Some of these videos where you are restoring a small inexpensive tool are really top notch and I think it could inspire someone of even modest means to obtain something nice. I buy a lot of tools at farm auctions where I might get a bucket of rust screw drivers for a buck or two and cleaning them up is a real enjoyment for me. Never knew about restoring the plastic handles though so now I have even more to do!
Hello Salmonslayer49! I'm glad you are enjoying them! You literally could make a living at restorations. The real expertise comes in knowing how to spend just enough time to make a profit. It's easy to buy a tool for three dollars and sell it for ten but if it took you an hour to restore you lost money! If you have a good eye for quality and know what people want you could make a fortune! A guy who worked with my girlfriend used to make $1400 a month buying stuff from good will stores and selling the stuff on eBay! Imagine that! Thanks very much!!!!!
@@ScoutCrafter What do I look up to be able find these types of show you go to? I live in up state NY and would love to buy and restore some old tools like you!
I want to thank you for taking the time and trouble to post these videos for your audience to learn from and enjoy! While few of us take the time to tell those of you who create this content how much we appreciate it - me being one of them - your videos are among the ones I appreciate most, when you speak to us through the camera, its almost like you are speaking to a son - or grandson - you are sharing a project with, which is how these hobbies and pastimes were once passed on. We need to do much more of this - passing on these traditional hobbies, "hands-on" arts and crafts and take younger people just a little away from the virtual world and into the real world when people still knew how to work with their hands. Your manner is one that others can learn from, knowledgeable but friendly and never pedantic or hectoring, sharing rather than lecturing. What we tend to forget is that all of these tools came from companies that were all founded by real individuals whose companies usually bore their name for decades, even a century or more. Each of them had a story, often now forgotten, but the thousands of tools that bear the Wilton, Shelton, Sears or Montgomery Ward names (to name just a tiny fraction) are all monuments to their life's work. There were so many large industrial concerns in Ohio alone that it beggars belief, the industrial heartland of America. The Industrial Revolution was one of the two or three greatest events in the history of mankind. More than any other thing it took the average man in the West from a life of poverty and sustenance agriculture to a life where they had leisure time and the disposable income to have pastimes and hobbies like the gentry class. All of the mass-produced items that those of us grew up with in the 1950s and 1960s - the Sears Table Saw, Sears or DeWalt Radial Arms Saw, Montgomery Ward tools or the ubiquitous Craftsman tool sets - were produced for the vast consumer market that arrived after World War II, when the Industrial Revolution really arrived for the average middle class consumer. The vast production of all these items allows even the most budget conscious collector or tool maven to buy and restore the items you feature. For many of us seeing a Craftsman screwdriver brought back to life is relaxing and filled with nostalgia, vestigial elements from the massive industrial infrastructure that won World War II and made America the engine of Western Democracy. I inherited a lot of antique and old tools from my late brother and now that I have a little more time on my hands, I am working my way through some of them. He had a number of antique vices, some of them massive ones and it will take some research just to figure out what color the consumer items were once painted. The mass and heft of them is remarkable and perhaps more than almost any other item, they look like products of the 19th century Age of Industry. I've also got radial arm and table saws to restore and lots of beautiful hand planes and other tools and so your videos have been a relaxing way to learn about going through the task. The one thing that I would ask of the creators is to perhaps post the names of some of the products you use when they are not common items like Comet. Some of them show a product "on screen" so rapidly that even freezing the frame does not reveal what they are using. I've been far too verbose and nostalgic perhaps, but again, thanks for the time and trouble you take and allowing us to experience the pleasure you clearly take in reviving and revitalizing these old tools, each an example of the pre-disposable age, when tools were passed down for someone else to use and enjoy!
Hello Ethanmor! I can tell just from those few paragraphs that you wrote that you have a tremendous wealth of wisdom- I can tell also that you have a vast amount of life experience. Those two traits are not easily found today. I’ve always tried to associate with people like yourself hoping to learn the really important life lessons. It’s funny you mentioned the Vises you have, I too have acquired a dozen or so Vises thru the years and cherish them. However when I think that how these Vises were so well made they actually put themselves out of business! They were built to last multiple generations, there were very few repeat customers! I’m so happy that you enjoy the videos and really do enjoy making them. I feel hobbies are so important for a well rounded life. Years ago everyone had a hobby, today people just work, watch a little TV and go to bed... What a shame! Thankyou so very much for your generous comments, it’s people like you that make TH-cam so much more rewarding! 😃👍
You're welcome. You're right about hobbies, they were once almost universal among boys and men, but now seem to have been replaced by a sort of virtual world and social media. TH-cam is a great place to try to cultivate some of these hobbies and teach skills that are seldom taught by the schools. There was an interview with one of the Internet pioneers in Wired Magazine years ago where he said that he was surprised the amount of time people devoted to things like Wikipedia and instructional blogs and videos on all manners of topics, that no one would have predicted that so many people would devote themselves to sharing such things - many of them without any compensation. One of the reasons we enjoy videos like yours is because of the respect for the long hours it takes to learn a variety of skills, the joy of seeing a transformation of something that was "junk" to something useful again and of course the clear enjoyment you take in doing it and sharing it with the rest of us - and it is relaxing. I'm going to tackle some of the large planes I have soon and one of the big vises. Thanks again.
Ethanmor - That is awesome! I made a video on restoring a Parker Vise, also a monarch vise, maybe you might pick up a tip or two- I love the Parker vise!!! Thanks again!!!!
Thirty years ago an old guy gave me a large coffee can full of old screwdrivers, he said, "You will appreciate these, they were hardened by methods no longer considered safe", I still have them all, modern screwdrivers twist or chip easily and those comfort handles just suck, too slippery, don't bite into the hand.
Hello Carbide Jones! I love stories like that! Anything in a coffee can is awesome! Like you said the new stuff isn't all great, a lot of the soft handled anything will be in a landfill in twenty years... Many people are OK with that, they think everything is supposed to be replaced... Thanks very much!!!
