Here is a unique piece of British military history and industrial craftsmanship. This traditional flat-soled wooden spokeshave features a dense hardwood body fitted with a solid brass wear plate designed to protect the mouth from heavy friction.
What sets this piece apart is its fascinating military provenance. The top of the stock is clearly stamped with the British Military Broad Arrow (^) and the acceptance year 1951, dating its issue to the post-WWII, Cold War era. It is also stamped with the military stores catalog sequence C/2534 and the inspector/depot initials GG.
While there is some honest age-related smoothing and wear to the maker's stamp, the remaining visible lettering indicates it was manufactured in Sheffield, England, likely by the renowned edge-tool makers Hale Brothers at their Moorfield Works. A fantastic addition for collectors of military-issue field gear or traditional woodworking tools.
Dimensions
Length: 29cm
Width: 4cm
Depth: 2cm
Condition
Good used condition. The wooden stock has a wonderful natural patina with character-building surface marks and minor knocks from honest workshop use. The blade and brass wear plate remain firmly seated, and all military stamps are cleanly legible.
This historic hand tool would suit an avid collector of military militaria, a traditional woodworking enthusiast, or someone looking to add a touch of industrial heritage to a rustic workshop display.