos 👍🏻😀
Hello Ocelot!! Thanks so much!!!! This screwdriver cost me $25!!! =D
Maybe used for old break drums they where big screws
Hi Dane! That's very true! Also to pry off the springs! Either way these were super heavy duty! LOL Thanks!!!!!!!
Thank you, keep on saving those tools and history. I was asking myself why i have seen some of these here in France, here comes the reason : american surplus !
Hello Ad Roy!!! They were made all over the world!!! Germany made tons of these! They were very handy and well made!!! Thanks so much!!!!!
Your right scout that is a gorgeous screwdriver
Hello Dallas! This screwdriver is the Cat's Pajamas!!!! Lol Thanks very much!!!
Hey Ive had 2 of these fors years. A large and a small one.. I dont use them because I dont want nothing to happen to them. Theyre definitely awesome!
What metal are the pins ?
I believe they are a mild steel pin... Some of the Perfect handle screwdrivers has Brass pins or rivets! =) Thanks!
Beautiful job!
Hello Jeff! Thanks so very much!!!!! 😃👍
Very nice, now it goes in a Cadillac tool kit. I bet those those screw drivers would look cool with micarta scales...
Oh you are so right!!! I did one years back with Paduke scales and Brass bolsters! Came out nice!!!! I would like to do one in Orange G-10 scales!!!! Sweet!!!! Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!
Ha! Now I know where AVE got the design for his titanium screwdriver
I haven't seen that episode! I like titanium! I have a awesome Titanium Crowbar! Really nice! Thanks so much!!!!
You noticed that too! I was thinking the same thing. Good call!
That is an awesome screwdriver, great informative video!
Hello Mick! The most awesome screwdriver ever!!!! LOL Thanks very much!!!!!!
I have that exact same screw driver. Mine has a nice 'patina'.I just sprayed some shellac on it and it came out pretty good. It's too big to use on anything so it just sits there.
How awesome is this screwdriver!?!? Yes it is too big for just about any screw today but the tool is like having a piece of history!!! I bet in some areas it would be considered a weapon! Lol I'm so glad you have one and know how great it is!! Thanks so much!!!!!!!
I have one of the first ones but the tip is busted off. I have considered welding on some metal to the tip to repair it. What is your thoughts on that?
Hello Time Table! That is a hard one! Can it be re-ground? Even if it's an inch shorter it will still be great!!! Unless more then an inch is gone I would try to re-grind it.. If the front half is missing then just cut off and weld a new piece of square stock on! These were so nice and strong you can't go wrong!!!!! Thanks!!
Time Table
That's a tough one...unless you're an ace welder (I'm passable...) you won't get a great result in a tool that's subject to a load of torque.
Answer...and I've done it a few times now; a sizable gas torch, re-form the blade tip and re-temper. A very satisfying job too.
ScoutCrafter well after watching this I went on the hunt for it as I have buckets of screw drivers(most old plastic handles) and it is not as bad as I remembered. The tips mostly still there. Just the corner is chipped off and it has a little bend to it as if someone was using it as a pry bar. But the wood is gone. It’s there but loose and weathered hard
Great info! Thanks for your research and your wealth of knowledge.
Hello Hughes Home Improvements SP ! I'm so glad you enjoyed the video! These are very affordable for many newer collectors or enthusiasts! Thanks so much!!!
Mine was a military one. I’m going to use black walnut to replace my handle on mine
Hello Kato!!! These screwdrivers have such great possibilities with different wood types.. I did one years ago with Paduke and brass bolsters and it came out great!!