I found these two old slicks in a box. (see attached photos) My father bought them years ago. They are 24” long with 2 ½” and 4” blades.
So on a whim, I quickly flattened the back, and sharpened the bevel on 400 grit sand paper on a glass plate, followed up with a buffing wheel. Although just a quick sharpening, I was thrilled with how the 2½” Slick cuts.
Last year I spent several hours with a small chisel cutting a 4’ x 2” rabbit in a stair landing, what a job! Definitely would have been a job for this tool.
The manufacturer’s name seems to be W.P. Beasley but it is hard to tell, anyone know?
Also, how do I flatten the back of this large chisel, can I use 100 grit sandpaper, or is there another way, the back is pitted.
Replies
I love Old Chisels - Are the pits real deep? Have you tried a file?
I looked in a book on old tools and could not find it but that does not mean anything there a lot of tool makers. I bet they are very good steel and will get very sharp.
This is all my book said about slicks:
Carpenter Slicks are the largest of all chisels, often 2 or 3 feet long and up to 4 inches wide. The razor sharp tools were made to be pushed with the arms or shoulder rather than struck with a mallet. The wooden socket handle terminates in a swollen - end knob.
I wish I knew more about Slicks myself- I think the original handles were longer or at least the ones that I have seen were like in the pic.
I thought I would show you my last old chisel I bought. I'm not sure If it is a chisel or a Slick . It is a "Clear Cut " by Geo. Worthington. It was with out a handle and it was in rough shape. I cleaned it up a little and use my old wet grinder on it- It is deadly sharp.
The handle is Osage Orange . I made it like the old Stanley Socket Chisel handles with the leather washers .The blade is 2 in. wide X 6 1/2 to where the socket starts.
Edited 7/20/2003 6:42:50 PM ET by Ron
Uni,
If the pitting is deep and would remove any markings for collectors
it might be best to leave it alone. Light pitting would not be a bother unless it is on the very edge. I would not remove too much metal as it will lighten the tool, and cause chatter(vibrations).
I have extra long & short handles for the ones I use. Adds more versatility to a very useful tool.
Grey
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