The New Britain Machine Company
![[Decal from a None Better Socket Set]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_12dr_536w_socket_set_decal_f_cropped.jpg)
Table of Contents
Introduction
The New Britain Machine Company was an important manufacturer of both machine tools and hand tools, and over its long history sold tools under such well-known brands as Husky and Blackhawk. The company has appeared previously in our article on Craftsman "BE" and H-Circle Tools as the manufacturer of the familiar older tools. In this page we'll take a closer look at the company, and show examples of the tools New Britain made for its own brands, including None Better and Husky.
Company History
The New Britain Machine Company was founded in 1887 in New Britain, Connecticut. By the early 1900s the company was offering sockets and drive tools, intended primarily for automotive service, a rapidly growing market at that time.
In the early 1930s New Britain Machine acquired the Husky brand (and possibly production facilities) from the Husky Wrench Corporation of Kenosha, Wisconsin. Husky Wrench had established a well-regarded line of socket tools during the 1920s, and under New Britain the brand became very well known over the following decades.
The Craftsman Contract
In the mid 1930s New Britain landed a major contract as the supplier of sockets and drive tools for the Sears Craftsman line. Although not the very earliest Craftsman-branded socket tools, New Britain's line of "BE" and H-Circle tools were extremely popular and helped establish Craftsman as a serious brand for the automotive service market. (The interested reader can refer to our article on Craftsman "BE" and H-Circle Tools for more information.)
During the 1940s the company continued to expand its automotive service line under the New Britain brand. After about 1945, New Britain's Sears contract declined as the older socket tools were replaced by the new "V"-series tools. Some of the older sockets were still listed in the 1947 catalog, but by 1949 only the "V" series tools were shown.
The NAPA Connection
![[New Britain NAPA 50th Anniversary Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_napa_1975_wrench_f2_cropped_inset.jpg)
New Britain was a long-time tool supplier for the NAPA auto parts stores, a large retail chain managed by the National Auto Parts Association. This supplier arrangement was definitely in place by the late 1940s, based on a magazine advertisement of the time, and possibly began much earlier. (NAPA was established in 1925.)
New Britain remained as a supplier to NAPA until at least the mid 1970s. Fig. 1 shows a New Britain NAPA 50th anniversary wrench from 1975, a 9/32x5/16 ignition wrench.
Acquistion of Blackhawk
In the early 1950s New Britain acquired the Blackhawk brand (and probably production facilities) from Blackhawk's parent company. The exact date of the acquisition is not yet known, but the 1953 Blackhawk catalog W-101 appears to be under new management, based on the numerous changes to the tools offered. Blackhawk remained an important brand for New Britain Machine for many years, and in fact New Britain adopted some of Blackhawk's designs for its own "New Britain" branded tools.
Also in the early 1950s New Britain registered the "Mustang" trademark and used it for a line of economy-grade tools, with a design very similar to the older style used for the Craftsman contract.
In the early 1970s New Britain Machine was acquired by Litton Industries, an industrial and aerospace company. A Husky catalog from 1974 lists New Britain as a division of Litton, and New Britain continued to operate under Litton for some years after the acquisition.
Patents
| Patent No. | Inventor | Filed | Issued | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 847,601 | G.B. Pickop | 01/03/1907 | 03/19/1907 | Ratchet Wrench | |
| 1,289,558 | R.F. Sedgley | 02/05/1916 | 12/31/1918 | Hex Wrench Socket Holder | None Better 1/4-Hex Drive Socket Set |
| 1,386,708 | J.C. Hurley | 08/22/1919 | 08/09/1921 | Wrench with Ratchet Gear | None Better Ratchet Handle |
| 1,438,900 | H.H. Chase | 10/04/1921 | 12/12/1922 | Socket Wrench Container | None Better Hex Drive Socket Set |
| 2,030,138 | W.F. Costello | 06/19/1935 | 02/11/1936 | Tool Set Container | |
| 2,206,943 | W.F. Costello | 12/04/1937 | 07/09/1940 | Ratchet Wrench | New Britain NS40 1/2-Drive Ratchet |
| 2,542,241 | J.A. Fors | 10/23/1946 | 02/20/1951 | Ratchet Wrench | Husky CS41 1/2-Drive Ratchet |
| 2,554,990 | L.E. Kilness | 11/18/1949 | 05/29/1951 | Ratchet Mechanism | Husky CS42 1/2-Drive Ratchet |
| 2,671,368 | F. Diebold | 01/24/1952 | 03/09/1954 | Open-End Wrench | New Britain NDF-518 "Nut Master" Wrench |
| 2,981,389 | L.E. Kilness | 07/05/1957 | 04/25/1961 | Ratchet Mechanism | Husky CS42 1/2-Drive Ratchet |
Trademarks
New Britain Machine registered and used a number of trademarks over the years. The "New Britain" name itself was registered with the first use listed as 1895, although the company catalogs usually give the founding date as 1887.
The "None Better" trademark was registered with the first use listed as 1917, although some advertisements appear to have used the mark as early as 1915. The NB-Circle logo was registered with the first use date listed as 1919.
The "Husky" trademark was originally registered in 1924 by Sigmund Mandl and was acquired by New Britain with their purchase of the Husky Wrench Corporation.
The "Mustang" trademark was registered with a first use in 1954.
Early Tools
None Better Ratchet Handle
![[None Better Ratchet Handle]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_ratchet_handle_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 2 shows an unusual ratchet handle with open teeth, marked "None Better" with forged raised letters, with "Made in U.S.A. by The New Britain Machine Co." and "Pat'd 8-9-21" on the reverse.
The overall length is 8.0 inches.
The handle is very well made of hardened and polished steel, but the operation was a bit of a mystery until the patent document was located.
A search for patents on the stated date found this tool described by patent #1,386,708, issed to J.C. Hurley. The patent illustration clarifies the operation of the tool, as it shows that the ratchet handle was designed to work with special sockets, each having a matching set of teeth. The sockets were held in place by a detent ball in the handle, not visible in the photograph. (This handle was acquired without any matching sockets.)
Carbon-Steel and Economy Tools
New Britain Machine continued to offer a line of lower-priced carbon steel tools well after alloy steel had become standard for the higher-quality product line.