Thank you Scoutcrafter, I bought several vintage vintage acetate handled drivers for $1 each at a local thrift store off and on as I visited there, and ended up gathering together a nice little set of hex Grey brand hex drivers. Cleaned up very nice following your advice. Went from crap to something I'm proud to have.
Excellent work! I have a vintage Craftsman brand, SAE nut-driver set with the plastic/molded type handles. The plastic handles stink like mold, or something. The set has been put away and not used as a result of...the stink. This video motivates me to restore the entire set and put them to back to use. Been watching your projects for 6-7 months and have learned quite a bit from you. Thank you for the inspiration in restoring vintage tools back to their serviceable glory.
I used to do this stuff. I rebuilt Estwing hatchets and other less valuable axe heads just because. Never spent anytime restoring screw drivers, but I might have. It was a period I went through.
Hello Bernie! Good stuff to know just in case! Funny story- My friend poured boiling water in the sink without looking and messed up his wife's knife that belonged to her grandmother! He was freaking out! I told him bring in the knife and was able to get it back to the point that she never knew! Saved his a$$! lol Thanks very much!
Awesome job I never would have realized that they were restorable,thanks for sharing ! I like older tools, and looks like I'm going to have to buy some equipment for restoration like buffer wheels ect.
Hello Tony! Although these aren't anything special they did make good examples of what could be done with a little abrasive and elbow grease! Lol. Thanks very much!!! 😃👍
Hello Number 7! They are back in service but unfortunately there are no shortcuts and they take a lot of time to restore... It's good to know if you have a job that needs to be done! Thanks very much!
I just acquired an older USA Craftsman 5/16" screwdriver. The back ball end of the handle looked like the tool had been used to bang on something or was banged on with a small hammer, lots of small unsightly indentations. I bought a set of pads as you recommended, went from coarser to finest and then some polish...looks great now, as I put it into service! Thanks and keep the fantastic videos coming!
I could watch your videos all day. Absolutely love them. I really enjoy how every other day or sometimes even more often then that, you put out a new video. Im a big fan of restoration video. Hand Tool Rescue is another favorite channel of mine, but hes been busy lately and hasnt been putting out many videos! Thanks Scout for all the hard work you put in for us to enjoy!
Hello Kevin! I really appreciate your kind feedback! I also enjoy restoration videos (watching) for some reason I find them relaxing and somewhat rewarding! I'm trying to get out three a week, Monday, Wednesday and Friday... I have a bunch of tools waiting to be restored but I don't want to spend all day in the basement! lol Thanks again Kevin for the positive input!!!!
Hello Norherman! I get "Poison Ivy" every year, some years not so bad but about every five or six years I get it bad! All over my body and it takes at least 10 days to dissipate... I'm used to it but it looks horrible! Xcelite has been around for years! They were known for their nut-drivers! Good stuff! Thanks very much!!!
Nice Job, probably never get a round to doing it ( all of mine) but a nice project and my be a nice days work cleaning up a bunch of old tools.........old craftsman screw drivers 10x better than the new ones so worth it for just those IMHO!
Hello Tim!!! This was more instructional then picking out some really nice screwdrivers... Lots of people never heard of Xcelite but like them! Funny how that works! Thanks very much!!
Wow that's fantastic you did such a great job on those tools. As I'm getting older my hands have arthritis in them so I've taken to dipping my tools into plastic dip so I can Hold them better. And as you probably already know it does protect the outside of the tools so if I want that clean look Again, all I have to do is peel it off. Thanks so much for your video
To be honest I would've let the handles the way they are. I'd clean them up of course but I'd leave the paint on them the battle scars the handles have. By the way you did an amazing job and keep up the great work!
Hello Mason! I have tons of tools that I don't "restore" and just use, and you're right, there are some tools I have that I wouldn't touch because every nick and scrape on them tells a story! However I try to pick out certain tools that I feel have given good service and are now discarded or rejected and I give them a new life. If you notice I always try to pick basket cases to restore, if they are useable and clean I leave them alone! Thanks very much!!!
They look Beautiful !!!....I like the old plastic handles ...I have a coast to coast brand handle on my column shifter in my old pickup ..It is green and yellow
Some of these like the Excelite are really great quality and worth restoring. I believe those nut drivers by Excelite went deep into the handle and that made them really strong. What used to be cheap tools in the past are far better than any cheap tools you could buy today so they are definitely worth collecting. I really like this video and the way these turned out. As always, fun to watch what you do.
Beautiful job. Just subscribed. I might be trying this. I could totally see someone wanting to do this if the tool was used by dad or grandpa. Sentimental restoration.
Hello Jake!!! Absolutely! But also they made some tools so much better years ago and it's nice to be able to make them as good or in some cases better then new!!! Thanks so much!!! 😃👍
Hello Boxcar's Garage! The best part is it works on most plastics like tool handles, knobs, and even clear plastics! The sanding set I bought was from a Pen making supply called Penn State Industries, but Amazon also sells them! Also regular wet/dry sandpaper will work fine! Thanks very much!!!!
That's really amazing how well those plastic handles cleaned up. I've noticed that the Xcelite handles tend to give off an unpleasant odor, because of something in the plastic they were manufactured with. In other words they tend to stink up the tool box or drawer they are stored in. It's not that they are dirty and need to be cleaned it is actually the plastic that sort of goes off with age. Have you ever experienced this and do you have any restoration tips to remedy this?
