What is it?

Set 251

2008-09-25T03:10:00.019-05:00

Site Relocation

This blog has moved to a new address:

http://55tools.blogspot.com/

1417.

Larger image

1418. 5" long:

1419. Three different versions of the same device, all are around 15" long:

Larger image

Take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on how these were used.

1420. Approximately 48" tall, circa 1895:

1421. 10" long:

1422. About 16" tall, from the 1890's:

Larger image

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 250

2008-09-18T02:29:00.003-05:00

1411. 5" long, patented in the 1860's:

It's spring returned to the position seen in the first two pictures.

1412. The subject here is the large wooden apparatus, the miscellaneous tools are not necessarily related to it:

Larger image

Larger image

1413. 8-1/2" long, patented in 1925:

This combination tool has ten different uses, although only seven of them are visible in the photos because it's missing some parts. Since most of the other functions are obvious, the main question here is to determine the purpose of the wheel shaped part shown below:

1414. Approximately 54" tall:

The owner of this tool also had a nice display of axes:

Larger image

1415. 7-1/2" long, submitted by a visitor who found this unidentified piece of hardware while hiking near some power lines in the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania, text on it reads "Pat'd 1932" and "P132":

1416. 8-1/4" long:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 249

2008-09-11T02:08:00.006-05:00

1405. Patented in 1891:

Approximately 36" long:

1406. 15-20' long:

Larger image

1407. 1-3/8" long, anodized aluminum with a rubber insert that is open at one end and closed at the other, submitted by a visitor who would like to know exactly what this clamp is for:

1408. 36" long, made of thick leather:

1409. About 9" long:

The purpose for this wrench can be found on the answer page for the Animal Trap Quiz that I created the other day. A moderate warning concerning the traps, some of them are a bit grim looking.

1410. 48" long, patented in 1890:

Close-up image

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 248

2008-09-04T02:50:00.006-05:00

1399. 12-1/2" long, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this one:

The hinge allows the metal plate to pivot about 90 degrees:

1400. 12-3/4" long, hundreds of tool collectors have seen this device but no one has yet been able to identify it:

From Jack Devitt's collection

The solid brass parts can be separated about 1/2", but a strong spring keeps them together as shown in the first picture.

1401. The idea here is to describe the purpose of this unusual building:

Larger image

A satellite shot from Google maps:

Larger image

1402. Except for the two with blades, all of these metal and wood tools were used for the same task:

Larger image

Larger image

Larger image

Larger image

1403. Around 9 or 10' long:

Larger image

1404.

Larger image

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 247

2008-08-28T02:01:00.001-05:00

1393. 5-1/4" long:

1394. The blade is 9-1/2" long, first patented in the 1870's:

Larger image

1395. 12-1/2" tall:

1396. 4-1/2" diameter, both are hollow and look the same on the bottom as on top, the blue one is ceramic and the other is made of glass:

1397. Below are two different types of weights, the one in this first photo weighs 50 pounds:

These weigh 14, 15, and 21 pounds:

1398. About 36" long:

Larger image

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 246

2008-08-21T02:58:00.002-05:00

1387. Around 8" long:

1388. About 7-1/2' long:

1389. Approximately 30" long:

1390. 9" long:

1391. 7-1/2" long, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this device:

1392. 5" long:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 245

2008-08-14T03:09:00.004-05:00

1381. Around 7" long:

1382. About 54" long, the top and bottom are symmetrical:

This tool is made from two long pieces of wood that are connected by two adjustable metal parts:

These next three were submitted by visitors:

1383. 25cm or 9.8" long:

1384. 7.5" long:

1385. Another unidentified artifact, the owner is looking to find out how it was used, it's made of cast iron and is just over 12" tall:

1386. 11-5/8" long:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 244

2008-08-07T01:15:00.003-05:00

1375. 8-1/2" long, patented in 1868:

Larger image

Larger image

A side view of it from the patent:

1376. 6-3/4" long, submitted by a visitor:

1377a. The general use for these might not be difficult to figure out, but the main idea here is to determine their specific purpose. The base is approximately 18" long:

Larger image

Larger image

1377b. About the same size as the previous device, the back half is a little hard to see but it's almost a mirror image of the front, as seen in the patent drawing in the second image below.

Larger image

1378. 8-1/2" long, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this one and a chance to win a T-shirt.

On the inside there are four small spikes on the left and two on the right.

1379. Sent in from Tasmania, Australia, this unidentified artifact is 1.4m (55") long, the largest width is 33cm (13"), and the height is 20cm (7-7/8"). It might be from Malaysia, and was originally owned by someone who traveled extensively.

Larger image

Larger image

Larger image

Larger image

Larger image

1380. 12" long, maybe someone can tell me what this hammer is for, it's marked "Danco Hammer No. 2, Danielson, Conn.":

Both ends look the same:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 243

2008-07-30T17:10:00.005-05:00

1369. Around 9-1/2" in length, one long cable held by two metal bars:

Larger image

1370. About 25" long:

1371. Submitted by a visitor who is looking to identify this device, it was found in a military surplus store:

1372. Approximately 28" long, the wood block on the right can be rotated by pulling the cord:

1373. 48" long, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this one:

Larger image

1374. Another photo submitted by a visitor:

Larger image

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

I'm going to be away from my computer for a couple of days, but the answer page will be posted around 5:00 PM on Friday. The link is below but the page will be blank until the scheduled time.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 242

2008-07-24T02:54:00.002-05:00

1363. Around 16" long, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this device:

Larger image

1364. About 5-1/2" long:

1365. Approximately 24" long, though it has a few pieces broken off, it could still be used for its intended purpose:

From the Michigan Whitetail Hall of Fame Museum

1366. 60" long:

1367. Approximately 3-1/2" long:

1368. 46" long:

Another one from the Michigan Whitetail Hall of Fame Museum

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 241

2008-07-17T02:32:00.002-05:00

1357. This was part of a historical society display in New Hampshire, it's 4 feet high and 3 feet wide, each louver can be flipped to show the other side, which has a different set of numbers. It was submitted by a visitor who would like to find out its exact purpose.