None Better No. 177 1/4-Hex Drive Socket Set
![[None Better No. 177 1/4-Hex Drive Socket Set]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_14hex_socket_set_cropped_inset3.jpg)
Fig. 3 shows a None Better No. 177 1/4-hex drive socket set, consisting of seven sockets with a hex L-handle fitted to a metal case. The model number is not marked, but the set was identified by reference to the 1938 None Better catalog.
The case has a decal at the end with the NB-Circle logo, shown in the inset at the right, and the center inset shows the date "Patented Dec. 12, 1922" stamped on the bottom.
The sockets range in size from 1/4 to 7/16 and are broached for 6-points, except for one special socket (third from the right) with a knurled broach. (This type of socket was needed to remove the knurled nuts used on some radios of the time.) The sockets are marked "Made in U.S.A." with a cross-hatched band around the center, and are finished with cadmium plating.
The patent date on the bottom of the case refers to patent #1,438,900, issued to H.H. Chase and describing a socket holder case such as this one, with the sockets held in place by the handle. The 1938 None Better catalog refers to this as a "Handle Lock Container", and notes that the No. 177 set was one of their best sellers at the time. The list price was $0.57.
The L-handle is marked "Made in U.S.A." with a "Pat. Dec. 31, 1918" patent date, which was found to refer to patent #1,289,558, issued to R.F. Sedgley. This patent describes a hex L-handle which can serve as both the driver and for socket storage, with the sockets pushed onto the handle and retained by a friction ball. Although no assignment is noted in the patent document, it was apparently licensed and used by New Britain Machine.
None Better offered a similar No. 77 set with the same sockets as this set, but with the sockets stored on the handle instead of a metal case. The list price for the No. 77 set was just $0.54.
Husky 1/4-Hex Drive Socket Set
![[Husky 1/4-Hex Drive Socket Set]](Photos/tools/husky_14hex_socket_set_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 4 shows a very similar Husky 1/4-hex drive socket set, consisting of a metal case with seven sockets and a 1/4-hex Ell handle.
The case has a decal at the end with a partially legible "Husky Tools" and "Made in U.S.A." marking. The bottom of the case is stamped "Patented Dec. 12, 1922" (not shown), and the Ell handle is stamped "Made in U.S.A." (see top inset).
The sockets are, from right to left, 1/4, 5/16, Special Knurl, 11/32, 3/8, 7/16, and 1/2, and all have hex broachings except for the special knurled broach (third from the right). (This type of socket was needed to remove the knurled nuts used on some radios of the time.) The sockets are stamped "Made in U.S.A." with the fractional size, and have band of cross-hatched knurling around the center. The finish is cadmium plating.
As with the previous figure, the patent date on the bottom of the case refers to patent #1,438,900, issued to H.H. Chase and assigned to New Britain Machine.
None Better 1/2-Hex Drive Sockets
![[None Better 1/2-Hex Drive 12-Point Sockets]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_12hex_sockets_x4_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 5 shows an group of 1/2-hex drive sockets, identified by a catalog illustration as None Better carbon steel sockets. The sockets are marked "Made in U.S.A." and have a shallow knurled band around the base.
New Britain 751 Stamped-Steel Wrench
![[New Britain 751 3/8x7/16 Stamped-Steel Box-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_db1214_751_wrench_cropped.jpg)
Fig. 6 shows a New Britain 751 3/8x7/16 box-end wrench of stamped-steel construction, part of a set originally held together with a screw. The wrench is marked "New Britain, Conn." and "Made in U.S.A." on the front.
The overall length is 5.0 inches.
New Britain 756 Stamped-Steel Wrench
![[New Britain 756 15/16x1 Stamped-Steel Box-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_db3032_756_wrench_cropped.jpg)
Fig. 7 shows a similar New Britain 756 15/16x1 stamped-steel box-end wrench, marked "New Britain, Conn." and "Made in U.S.A." on the front. The overall length is 7.5 inches.
1/2-Drive Socket Tools
During the 1930s (and possibly earlier) None Better offered a wide selection of 1/2 (square) drive sockets and tools. These tools were of carbon-steel construction with cadmium finishes, and were priced inexpensively to meet the needs of automobile owners or other occasional uses.
The tools in these sets were typically marked with just "Made in U.S.A.", without a company name or model number, and some tools may be difficult to identify once removed from the context of the set. The sockets can be identified by the characteristic parallel knurled band around the base, along with the "Made in U.S.A." marking, as other makers of similar sockets used different marking styles.
None Better 1/2-Drive Sliding Tee Handle
![[None Better 1/2-Drive Sliding Tee Handle]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_12dr_breaker_tee_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 8 shows a 1/2-drive None Better sliding Tee handle, stamped "Made in U.S.A." on the head. Note that the knurled band is similar to that found on None Better sockets.
The inset shows the female-only drive head, intended for use with a drive plug or double-male extension. This example is one of the earlier models; by 1938 the sliding Tee handles were being equipped with both male and female drive.
None Better 1/2-Drive Universal
![[None Better 1/2-Drive Universal and Drive Plug]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_12dr_universal_cropped.jpg)
Fig. 9 shows a 1/2-drive None Better double-female universal with a double-male drive plug. Both pieces are marked "Made in U.S.A." but without a company name or model number, but the 1938 None Better catalog lists the universal as number 13590 and the drive plug as a number 12648.
None Better 1/2-Drive Open-Style Ratchet
![[None Better 1/2-Drive Ratchet]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_12dr_ratchet_open_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 10 shows a 1/2-drive None Better open-style ratchet with a drive plug, stamped "Made in U.S.A." on the flat handle.
The overall length is 9.0 inches, and the finish is a thin cadmium plating.
Although not marked with a model number, the 1937 catalog lists the ratchet as number 12654, and the drive plug as number 12648.
This ratchet was one of the drive tools included in the None Better No. 536W Socket Set below.
None Better 1/2-Drive 7 Inch Double-Male Extension
![[None Better 1/2-Drive 7 Inch Double-Male Extension]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_12dr_ext_7in_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 11 shows a 1/2-drive None Better 7 inch double-male extension, stamped "Made in U.S.A." on the shank.
The overall length is 7.5 inches, and the finish is plain steel, with traces of cadmium plating.
This extension is one of the drive tools from the None Better No. 536W Socket Set below.
None Better 1/2-Drive 31/32 Socket
![[None Better 1/2-Drive 31/32 Socket]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_12dr_31_socket_12pt_cadmium_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 12 shows a 1/2-drive None Better 31/32 socket with a double-hex broaching, stamped "Made in U.S.A." on the side. The base of the socket has a simple knurled band, the design used by None Better for carbon-steel sockets in both square and hex drive.