Nice job by a craftsman who appreciates quality tools. I've been restoring tools for decades and have made a few custom tools of my own. Your method brings back the original satin luster. If one is not concerned about saving the paint logo on the handles, this is my method - After having scrubbed the handles clean with cleanser, sand them down only once with only one sanding pad or steel wool. Take a can of MEK ( Methyl Ethyl Ketone ) and pour some into a tall glass. Wipe the handle clean of dust. Hold the screwdriver by the shaft and dip the handle down into the MEK for several seconds. The MEK is a powerful solvent which causes the plastic to soften and melt slightly on the surface and blend together into a glossy finish. You may have to dip the handle in several times to get the desired glossy finish. DO NOT touch the handle until It's completely dry otherwise you'll leave fingerprints on the softened plastic.
Hello Grant! I will have to try it! I never tried MEK on plastic! I am open to any great technique and appreciate you sharing this procedure with us! I wish I could have kept the original paint logo but as you know that's easier said then done! lol Thanks again Grant, looking forward to trying it!!!!!!
ScoutCrafter. Hi Scout, acetone does the same thing and is easier to get. Please be aware that MEK is a known carcinogen. Much to my regret I spent 3 years working with it to clean polyurethane out of big brushes after we coated timber floors. Acetone only takes a few minutes to dry but even days later the handles still look wet. Love the way your method brought them back to new. Cheers Stuart 🇦🇺
PSA: You need to know what the handles are made of. The clear craftsman type handles are acitate , those will melt to gel when dipped into acetone, In the factory they come in as long extrusion bars and are cut and machined which will give them a frosty white appearance where the machine work is done to them. After the shaft is installed they put them in a quick dip in acitone which ' polishes' them - rsanter, The Garage Journal
I asked for it and you provided! Thanks! Unfortunately, it sure is a lot of work. I'm knee deep in a Royersford Excelsior 21" right now, so I guess the screwdrivers will have to wait a bit longer.
Hello Metal Butcher! I wish there was a shortcut to get the same results but plastic is funny, if you try to buff it on the machine it will melt! Thanks very much!!! 😃👍
Well old Jarhead. I think the main reason I enjoy your videos so much is because #1we are both Jarheads USMC 1984-1992 for me 0311/1371 the 0311 is a given but the 1371 Combat engineer most people even in the Corps would have to look up Build it and blow it up what a great time Improvised explosives booby traps Etc.. I am a Hollywood marine of course being from Nowhersville Michigan (Coldwater) #2we have quite a few of the same loves of things like Knives (I currently have about 250) all good knives like Gerber, Buck, Benchmade, Antique, K-bar and a multitude of others. The only cheap ones I own are advertisement pen knives although I do have an old Barlow that was an advertisement for a tooling company that I used to use when I was in Powdered Metal, #3 Hammers I would say I have probably 100 weird, antique, ball pein, framing hammers, brick layer hatchets, gavels, the old wooden type you think of when they set up circus tents, and a ton more. #4 We are both what I like to call "Organized Hoarders" well I am organized sometimes. If it is not organized I am working on it. Problem is that I have been diagnosed with ADHD when I was a kid and still have ADHD I can assure you. #5 we both love our presses. I have a 20 ton air over oil H frame and the things you can do with that thing and a piece of railroad steel about 3 ft long is totally amazing. I worked in the Manufacturing Quality Engineering and Management for over 30 years and still have a ton of my old inspection equipment that I purchased over the years and can get a steel rod that is bent within about .0005' of being perfectly straight using 2 V blocks. Those presses are a great tool the best part about mine is the price that I did not give for it $0.00 so the price was Johnny on the spot. Took a little welding but good as new now. I am certain that there are a ton of other things that we have in common. I am a long winded commenter I know. But I want you to know that I have learned a ton from you. You are awesome. I do not have a mill or lathe but grinders for fixing, Polishing and buffing I have 6. I just purchased one 2 weeks ago that has a small pedestal on one end that is worm gear driven and moves ever so slow and it has a wet stone setting on it. It did not work from setting around for so long so I tore it apart and of course while I was at it I cleaned it and painted it all up real pretty. It is a great little bench grinder. OK I am done bending your reading eye on this video. Just watch for other Kudos that I will give you on other videos. I am just now watching old ones but I will hit every one I am certain. Thank you and Semper Fi.
Hello Brett- You are so right! We have a ton in common! I too am a Hollywood Marine! MCRD San Diego! =D 0311 also. I'm so glad you enjoy the channel and enjoy making and restoring stuff! Awesome! Semper Fi!
Hello lwoodt1! So many great tools are often discarded because of a little neglect... It's always nice to see them put back in service! Thanks very much!! 😃👍
great job, back when i restored motorcyles , i didnt know products to help polish plastic lenses existed, my goto was fine wet and dry, then a rag with toothpaste, then car polish then car wax, took hours, but brought them back to shiny
Hello Jusb! That's the same exact process! The pads are just handy and work very well but the process is no different, sanding it with progressive grits until you can polish... You're right there are no shortcuts and it takes time... It's quite rewarding when finished! Thanks very much!!! 😃👍
I have watched multiple videos on restoring old screwdrivers. By far you are the only one to end up with a like new screwdriver. Plus you don't use any strong solvents or Clearcoat to do it.
We have been walking around in the rain for a couple weeks too. Hopefully it will dry up in the next few days but they are calling for rain this weekend too. Lots of things to do and no time to do them. I'm going to borrow your screwdriver handle cleaning technique. I have a bin full of them that could use the help.
Hello Mr. Sneelock! I wish there was a quicker way but there isn't... Not without substantial risk like using heat or chemicals. This is great for those really nice projects that are worth the time and effort! Thanks very much!!!!!!!
I really was amazed at your results. Screwdrivers here as well as the good Stanley plastic handle chisels are very cheap at garage sales. dime or less for old screwdrivers $1 for chisels. also love the pencil lecturer. estate sales have boxes of old pencils for nothing!
I maintain roads through LongIsland alot of tools I find off side of the rd.'s most recent find a set of Allen key wrench set in that chrome holders nice.Great video.
