I was just given a very old plane. It was in fact very old 40 years ago. when it was given to my father-in-law.
It looks like a Record # 5 but is a ”National #4”. It is written made in England on the back end of the sole. The blade is very thick and made by James Howarth of Sheffield, England.
My research on the net gave almost nothing, except a couple of mentions of this James Howarth, all from antique tools up for sales on E-Bay or some other British auction site.
I would like to restore it to its original color, since all the paint is gone on it.
Could anybody provide me with some info or insight please?
Replies
Mikie,
I did a quick search of the OldTools List Archives but only found one reference to a National plane; also a #4. I think you should discount the Howarth blade as being any indicator of maker; the one mentioned had a Marples blade. James Howarth existed from c1845 - 1939 (By 1923 it was owned by Robert Sorby) and made good stuff. The best I can do on National is from a post on Badger Pond http://www.wwforum.com/htools/archive19/50766.html which would explain why you've found it in Canada. You might try e-mailing Doug Evans direct to see if he's found out more, or post on the Neanderthal Haven on Badger Pond. Hope this helps a little.
Cheers, Alf
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