The finish is cadmium plating.
This is one of the sockets from the None Better No. 536W Socket Set below.
None Better No. 536W 1/2-Drive Socket Set
![[None Better No. 536W 1/2-Drive Socket Set]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_12dr_536w_socket_set_f_cropped.jpg)
Fig. 13 shows a None Better No. 536W 1/2-drive socket set in its metal case, identified by the None Better decal and model number on the inside cover. The set includes an extensive collection of double-hex sockets, plus square sockets, drive tools, and a valve grinder attachment. The sockets and tools are all stamped "Made in U.S.A." (except for one or two), but are not marked with model numbers or the company name. The finish is cadmium plating.
The set as shown is almost complete, based on the description in the 1938 None Better catalog. The missing pieces are the Ell handle and 7/8 double-hex socket.
The double-hex socket sizes are, from the left in the top row, 5/16, 11/32, 3/8, 7/16, 1/2, 17/32, 9/16, 19/32, 5/8, 21/32, 11/16, 3/4, 25/32, 13/16, 7/8 (missing), 15/16, and 31/32. Three more double-hex sockets appear in the lower right corral, with sizes 1 inch, 1-1/8, and 1-1/4.
The drive tools consist of a speeder, a ratchet with drive plug, an Ell handle (missing), a double-male extension, and a universal joint. Also included is a valve-grinding attachment, shown in the lower right corner.
This set was likely made in the early to mid 1930s, based on the inclusion of double-hex sockets but square rather than double-square sockets. Still earlier sets would likely have included hex sockets, and by 1938 the None Better catalog was specifying double-square sockets for this set.
Fig. 14 shows a close-up of the decal on the inside cover of the No. 536W set. This is the standard decal used on sets from None Better, and a similar decal appears on the top cover of this set.
The upper part of the decal shows the NB-Circle logo with "None Better" and "New Britain" arranged in a circle. Below that is "Made in U.S.A.", then "The New Britain Machine Co." with "New Britain, Conn" at the bottom.
The model number for the set is printed below the decal.
Alloy-Steel Sockets and Drive Tools
In the early 1930s New Britain developed a line of alloy-steel sockets and drive tools easily recognized by the forged ratchet handles and cross-hatched knurling on the sockets. These tools were probably first offered under either the Husky or None Better brand, but eventually were marked for all three of New Britain's brands. In addition, this line of tools became the very well known Craftsman "BE" and H-Circle socket tools.
None Better [S1240] 1/2-Drive Socket
![[None Better S1240 1/2-Drive Socket]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_12dr_s1240_socket_12pt_chrome_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 15 shows an early 1/2-drive None Better [S1240] 1-1/4 socket, stamped "Made in U.S.A." and "Chrome" with the NB-Circle logo.
The finish is chrome plating.
Husky H3183 1/2-Drive Ratchet
![[Husky H3183 1/2-Drive Ratchet]](Photos/tools/husky_12dr_h3183_ratchet_plain_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 16 shows a 1/2-drive Husky H3183 non-reversible ratchet, stamped with the Husky trademark and model number on the cover plate. The forged shank is marked "Made in U.S.A" in raised letters, with "Forged" plus the codes "T-S" and "5-46" on the reverse.
The overall length is 10.2 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
The ratchet mechanism has a 20-tooth drive gear and is designed to work with a drive plug or double-male extension.
None Better S45 1/2-Drive Ratchet
![[None Better S45 1/2-Drive Ratchet]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_12dr_s45_ratchet_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 17 shows the None Better equivalent model, a 1/2-drive None Better S45 non-reversible ratchet, stamped with the brand and model number on the cover plate. The forged shank is marked "Forged" in raised letters, with "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 10.2 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.
This ratchet is basically identical to the previous Husky model except for the finish and markings.
None Better S52 1/2-Drive Flex-Head Breaker Bar
![[None Better S45 1/2-Drive Ratchet]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_12dr_s52_breaker_flex_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 18 shows a 1/2-drive None Better S52 flex-head breaker bar, stamped with the brand and NB-Circle logo on the shank, with "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 12.0 inches, and the finish is nickel plating.
The flex head has indentations for three favored positions, and the head movement is controlled by a detent ball in the shank.
Husky H4275 1/2-Drive Reversible Ratchet
In the late 1930s New Britain developed a reversible ratchet mechanism using a distinctive pivoting shift lever. The resulting ratchets were produced for the New Britain and associated brands (None Better and Husky), as well as for the Craftsman "BE" and H-Circle product lines.
![[Husky H4725 1/2-Drive Ratchet]](Photos/tools/husky_12dr_h4725_ratchet_pend_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 19 shows a 1/2-drive Husky H4275 ratchet, stamped "Pat. Pend." with the Husky logo and model number on the cover plate. The forged shank is marked "Made in U.S.A" in raised letters, with "Forged" and "T 2 46" on the reverse.
The overall length is 10.2 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.
The shift lever on this example is an earlier design and extends back from a pivot pin, with a raised tab for the thumb. Although not visible in the photograph, the shifter is held in position by a detent ball under the tail of the lever.
The patent pending notice refers to patent #2,206,943, filed by W.F. Costello in 1937 and issued in 1940. Although it's likely that examples of this ratchet (and related models) were made after the patent was issued, no tools have been found with the patent number marked. (The patent was found by a search, not by reference to a tool marking.)
None Better S40 1/2-Drive Reversible Ratchet
![[None Better S40 1/2-Drive Ratchet]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_12dr_s40_ratchet_pend_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 20 shows a very similar 1/2-drive None Better S40 ratchet, stamped "Pat. Pend." with the brand and model number on the cover plate. The forged shank is marked "Made in U.S.A" in raised letters, with "Forged" on the reverse (not shown).
The overall length is 10.2 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.
The shift lever is an earlier design and extends back from a pivot pin, with a raised tab for the thumb. Although not visible in the photograph, the shifter is held in position by a detent ball under the tail of the lever.
As with the previous example, the patent pending notice refers to patent #2,206,943, filed by W.F. Costello in 1937 and issued in 1940.
