Hand Braces
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- This topic has 5 replies, 4 voices, and was last updated 6 years, 1 month ago by Paul Rowntree.
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2 April 2018 at 3:11 pm #516192
Hi.
I managed to get three Stanley hand braces from a carboot sale today, five pounds for all three.
Two of the braces have two jaws and the other has four jaws.
Apart from the actual number of jaws, is there any operational difference between the two or was it just a different way of doing it?Thanks
PaulThe two jaw braces are made primarily for use with auger bits having the square cross sectioned end, opposite the cutting end although they will usually work ok with round shanked bits. Four jaw chucks are relatively uncommon and are especially good for round shanked bits.
Dave
2 April 2018 at 5:51 pm #516293The other main differences were whether the ratchet mechanisms were open, partially enclosed, or fully enclosed. (Fully enclosed keeps dirt out) and whether the moving bits were ball bearing or not.
2 April 2018 at 8:07 pm #516388That’s great.
I was hoping that the four jaw might mean I can use new auger bits in it.
It came with six tapered bits but, i’d like to use new ones if possible.Thanks gentlemen
PaulThe moving parts are probably quite dry by now. Keep them well oiled. Oil inside the Chuck so the jaws slide smoothly, oil the outer Screw-thread, the Ratchet & Pawls, and look for small Oil-Holes near the Ratchet / rear Handle, to oil the Concealed Bearings. Regular 3-in-1 is OK.
Don’t forget, you aren’t limited to Auger Bits for those jaws – you can ‘upgrade’ Braces by fitting a Hexagonal Multi-bit Holder (the magnetic kind you get with an electric drill) so it will accept Screwdriver bits, Countersinks, Drills, Expansive bits, Nut-drivers… There’s nothing like a Brace for undoing stubborn door hinges or fitting a stair handrail.
Check out Andy Lovelock on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dnjtGKIksXs
He’ll have you back at that Bootsale hunting the elusive “sealed-bearing Stanley”. Then there’s the Joist-Brace, Corner-Brace, 6-Inch-Sweep… Three is never enough.Attachments:
You must be logged in to view attached files.7 April 2018 at 12:04 pm #519619Wow, thanks for that Alan.
I think three should do me for now but, never rule out a tool purchase.
They are all oiled up and polished, ready for a few years of boring work.
I did think of getting an adapter but, the larger one which takes the bigger auger bits.
I’ll have to see what happens.Thanks again
Paul -
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