Larger image

1358. About 10" wide:

Larger image

1359. Approximately 22" long, maybe someone can tell us what this leather box was meant to hold:

1360. The part on the end is around 5" long:

1361. 5-7/8" long:

1362. The metal piece is 7" long:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 240

2008-07-10T02:30:00.007-05:00

1351. 11" long, from the 1860's:

Larger image

1352. About 42" tall, shot on the deck of the ship seen in the second photo below:

1353. 4.7" diameter, submitted by a visitor who is looking to identify it, the hole diameters are: 0.383", 0.486", 0.571", 0.713", 0.901", 1.125", and 1.356"; it was found in England, and the text on it reads "imperial standard":

1354. 2-5/8" tall, I bought this over a year ago and just last week found out what it's for:

1355. 6" long:

1356. 14" long:

These are both from Scotty Fulton's collection.

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 239

2008-07-03T02:28:00.001-05:00

1344. 42" tall:

1345. Submitted by a visitor:

1346. Each side measures about 1":

1347. These are both approximately 11" long, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses:

1348. 10-1/2" long, also name the purpose for the slot:

1349. 2-3/4" long, another device sent in by a visitor:

1350. 13-1/4" long:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 238

2008-06-26T01:28:00.002-05:00

1338. This device has been sitting on someone's mantle for years but no one knows what it's for, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on it.

1339. 5" long:

1340. 9" long:

From Stan Seevers' collection

1341. Another unidentified piece submitted by a visitor, the tray at the bottom can be rotated but the small container can't be removed:

1342. 4" long:

1343. One more unidentified device sent in by a reader of this site, the part on the right is 3" long:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 237

2008-06-19T01:22:00.001-05:00

1332. 21" long, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this device:

Larger image

Larger image

1333. 10" tall:

1334. 12' long:

Larger image

Larger image

Larger image

1335. 3-3/4" diameter, patented in 1885:

1336. 9" long:

Larger image

1337. 6" long:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 236

2008-06-11T03:35:00.004-05:00

1326. Approximately 5" diameter:

1327. 9" long, submitted by a visitor looking to identify it:

1328. 12-3/4" long:

Turning the handle causes both the large horizontal disc and the smaller vertical disc to rotate:

1329. 5/8" square, more guesses on this piece at Neatorama.

1330. 6" long:

Larger image

1331. Around 24" long:

Larger image

Larger image

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 235

2008-06-05T01:24:00.002-05:00

I'll be on the road for a few days next week so I'll be posting on Wednesday morning instead of the usual Thursday.

1320. 8-1/2" tall:

1321. 10-1/2" long, submitted by a visitor who is looking to identify this tool, it was found under some floor boards of a house that was being demolished:

1322. 3" long:

1323. Approximately 6" tall, another unidentified device:

The top part can be moved but is spring returned to the position seen in the previous photos.

From Stan Seevers' collection

1324. 4-1/4" tall, from the 1940's:

1325. Around 12"-14" long, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this tool and a chance to win a t-shirt:

From Scotty Fulton's collection

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 234

2008-05-29T01:05:00.001-05:00

1313. 6-1/2" long:

1314. 20-1/2" long, this toolbox was made to be used by a particular profession:

These next four were submitted by visitors of this site:

1315. 16" long:

1316. 2-1/2" long:

1317. 4-1/2" long:

1318. The tool below was submitted by someone looking to identify it:

I had almost forgotten that one of my friends owns a similar tool, I took this photo back in 2006:

1319. 2-1/4" long, from the early 1950's, the arm can be rotated upwards about 90 degrees but is spring returned to the position shown:

Take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this device.

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 233

2008-05-22T02:09:00.003-05:00

1307. 4-1/2" long:

1308. 11" long:

1309. 16" long, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this tool:

Larger image

1310. 7-3/4" long, submitted by a visitor, patented on October 16, 1866:

1311. 44" tall:

1312. 5-3/4" tall:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 232

2008-05-15T03:10:00.002-05:00

1301. 10-7/8" tall:

1302. 11" long:

Larger image

1303. 48" tall:

1304. 6" long:

Larger image

Another version of the same device, 4" long, from the 1950's:

1305. Submitted by a visitor from Texas who is looking to identify this piece of equipment:

The owner's description of it:

There is a 2-1/4" square piece of prism/quartz crystal or similar, which is highly mirrored and is iridescent with varying colors like a holograph.(You cannot see through the glass.) It sits on a rotational frame with very smooth ball bearing 360-degree movement. (Its precision suggests that this object was intended to spin at high revolution.) It has an arm protruding out one side which has a small red ball about 1/4" round. It may be a bulb containing fluid like a thermometer, or it may be solid ruby colored glass ball. But it glows if light strikes it just right. It is shielded so that the red ball is concealed from the back.

The back side of the prism mount has 4 or 5 highly precise leveling screws as if a very finite placement is required. These adjustments would serve to tilt or plane the prism. The prism is about 1/2 to 5/8" thick, and has numerals scratched into the side with a scratch awl or engraving tool. The numerals are 33/12/3/10/1.

The entire item except for the glass is very heavy metal. There is no writing anywhere on the piece except the numerals "903" stamped on the bottom of the mount. As small as it is, this thing weighs a surprising 2lbs, 10 ounces.

A view of the back:

1306. 8" long, for more guesses on this one take a look at Neatorama:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 231

2008-05-08T01:00:00.003-05:00

1295. 12-3/4" long:

Larger image

Larger image

1296. 5" long:

1297. 4-1/2" long:

1298. 7-1/2" long, submitted by a visitor from Texas, see Neatorama for more guesses on this tool:

Larger image

1299. 37" tall:

1300. 4" long:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 230

2008-05-01T16:34:00.013-05:00

1289. 6" long:

1290. 10" long:

1291. Approximately 4-1/2" long:

From Scotty Fulton's collection

1292. 24" long, submitted by a visitor:

1293. 7" tall, from 1869, see Neatorama for more guesses on this device:

1294. 4" long:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 229

2008-04-24T03:48:00.003-05:00

1283. 6" tall:

1284. 5'-7" long:

1285. 11" long, from the 1890's:

From Scotty Fulton's collection

1286. 14' tall, this chair was made for one particular purpose:

1287. 2-1/4" tall, see Neatorama for more guesses on this device:

1288.

