71-10 Ratchet from the 40's Question

[hurler99]

I located this older ratchet at an estate sale.

I immediately recognized the "E" date stamp for 1944 (picture attached), but the rest of the wrench has some uniqueness to what I've seen for 1944s that generated this post.

First, I know that 1943 wrenches are a mystery. This wrench has a 1943 type "3" stamped on the handle opposite the Snap-On logo (picture attached). Any reason there would be a "3" stamped there?

Second, the other 1944s I've seen say "Snap-On 71-10 Made in U.S.A." in one grouping on the handle. This one has "Snap-On" with "71-10" under it, and "Made in U.S.A." on the opposite side of the handle.

Lastly, the capture screws for the head are tall-head Phillips screws and the head countersink for these screws is a perfect fit. I have not seen this on any other 1944s but some earlier ratchets.

I've tried to take adequate photos with the three limit. If you need more pictures, ask.

Any help/guidance will be appreciated.

[Oldtuleguy]

Sounds like an earlier ratchet stamped "E". I have a 37 that looks like that but has pat number on other side instead of made in usa.

[snapmom]

I think the E code started in early 43, that is probably why you see very few 43 codes.
That looks like a 43 code, I have seen both types of screws used in that era

[hurler99]

This wrench includes the Pat. Number stamp on the handle as well, just ran out of picture allotment.

Wrench was frozen in CCW direction when I bought it. Dis-assembled, cleaned, Super Lube'd, and it works like almost new.

Thanks all for your feedback.

[hurler99]

Just thought, I've seen some early Leatherman tools that are a hodge-lodge of last year's parts and new parts during the transition to the new year.
Wonder if early/war time Snap-Ons have the same issue?

[snapmom]

could be, or could be one line made them one way, and another made it different.

[Oldtuleguy]

Since it has the 3 and the E, makes sense it's a 43 ratchet that was maybe leftover then stamped E, given the earlier logo.

[hurler99]

Guess I'm skeptical, would like to see some date Code stamps on other ratchet handles to be sure it is not something else (owner's mark, company inventory, or whatever).

[Oldtuleguy]

That is possible. The earlier logo style kind of makes me think 43, but don't see handles stamped on those too often.

[snapmom]

A 43 stamp.