Goodell-Pratt Spiral Ratchet Screwdriver w/Hex Adapter

This is a very rare tool manufactured in the 1908-20's era in Greenfield Mass! This is the improved model from the original 1890 patented model, featuring ratchet movement in both directions in both the closed and opened spiral positions. Controlled by a selector switch on the larger main shaft. This slot bit screwdriver is 15.8" long fully extended, 10" long closed and locked in a stationary position, without the bit in the chuck. We are also including a modern hex tip adapter that fits into the collet type chuck so you can use standard hex bits including star and Phillips bits current found at your local hardware store.  Also included is a small set of allen hex tips to fit the adapter.  This one is in very good usable condition, with one original 1/4" wide slot bit included. This one is marked by the maker,"GOODELL-PRATT CO. TOOLSMITHS GREENFIELD MASS. U.S.A." and also marked "PATENT MAY.12.1908". Goodell Bros., the original patent holder, became Goodell-Pratt Co. in 1899. This is a unique design with a good solid wood handle, that has some wear, dings on the butt end mostly and some scratches noted, but still looks nice. The ratchet and spiral features are in nice shape, very little wear, smooth operation. The bit is removable, held in place very tightly with a good collet type screw chuck with a notch at the bottom that a male notch on the bits fits into to keep the bits from spinning in the chuck. As you can see the area around the selector switch is all brass, and the brass has minor wear noted. Overall a very nice clean tool. One of the first we have offered with a usable hex adapter so you can use it in you shop for a larger variety of applications!