Hello Alan! My Neighbor! I live in Queens! I am always shocked at how many tools are "lost" on our roads! I found a beautiful Snap-On swivel head ratchet one time! I actually saw it fall off a speeding truck! =D Thanks!!!!!
@@ScoutCrafter so neat been watching ur videos past week.Maybe one Sat. help u out with a project.im outta Bayshore.Work for Brookville.Neen in & out of Florial Park alot to My Uncle had a plumbing shop off tulip Ave.
Hello Serge! I'm so glad you enjoy the content, we have a really great bunch of people here who love old tools and restorations! I try to put out a video every Mon, wed, and Friday... Thanks so much for stopping by! 😃👍
What can you not restore? You must have the magic touch. If you come across any green handled ones, would love to see how one of those turn out. Green in my favorite color. Keep up the good work.
Hello Doug!! SK made a set of screwdrivers in the 70's that were Green with White stripes, they are some of the most beautiful and collectable screwdrivers out there! I like Green too! I missed out on a NOS set years back and I regret not buying them everyday! lol Thanks very much!!!
ScoutCrafter your very welcome. Ihink i know the set you are refering to. It is quite a set to behold. I collect all kinds of green items especially pocket knives.
I am laughing because I think I saw those same bins at Jacktown in PA!! It was a wet day. Anyway nice job! I have a few Xcelite's and they were in the basement for a few years and the handles turned white...somekind of mold I guess. Before seeing this, I went for a woreout scotchbrite and skipped the fine polishing. Still came out pretty good. Thanks for posting
Hello Jim! YES!!! Jacktown!!!!! Quite possibly my favorite place ever! I go to all 4 shows! I'm glad you were able to bring back the Xcelite's They are just so damn cool! Thanks again Jim! Hope to see you at the July show! =)
I love collecting those yellow handle screwdrivers when I can. They remind me of the ones my Dad and Grandpa had growing up.
Can't beat them!!!!!
People often ask me, "Is everything you own old?" I smile and say yes. Some people just don't get it. I'm glad you do. Great video.
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Tools I’ve inherited from my grandfathers are my favorites and usually the best quality.
Yes, is everything you own made in China, made of cheap plastic and breaks within two years of light use?
Some of these videos where you are restoring a small inexpensive tool are really top notch and I think it could inspire someone of even modest means to obtain something nice. I buy a lot of tools at farm auctions where I might get a bucket of rust screw drivers for a buck or two and cleaning them up is a real enjoyment for me. Never knew about restoring the plastic handles though so now I have even more to do!
Hello Salmonslayer49! I'm glad you are enjoying them! You literally could make a living at restorations. The real expertise comes in knowing how to spend just enough time to make a profit. It's easy to buy a tool for three dollars and sell it for ten but if it took you an hour to restore you lost money! If you have a good eye for quality and know what people want you could make a fortune! A guy who worked with my girlfriend used to make $1400 a month buying stuff from good will stores and selling the stuff on eBay! Imagine that! Thanks very much!!!!!
@@ScoutCrafter What do I look up to be able find these types of show you go to? I live in up state NY and would love to buy and restore some old tools like you!
I love the fact you see the value of well made tools and their up keep. Your videos are a treasure Scoutcrafter!
Good onya mate,love your work all the way from Australia!🇦🇺🇺🇲
I want to thank you for taking the time and trouble to post these videos for your audience to learn from and enjoy! While few of us take the time to tell those of you who create this content how much we appreciate it - me being one of them - your videos are among the ones I appreciate most, when you speak to us through the camera, its almost like you are speaking to a son - or grandson - you are sharing a project with, which is how these hobbies and pastimes were once passed on. We need to do much more of this - passing on these traditional hobbies, "hands-on" arts and crafts and take younger people just a little away from the virtual world and into the real world when people still knew how to work with their hands. Your manner is one that others can learn from, knowledgeable but friendly and never pedantic or hectoring, sharing rather than lecturing.
What we tend to forget is that all of these tools came from companies that were all founded by real individuals whose companies usually bore their name for decades, even a century or more. Each of them had a story, often now forgotten, but the thousands of tools that bear the Wilton, Shelton, Sears or Montgomery Ward names (to name just a tiny fraction) are all monuments to their life's work. There were so many large industrial concerns in Ohio alone that it beggars belief, the industrial heartland of America. The Industrial Revolution was one of the two or three greatest events in the history of mankind. More than any other thing it took the average man in the West from a life of poverty and sustenance agriculture to a life where they had leisure time and the disposable income to have pastimes and hobbies like the gentry class.
All of the mass-produced items that those of us grew up with in the 1950s and 1960s - the Sears Table Saw, Sears or DeWalt Radial Arms Saw, Montgomery Ward tools or the ubiquitous Craftsman tool sets - were produced for the vast consumer market that arrived after World War II, when the Industrial Revolution really arrived for the average middle class consumer. The vast production of all these items allows even the most budget conscious collector or tool maven to buy and restore the items you feature. For many of us seeing a Craftsman screwdriver brought back to life is relaxing and filled with nostalgia, vestigial elements from the massive industrial infrastructure that won World War II and made America the engine of Western Democracy.
I inherited a lot of antique and old tools from my late brother and now that I have a little more time on my hands, I am working my way through some of them. He had a number of antique vices, some of them massive ones and it will take some research just to figure out what color the consumer items were once painted. The mass and heft of them is remarkable and perhaps more than almost any other item, they look like products of the 19th century Age of Industry. I've also got radial arm and table saws to restore and lots of beautiful hand planes and other tools and so your videos have been a relaxing way to learn about going through the task. The one thing that I would ask of the creators is to perhaps post the names of some of the products you use when they are not common items like Comet. Some of them show a product "on screen" so rapidly that even freezing the frame does not reveal what they are using.
I've been far too verbose and nostalgic perhaps, but again, thanks for the time and trouble you take and allowing us to experience the pleasure you clearly take in reviving and revitalizing these old tools, each an example of the pre-disposable age, when tools were passed down for someone else to use and enjoy!