New Britain NS40 1/2-Drive Ratchet
![[New Britain 1/2-Drive NS40 Ratchet]](Photos/tools/new_britain_12dr_ns40_ratchet_late_pend_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 21 shows a somewhat later 1/2-drive New Britain NS40 ratchet, stamped "Pat. Pend." with the New Britain brand and model number on the cover plate. The shank has forged-in markings "Made in U.S.A" one one side with "Forged" on the reverse.
The overall length is 10.2 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
The shift mechanism on the ratchet is a later design with a short lever and thumb wheel, and matches the illustration in the 1941 New Britain catalog 56-M.
As with the previous examples, the patent pending notice refers to patent #2,206,943, filed by W.F. Costello in 1937 and issued in 1940.
New Britain NS70 1/2-Drive Sliding Tee Breaker Bar
![[New Britain 1/2-Drive NS70 Sliding Tee Breaker Bar]](Photos/tools/new_britain_12dr_ns70_breaker_sliding_tee_f_cropped.jpg)
Fig. 22 shows a 1/2-drive New Britain NS70 sliding Tee breaker bar, stamped "Made in U.S.A." with the New Britain name in script.
The overall length is 9.0 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
New Britain NBF16 3/8-Drive Universal Socket
![[New Britain 3/8-Drive NBF16 Universal Socket]](Photos/tools/new_britain_38dr_nbf16_socket_univ_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 23 shows a 3/8-drive New Britain NBF16 1/2 universal socket, stamped with the New Britain name in script and "Made in U.S.A." on the base, with the fractional size as "1-2" on the socket wall.
New Britain NB40 3/8-Drive Ratchet
![[New Britain 3/8-Drive NB40 Ratchet]](Photos/tools/new_britain_38dr_nb40_ratchet_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 24 shows a 3/8-drive New Britain NB40 ratchet, stamped with the model number and New Britain name in script on the cover plate. The handle is marked "Forged" in forged raised letters, with "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 6.6 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
None Better B70 3/8-Drive Sliding Tee Breaker Bar
![[None Better B70 3/8-Drive Sliding Tee Breaker Bar]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_38dr_b70_breaker_sliding_tee_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 25 shows a 3/8-drive None Better B70 sliding Tee breaker bar, stamped with the None Better brand and "Made in U.S.A" on the sliding head.
The overall length is 7.6 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
Husky H3721 3/8-Drive Flex-Head Breaker Bar
![[Husky H3721 3/8-Drive Flex-Head Breaker Bar]](Photos/tools/husky_38dr_h3721_breaker_flex_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 26 shows a 3/8-drive Husky H3721 flex-head breaker bar, stamped with the Husky logo and model on one side, with "Made in U.S.A" on the reverse.
The overall length is 9.8 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.
The knurled handle is drilled for a 5/16 diameter cross-bar.
New Britain NM51 1/4-Drive Flex-Head Handle
![[New Britain NM51 1/4-Drive Flex-Head Handle]](Photos/tools/new_britain_14dr_nm51_handle_flex_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 27 shows a 1/4-drive New Britain NM51 flex-head handle, stamped with the New Britain name in script, with "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 5.8 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
None Better M50 1/4-Drive Flex Handle
![[None Better M50 1/4-Drive Flex Handle]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_14dr_m50_handle_flex_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 28 shows a 1/4-drive None Better M50 flex handle, stamped "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 5.8 inches, and the finish is polished steel.
The tool was acquired as part of the None Better No. 600 Socket Set shown in the next figure.
None Better No. 600 1/4-Drive Socket Set
None Better offered 1/4-drive socket sets in several models, all with the same selection of sockets but with varying numbers of drive tools.
![[None Better 1/4-Drive No. 600 Socket Set]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_14dr_no600_socket_set_f_cropped.jpg)
Fig. 29 shows a None Better No. 600 1/4-drive socket set, a modest collection consisting of an M50 flex-head handle, an M30 cross-bar, six hex (later double-hex) sockets, and three double-square sockets. Our set as acquired was missing the cross-bar and three sockets.
The hex socket models and sizes were M608 (1/4), M609 (9/32), M610 (5/16, missing), M611 (11/32), M612 (3/8, missing), and M614 (7/16). The set also included three double-square sockets, with models and sizes M808 (1/4, missing), M810 (5/16), and M812 (3/8).
The steel case has dimensions 6.8 inches long by 2.3 inches wide by 1.1 inches high.
This set was likely made in the early to mid 1930s, based on the inclusion of hex sockets and plain steel finishes. By 1938 the 1/4-drive sets included double-hex sockets instead of the older hex broaching, and chrome-plated finishes were standard as well.
Husky 1/4-Drive Socket Set
![[Husky 1/4-Drive Socket Set]](Photos/tools/husky_14dr_h36xx_socket_set_f_cropped.jpg)
Fig. 30 shows a similar but somewhat later Husky 1/4-drive socket set in a metal case. The set as found includes a H4598 flex-head handle, five hex/double-hex sockets, and three double-square sockets. We currently don't have a catalog reference for this set, but the original contents likely included a cross-bar for the flex handle, plus one additional 9/32 hex socket.
The socket models and sizes are, from the left, H3600 (1/4), H3601 (9/32, missing), H3602 (5/16), H3603 (11/32), H3604 (3/8), and H3605 (7/16). The double-square sockets continue the model number sequence with H3606 (1/4), H3607 (5/16), and H3608 (3/8). The sockets are all marked "Made in U.S.A." with the Husky logo, and several are also marked "Chrome". The finish is chrome plating.
The steel case is the same size as the one in the previous figure, 6.8 inches long by 2.3 inches wide by 1.1 inches high.
This set was likely made in the late 1930s, based on the use of double-hex sockets and chrome-plated finishes. Note that this set uses the older Husky H-series model numbers, with sequential rather than size-based numbers; later Husky tools had model numbers similar to the New Britain and None Better product lines.
Husky H5126 1/4-Drive Ratchet
![[Husky H5126 1/4-Drive Ratchet]](Photos/tools/husky_14dr_h5126_ratchet_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 31 shows a 1/4-drive Husky H5126 reversible ratchet in a somewhat unusual configuration with a female drive gear. The cover plate is stamped with the Husky logo and model number, and the forged body is marked "Forged" on one side with "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 6.6 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
Later Tool Styles
In the late 1940s New Britain switched to a different design for its ratchets, replacing the older dual-pawl mechanism with a simpler oscillating pawl. The new design appeared first with the New Britain brand, but later was used for Husky and possibly other brands.
