Auriou Rasp-stitchers Hammer [Rare, Vintage]

Product Description

This is from the Auriou Toolworks forge in France.

The handle is boxwood and has the distinct wear marks where the “stitcher” held the handle with his fingers for many years.

A “stitcher” is the person who applies the teeth to the face of the rasp which would be held in a lead bedded anvil (to avoid “bounce”).

The teeth are applied in diagonal rows and this is all done by the drop of the hammer onto the barleycorn shaped pick which raises the teeth on the polished blank. It is extremely skillful work.

This hammer has a beautifully weighted head (note the hammer is “dropped” onto to the pick rather than a striking action).

This hammer is at least 50 years old. Similar hammers are still used today in the making of these hand stitched rasps.

The provenace is certain as this hammer (one of 2) was gifted to Mike Hancock of Classic Hand Tools, a long time supporter of Auriou hand forged tool making.

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