Rare Athol 712 vise with interesting handle

[Mantiques]

I bought this vise last week. It is marked Athol Mach Co Athol, Mass USA and 712 with a 1912 date on the bottom. I know it is pre 1920 by the markings. The jaws are 4". The interesting thing about it is the handle. it is a fixed handle (does not slide back and forth). In order to operate the vise you need to push the handle screw forward to engage the threads.

I can not find any information on this model. Has anyone seen this handle before? Thanks Phil

 

[va.grouseman]

It's a ratcheting vise.---You should post it on the (The VISES of Garage Journal) thread.

Nice find.

 

[Lookin4'67Galaxieconv]

It's a ratcheting vise.---You should post it on the (The VISES of Garage Journal) thread.

Nice find.

Or you could post a link to the thread...

https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=44782

 

[thehorse13]

There was one for sale on Craigslist here for about 3 months. No one wanted it. The guy had the price down to 50 bucks before the ad expired. It was in the same condition as yours.

The ratchet handle is a neat oddball for collectors but most people prefer the standard spinning models for actual use.

 

[notlob]

The ratchet handle would be useful in select situations, but generally seems to be additional complication for little improvement in functionality.

 

[Mantiques]

Thank you very much for the ad.