Around this same time the handle styles of the drive tools were updated, and the socket design changed as well.
New Britain NS56 1/2-Drive Flex-Head Breaker Bar
![[New Britain NS56 1/2-Drive Flex-Head Breaker Bar]](Photos/tools/new_britain_12dr_ns56_breaker_flex_f_cropped_inset3.jpg)
Fig. 32 shows a rare 1/2-drive New Britain NS56 flex-head breaker bar, marked "New Britain NS56" on a panel forged into the handle, with "Made in U.S.A" on the reverse.
The overall length is 18.0 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
Husky CS41 1/2-Drive Ratchet
![[Husky 1/2-Drive CS41 Ratchet]](Photos/tools/husky_12dr_cs41_ratchet_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 33 shows a 1/2-drive Husky CS41 ratchet with a forged handle, stamped "Made in U.S.A." and "126" on the reverse shank.
The overall length is 9.9 inches, and the finish is chrome plating with a polished head.
Although not marked with a patent notice, this ratchet is covered by patent #2,542,241, filed by J.A. Fors in 1946 and issued in 1951.
The meaning of the "126" code is not known at this time.
The Kilness Patent Ratchet Mechanism
In the early 1950s New Britain licensed a patent for a new ratchet design that promised great strength in a very small head. The ratchet design and a later improvement were developed by Luther Kilness, and the patents were issued as #2,554,990 in 1951 and #2,981,389 in 1961. These are basically second-generation improvements on the original round-head fine-tooth patent #1,981,526 developed by S-K's Theodore Rueb in 1934.
The Kilness-design ratchets were highly successful products for New Britain, and probably should be considered as one of the company's most important contributions to tool development.
Husky CS42 1/2-Drive Ratchet
![[Husky 1/2-Drive CS42 Ratchet]](Photos/tools/husky_12dr_cs42_ratchet_pend_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 34 shows a 1/2-drive Husky CS42 ratchet with a forged handle, stamped "Made in U.S.A." and "18" on the shank, with a "Pat. 2554990 & Pat. Pend." patent notice on the reverse.
The overall length is 10.0 inches, and the finish is chrome plating with a polished head.
The patent notice refers to both the 1951 Kilness patent #2,554,990 and the pending patent #2,981,389, filed by Luther Kilness in 1957 and issued in 1961.
The meaning of the stamped "18" code is not known at this time.
Husky CS-45 1/2-Drive Ratchet
![[Husky 1/2-Drive CS-45 Ratchet]](Photos/tools/husky_12dr_cs45_ratchet_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 35 shows a later 1/2-drive Husky CS-45 ratchet with a knurled handle, stamped "U.S.A." on the shank with "Pat. 2981389" on the reverse.
The overall length is 10.0 inches, and the finish is chrome plating with a polished head and shank.
The patent notice refers to patent #2,981,389, filed by Luther Kilness in 1957 and issued in 1961.
Husky CB-43 3/8-Drive Ratchet
![[Husky 3/8-Drive CB-43 Ratchet]](Photos/tools/husky_38dr_cb43_ratchet_pat_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 36 shows a 3/8-drive Husky CB-43 ratchet with a knurled handle, stamped "U.S.A." and "45" on the shank, with "Pat. 2554990 & 2981389" on the reverse.
The overall length is 7.5 inches, and the finish is chrome plating with a polished head and shank.
The patent notice refers to Kilness patents #2,554,990 and #2,981,389, issued in 1951 and 1961, respectively.
Husky CB-45 3/8-Drive Ratchet
![[Husky 3/8-Drive CB-45 Ratchet]](Photos/tools/husky_38dr_cb45_ratchet_pat_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 37 shows a very similar 3/8-drive Husky CB-45 ratchet with a knurled handle, stamped "U.S.A." and "11" on the shank, with "Pat. 2554990 & 2981389" on the reverse.
The overall length is 7.4 inches, and the finish is chrome plating with a polished head and shank.
The patent notice refers to Kilness patents #2,554,990 and #2,981,389, issued in 1951 and 1961, respectively.
Husky CB-54 3/8-Drive Flex-Head Ratchet
![[Husky 3/8-Drive CB-54 Ratchet]](Photos/tools/husky_38dr_cb54_ratchet_flex_pat_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 38 shows a 3/8-drive Husky CB-54 flex-head ratchet with a knurled handle, stamped "USA" on the shank with "Pat. 2981389" on the reverse.
The overall length is 10.9 inches, and the finish is chrome plating with a polished head and shank.
The patent notice refers to the later Kilness 1961 patent #2,981,389.
New Britain NB45 3/8-Drive Ratchet
![[New Britain 3/8-Drive NB45 Ratchet]](Photos/tools/new_britain_38dr_nb45_ratchet_late_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 39 shows a later example of the Kilness ratchet design in a 3/8-drive New Britain NB45 ratchet, stamped with the New Britain name in script and "USA" on the shank.
The overall length is 7.4 inches, and the finish is polished chrome plating.
The knurled handle with decorative grooves shows an example of design elements borrowed from the Blackhawk product line, acquired by New Britain in the early 1950s.
NBM 45 1/2-Drive Ratchet
In later years New Britain sold tools under the "NBM" brand, with no further markings to indicate the company. This next figure shows an example.
![[NBM 45 1/2-Drive Ratchet]](Photos/tools/nbm_12dr_45_ratchet_pat_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 36B shows a 1/2-drive NBM 45 ratchet of the Kilness design, stamped "USA" with "Pat. 2981389" on the reverse.
The overall length is 10.0 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.
NH44 3/4-Drive Ratchet
The Kilness design scales nicely to larger drive sizes as well, as the next figure illustrates.
![[New Britain NH44 3/4-Drive Ratchet]](Photos/tools/new_britain_34dr_nh44_ratchet_pat_f_cropped_inset3.jpg)
Fig. 36C shows a 3/4-drive New Britain NH44 ratchet of the Kilness design, stamped "U.S.A." and "29" with "Pat. 2554990 & 2981389" on the reverse. (The patent notice is very worn and difficult to read.)
The overall length is 19.4 inches. The finish is chrome plating, but with extensive losses due to wear and rust.
The patent notice refers to Kilness patents #2,554,990 and #2,981,389, issued in 1951 and 1961, respectively.
The ratchet mechanism uses a 60-tooth drive gear with a compact head diameter of only 2.4 inches, very respectable for a 3/4-drive design.
