CollectingSnapOn.com

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.

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.

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

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.

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?

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

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.

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).

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

A 43 stamp.