Edward Preston Pistol Grip String Router, 1396

The Edward Preston lining or stringing router number 1396 is a very useful tool to Cabinet-makers, Pianoforte Makers, Fret Workers and other Wood Workers, for inlaying 'strings' and 'bands'.

The standard tool is supplied with six cutters varying in width from 1/16 inch to 3/8 inch. These are adjusted to the desired depth of cut by means of 'Preston Patent Adjustment'; it has one fence which is movable and reversible to suit different sweeps of wood.

On very cross-grained wood it will be preferable to gauge lines the width of 'band' before using the broad irons.

There were optional extra parts for additional functionality. The first optional attachment was a round adjustable sliding rod, which was provided with two screwed holes and a removable pointed screw pin. This pin can be inserted in either hole and the rod adjusted according to desire. This combination is very useful when inlaying curves. When using the tool for curves, the fence should be entirely removed.

The second optional attachment was an additional adjustable fence with a removable faceplate. The use of this faceplate is to carry the adjustable fence for us in connection with the front flat-faced fence which is supplied as standard. In use, the two fences are adjusted to the thickness of the material being worked, and thus ensure a straight line being kept during the grooving operation.

This stringing router is sometimes referred to as the Preston pistol grip router. This tool is considered fairly rare, more so with a full set of blades and even more so with the additional extras.

Router Use

The Preston stringing router is used for inlaying 'strings' and 'bands'.

Manufactured Dates

1900's - 1934

Plane Also Known As

Edward Preston Lining Router
Edward Preston Stringing Router
Edward Preston Pistol Grip Router

Further Info

Further information on this tool can be found in trade catalogues and retailer brochures of the period. These tool books usually contained a drawing and a sentence or two for each tool.

Where Can I Buy This Tool Secondhand?

This model of tool can be purchased from the following woodworking tool retailers, subject to availability.

Price: £40 - £90

Shops which sell similar routers

OldTools.co.uk

* The price shown is a typical price. The price may vary between retailers. The price may vary between planes. Some planes may command higher prices due to condition, type, age, variations.

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£40 - £90