Herbrand J-12 Ratchet

[stormking]

It was my weekend for Herbrand ratchets, in addition to the s-10 I found this guy at a sale yesterday. This one is from the 30's I think and in excellent condition, probably because they couldn't find a use for it. Everything spins on this including the top plate. What was the original purpose for this ratchet?

[B17E1943]

It certainly is different. Nothing at AA about it?

[1930]

I like that ratchet

[HeelSpur]

That's different.

[kxxr]

I stumbled across this ratchet some time ago and thought it unusual enough to save a picture of it. Your Herbrand makes this one look downright plain by comparison. The brand on this one is "Williamson", not Williams, so I could find nothing about it.

[scottg]

Unusual ratchets, both of them.
Man that Herbrand had some busy designer/engineers over time.  I have seen a number of extra cool, gizmocity extraordinaire, Herbrand ratchets. 
I have a 1/4" driver handle with a hinge at the handle that lets it bend over 90 degrees to apply a lot of torque to break something loose, then pop back up to finish. It has a lock mechanism that holds it in either position.  Its the lower left in this picture. Snazzy cobalt blue handle!
yours Scott

[scooter]

As an aircraft mechanic, and having used speed handles for years to remove panels attached with countersunk machine screws, this would be ideal.   Typically use an apex-type holder on the speed handle with the correct size and style tip for the screws to be removed.  Nothing works better than a speed handle for providing the necessary torque to remove them, but a large handle on end is often necessary as you place it against your shoulder or chest to hold it tight, and apply torque to the throw.   This is especially applicable when removing screws which have been painted since their last installation.  The large end of this would be perfect for this application, and the ratcheting ability is a definte plus too.  My bet is some intended use like I describe.   Never seen one, but would love it in my box!

[dimwittedmoose51]

Man, and I thought the J-9A was cool....

DM&FS

[stormking]

Your probably right scooter. When I first picked it up it reminded me of a breast drill in a way. Don't know if I'll ever find a use for it but it looks good in my Herbrand box.