Carving /Gouge Spear & Jackson – 1900’s and 42 similar items

This 1 inch gouge is 10 inches long including a handle of 5 inches. The identification markings below the tang are Spear Jackson horizontally, Vertically there is S J between which there are smaller symbols, arrow and ?? then a large X On the back side of the gouge “ Cast Steel” inside a looped banner. It has a round bolster would mean manufactured 1910 or later. In the days before ferrules ( pre 1850’s) bolsters were wide so that hitting a handle with a mallet would not cause the tang to drive further into the handle. A 1923 catalogue of all S J products has more modern looking gouges so this one would likely have been made between 1910 and 1920. The handle is intact/complete, of note there is a small diameter leather wrap ferrule on the top of the handle which is unusual and suggests it is early 19th century. The gouge edge is still relatively sharp, it has small abrasions on it. The condition of the tool is good considering age and use over the 120 years it has been around. Once sharpened a bit it could be put into use today and function perfectly. Please see the pictures for the most accurate condition of the product. Examine the pictures closely as they are provided as part of the description. Spear and Jackson is a renowned British brand with a rich history dating back to 1760, making it one of the world's oldest manufacturers of hand tools. Originally established over 260 years ago in Sheffield, England, the company began as a small blacksmith shop specializing in crafting agricultural and garden tools. Over the centuries, Spear and Jackson expanded its product range, adapting to the changing needs of various industries, introducing new brands like Elcipse Tools in 1909 which specialised in saws, woodworking and metal working.