Very early SnapOn tool question

[moparthug]

Just picked up this awesome little wrench, I didn't realize it was a SnapOn until I got home and cleaned off decades of grunge. The stamping on the top of both socket ends is either "-9" or "6-" depending on how you hold it, which number is correct?.

[Northwoods]

They're cool.  Found my first one last weekend.  Mine is an F 1416 (meaning 14/32" and 16/32" opening).

http://www.collectingsnapon.com/index.php?page=wrenches/Hammer Head Series   

[moparthug]

It seems I have the same F-1416, and this is my first SnapOn hammer head wrench as well. Does yours have any markings where mine says either -9 or 6-?

[lptools]

Hello, I looked at one of the Snap-on date code charts, none of the 6's or 9's show a slash, maybe an owner's mark??????

[Northwoods]

No date code on mine. Just the Snap-on logo and size on both ends. Seems like I have seen one on the web that had more info on the shank.

[mikeswrenches]

My best guess is 1929 but a case could be made for 1939. Check the link below and you can decide for yourself. On occasion, I have been known to be wrong...this may be one of those times.

http://www.collectingsnapon.com/index.php?page=Data_Chart/Date%20Chart

Mike

[moparthug]

If the -9 or 6- is a makers mark it's dead center on both ends and perfectly the same as far as spacing and depth, it sure looks to me like a factory stamping.

[strik9]

I picked up a SO socket wrench with the knurled handle from the 5XXX series.   Pre date code stuff. 

   Nice tools but very costly for their day.

[Northwoods]

Here's a bigger one.  I believe the F in the designation stood for Ferret (first used in 1927, according to AA) as was the 3/8" line of ratchet/socket products.  Ferret suggests toughness and ability to get into tight spots.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-Snap-on-Tools-Hammer-Head-Fixed-Socket-12-Pt-Wrench-3-4-11-16-/282694758042

[bill300d]

The F 1416 was made between 1927 and 1931 so 1929 would be my guess.