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 228

2008-04-17T16:19:00.002-05:00

1276. 3-1/2" long, from the 1800's:

Larger image

1277. 16" long:

From Scotty Fulton's collection

1278. 4-3/4" long:

1279. 12" long:

These next two were submitted by visitors:

1280. 7" long:

1281. 11" long:

1282. Approximately 10" long, from the 1760's, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this device.

Larger image

Larger image

Previously seen on this site:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 227

2008-04-10T03:31:00.003-05:00

1269. 8" long, submitted by a visitor who was looking to identify this tool:

1270. 5" long, the part on the left can pivot, as seen in the second photo:

1271. 32" long:

Larger image

1272. The metal part of this tool is about 4" long, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this one and a chance to win a T-shirt.

From Scotty Fulton's collection

1273. Approximately 6" long, another tool submitted by a visitor:

1274. 4-1/2" long:

1275. Approximately 11" tall:

Larger image
From Scotty Fulton's collection

Previously seen on this site:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 226

2008-04-03T04:01:00.001-05:00

1263. 30" long, submitted by a visitor who is looking to identify this one, the owner found it when he was walking in the Ocala Forest area of Florida and his boot was snagged by the hook:

There is a crown at the top and the letters CN at the bottom:

1264. 6" tall, from 1970:

Photo by Simon

1265. 10" long:

1266. 20" long:

The cap has a threaded hole in the end and can be pulled out from the main part:

1267. Approximately 8"-10" long, this piece is completely hollow and open on the left end, patented in the 1880's:

Larger image

1268. 12" long:

Previously seen on this site:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 225

2008-03-27T04:09:00.001-05:00

1257. 7" long:

Larger image

1258. 12-1/2" long:

1259. 12" long, when this was new the spike could freely rotate:

1260. 7-7/8" long, one of a pair, the two lower parts are spring returned to the position seen below:

Larger image

The patent drawings of this device:

1261. 8" long, this object was submitted by a visitor who is looking to identify it:

1262. 8-1/8" long:

Previously seen on this site:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 224

2008-03-20T04:10:00.003-05:00

1251. Approximately 24" long:

From Gil Gandenberger's collection

1252. 2" long, made of wood, submitted by a visitor who was looking to identify it:

1253. 19" long, another unidentified device sent in by a visitor:

1254. 25" long:

1255. 5" long:

Photo by Simon

1256. 6-1/2" long:

Previously seen on this site:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 223

2008-03-13T16:06:00.004-05:00

1245. 15" long:

Larger image

Larger image

1246. 10" long:

Another variation of the same tool:

1247. 21" long, the two handles can be rotated 360 degrees:

Larger image

From Jack Devitt's collection

1248. 20" long:

1249. 6" long, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this piece:

1250. 10" long:

Previously seen on this site:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 222

2008-03-06T04:16:00.002-05:00

1239. 17-1/2" long:

Larger image

1240. 24" tall:

1241. Submitted by a visitor who is looking to find out exactly what this is, it was found in the galley of a hospital ship, text on it reads "REGD 911032 Made in England".

1242. Approximately 3" tall:

1243. Around 6-1/2" long, this spiked object might look like it's from a horror movie but it was made to serve a particular purpose, more guesses on it can be found at Neatorama.

Larger image

1244. The smallest is 5/8" long and largest is 1-1/8" long, there are eight pairs of these unidentified pieces of hardware, each pair has the same number on it, the ones in the top row are numbered: 0, 20, 30, 40; the second row: 45, 60, 75, 90.

Larger image of number 60

Both sides look the same:

Previously seen on this site:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 221

2008-02-28T04:09:00.003-05:00

1233. 8-1/2" long:

1234. 4-1/4" diameter, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this one.

Larger image

Larger image

The last four in this set were all submitted by visitors who are looking to identify them.

1235. 10" long, brought to the U.S. in the late 1800's from Germany:

1236. 12" long, sent in from South Africa, a blown glass tubing system with traps and siphons, it is filled with a dark brown liquid, and has what appears to be an electrical connection:

Larger image

Close-up image

1237. There is a light inside the barrel shaped part, an alligator clip on one end and a 23" wand with an electrical contact on the other, text on it reads "Abilities Inc. 7-78":

1238. 10-1/2" long x 6" tall, weighs 6 pounds:

Previously seen on this site:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 220

2008-02-21T04:15:00.009-05:00

1227. 1-7/8" long, completely hollow, both end looks the same:

1228. 11" long:

1229. 5-1/2" long:

1230. 107" long:

Larger image

1231. 12" long, submitted by a visitor who is looking to identify this piece, made of ivory or bone:

1232. Another unidentified device sent in by a visitor:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 219

2008-02-14T04:07:00.005-05:00

1221. 8-1/4" long, patented in the U.K. in 1906:

Larger image

1222. 39" tall x 36" wide x 31" deep:

1223. 7-1/2" long, with a 2-1/4" diameter ring:

1224. 7" long, text on it reads "Tool Sales Co., Kintnersville, PA":

1225. 8-1/2" long:

1226. 6" long, another tool from Simon:

Larger image

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 218

2008-02-07T04:10:00.003-05:00

1215. 4" to 6-1/2" tall, sent in by a visitor, this small jack was made for a very specific purpose:

1216. 16-1/2" tall, patented in the 1930's:

1217. 27" long:

From Gil Gandenberger's collection

1218. 8" long, submitted by someone from Fairbanks, Alaska, who is looking to identify this piece:

The handle is hollow, with just one open end:

1219. 4-1/2" long, from the 1960's, more guesses on this device and a chance to win a t-shirt at Neatorama.