Hello Ethanmor! I can tell just from those few paragraphs that you wrote that you have a tremendous wealth of wisdom- I can tell also that you have a vast amount of life experience. Those two traits are not easily found today. I’ve always tried to associate with people like yourself hoping to learn the really important life lessons. It’s funny you mentioned the Vises you have, I too have acquired a dozen or so Vises thru the years and cherish them. However when I think that how these Vises were so well made they actually put themselves out of business! They were built to last multiple generations, there were very few repeat customers!
I’m so happy that you enjoy the videos and really do enjoy making them. I feel hobbies are so important for a well rounded life. Years ago everyone had a hobby, today people just work, watch a little TV and go to bed... What a shame!
Thankyou so very much for your generous comments, it’s people like you that make TH-cam so much more rewarding! 😃👍
You're welcome. You're right about hobbies, they were once almost universal among boys and men, but now seem to have been replaced by a sort of virtual world and social media. TH-cam is a great place to try to cultivate some of these hobbies and teach skills that are seldom taught by the schools. There was an interview with one of the Internet pioneers in Wired Magazine years ago where he said that he was surprised the amount of time people devoted to things like Wikipedia and instructional blogs and videos on all manners of topics, that no one would have predicted that so many people would devote themselves to sharing such things - many of them without any compensation. One of the reasons we enjoy videos like yours is because of the respect for the long hours it takes to learn a variety of skills, the joy of seeing a transformation of something that was "junk" to something useful again and of course the clear enjoyment you take in doing it and sharing it with the rest of us - and it is relaxing. I'm going to tackle some of the large planes I have soon and one of the big vises. Thanks again.
Ethanmor - That is awesome! I made a video on restoring a Parker Vise, also a monarch vise, maybe you might pick up a tip or two- I love the Parker vise!!! Thanks again!!!!
Thirty years ago an old guy gave me a large coffee can full of old screwdrivers, he said, "You will appreciate these, they were hardened by methods no longer considered safe", I still have them all, modern screwdrivers twist or chip easily and those comfort handles just suck, too slippery, don't bite into the hand.
Hello Carbide Jones! I love stories like that! Anything in a coffee can is awesome! Like you said the new stuff isn't all great, a lot of the soft handled anything will be in a landfill in twenty years... Many people are OK with that, they think everything is supposed to be replaced... Thanks very much!!!
Thank you Scoutcrafter, I bought several vintage vintage acetate handled drivers for $1 each at a local thrift store off and on as I visited there, and ended up gathering together a nice little set of hex Grey brand hex drivers.
Cleaned up very nice following your advice. Went from crap to something I'm proud to have.
The value of men like you is immeasurable...you are an old tool guy after my own heart. Thanks for all you do.
Excellent work! I have a vintage Craftsman brand, SAE nut-driver set with the plastic/molded type handles. The plastic handles stink like mold, or something. The set has been put away and not used as a result of...the stink. This video motivates me to restore the entire set and put them to back to use. Been watching your projects for 6-7 months and have learned quite a bit from you. Thank you for the inspiration in restoring vintage tools back to their serviceable glory.
I never knew that these could be restored so nicely! Thank you!
extremely nice! i really love seeing these old plastic handles re-done like this. Good Job
I grew up using my dad's clear handled screwdrivers. Knowing how to restore them will be a good skill to have, thansk for sharing!!!
I love restoring my dad's or Grandfather's tools! Thanks!
I totally admire your patience and dedication in these refurbishing projects. They certainly do look nice when you are done!
They came out really nice, I would have never thought to try to restore a plastic handled screw driver. Thanks for the video.
Hello Lance! I'm so glad you enjoyed the video! Thanks very much!!!!!
I love those old Acetate screw drivers. Thanks.
I used to do this stuff. I rebuilt Estwing hatchets and other less valuable axe heads just because. Never spent anytime restoring screw drivers, but I might have. It was a period I went through.
Great finds brother! I love finding old rusty tools to give some love to!
What an amazing transformation! Well worth the effort. Great vid as always John.
Hello Bernie! Good stuff to know just in case! Funny story- My friend poured boiling water in the sink without looking and messed up his wife's knife that belonged to her grandmother! He was freaking out! I told him bring in the knife and was able to get it back to the point that she never knew! Saved his a$$! lol Thanks very much!
Great job! I had no idea how to restore plastic, thanks for sharing.
Hello Joe! I’m so glad this helped! Thanks very much!!! 😃👍
Beauuuuuuuu-tiful! As my grandfather would say…thanks for these great tips
Excellent tutorial. Anytime an old tool can be refurbished it's worth the work.
Hello Ian! You are so right! Nothing beats bringing back an old tool to life! Thanks very much!!!
Fantastic video, it was what I needed to know how to recover the tools that were from my grandfather!
Awesome job I never would have realized that they were restorable,thanks for sharing ! I like older tools, and looks like I'm going to have to buy some equipment for restoration like buffer wheels ect.
Unbelievable. I love these videos. You are a Jedi Master showing us the path. Lead on...
Hello Will! I'm really glad you are enjoying the videos! Makes it all worthwhile! Thanks very much! 😃👍
Patience and discipline to keep yourself busy doing productive stuff...Great job!!!
I would never have believed they were the same screwdrivers. A fantastic restoration.
Hello Tony! Although these aren't anything special they did make good examples of what could be done with a little abrasive and elbow grease! Lol. Thanks very much!!! 😃👍
Fantastic job, they came out looking great.
Hello Number 7! They are back in service but unfortunately there are no shortcuts and they take a lot of time to restore... It's good to know if you have a job that needs to be done! Thanks very much!
