1930s Turnscrew Mortise Gauge in Ebony & Brass | Vintage English Woodworking Tool

For the craftsman … a vintage English turnscrew mortise gauge in ebony and brass, dating to around 1925–1935.  Measuring 6-3/4 inches in length, it features brass wear strips across one face of the head, a decorative brass shield around the locking screw, and brass reinforcement along the stem.  Still completely functional, its compact form, warm patina, and brass fittings would display well on a gentleman’s desk, library shelf, or workshop bench.

Mortise gauges are used to mark two parallel lines when laying out mortise-and-tenon joints, with one point fixed and the second adjusted to the required width.  A turnscrew mortise gauge uses a slotted screw at the end of the stem to adjust the marking point with a screwdriver, rather than a projecting thumbscrew that can be turned directly by hand.  Our example most closely resembles an ebony oval-head model illustrated in a John Hall (Tools) Ltd. catalog from the 1930s, though the precise maker remains unknown.

Dimensions: (Stem) 6-3/4” x 5/8” x 5/8", (Head) 2-7/8” x 2-1/8” x 1-1/8”
Weight: 8.2 oz.

Condition notes: Very good vintage condition overall. Ebony head and stem show surface wear throughout, including scattered scratches, scuffs, small dents, and handling marks from age and use. Lower surface of head adjacent to stem displays small chipped areas of some age.  Wood remains solid, with no visible cracks, splits, or structural instability. Brass wear strips, shield, stem reinforcement, and screw fittings show minor tarnish, along with light scratches and age-related discoloration. Turnscrew adjustment and locking screw both turn as intended, and slide moves along stem as designed. Marking points remain present and tool appears complete and functional, but has not been tested in actual use or checked for precision. Period owner’s stamps include “A. WARREN,” stamped twice on top of head, and “CLANGDON,” stamped on stem and also faintly visible beneath/adjacent to one of head stamps. Number “14” is stamped at end of stem. No visible maker’s marks.  Tool has been lightly cleaned and polished.  Other items in photos not included.

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