1220. 11" wide:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 217

2008-01-31T04:18:00.002-05:00

1209. 4-1/4" long:

1210. 25-3/4" long:

Larger image

1211. 48" tall:

1212. 11-7/8" long, for more guesses on this one take a look at Neatorama.

1213. 3-1/4" tall:

1214. 12" long, patented in 1867:

From Gil Gandenberger's collection

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 216

2008-01-24T04:18:00.002-05:00

1203. 2-7/8" diameter:

Take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this one.

1204. 58" long, sent in by someone looking to identify it, this piece was found in a barn in Arkansas, the tall end can pivot at the joint and the short end is adjustable, it can slide along the notched part and lock into place:

1205. Submitted by a visitor:

The owner's description of this device:

It is obviously a cutter or trimmer for something – but what?

It has two “pressure plates” that hold whatever is being cut in place. When clamped, these round plates rotate in either direction and can be locked on each quarter turn. You can’t see the lower plate as it’s immediately below the upper one you see in the picture. The spring-loaded thumb lever on the lower front inserts a pin into an indent in the lower plate to hold it in place – for trimming, I assume. There are only four indents to lock into – one every 90 degrees around the plate. The top plate is spring-loaded in the up position and is locked down by pushing down on the handle located between the springs.

The trimmer has a maximum cut of about 5”. If something flat and trimmable less than 5” (and more than 4”) in both directions is slid between the plates, clamped down, and trimmed on all four sides, it ends up being a perfect 4” square.

What is this thing meant to cut? And why does it have a walnut carrying case?

...I was hoping to find some manufacturer’s marks but there is absolutely no mark of any kind on the whatsit nor the case. The bulk of it is made of cast aluminum, I think.
...the plates are slightly notched like a fine file and would mar a photograph.

1206. 3" long, made of nickel plated brass, another one sent in by a visitor:

Larger image

1207. 15" long:

1208. The handle is 17-3/4" long:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 215

2008-01-17T04:08:00.004-05:00

1197. 9-1/2" long:

1198. 32" tall:

1199. 12" long, the jaws can be locked in the open position and released by the upper button whereupon the jaws snap closed, submitted by a visitor:

1200. 11-1/2" long, this one was sent in by a visitor who is looking to identify it; the stone is 4" long and is very heavy and dense:

1201. Approximately 8" long:

1202. 12-1/2" long, patented in 1928:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 214

2008-01-10T04:24:00.002-05:00

1191. This unidentified device was found in 1954, the 3-3/4" x 3" x 3-1/2" high unit is made of steel and weighs about 3 pounds. Followers on three shafts ride on a solid steel ball of about 1" diameter.

1192. 17-3/4" long, probably from the 1960's:

Take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this tool, where Alex is giving away two t-shirts as prizes, one for the first correct answer and another for the most humorous guess.

1193. 18-1/2" long, submitted by a visitor who is looking to find the purpose of this lanyard; it can be adjusted by sliding the piece around the cords:

1194. This photo was taken by Simon while on his trip to Tokyo:

1195. 7" long:

1196. 3-3/4" long, another one submitted by a visitor:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Below is last week's set, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 213

2008-01-03T04:15:00.000-05:00

1185. 9" long:

1186. 3-1/2" long, submitted by a visitor:

Take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this one.

1187. 6-1/4" long, this unidentified copper piece was sent in by a reader of this site:

1188. 7-3/4" long:

1189. 9-1/2" long:

1190. One more submitted by a visitor, whose uncle unearthed this stone in his corn field in Alexandria, Minnesota back in the 1950's. They are looking to find out the purpose of it, the weight is 21 pounds:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 212

2007-12-27T05:14:00.001-05:00

1179. 37" long as seen in this first photo, the notch in the arm holds a level:

The lower piece of wood is hinged with the upper one and can be pivoted and held in position with the latch, making the total length 74". It's numbered 1 through 18, with each number
representing 4".

A little hard to see, but there are 1" increments between the numbers:

1180. 5-1/2" long, an unidentified tool submitted by a visitor; descriptions of the photos below:
- in the normally closed position.
- as achieved by pulling back on the lower knurled piece.
- an exploded view.

Larger image

This view shows the internal beveled groove in the sliding piece that mates with the tip:

1181. 24" tall:

1182. 3" long, submitted by someone who was looking to identify this device:

Patented in 1934

1183a. 3-1/8" long, yet another one submitted by a visitor, who is looking to find out more about this level. The knob at the left adjusts the plunger up and down (photo 1183b on the left), to the right of the knob in the small slot is the level.

1183b. The tab on the right measures 5/8" and can be extended
to 2".

1184. 8-1/2" diameter:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 211

2007-12-20T05:01:00.002-05:00

1173. 8" diameter:

Larger image

1174. 7" long:

Larger image

1175. This unidentified piece of hardware was submitted by a visitor who found it in an old barn in upstate NY. His description of it:

It appears to be have been hand forged by a blacksmith. The rectangular portion is 14" long by 1 1/2 " wide --- the pointed portion is 8 " long and 1 1/2" wide at the end joining the rectangular portion. Both portions are flat and a fairly consistent 1/4" thick.

There is no evidence that this tool was part of something more complex --- it appears more like a stand alone hand tool. And there are no wear marks or hammer marks to indicate that it was perhaps used as some kind of splitting or other tool --unless it never got to be used for its intended purpose.

Larger image

1176. 4" long, submitted by a visitor from Catalonia, near Barcelona:

1177. 11-1/2" long:

1178. 11" long:

The sliding part can be removed.

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 210

2007-12-13T04:01:00.001-05:00

1167. 7-1/4" long:

1168. The two pieces are 21" and 10" long, submitted by a visitor, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this device.

