Quote from: Branson on November 28, 2011, 10:27:40 AM

Quote from: Jim C. on November 27, 2011, 03:39:08 PM
In a perfect world, they'd all look like this:

Lovely!!  My Wards 45 looks close, though the shoulder bag is a little ratty. 

I've never encountered the screwdriver. It would be nice to have one.  I've been using a small perfect handle screwdriver.

Boxes, bags, and any exterior packaging for any of these old planes is hit or miss for the most part.  I'm a little more forgiving when it comes to the original boxes/packaging.  I have a small handful of boxes that are gem mint, but not many.  Most usually have some amount of damage.  An original box in any condition is better than none at all.  Finding a plane in an original factory package usually, not always, means that plane is going to be in better than average condition for its age.  The existence of a box usually means that the plane has been protected from the common bumps, bruises, and paint splatters that so many others have suffered during their lifetimes.  Boxes also help in keeping parts from getting lost.  So, don't apologize for a tattered bag.  Be glad that you have it!!

As for the screwdriver, I think the best thing to do is try to determine who made the plane for Wards, and its vintage.  Maybe Stanley or Sargent.  Then start searching for a correct vintage donor screwdriver made by Stanley, Sargent, or who ever manufactured the plane.  If your plane was made by Stanley, it shouldn't be impossible to find a screwdriver.  Sargent might be a little tougher to find.  Good luck!!  Post a few pictures of your Wards 45.

Jim C.     

I'll have to dig the 45 out of deep storage, so that won't happen soon.  It, and the Sears 45, are unmistakably Stanley made.   
Now to keep my eye out for a screwdriver of appropriate size...

Quote from: Branson on November 28, 2011, 01:32:07 PM
I'll have to dig the 45 out of deep storage, so that won't happen soon.  It, and the Sears 45, are unmistakably Stanley made.   
Now to keep my eye out for a screwdriver of appropriate size...

Finding an original Stanley screwdriver for a #45, or a #55 for that matter (they both used the same screwdriver), shouldn't be too hard or too expensive.

Jim C.

Ahh, but do you want a *documented* original screwdriver with traceable lineage and history?....

*ducking*

DNA match will suffice.

Quote from: rusty on November 28, 2011, 06:37:24 PM

Ahh, but do you want a *documented* original screwdriver with traceable lineage and history?....

*ducking*

Finding that at Your Average flea market or garage sale could be tougH.....

Jim C.