Unusual PROTO 425 'Silverware' Ratchet

[DSLTRK]

I've never seen one before, in person or on the inter-webs.
I'm gonna nickname it the silverware ratchet, because the handle reminds me of silverware.

Uses the Challenger style double pawl mechanism, with the NBM style head. A NBM mechanism does fit in the body. Fine 60 tooth. Have any of you seen this style before?

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[3baygarage]

Nice find. I think you found a special order piece or prototype.

 

[tylerg1]

Any story about where you acquired it?


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk Pro

 

[DSLTRK]

Found it at the local Swap meet. It may very well be a prototype given my proximity to the original mfg location in Los Angeles. The number 425 seems to be hand stamped with a numbering punch.

 

[DSLTRK]

Found it at the local Swap meet. It may very well be a prototype given my proximity to the original mfg location in Los Angeles. The number 425 seems to be hand stamped with a numbering punch.

I learned that these challenger style ratchets wernt made in LA but at the P & C factory in Milwaukee wi.

Makes it more interesting if it indeed is a prototype perhaps it was shipped to the western Proto office for review.

 

[davethorik]

I learned that these challenger style ratchets wernt made in LA but at the P & C factory in Milwaukee wi.

Makes it more interesting if it indeed is a prototype perhaps it was shipped to the western Proto office for review.

The P&C factory was in Milwaukie, Oregon. Still very cool ratchet!

 

[DSLTRK]

The P&C factory was in Milwaukie, Oregon. Still very cool ratchet!

Wow learning something new everyday. Thanks for the info.

 

[3baygarage]

If they are NB style, would they have been made on the West coast at all? How did that work? Are these after Stanley purchased Proto?

 

[bonneyman]

The flat back is very distinctive.

 

[3baygarage]

Adding to the mystery.

Let’s see, 425, 310, only a few more pieces of the puzzle and we’ll solve this.

 

[DSLTRK]

Adding to the mystery.

Let’s see, 425, 310, only a few more pieces of the puzzle and we’ll solve this.

Is that a 3/8" drive? I wonder if the numbering indicated a limited production run much like the Craftsman ratchets in the hardwood cases.

 

[3baygarage]

Yep 3/8.

Maybe you’re onto something about the #.

Found on ebay, from the Vegas area iirc, not long after your post. It was quickly shuffled in my mess, so finally posted now after finding the thread again.