Larger image

The upper part is made of wood and is somewhat flexible:

1169. Approximately 24" diameter:

1170. 5-1/2" long:

1171. An unidentified tool from Stan's collection:

Larger image

1172. Less than 2" tall, another device submitted by a visitor:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 209

2007-12-06T04:23:00.002-05:00

1160. 2-1/2" long, patented in 1874:

1161. 3-7/8" x 3-3/8", another unidentified device submitted by a visitor:

1162. Approximately 30" long, patented in 1870:

From Gil Gandenberger's collection

Larger image

1163. 12-1/2" long:

1164. 8" long:

1165. 7" long, this tool is indirectly related to the objects in the previous photos, number 1164:

1166. 5-1/4" long:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 208

2007-11-29T04:23:00.001-05:00

1154. These drills were made for a particular purpose:

Larger image

1155. Submitted by a visitor who is looking to identify this tool:

Larger image

1156. Appoximately 3" tall:

1157. 1-3/8" inside diameter, more guesses on this one at Neatorama:

1158. 22" long, patented in 1897:

Larger image

1159. 8-3/4" long:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 207

2007-11-22T06:46:00.001-05:00

1148. 4-1/2" long:

1149. 12-1/2" long, this tool is missing an important part:

1150. 6" long, there are some small holes in the tubing on the right:

For more guesses on this one take a look at Neatorama.

1151. 11-3/4" long:

1152. 15" long:

The two pieces of wood seen below on the base are covered with leather:

Pivoting the handle brings down a similar part from the top:

1153. 6-1/2" long, submitted by a visitor:

Larger image
Text on this tool reads "MARKF HIRSCH". The jaws can only be opened about 1/16", and are fully open in the photo.

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 206

2007-11-15T04:10:00.001-05:00

1142. 12" long, submitted by a reader of this site:

1143. 9" long:

1144. Approximately 14" diameter, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses.

1145. 11-3/4" long:

1146. 4" tall, submitted by a visitor from the Netherlands who is looking to identify these items, specifically, the parts with the holes, since the other half might be a later addition. The large holes are numbered from 1 to 20, other text on it reads "MLE84":

1147. 43" tall:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 205

2007-11-08T04:10:00.001-05:00

1136. 12-3/4" long:

1137. 10" long:

1138. 9-1/2" long:

1139. Appoximately 15" long:

From Gil Gandenberger's collection

1140. 14" tall, more guesses on this device at Neatorama:

1141. 9" long, submitted by a visitor who is looking to find the exact purpose of this tool:

Larger image

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 204

2007-11-01T04:15:00.002-05:00

1129. 3" long, patented in 1870:

From Gil Gandenberger's collection

1130. Submitted from Australia:

A close-up of one of the small parts on the lower left of this photo can be seen here.

1131. 24" long:

1132. 18" long:

1133. Another photo from Simon, who shot this strange looking device in the business high-rise area of Beijing:

More guesses on this one at Neatorama

1134. 6-1/2" long:

1135. 6-3/4" long:

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 203

2007-10-25T04:10:00.002-05:00

1122. 600" long:

1123. 54" tall x 8" diameter, the tag above the handle reads "A.A.I. Expedition":

1124. 17-1/2" long:

1125. 8-1/4" long, submitted by a visitor who is looking to find what it was used for, the other side is stamped "BERG 1G" and it appears to be solid gold:

1126. 5-1/2" long, this metal box was made to hold something specific:

1127. 3" long, there are two tapes connected here, one can be pulled out from each side:

The first tape is marked "Breaching" and "Pressure", the other "Steel" and "Timber"

Larger image

1128. This kit is over 100 years old and is made up of a metal container and five glass pieces, three of which are stored under the two visible below:

From Gil Gandenberger's collection

The container has a thermometer on the side of it:

Close-up image
More guesses on this one at Neatorama

These portraits are on the labels located inside of the glass pieces:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 202

2007-10-18T03:49:00.001-05:00

1115. 7" long:

Larger image

1116. 8" long, from the 1860's, more guesses on this device can be found at Neatorama:

Larger image

1117. 10" long:

-Parts A, B, and C are connected and move as one piece.
-Part D is connected to handle 1, see second photo.
-To operate, hold handle 1 with the right hand, and turn handle 2 with the left, 2 will make contact with A, causing shaft C to rotate, handle 2 will next strike B, rotating C in the opposite direction.
-Continuous turning of the handle results in a back and forth rotation of shaft C.
Larger image

1118. 12" long:

Larger image

Larger image

1119. 6-1/2" long:

When the handles are fully compressed there is a 1/4" gap between the jaws, they are 5/8" apart in this photo.

1120. 9-1/2" long:

1121. 6" long, submitted by a visitor:

-----

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 201

2007-10-11T04:15:00.001-05:00

1109. 7" tall:

1110. Approximately 22" long, more guesses on this one and a chance to win a t-shirt at Neatorama:

Larger image

From Jack Devitt's collection

1111. 9-3/8" long, maybe someone can tell me what this hook is for, I've shown it to a lot of people but no one has been able to identify it, the only text on it is "SP":

1112. 7-3/4" long:

1113. 12-3/4" long, patented in 1888:

1114a. Submitted by a visitor who is looking to find the purpose of this device:

Larger image

The owner's description:

1.The box is 17"L x 5 1/4 " H x 4 7/8" W.--- 2.Metal tag in top of testing area reads Roller-Smith Co. Type B Instrument # 1445 -Bethlehem Pa. ---3. It is hand dated 8/13/18 on warranty sticker attached to bottom--- 4."Battery Instructions" attached to the bottom of the box indicate it was powered by 2 flashlight batteries.--- 5.There is a small swing needle meter with + , - and center indicator (see picture 1114e)----6. The white scale strips which run the length of the box are numbered but do not indicate what is being measured. There are four sets of numbers on the scales ---brown ---- black ---- red ---blue and at the right end of the box there is a copper bar which has corresponding colors with a plug-in attached to a cloth covered electrical conductor running down into the box. The scale strips start at 0 on upper scale strip top right end and continues to 1000 on upper strip left top end then drops down to lower strip left top end and continues from 1000 to 200000 on lower strip top right end (see close-up picture 1114c) . ---- 7. Running down the length of the white scale strips in their centers is stretched a fine wire (see yellow arrow in picture 1114c)---also see hand held probe attached to a cloth covered conductor --- I'm thinking the probe was run along the wire by hand until the swing meter needle centered and thus a reading of the number at location of the probe was made. 8. Also there are two loose "Percentage Scale for Ohm/meter" strips. When laid on the white scale strips they were perhaps a means to measure resistance (see picture 1114d). When not in use the ohm strips are held by clips in the cover of the box (see picture 1114b)

1114b.

