Pawn shop find: Thorsen Open Gear ratchet

[bonneyman]

Nice condition 77J4, 3/8" drive. According to AA it's from the middle period - 1950 to 1970. Really starting to appreciate these open gear rats.
Paid $2 for it.

Don't hate me, Derek.

[OilyRascal]

$2 - pfffft - AND its complete with a dust cover that hasn't been removed and that now fits loosely.  I remain curious as to why the J2, J3, J4, J5, J6, etc. markings on the 77J model.

[oldtoolguy]

I used a similar ratchet marked P & C for many years in my job as Millwright in a paper mill.  That small head would fit in close quarters on things like Fast couplings to take the bolts out. 
I actually wore it out, and couldn't find any repairs parts.   

[bonneyman]

$2 - pfffft - AND its complete with a dust cover that hasn't been removed and that now fits loosely.  I remain curious as to why the J2, J3, J4, J5, J6, etc. markings on the 77J model.

Date code maybe???
I was given an obviously older Thorsen open gear, and there's several differences. Head is smaller (gear teeth extend beyond it), but the pawl is thicker and taller. And no following number.