Above, two Indestro examples of what are commonly called "Nut and Tap" wrenches. The centre hole served two purposes. First, it could be fit over a tap to act as a tap handle. Second, a bolt inserted through the holes on a collection of such wrenches would hold them together in a set.
![]() |
1935 |
Below, a stamped open-end wrench also made by Indestro. The interesting feature is the 3/8-24 die in the centre.
Below, from the 1935 Indestro catalogue:
I've got almost a full set of the Indestros (I've just finally turned up the 7/16- 20 and I don't have the "attractive carton."). These were made from hardened high carbon steel, and I still find a use for them as thread chasers.
Below, a similar wrench marked "Astra." I don't know who made this one. It incorporates a die for a 5/16-24 thread.
I've got almost a full set of the Indestros (I've just finally turned up the 7/16- 20 and I don't have the "attractive carton."). These were made from hardened high carbon steel, and I still find a use for them as thread chasers.
Below, a similar wrench marked "Astra." I don't know who made this one. It incorporates a die for a 5/16-24 thread.

Below, one made by the Canadian tool company Gray, with a 1/4-28 thread die:

Finally, a 5/16-24 die in the middle of a "Wizard" wrench made by the Wakefield Wrench Company:

I find it curious that every one of these wrenches I've stumbled across has a die only for the fine thread series. Possibly, fine threads were more likely to be damaged? Anyway, an interesting idea for a wrench that no longer seems to be offered by tool makers today.
No comments:
Post a Comment