New Britain NB51 3/8-Drive Flex-Head Breaker Bar
![[New Britain 3/8-Drive NB51 Flex-Head Breaker Bar]](Photos/tools/new_britain_38dr_nb51_breaker_flex_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 40 shows a 3/8-drive New Britain NB51 flex-head breaker bar, stamped with the New Britain name in script, with "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 10.0 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.
Husky CB51 3/8-Drive Flex-Head Breaker Bar
![[Husky 3/8-Drive CB51 Flex-Head Breaker Bar]](Photos/tools/husky_38dr_cb51_breaker_flex_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 41 shows a 3/8-drive Husky CB51 flex-head breaker bar, stamped with the Husky logo and "Made in U.S.A." at the end of the handle.
The overall length is 8.5 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.
Wrenches
New Britain produced wrenches for its various brand lines in a number of different styles.
New Britain Early Ribbed Style
New Britain NDF-10 Open-End Wrench, Ribbed Style
![[New Britain NDF-10 1/4x5/16 Open-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_oe0810_ndf10_wrench_ribbed_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 42 shows a New Britain NDF-10 1/4x5/16 open-end wrench with a raised panel or rib, stamped with the company name in script on the front with "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 4.2 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
New Britain NDF-14 Open-End Wrench, Ribbed Style
![[New Britain NDF-14 3/8x7/16 Open-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_oe1214_ndf14_wrench_ribbed_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 43 shows a New Britain NDF-14 3/8x7/16 open-end wrench with a raised panel or rib, stamped with the company name in script on the front with "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 5.2 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
New Britain NDF-18 Open-End Wrench, Ribbed Style
![[New Britain NDF-18 1/2x9/16 Open-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_oe1618_ndf18_wrench_ribbed_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 44 shows a New Britain NDF-18 1/2x9/16 open-end wrench with a raised panel or rib, stamped with the company name in script on the front with "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 6.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
New Britain NDF-30 Open-End Wrench, Ribbed Style
![[New Britain NDF-30 15/16x1 Open-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_oe3032_ndf30_wrench_ribbed_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 45 shows a New Britain NDF-30 15/16x1 open-end wrench with a raised panel or rib, stamped with the company name in script on the front with "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 10.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
New Britain NDF-32 Open-End Wrench, Ribbed Style
![[New Britain NDF-32 1-1/16x1-1/8 Open-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_oe3436_ndf32_wrench_ribbed_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 46 shows a New Britain NDF-32 1-1/16x1-1/8 open-end wrench with a raised panel or rib, stamped with the company name in script on the front with "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 11.3 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
New Britain NDF-82 Tappet Wrench, Ribbed Style
![[New Britain NDF-82 1/2x9/16 Open-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_oe1618_ndf82_wrench_tappet_ribbed_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 47 shows a New Britain NDF-82 1/2x9/16 tappet wrench in the ribbed style, stamped with the company name in script on the front with "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 9.9 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
New Britain NDF-200 Box-End Wrench, Ribbed Style
![[New Britain NDF-200 3/8x7/16 Box-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_db1214_ndf200_wrench_ribbed_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 48 shows a New Britain NDF-200 3/8x7/16 box-end wrench in the ribbed style, stamped on the front with the company name in script, with "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 7.8 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
New Britain Panelled Style
One of New Britain's more distinctive wrench designs featured forged panels with two deep grooves along the handle. These wrenches were produced in open-end, tappet, box-end, and combination styles, and all were assigned NDF-xxx model numbers. Most of the known examples have a plain steel or black oxide finish, but some have chrome plated finishes. We'll call these the "Double-Groove" wrench series, for lack of a better term.
The dates of production for these wrenches are somewhat uncertain. A careful look at the illustrations in the 1940 catalog shows the NDF-series wrenches in this panelled and grooved style, with at least some models offered in a triple-chrome plated finishes. In addition, New Britain magazine advertisements from the late 1940s show that the Double-Groove style was still in production at that time. Thus the likely dates of production are probably from the late 1930s through the 1940s.
By 1959 the New Britain catalog illustrations show wrenches with a simple flat shank, and this flat style is presumed to be the successor to the earlier Double-Groove style.
New Britain NDF-33 Open-End Wrench
![[New Britain NDF-33 1x1-1/8 Open-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_oe3236_ndf33_wrench_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 49 shows an example of the Double-Groove style, a New Britain NDF-33 1x1-1/8 open-end wrench, with the reverse marked "Forged" and "Made in U.S.A." in raised letters.
The overall length is 11.5 inches.
New Britain NDF-84 Tappet Wrench
![[New Britain NDF-84 5/8x11/16 Tappet Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_oe2022_ndf84_wrench_tappet_panelled_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 50 shows a New Britain NDF-84 5/8x11/16 tappet wrench in the double-groove style, with markings "Forged" and "Made in U.S.A." forged into the reverse.
The overall length is 9.8 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.
New Britain NDF-102 Offset Box-End Wrench
![[New Britain NDF-102 1/2x9/16 Offset Box-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_db1618_ndf102_wrench_offset_panelled_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
The overall length is 8.6 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
New Britain NDF-106 Offset Box-End Wrench
![[New Britain NDF-106 3/4x25/32 Offset Box-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_db2425_ndf106_wrench_offset_panel_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 52 shows a New Britain NDF-106 3/4x25/32 offset box wrench in the double-groove style, stamped with the New Britain name in script on the front, with "Forged" and "Made in U.S.A." forged into the reverse. (The lower inset has been left in its narural orientation.)
The overall length is 11.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
New Britain NDF-114 Offset Box-End Wrench
![[New Britain NDF-114 1-1/16x1-1/8 Offset Box-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_db3436_ndf114_wrench_offset_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
The overall length is 15.7 inches.
New Britain NDF-201 Box-End Wrench
![[New Britain NDF-201 5/8x11/16 Box-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_db2022_ndf201_wrench_panelled_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 54 shows a New Britain NDF-201 5/8x11/16 box wrench in the double-groove style, marked "Forged" and "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 9.8 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
New Britain NDF-210 Box-End Wrench
![[New Britain NDF-210 13/16x7/8 Box-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_db2628_ndf210_wrench_panelled_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 55 shows a New Britain NDF-210 13/16x7/8 box wrench in the double-groove style, marked "Forged" and "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 11.2 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
New Britain NDF-58 Combination Wrench
![[New Britain NDF-58 5/8 Combination Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_c20_ndf58_wrench_combo_panelled_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 56 shows a New Britain NDF-58 5/8 combination wrench in the double-groove style, stamped with the New Britain name in script on the front, with "Forged" and "Made in U.S.A." forged into the reverse.