Larger image

Two close-ups:

1114c.

1114d.

1114e.

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 200

2007-10-04T04:15:00.000-05:00

This post could be my most difficult set so far, the only one that I know the answer to is number 1106.

1103. 2-1/2" long:

The owner got this at a flea market years ago where he was told it was part of a kit for a car. There used to be writing on the green side and a horizontal line across the middle of it. The object is completely sealed.

1104. Found in Illinois:

1105. 6" diameter, submitted from Texas:

In the center hole is a wood ball with shallow grooves running from one end to the other, it spins and seems to be on an axle to keep it at the height of the opening. The lid does not come off.

1106. 9-1/2" tall:

1107. 9" long, from New Hampshire, the upper part can be rotated to the left about 135 degrees:

Larger image

Larger image

1108. 7" long:

Larger image

The owner's description:

I obtained this at a store in Australia, the manager just called it a "Thing". No one knows what it's used for. It is well made, from steel, and the tube has been blued on the outside like a rifle barrel. The plunger and block are slip fit into the tube bore and made air-tight with the "O" rings. Air is exhausted through the tiny holes either end of the tube when the plunger slides into it. The knurled grip knob has been welded to the plunger shaft. It has not been used as a punch because there are no hammer marks on the plunger knob end, also the rubber mounted pin would not be strong enough to take the punching force. Why has it got outer "O" rings on the tube? When assembled the plunger pin just protrudes out the block pin hole and can slide in and out.

1108a.

Larger image

Five more annotated photos:

1108b.

1108c.

1108d.

1108e.

1108f.

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 199

2007-09-27T04:15:00.001-05:00

1097. 4-3/4" long:

500-3000:

1098. 30" tall, patented in 1858, more guesses and yet another chance to win a webcam at Neatorama.

1099. 7" long:

1100. 2-1/4" tall, 1-1/2" diameter:

1101. 6-3/4" long:

With handles fully compressed:

1102. A few more pictures from Simon, 3" long:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 198

2007-09-20T04:17:00.002-05:00

1091. 4-1/2" long, over 2000 years old:

1092. 3-1/8" tall:

1093. 5-3/4" tall, patented in 1875:

1094. 3-5/8" long, an unidentified piece of hardware:

1095. 3" diameter, invented in 1947:

1096. 4-3/4" long, patented in the 1890's, more guesses and another chance to win a Free Live! Pro Webcam by Creative at Neatorama:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 197

2007-09-13T04:28:00.001-05:00

1085. 1-1/4" tall x 1" wide:

1086. Submitted by a visitor looking to identify this device, 11-1/2" long:

1087. 3-1/4" tall:

1088. The container is 7-1/2" tall:

1089. 6" long, patented in 1881, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses and a chance to win a Creative Live! Pro Webcam.

1090. 7-1/4" long:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 196

2007-09-06T04:17:00.001-05:00

1079. 2-7/8" long, patented in 1880:

1080. 3-1/8" long, more guesses and a chance to win a t-shirt on Neatorama.

1081. 12-1/2" long:

Larger image

A view from the top with the lid open:

From Jim Brown's collection

1082. 5" long, submitted by Simon:

1083. 7" long, made of wood and Bakelite:

1084. 1" and 7/8" diameter:

1" long:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 195

2007-08-30T03:50:00.001-05:00

1073. 3" long:

1074. 8-1/2" tall, patented in 1872:

1075. 3-1/4" OD, 1-1/4" ID, 7/8" thick, submitted by a visitor who is looking to find the exact purpose of this lock:

1076. 2" tall, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this one:

A different model of the same piece of hardware:

1077. 9"-11" long:

1078. 23" long:

To submit photos, click on the profile link at the upper right to find my email address.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 194

2007-08-23T04:15:00.001-05:00

The first three this week are unidentified tools that were sent in by visitors.

1067. 5" long, text on it reads:"8-2/0", "M&T" and "RM=00":

1068. 12-1/2" long:

1069. This one was found in a second hand shop in Omaha, Nebraska; here is the owner's description of it:

It is made of wood, 47-1/2" long, top 11" is 7-1/2" around and the rest is 5-1/2" around. There is a wooden plug (that has a 7/8" hole in it) that goes into a 1-1/4" hole that goes thru to the bottom where there appears to be a marble. The bottom has a 1/4" criss cross 1/4" deep. Inside there is a 1/2" wooden dowel 44" long. Also 4" from the top there is a 1-3/8" hole on one side.

1070. 50" long:

A similar tool except that the jaws are angled:

1071. 3-1/2" long as seen in this first photo:

1072. 6-3/4" long, for more guesses on this device take a look at Neatorama.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 193

2007-08-16T04:17:00.001-05:00

1061. 4" long, another photo from Simon:

1062. 2-3/4" long:

1063. 10' tall:

1064. 3/16" diameter, with a U.S. quarter:

1065. 7" long, made of lead, wood, and leather, submitted by a visitor:

Larger image

1066. 8-1/4" long, invented in 1862, for more guesses on this device take a look at Neatorama.

Larger image

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 192

2007-08-09T04:14:00.001-05:00

1055. 6-7/8" long, the pointer on the top is made of a thin piece of steel and will easily spring back and forth:

The knob on the back loosens the front and allows it to be rotated:

Turning the part on the far left moves the indicator in the center and adjusts the tension on the pointer.

The lower piece can also be rotated and then locked into place with the knob on the right:

The black part at the very bottom appears to be made of bakelite.

1056. 4" long:

1057. 6" diameter:

1058. 24" long:

1059. 40" tall:

Larger image

1060. The brass base is 3-1/4" long, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this device.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 191

2007-08-02T04:28:00.002-05:00

1049. 2-1/2" tall:

Larger image

1050. 3" long:

From Simon's collection.