I just acquired an older USA Craftsman 5/16" screwdriver. The back ball end of the handle looked like the tool had been used to bang on something or was banged on with a small hammer, lots of small unsightly indentations. I bought a set of pads as you recommended, went from coarser to finest and then some polish...looks great now, as I put it into service! Thanks and keep the fantastic videos coming!
Were can I get the pads?
@@carlschulz1057 I bought the set of various sanding pads on Amazon. Best, Dennis
Great job! Thanks for elaborating on how to take out the scratches on the plastic handles with the different grits of sandpaper.
Hi Frank!!! You found it! Awesome!! I love screwdrivers and knowing some can be saved makes it that much better!!! Thanks very much!!! 😃👍
That is a outstanding job of restoring! Amazing!
Hello Craig! Thanks very much! They're back in service! =)
Aaah damn... that is a fine presentation of working with plastic stuff indeed. Good knowledge.
Hello GrimStrider! It's nice to turn back time on these gems of the past, glad you enjoyed the ride! Thanks very much! 😃👍
Ha, what a great idea setting the screw driving in the lathe for sanding the handle. Smart. The handles really shine.
Hello Wyatt! Like the Dake I love using the lathe! It’s such a fun machine! Thanks very much!!! 😃👍
I could watch your videos all day. Absolutely love them. I really enjoy how every other day or sometimes even more often then that, you put out a new video. Im a big fan of restoration video. Hand Tool Rescue is another favorite channel of mine, but hes been busy lately and hasnt been putting out many videos! Thanks Scout for all the hard work you put in for us to enjoy!
Hello Kevin! I really appreciate your kind feedback! I also enjoy restoration videos (watching) for some reason I find them relaxing and somewhat rewarding! I'm trying to get out three a week, Monday, Wednesday and Friday... I have a bunch of tools waiting to be restored but I don't want to spend all day in the basement! lol Thanks again Kevin for the positive input!!!!
Kevin, I agree 100%.
Fantastic! I have several "classics" that will get this treatment! Thank You!
Hello Tony! Thanks very much for watching!!!
They look fantastic! The cost to restore may be high but the reward is priceless.
Nice! Really like how it all turned out. Good work!
Hello Alex! Thanks very much!!!! Glad you enjoyed the video!
Excellent work !
Hello Tony! I'm always amazed at how many people have a fondness for the humble screwdriver!!!! Thanks very much!!!!
Always interesting and informative content. Thank you.
Wow love the channel you made those screwdrivers look like polished amber absolutely brilliant!
Hi Harry! Thanks so much!
This is my new favourite TH-cam channel! Great work!
Excellent work!!
Nice. I've got some vintage Craftsman acetate screwdrivers that I'd like to restore. This is helpful.
Great tip with those small sanding pads - course to smooth. Didn't know about them.
Scout crafter is the best! Love the videos
Hello Derek!! I'm really glad you enjoy the videos!!! Makes my day! Thanks very much!!!!
That A-7 came back beautifully. It's a cool piece, regardless.
Hello Felix! I agree, those old Xcelite tools were really cool! I have always liked them! Thanks very much!!!!!!!
THANK YOU...for sharing. Very nice.
Excellent job. Had not heard of xcelit before. Super job. Just like new. Thanks again. Speedy recovery with the hands.
Very common. I have a ton of their nut drivers. Good stuff.
Your right.I should have said the very long shaft one's. I don't recall ever seeing them. Thanks again.
Hello Norherman! I get "Poison Ivy" every year, some years not so bad but about every five or six years I get it bad! All over my body and it takes at least 10 days to dissipate... I'm used to it but it looks horrible! Xcelite has been around for years! They were known for their nut-drivers! Good stuff! Thanks very much!!!
Nice Job, probably never get a round to doing it ( all of mine) but a nice project and my be a nice days work cleaning up a bunch of old tools.........old craftsman screw drivers 10x better than the new ones so worth it for just those IMHO!
Beautiful! Thanks for sharing!
Hello Tim!!! This was more instructional then picking out some really nice screwdrivers... Lots of people never heard of Xcelite but like them! Funny how that works! Thanks very much!!
WOW! That’s so amazing!
What a change! Thanks ScoutCrafter 👍 I'm going to attempt this.
Hope you enjoy it!
reminds me of my grandpas tools from the 60's.....I still use the few he gave me, and some of my dads which I gave to my son.
Hi Harry! There is NOTHING better then using Grandpa's tools!!!! Thanks very much!!!!!
Wow that's fantastic you did such a great job on those tools. As I'm getting older my hands have arthritis in them so I've taken to dipping my tools into plastic dip so I can Hold them better. And as you probably already know it does protect the outside of the tools so if I want that clean look Again, all I have to do is peel it off. Thanks so much for your video
They look better than brand new!!
Nicely done!
To be honest I would've let the handles the way they are. I'd clean them up of course but I'd leave the paint on them the battle scars the handles have. By the way you did an amazing job and keep up the great work!
Hello Mason! I have tons of tools that I don't "restore" and just use, and you're right, there are some tools I have that I wouldn't touch because every nick and scrape on them tells a story! However I try to pick out certain tools that I feel have given good service and are now discarded or rejected and I give them a new life. If you notice I always try to pick basket cases to restore, if they are useable and clean I leave them alone! Thanks very much!!!
They look Beautiful !!!....I like the old plastic handles ...I have a coast to coast brand handle on my column shifter in my old pickup ..It is green and yellow
not2fast4u2c that’s awesome!!!
Nice job on the restoration.
Some of these like the Excelite are really great quality and worth restoring. I believe those nut drivers by Excelite went deep into the handle and that made them really strong. What used to be cheap tools in the past are far better than any cheap tools you could buy today so they are definitely worth collecting. I really like this video and the way these turned out. As always, fun to watch what you do.
Hi John! Excelite tools always looked so nice when they weren't abused... The TV repair men always had a nice selection of them!
