Vintage Lakeside ratchet brace & bit set

Tool details

This listing is for a vintage Lakeside ratcheting bit brace sold as a complete brace-and-bit set. Lakeside was a Montgomery Ward house brand, and this example has the classic script logo on the frame and an approximately 10" sweep. It uses a Barber-style chuck with twin jaws and coil spring and accepts standard square-tanged auger bits.

For Etsy’s requirements this brace is listed in the 1940s decade, but based on design and markings it realistically falls in the late 1930s–1940s range.

The brace is bundled with the two auger bits shown in the photos:

• 7/16" Keen Kutter auger bit (marked “7”) – classic E.C. Simmons / Keen Kutter pattern.
• 5/8" Irwin long auger bit (marked “10”) – solid-center, extra reach for deeper holes and timber work.

Together they make a highly usable set covering two very common hole sizes.

Condition

• Brace is structurally sound with no cracks or repairs to the steel frame, ratchet housing, or chuck.
• Ratchet engages and reverses cleanly in both directions.
• Chuck jaws and spring have been serviced so the jaws now close evenly and hold bits straight.
• Original wood head and handle are solid with honest wear but no major splits at the ferrules.
• Metal surfaces show light age patina appropriate to their years; heavy rust was removed, but the “Lakeside” script stamp and knurling remain crisp.
• Both auger bits are clean and oiled, with intact spurs and cutting edges suitable for user-grade work.

Restoration work performed

Brace:

• Complete disassembly of chuck and jaw/spring assembly for inspection and cleaning.
• Jaw spring trued and reinstalled so both jaws track in plane and grip evenly.
• Metal surfaces cleaned of dirt and loose rust, then treated with Ballistol and a thin coat of paste wax for protection.
• Ratchet mechanism and threads lightly lubricated with Hoppe’s oil for smooth operation.
• Original wood head and handle wiped clean, treated with boiled linseed oil, then finished with a beeswax-based wood balm for a dry, satin feel.

Bits:

• Each auger bit cleaned of rust and grime, then lightly oiled for protection.
• Spurs and cutting lips inspected and dressed as needed for clean cutting.
• Shanks tested in the Lakeside chuck to ensure a good fit and straight running.

This set is ready to go back to work, not just hang on the wall.

Ideal uses

• Functional brace-and-bit kit for hand-tool woodworking, carpentry, and off-grid drilling.
• Starter set for someone building a traditional tool roll.
• Vintage accent for a shop, office, or farmhouse wall display.
• Gift for the woodworker or tool collector who appreciates well-made American tools.

Shipping / packaging

I pack tools securely with padding to protect metal and wood during transit. Combined shipping is available when possible on multiple items—add tools to your cart to see current estimates. A printed care sheet with basic maintenance tips is included with every tool.

Bullet highlights (updated)

• Vintage Lakeside ratcheting brace – Montgomery Ward house brand
• Sold as a complete brace & bit set
• Includes 7/16" Keen Kutter auger bit (size “7”)
• Includes 5/8" Irwin long auger bit (size “10”)
• Ratchet cleaned, oiled, and tested in both directions
• Chuck jaws and spring serviced so jaws close evenly and grip straight
• Original hardwood head and handle with BLO + beeswax finish
• Metal cleaned, treated with Ballistol, and sealed with paste wax – patina preserved
• Ready for real use in woodworking, carpentry, or off-grid projects
• Also makes excellent vintage shop or farmhouse wall decor
• Ships well-packed and includes a printed care sheet