Rare John Rabone & Sons Girthing Tape Measure | Vintage Measuring Tool, Forestry Collectible

A rare English timber girthing tape measure in leather case with brass fittings, fold-out handle, and 66-foot woven linen cloth tape, made by John Rabone & Sons of Birmingham.  Measuring 4-3/4” across, the tape likely dates from 1940-1960.  It would make a unique gift for the craftsman, woodworker, or any lover of old tools.

Girthing tapes are used in forestry to measure the diameter (girth) of trees and how much lumber they expect to yield.  A tree’s girth is measured at a height of 4-1/2 feet, and when multiplied by length (of a felled log, for example) provides an estimate of the cubic feet of wood.  The gradations on the tape convert a circumference measurement into the corresponding diameter.

This is a well-used and thoughtfully maintained tape measure, with wear and overall patina befitting its age.  The leather case is marked "No. 400," a model that was originally manufactured for a more standard (feet and inches) measuring tape, suggesting that the case may have been repurposed by the original owner.  The case features a fold-out brass handle and center screw (possibly also a replacement)  It is marked “JOHN RABONE & SONS – BIRMINGHAM ENGLAND” on one side and “RABONE’S METALLIC TAPE” on the other (further suggesting that the case is a later replacement, since our tape is cloth.)

The tape itself is definitely a girthing model, with printed conversion graduations still legible across most of its length.  Note: the first 20 inches or so of tape was stitched to the original by an owner clearly intent on preserving his investment.  See photos for more detail.

John Rabone & Sons were a pre-eminent British manufacturer of rules and measuring devices, with origins dating back to the late 1700s.  The company operated as a family business until it merged with Chesterman & Co of Sheffield in 1963.

Dimensions: 4-3/4” x 4-3/4” x 1-1/2”

Condition Notes: Leather case shows dents, abrasions, and overall wear consistent with age and use.  Fold-out handle works well and tape winds in and out smoothly, though not without some slight movement in the central spool.  (We have not unwound the entire tape.)  As noted, tape was repaired at some point and the first 20 inches is a replacement (of some age) stitched to the original.  See photos for more detail and feel free to DM the shop with questions prior to purchase.  

Unless noted, all items are hand-wrapped and gift-boxed.  We offer flat rate shipping via USPS Ground Advantage for $10, or USPS Priority Mail for $15.  Items over $100 ship free via USPS Priority Mail.  We pack with safety and care using recycled and recyclable materials whenever possible.