Beautiful job. Just subscribed. I might be trying this. I could totally see someone wanting to do this if the tool was used by dad or grandpa. Sentimental restoration.
Hello Jake!!! Absolutely! But also they made some tools so much better years ago and it's nice to be able to make them as good or in some cases better then new!!! Thanks so much!!! 😃👍
I wish I lived in the USA for tool collecting Scoutcrafter, screwdrivers in the UK are nothing like yours! Yet another great video!
Amazing job
That is quite impressive results!
Hello Upside Downdog! It might come in handy if every you have some scratched plastic! Thanks very much!!!!!!!
Impressive results, I've got just the set to try it on
Hello Boxcar's Garage! The best part is it works on most plastics like tool handles, knobs, and even clear plastics! The sanding set I bought was from a Pen making supply called Penn State Industries, but Amazon also sells them! Also regular wet/dry sandpaper will work fine! Thanks very much!!!!
That's really amazing how well those plastic handles cleaned up. I've noticed that the Xcelite handles tend to give off an unpleasant odor, because of something in the plastic they were manufactured with. In other words they tend to stink up the tool box or drawer they are stored in. It's not that they are dirty and need to be cleaned it is actually the plastic that sort of goes off with age. Have you ever experienced this and do you have any restoration tips to remedy this?
That screw driver was serviceable 4500 rubs ago, but we dam sure know you'll have it showroom condition. Great video thankyou
Nice job by a craftsman who appreciates quality tools. I've been restoring tools for decades and have made a few custom tools of my own. Your method brings back the original satin luster. If one is not concerned about saving the paint logo on the handles, this is my method - After having scrubbed the handles clean with cleanser, sand them down only once with only one sanding pad or steel wool. Take a can of MEK ( Methyl Ethyl Ketone ) and pour some into a tall glass. Wipe the handle clean of dust. Hold the screwdriver by the shaft and dip the handle down into the MEK for several seconds. The MEK is a powerful solvent which causes the plastic to soften and melt slightly on the surface and blend together into a glossy finish. You may have to dip the handle in several times to get the desired glossy finish. DO NOT touch the handle until It's completely dry otherwise you'll leave fingerprints on the softened plastic.
Hello Grant! I will have to try it! I never tried MEK on plastic! I am open to any great technique and appreciate you sharing this procedure with us! I wish I could have kept the original paint logo but as you know that's easier said then done! lol Thanks again Grant, looking forward to trying it!!!!!!
ScoutCrafter. Hi Scout, acetone does the same thing and is easier to get. Please be aware that MEK is a known carcinogen. Much to my regret I spent 3 years working with it to clean polyurethane out of big brushes after we coated timber floors. Acetone only takes a few minutes to dry but even days later the handles still look wet. Love the way your method brought them back to new.
Cheers Stuart 🇦🇺
PSA: You need to know what the handles are made of.
The clear craftsman type handles are acitate , those will melt to gel when dipped into acetone,
In the factory they come in as long extrusion bars and are cut and machined which will give them a frosty white appearance where the machine work is done to them. After the shaft is installed they put them in a quick dip in acitone which ' polishes' them - rsanter, The Garage Journal
Fantastic! I have 40 of these. I got some polishin' ta do!
Hello! Heru- deshet! Wow! You might have even me beat! I love all types of screwdrivers! Thanks very much!!! 😃👍
I asked for it and you provided! Thanks! Unfortunately, it sure is a lot of work. I'm knee deep in a Royersford Excelsior 21" right now, so I guess the screwdrivers will have to wait a bit longer.
Hello Metal Butcher! I wish there was a shortcut to get the same results but plastic is funny, if you try to buff it on the machine it will melt! Thanks very much!!! 😃👍
Well old Jarhead. I think the main reason I enjoy your videos so much is because #1we are both Jarheads USMC 1984-1992 for me 0311/1371 the 0311 is a given but the 1371 Combat engineer most people even in the Corps would have to look up Build it and blow it up what a great time Improvised explosives booby traps Etc.. I am a Hollywood marine of course being from Nowhersville Michigan (Coldwater) #2we have quite a few of the same loves of things like Knives (I currently have about 250) all good knives like Gerber, Buck, Benchmade, Antique, K-bar and a multitude of others. The only cheap ones I own are advertisement pen knives although I do have an old Barlow that was an advertisement for a tooling company that I used to use when I was in Powdered Metal, #3 Hammers I would say I have probably 100 weird, antique, ball pein, framing hammers, brick layer hatchets, gavels, the old wooden type you think of when they set up circus tents, and a ton more. #4 We are both what I like to call "Organized Hoarders" well I am organized sometimes. If it is not organized I am working on it. Problem is that I have been diagnosed with ADHD when I was a kid and still have ADHD I can assure you. #5 we both love our presses. I have a 20 ton air over oil H frame and the things you can do with that thing and a piece of railroad steel about 3 ft long is totally amazing. I worked in the Manufacturing Quality Engineering and Management for over 30 years and still have a ton of my old inspection equipment that I purchased over the years and can get a steel rod that is bent within about .0005' of being perfectly straight using 2 V blocks. Those presses are a great tool the best part about mine is the price that I did not give for it $0.00 so the price was Johnny on the spot. Took a little welding but good as new now. I am certain that there are a ton of other things that we have in common. I am a long winded commenter I know. But I want you to know that I have learned a ton from you. You are awesome. I do not have a mill or lathe but grinders for fixing, Polishing and buffing I have 6. I just purchased one 2 weeks ago that has a small pedestal on one end that is worm gear driven and moves ever so slow and it has a wet stone setting on it. It did not work from setting around for so long so I tore it apart and of course while I was at it I cleaned it and painted it all up real pretty. It is a great little bench grinder. OK I am done bending your reading eye on this video. Just watch for other Kudos that I will give you on other videos. I am just now watching old ones but I will hit every one I am certain. Thank you and Semper Fi.