The overall length is 7.8 inches, and the finish is polished steel.
New Britain NDF-60 Combination Wrench
![[New Britain NDF-60 11/16 Combination Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_c22_ndf60_wrench_combo_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
The overall length is 8.7 inches, and the finish is polished steel.
New Britain NDF-62 Combination Wrench
![[New Britain NDF-62 3/4 Combination Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_c24_ndf62_wrench_combo_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
The overall length is 9.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
New Britain NDF-64 Combination Wrench
![[New Britain NDF-64 7/8 Combination Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_c28_ndf64_wrench_combo_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
The overall length is 10.4 inches.
None Better Wrench Styles
In the 1930s the None Better wrenches were offered in a mix of styles, with some showing smooth shanks and others with raised oval panels on both sides. Some of this variation may have been due to the use of contract production from different makers. In particular, Barcalo Manufacturing is believed to have supplied the raised-panel wrenches.
None Better 4734 Open-End Wrench
![[None Better 4734 19/32x11/16 Open-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_oe1922_4734_wrench_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 60 shows a None Better 4734 19/32x11/16 open-end wrench, stamped with the None Better name and model on the shank, with "Chrome Vanadium" and "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse faces.
The overall length is 6.2 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.
None Better 4950 Offset Box-End Wrench
![[None Better 4950 5/8x11/16 Offset Box-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_db2022_4950_wrench_offset_panel_f2_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 61 shows a None Better 4950 5/8x11/16 offset box wrench with raised panels on the shank, stamped with the None Better name on one side with "Forged Vanadium" on the reverse. (The inset appears in its natural orientation.)
The overall length is 10.3 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
The design and construction of this wrench are virtually identical to an example from Barcalo Manufacturing, shown as the Barcalo "Forged Vanadium" Offset Box Wrench in our article on Barcalo.
None Better 4739 Combination Wrench
![[None Better 4739 7/16 Combination Wrench]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_c14_4739_wrench_combo_panel_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 62 shows a None Better 4739 7/16 combination wrench with raised panels on the shank, marked "Chrome Vanadium Steel" on the reverse panel.
The overall length is 5.0 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.
Flat-Shank Style
Later wrench production for the New Britain brand used a simpler design with flat shanks and rounded sides. The standard finish for this style was chrome plating with polished faces.
The flat-shank style was also used for later production of the None Better brand.
New Britain NDF-18 Open-End Wrench, Flat-Shank Style
![[New Britain NDF-18 1/2x9/16 Open-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_oe1618_ndf18_wrench_alloy_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 63 shows a New Britain NDF-18 1/2x9/16 open-end wrench in the flat-shank style, stamped with the New Britain name in script, with "Alloy Steel" and "Forged in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 6.4 inches. The finish is chrome plating, with losses due to wear and rust.
New Britain NDF-62 Combination Wrench, Flat-Shank Style
![[New Britain NDF-62 3/4 Combination Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_c24_ndf62_wrench_combo_flat_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 64 shows a later New Britain NDF-62 3/4 combination wrench, stamped with the New Britain name in script on the front, with "Alloy Steel" and "Forged in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 9.4 inches, and the finish is chrome plating with polished ends and faces.
New Britain NDF-63 Combination Wrench, Flat-Shank Style
![[New Britain NDF-63 13/16 Combination Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_c26_ndf63_wrench_combo_flat_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
Fig. 65 shows a New Britain NDF-63 13/16 combination wrench with a flat shank, stamped with the New Britain name in script on the front, with "Alloy Steel" and "Forged in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 10.2 inches, and the finish is plain steel with polished ends and faces.
New Britain NDF-518 "Nut Master" Open-End Wrench
In the mid 1950s New Britian brought out a line of contoured-opening wrenches under the "Nut Master" brand, based on 1954 patents by F. Diebold. Although the wrench openings look as though they would apply to some exotic spline connector, the design was actually intended as an improved type of open-end wrench, with the contact made on the flats rather than at the corner. The Diebold patents thus anticipate the later "Loc-Rite" patent #3,125,910 and the "Flank-Drive" patent #3,273,430 of Snap-On.
![[New Britain NFD-518 1/2x9/16 Open-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_oe1618_ndf518_wrench_nutmaster_pat_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 66 at the left shows an example of the "Nut Master" line, a New Britain NDF-518 1/2x9/16 wrench stamped with the company name in script, with "Pat. No. 2671366 & 2685219" and "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 6.9 inches, and the finish is chrome plating with polished faces.
The patent notices refer to patents #2,671,368, and #2,685,219, both issued to F. Diebold in 1954. (Note that the first patent number stamped on the tool is incorrect in the last digit; our citation shows the correct patent number.)
New Britain NDF-522 "Nut Master" Open-End Wrench
![[New Britain NFD-522 5/8x3/4 Open-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_oe2024_ndf522_wrench_nutmaster_pat_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 67 shows another example of the "Nut Master" line, a New Britain NDF-522 5/8x3/4 wrench stamped with the company name in script, with "Pat. No. 2671366 & 2685219" and "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 7.6 inches, and the finish is chrome plating with polished faces.
None Better 8725-B Offset Box-End Wrench
New Britain made an extensive line of tools for the Sears Craftsman brand during the 1930s and 40s, and the tools were marked with either a "BE" or H-Circle manufacturing code. The meaning (if any) of these codes is not known, but the following example shows that at least the H-Circle mark was also used on some of New Britain's own tools. This suggests that it may have indicated a particular production facility.
![[None Better 8725-B 1/2x9/16 Offset Box-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_db1618_8725b_wrench_offset_f_cropped_inset2.jpg)
An example of the H-Circle mark on a None Better wrench is shown in Fig. 68, a None Better 8725-B 1/2x9/16 offset box-end wrench, marked "Made in U.S.A." with an H-Circle logo.
The overall length is 7.8 inches, and the finish is chrome plating with polished ends.
This wrench was acquired as part of a set of six wrenches in a plastic roll-up pouch, all marked with the H-Circle logo.
