Beam boring machine

This past weekend I was fortunate to find a boring machine, in what appears to be near mint/excellent condition. The finish on the metal parts are free of rust and appear brand new and the wood and finish is exceptional. No manufacturer name only this: PATENTED MAY 24, 1864 on the top and No. 1 on the base. Takes 1/2" auger bits, but none with the machine.

QUESTIONS: Does anyone have any other information on this machine? Does anyone know where I may be able to buy auger bits for this machine?

Thanks for any help. Jerry Borchert

I think there is a place in Texas that sells bits. I'm not sure if it's Old Tools or what. I can't seem to find the message where it was posted before. You could try a search engine and look for oldtools.com (or something like that). I sent a guy there before and he had bits for sale. I was lucky when I got mine. The man who sold it to me knew another guy who had bits for sale and I got several good ones. Good luck. I found his web site it's myoldtools.com Jim

[This message has been edited by J Rogers (edited 02-16-2001).]

Thanks for the help. The place is www.myoldtools.com out of Greenville, Texas. Unfortuneately the prices for these bits ANYWHERE is very high. It has been recommended that I buy a new chuck that requires a 1/2" threaded connection; then cut the head off of a 1/2" bolt and insert that into the 1/2" chuck on the boring machine. At the same flea market where I got the boring machine I also got a collection of auger bits for a brace at cheap prices, so all I need to do is cut the end of these bits off and use them in the new chuck.

Jerry Borchert

I've seen boring machines set up like that, but never saw one working. I did talk to my contact and he has bits for sale, $10 each, if you're interested. Jim

Jim, Yes I am interested in a 1" and a 1-1/2". Do you think from your experience I need anything larger? Send the details and I will get a money order on the way. Many thanks, Jerry

I'll check with him and see what sizes he has left. I got these from him 1",1 1/4",1 1/2", 2". I'll let you know as soon as I find out. Jim