Hello Brett- You are so right! We have a ton in common! I too am a Hollywood Marine! MCRD San Diego! =D 0311 also.
I'm so glad you enjoy the channel and enjoy making and restoring stuff! Awesome! Semper Fi!
Great video. I was wondering how to restore my screwdriver handle.
Good job man 👍🏼
I love the washing machine workbench. I have one of those too.
Hello Pugly! It is the perfect height!!! Plus it washes clothes! lol Thanks!!!
Great video. Many people would have thrown those lowly screwdrivers away .Yours looked like new. Another good example of trash to treasure .
Hello lwoodt1! So many great tools are often discarded because of a little neglect... It's always nice to see them put back in service! Thanks very much!! 😃👍
Thanks for the info and a good laugh.
Hello Rocket Surgery! I'm glad you enjoyed it!!! Thanks very much!!!
great video. awesome
great job, back when i restored motorcyles , i didnt know products to help polish plastic lenses existed, my goto was fine wet and dry, then a rag with toothpaste, then car polish then car wax, took hours, but brought them back to shiny
Hello Jusb! That's the same exact process! The pads are just handy and work very well but the process is no different, sanding it with progressive grits until you can polish... You're right there are no shortcuts and it takes time... It's quite rewarding when finished! Thanks very much!!! 😃👍
Very nice !
I love screwdrivers I have a lot five stars this restoration my congratulations good job
Hello Wladimir!!! Me too! You are going to love tomorrow's video!!!! Thanks very much!!!!!!
Hi Scout Crafter 👋👋👋very good restoration 👍👍👍
Clean results, nice video ! Nice restoration.
Hello TrikeRoadPoet- Thanks very much! Good to know in case you have a knob that is scratched or even a tail-light or something! Thanks very much!!!!
Perfect work !:-) 👍
Hello Крум! Thankyou very much!!! 😃👍
Good Stuff, Good Stuff Driver's are looking good.
Hello Mr. Clifford! Thankyou very much!! Seems like everyone has a soft spot for the humble screwdriver!!! 😃👍
Excellent! I have a 'new' used screwdriver that does not match in sharpness the same-brand ones I have. Thanks for the info!!
I have watched multiple videos on restoring old screwdrivers. By far you are the only one to end up with a like new screwdriver. Plus you don't use any strong solvents or Clearcoat to do it.
Good video, bro'. Nice a clear. Video and explanation of steps and tools.
"Snoop" nowhere to be seen...great family of raccoons, really great to have a safe zone to come to, tanks for sharing
Wow! They look brand new bro👍great video! Im working on my tool collection now. I have another addiction cause of you. Lol. 😂🤣👍
Outlaw Edge - it's a great addiction! Not expensive and very rewarding!!! 😃👍. Thanks very much!!!!
they look really nice now👍
We have been walking around in the rain for a couple weeks too. Hopefully it will dry up in the next few days but they are calling for rain this weekend too. Lots of things to do and no time to do them.
I'm going to borrow your screwdriver handle cleaning technique. I have a bin full of them that could use the help.
Hello Mr. Sneelock! I wish there was a quicker way but there isn't... Not without substantial risk like using heat or chemicals. This is great for those really nice projects that are worth the time and effort! Thanks very much!!!!!!!
I really was amazed at your results. Screwdrivers here as well as the good Stanley plastic handle chisels are very cheap at garage sales.
dime or less for old screwdrivers $1 for chisels. also love the pencil lecturer. estate sales have boxes of old pencils for nothing!
Niiccceeee work mate.
G'day from Australia 🇦🇺
Thanks Stephen!!!! Australia is awesome!!!!! Always wanted to go there!!!! Thanks so much!!!!!!
Good tools never die
Great results.
Hello HD108a! Thanks very much!!! Really appreciate it! 😃👍
I maintain roads through LongIsland alot of tools I find off side of the rd.'s most recent find a set of Allen key wrench set in that chrome holders nice.Great video.
Hello Alan! My Neighbor! I live in Queens! I am always shocked at how many tools are "lost" on our roads! I found a beautiful Snap-On swivel head ratchet one time! I actually saw it fall off a speeding truck! =D Thanks!!!!!
@@ScoutCrafter so neat been watching ur videos past week.Maybe one Sat. help u out with a project.im outta Bayshore.Work for Brookville.Neen in & out of Florial Park alot to My Uncle had a plumbing shop off tulip Ave.
Great work !! Sub'd because this is so cool.
Hello Serge! I'm so glad you enjoy the content, we have a really great bunch of people here who love old tools and restorations! I try to put out a video every Mon, wed, and Friday... Thanks so much for stopping by! 😃👍
What can you not restore? You must have the magic touch. If you come across any green handled ones, would love to see how one of those turn out. Green in my favorite color. Keep up the good work.
Hello Doug!! SK made a set of screwdrivers in the 70's that were Green with White stripes, they are some of the most beautiful and collectable screwdrivers out there! I like Green too! I missed out on a NOS set years back and I regret not buying them everyday! lol Thanks very much!!!
ScoutCrafter your very welcome. Ihink i know the set you are refering to. It is quite a set to behold. I collect all kinds of green items especially pocket knives.
Doug Grun -Obviously not collectable but I just bought a green set from Harbor Freight last weekend.
I am laughing because I think I saw those same bins at Jacktown in PA!! It was a wet day. Anyway nice job! I have a few Xcelite's and they were in the basement for a few years and the handles turned white...somekind of mold I guess. Before seeing this, I went for a woreout scotchbrite and skipped the fine polishing. Still came out pretty good. Thanks for posting
Hello Jim! YES!!! Jacktown!!!!! Quite possibly my favorite place ever! I go to all 4 shows! I'm glad you were able to bring back the Xcelite's They are just so damn cool! Thanks again Jim! Hope to see you at the July show! =)
is a good video!! awesome!! my father follow you!!