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There are several things to note about this handle. The first is the flat end. The second is the uniform diameter for most of the length of the handle, with rounded transition to the shaft.
This example is lathe cut, and the lathe was set up so that the cutter withdrew at the end of travel, leaving an ever more shallow groove at the end of the threads.
This example has the flat end, barrel shape, waist, and
distinct collar, characteristic of Bliss.
The tip is flat, with an abrupt transition to the threads.
This example has a slight central pit, and other markings,
caused by the lathe while the handle was turned.
This is typical of the marks of the company,
after 1874. There are variations in the size of marks, but their
significance is unknown.
The transition from RI to USA, and from incused cartouche to
incised lines, seems to have taken place at the same time. It is
unclear whether the switch from cartouche to linear was prompted
by a search for "modernity" or for cheaper production.
This is typical of the marks of the company, after
legislation (in 1891) required that national origin be noted.
(I have a unique item bearing both the "Pawtucket R.I."
cartouche, and the "Made in U.S.A" imprint. I believe it was an
error, a "double printing" made during the transition.
The catalog of 1911
lists tool chests for boys, for gentlemen, and a household line.
The Graphics page has larger, and better, examples of the labels.
The Models page has the dimensions and contents.
last revised and validated
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