1051a. 42" tall:

1051b. This is not a weapon but was used for a similar purpose as the tool in the previous photo, 10" long:

1052. 12-1/2" long:

1053. 1-5/8" diameter, made of glass, both the top and bottom are flat:

For more guesses on this one and a chance to win a t-shirt, take a look at Neatorama.

1054. 20" long:

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 190

2007-07-26T04:30:00.001-05:00

1043. 6" tall, made in Germany around 1650:

1044. 12-1/2" long:

1045. 2-1/2" wide, another photo from Simon:

1046. 10" long:

1047. 2" diameter:

1048. 6-3/4" long:

With handle fully compressed:

The lower jaw reads "Receiver No. 6" and the upper is marked "Tol. Rys. & Lt. Co."

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 179

2007-07-18T18:39:00.002-05:00

1037. 4-3/4" diameter:

1038. 17-1/2" long:

1039. 7-1/2" long, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this tool:

It was used on a farm but not with animals, and it's missing the straps that went through the holes on the end.

1040. 15' diameter:

1041. Approximately 24" long, made in the 1880's, this device was photographed at the Trap Hall of Fame:

Larger image

1042. 12" long:

From John Sindelar's collection

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 178

2007-07-12T04:18:00.002-05:00

1031. 3-1/2" diameter:

1032. 7" long, thanks to Simon for submitting this device:

Larger image

1033. The longer part measures 66" and the smaller piece is 28" long, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this tool.

1034. 15" long:

A newer model:

1035. Over ten stories tall, this tower was built for a specific purpose:

It was constructed around 1917:

1036a. 24" long, patented in 1904, next to the compass on the left is an aperture with a mirror several inches below it, a second aperture is on the lower part of the right end:

1036b. 30" long:

Larger image

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 177

2007-07-05T04:30:00.002-05:00

1025. 4" long:

1026. This structure was located in the middle of a farm field about 100 yards from a major highway:

Larger image

1027. 10" long:

Patented in 1896

A close-up of the blade that sticks out of the bottom:

From John Wells' collection

1028. 5' diameter, I'm looking for a one word answer for this:

1029. 8-1/2" tall, 2-1/2" diameter:

There are a total of eight holes on the side, each of which has a 3/4" long screw.

1030. 4" long, from the 1890's, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this device and a chance to win a t-shirt.

Larger image

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 176

2007-06-28T04:10:00.003-05:00

1019. 2-3/16" long:

The outer two are imprinted with a 4 on the large end and a 3 on the other, while the middle one is marked with a 1 (small end) and a 2.

The ends can be unscrewed and/or pulled out of the cylinders, five pieces total for each.

All of the threads have two slots and all three cylinders have a different inside dimension. I've shown these to a lot of people, so far no one has been able to identify them.

1020. 6" diameter, made around 1800:

1021. 12" long, patented in 1876:

From Ron White's collection

1022. 16-1/2" long:

From Jim Brown's collection

1023. 1-1/4" diameter, thanks to Bill for submitting this one, more guesses at Neatorama:

Patented in 1899

1024. 15" long, text on this device reads "The Leeds and Northrup Co., Scientific Instruments, Philadelphia":

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 175

2007-06-21T17:01:00.001-05:00

1013. 2-1/4" long:

A view of the other side:

1014. 12-1/2" long:

1015. 5-3/4" long:

1016. 44" long, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this one:

1017a. 15" tall:

1017b. Another version of the same device, circa 1750:

1017c. Similar to the first two but made for a different purpose, made in 1582:

Larger image

1018. 10" long:

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 174

2007-06-13T04:02:00.004-05:00

1007. 11" long:

Another version of the same device:

From John Sindelar's collection

Click here to see a larger image.

1008. The part on the left is about 18" long:

Larger image

1009. 12-1/2" tall, made of silver and brass, from Germany
circa 1652:

Larger image
When viewing the enlarged photo it might be necessary to click on the picture to increase its size, also try hitting the F11 key to get a larger viewing area.

Larger image

1010. The word on the second line gave away the answer so a couple of its letters were removed, 13" long:

From Jim Brown's collection.

1011. 15" wide, pivoting the handle 180 degrees raises the upper part about 1":

1012. 16" tall, made in Europe around 1700, take a look at Neatorama on Thursday for more guesses on this one:

Larger image

Close-up #1

Close-up #2

Close-up #3

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 173

2007-06-07T16:00:00.002-05:00

1001. 30" tall:

1002. Submitted by a visitor who is looking to find out what this tool is:

1003. 16" tall, when this device was new the circular parts on the upper right had small nets attached to them:

1004. 40" long, made of bamboo, with a metal clip. Take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this one, where Alex is giving away a t-shirt for the first correct answer.

From Jim Brown's collection.

1005. 12" long:

1006. 7-1/2" long:

As you can see in this close-up, the holes are numbered 3, 3-1/4, 3-1/2, 3-3/4, 4, 4-1/4, 4-1/2..., with each integer having four holes. The last hole on this side is marked 17-1/4. The numbers appear to indicate a measurement in millimeters.

The first hole on the other side is 17-1/2 and the last is 23. I don't know exactly what this gauge was used for.

Close-up

Answers

Next week I'll be out of town for a few days, so I'll be posting on Wednesday instead of Thursday.

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 172

2007-05-31T04:09:00.003-05:00

995. Releasing the lock mechanism and turning the dial will loosen the rope and allow the two pieces of wood to be separated (approximately 6"-8" maximum). Patented in 1877, 12" long:

Take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this device, he's giving away two T-shirts this week, one for the first correct answer and another for most humorous guess.

996. 10-3/4" long:

Larger photo

997a. 4" long, this tool has three functions:

998. 11" long, the head of this hammer is made of metal:

From Jim Brown's collection.

999. 16-1/2" long, this tool is missing its wood handle:

1000. 18" tall:

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 171

2007-05-24T04:00:00.001-05:00

989a. 6" long:

Both of these large keys were marked as being for the same purpose.