Husky H1090-D Tappet Wrench
![[Husky H1090-D 1/2x9/16 Tappet Wrench]](Photos/tools/husky_oe1618_h1090d_wrench_tappet_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 69 shows a Husky H1090-D 1/2x9/16 tappet wrench, stamped with the Husky logo on the front with "Made in U.S.A" on the reverse.
The overall length is 10.0 inches. The finish is plain steel with polished faces.
Husky Later Panelled Style
Later production for the Husky brand used a raised panel design. This style was apparently introduced in the early to mid 1970s, and is shown in illustrations in a 1974 catalog.
Husky CE-1922 Open-End Wrench
![[Husky CE-1922 19/32x11/16 Open-End Wrench]](Photos/tools/husky_oe1922_ce1922_wrench_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 70 shows a Husky 19/32x11/16 open-end wrench with raised panels, marked "Alloy Steel Forged in U.S.A" on the reverse. The overall length is 7.8 inches.
The finish is plain steel with finely polished faces and panels.
Specialty Tools
Husky H4527 21/32 Connecting Rod Socket Wrench
The next two figures show similar fixed socket wrenches from Husky and None Better, both intended for connecting rod service. Currently we have no catalog references for these tools, but would estimate mid 1930s manufacturing dates.
![[Husky H4527 21/32 Connecting Rod Socket Wrench]](Photos/tools/husky_s21_h4527_wrench_socket_crod_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 71 shows a Husky H4527 21/32 fixed socket wrench, marked "Made in U.S.A." with the Husky underline logo.
The overall length is 9.1 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
The upper inset shows the 12-point broaching of the socket. The 21/32 socket size was required for Ford Model A connecting rod service.
Similar wrenches for connecting-rod service were made by a number of other manufacturers. Examples include the Duro 615 Socket Wrench and Blackhawk 4021 Socket Wrench.
None Better 9/16 Connecting Rod Socket Wrench
![[None Better 9/16 Connecting Rod Socket Wrench]](Photos/tools/nonebetter_s18_wrench_socket_crod_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 72 shows a None Better 9/16 fixed socket wrench, marked "Chrome" and "Made in U.S.A." with the NB-Circle logo.
The overall length is 9.0 inches, and the finish is plain steel.
The upper inset shows the 12-point broaching of the socket.
New Britain Valve Adjusting Tool
![[New Britain Valve Adjusting Tool]](Photos/tools/new_britain_valve_adjuster_pend_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 73 shows a New Britain valve adjusting tool, consisting of a stamped-steel wrench with a retractable screwdriver bit mounted on a swinging arm. The tool is stamped "Made in U.S.A." and "Pat. Pend" on the swinging arm.
The overall length is 8.0 inches, and the finish is cadmium plating.
The patent corresponding to the pending status is not yet known.
This valve tool is virtually identical to the Zim Valve Tool shown in another article on this site. This type of valve tool was offered in the 1937 Western Auto Supply catalog, but without any manufacturer identification.
New Britain HF8 Angle-Head Brake Wrench
![[New Britain HF8 9/16x9/16 Angle-Head Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_oe1818_hf8_wrench_anglehead_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 74 shows a New Britain HF8 9/16x9/16 angle-head wrench, intended for brake service applications. The shank is stamped with New Britain in script, with "10" and "Made in U.S.A." on the reverse.
The overall length is 5.7 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.
Readers familiar with the Cornwell angle-head wrench series will immediately recognize close resemblance of this wrench to the Cornwell models, suggesting that these wrenches were likely made by Cornwell for New Britain. See for example the Cornwell AW10 Angle-Head Wrench.
The HF series of brake wrenches were offered by New Britain as early as 1940, as they are listed in catalog 56-M from that year.
New Britain SS-5 Screw Starter
![[New Britain SS-5 Screw Starter]](Photos/tools/new_britain_ss5_screw_starter_pat_f_cropped_inset3.jpg)
Fig. 75 shows a New Britain SS-5 screw starter, a tool designed to hold and turn a slotted screw. The shank is stamped with the New Britain name in script, followed by "Made in U.S.A." and "Licensed Under Patent No. 2150184".
The overall length is 5.1 inches.
The patent notice refers to patent #2,150,184, issued to G.F. Pearson in 1939.
To operate the tool, the black barrel is first turned against the torsional spring until it locks with the pin in the detent. The blades on the end are then placed in the screw slot and the barrel released, after which the screw is firmly held by the center tab. The screw can then be inserted in its threaded hole and turned by hand using the knurled grip.
New Britain R-50 Drain Plug Multi-Wrench
![[New Britain R-50 Drain Plug Wrench]](Photos/tools/new_britain_r50_wrench_drain_plug_f_cropped_inset.jpg)
Fig. 76 shows a New Britain R-50 drain plug multi-wrench, stamped "Made in U.S.A." with the New Britain name in script.
The overall length is 11.3 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.
The wrench provides a total of eight openings, with seven hex and one 9/16 double-square at the right. The hex opening sizes are, from the left, 11/16, 1-1/8, 15/16, 3/4, 7/8, 1 inch, and 2 inches.
References and Resources
Photographs and observations of particular tools are based on items in my personal collection.
Catalog Coverage
New Britain tools were sold under various brand names, and different catalogs were issued for the respective brands. Our current catalog resources are summarized in the table below.
| Brand | Catalog No. | Year | Format | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| None Better | No. 38 | 1938 | Full | S40 reversible ratchet available. Both tapered-wall (S12xx) and straight-wall (T12xx) sockets listed. |
| None Better | No. 39 | 1939 | Mini | |
| New Britain | No. 56-M | 1940 | Half | Full line of service tools offered |
| New Britain | No. 56-M | 1941 | Half | |
| New Britain | No. 58 | 1952 | Full | |
| New Britain | No. 59-M | 1959 | Half, Mini | |
| New Britain | No. 401-M | 1966 | Mini | |
| Husky | No. 880 | 1970 | Full | Wrenches illustrated in flat-shank style |
| Husky | No. 529A | 1974 | Full | New Britain Div. of Litton Industries; Wrenches in raised panel style |
Patents and Trademarks
Patent and trademark information was obtained from the U.S. Patents and Trademarks Office (USPTO) web site at uspto.gov. Patent documents were obtained from sites offering free downloads, notably freepatentsonline.com.
Feedback
If any readers have additional information about New Britain or its other brands, please let us know via the "Contact Us" link at the bottom of any page. Your comments and suggestions are welcome as well.