Historical information

The subject item is an early Victorian Scotch Brace with a 10-inch sweep. They were also known as a six penny or "gentleman's" brace and were designed to accept tapered square shank bits, early designs have a thumb screw to help secure the bit. Later designs had a catch to secure drilling bits.
This type of brace was used in wagon making for boring & drilling holes into the wood for a variety of purposes, including driving screws.
The subject item is unmarked but could have been made in Glasgow Scotland by John Fray in the 1800s

Significance

A significant early example of a drill brace made in the UK during the 1800s demonstrates the evolution of this type of tool from this time that today is a rare and collectable example of woodworking tools.

Physical description

Drill Brace metal with socket and thumbscrew, varnished wooden head and handle

Inscriptions & markings

None