989b. 5-1/4" long

990. 6-5/8" long:

991. Approximately 4"-8" tall:

Larger image

These devices are slightly related to the ones in the previous photo:

Larger image

992. Submitted by a visitor:

993a. 11" long:

993b. This is a similar tool that performs the same function, 9-1/2" long:

Patented in 1885

From Jim Brown's collection.

994. 4-1/4" long:

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 170

2007-05-17T04:30:00.001-05:00

983. 36" long:

Take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on the use of this hammer. From Jim Brown's collection.

984. 4-1/4" long:

985. 27-1/2" long:

986. Approximately 2-1/2" long:

From Stan's collection.

987. 9" long:

987a. 10" long:

988. 17" long:

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 169

2007-05-10T04:25:00.000-05:00

977. 3-1/2" long:

From Jim Brown's collection.

978. 5-1/2" long, submitted by a visitor:

979. 12-1/2" long:

980. 5-1/4" long, held closed by a spring:

981. 11-1/2" long, compressing the handles opens the jaws at both ends:

For more guesses on this device take a look at Neatorama, where Alex is offering two t-shirts as prizes, one for the first correct answer and another for the most humorous guess.

982. 7" long, from the mid 1800's, this is a particular style of knife that is still available today:

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 168

2007-05-03T04:04:00.001-05:00

971. 3-1/2" long:

972. 7-1/2" long:

973. The one on the left is approximately 48" tall:

From Jim Brown's collection.

974. Submitted by a visitor who is looking to find out exactly how this counter was used:

975.

There are two wheels visible on the side of the part at the top left, the other end has a similar set:

The base is 6" wide x 14" long, and has a corrugated section that matches the upper piece:

The top part can be rolled back and forth along the base:

From Stan's collection

976a. 8-1/2" long:

976b. Another version of the same tool, 13-1/2" long:

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 167

2007-04-26T04:04:00.000-05:00

965. 9" long:

966. 9-1/2" long:

967. 8-1/4" long:

From Jim Brown's collection.

968. 14" long:

969a. 12-1/2" long:

969b. Another version of the same device, the jaws on the right open to a maximum of approximately 3" from point to point. 5" long:

These last five photos are all related:
970a.

970b.

Larger expanded view of this photo

970c.

970d.

970e.

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 166

2007-04-19T04:30:00.000-05:00

959. 9" long:

960. Close-up/partial shot:

961. Approximately 18" long, this first photo is a salesman's sample and is smaller that the actual product. The two straight pieces can freely rotate.

40" long as seen below, it's a different model but used for the same purpose, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this one.

962. 4" long, submitted by a visitor:

963. 3-1/4" long, Civil War era:

964. 2"-3" long, these stones were carved by Native Americans a couple thousand years ago:

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 165

2007-04-12T03:28:00.000-05:00

952. Submitted by a visitor, 5-1/2" diameter:

Take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this device.

953. The idea here is to name the purpose of the buildings and where they are located:

954. 10" tall:

955. 11" long, 4-1/2" between the points:

956. 5-3/4" long:

The part in the foreground can be unscrewed, revealing a small corkscrew, though it's not used for removing corks from bottles.

957. Someone sent in the photos below, looking to find more info on these tin auto emblems. In small letters at the bottom of each there is text that says Italy, France, England, and other countries. The owner would like to know if they have a specific use, and where they were purchased. 3" diameter:

4" x 2":

3" x 2":

958. The blade is 14" long:

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 164

2007-04-05T03:18:00.002-05:00

946. Approximately 11" long, this tool is over 160 years old:

947. 6-1/2" long, more guesses on this one can be seen on Neatorama:

The bottom is hollow.

948. 8-3/4" long:

949. 2" long:

950. 5" wide:

951. 48" long:

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 163

2007-03-29T04:01:00.000-05:00

940. 6" long, patented in 1872, take a look at Neatorama for more guesses on this device:

941. A couple weeks ago I discovered these buildings near where I live, they were built for a particular purpose:

942. 38" long:

943. Approximately 5-1/2" long:

944. 8" long:

945. 12-7/8" long:

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 162

2007-03-22T04:15:00.003-05:00

933. 2-1/2" wide:

934. 4-1/4" tall:

935. 1-3/4" long, top and side view, more guesses on these two at Neatorama.

936. Approximately 6" long:

937. 36-1/2" tall:

938. 12" long:

From Stan's collection

939. 14-1/4" long:

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 161

2007-03-15T04:29:00.003-05:00

927. 9-1/4" long:

928. 7" long:

929. 13-1/2" long:

930. 37" long, it's missing the top inner piece, and there is a hole at the bottom:

931. 14" x 11", for more guesses on this ceramic object, take a look at Neatorama.

932. 3-5/8" tall, this is a particular type of bottle:

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 160

2007-03-08T04:20:00.000-05:00

921. 9-3/4" long:

922. 10" long:

The triangular head can freely rotate.

923. 8" long:

924. 16" x 1-3/4", don't know what this one is for:

925. 2" and 2-1/2" long", please see Neatorama for more guesses on these two, once again Alex is offering a t-shirt for the first correct answer.

926. The rollers are about 12" long, though it looks similar to a clothes wringer, that's not what it is.

From Jack Devitt's collection

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 159

2007-03-01T04:30:00.002-05:00

915a. 2" long:

915b. Similar to the previous device, 3-5/8" long"

Rotating the piece on the back moves the needle on the front:

Close-up shot

916. 2" long:

917. The wooden base is 16-3/4" long:

918. 7" long:

919. 6" tall, please see Neatorama for more guesses on the purpose of these springs, this week Alex is offering a T-shirt for the first correct answer.

920. 5-1/2" long:

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.

Set 158

2007-02-22T04:23:00.000-05:00

908. 7" long:

909. 10" long:

910. 9-1/2" long, more guesses on this device can be found on Neatorama:

911. 2-1/2" long:

912. 5" x 4-1/8":

913. 10-1/4" long:

914. 8-1/2" long, submitted by a visitor:

Answers

Last week's set is seen below, click here to view the entire post:

More discussion and comments on these photos can be found at the newsgroup rec.puzzles.