Cox's Patent Auger Bit.

Post date: 12-May-2020 00:28:19

In 1903 Edward Thomas Cox of Yering, Victoria, received a patent for an improved wood boring auger. (Aus' Pat 13195) He also patented his auger in Great Britain (GB190315070), France and on January 3rd 1905 in USA (US778845).

The basis of his patent is the lead screw which is a long flat twist that terminates at the inner edge of both the cutters. It appears to be constructed from an extension of the auger formed as an elongated triangle, similar to a spear point, given a single twist to form a lead screw. The design of his lead screw is quite evident and differs from that of a Scotch bit, which coarse lead screw terminates at one cutter only. Cox’s lead screw continues up to leading edge of both cutters.

                               Lead screw on Cox patent auger.                                                                            Coarse lead screw as usually found on Scotch auger bit.

 A pair of this style of bit recently came to light, made by W. Marples & Sons and branded Cox's Patent. 

Enquiries in UK found no mention of Cox's bit in any Marples catalogues, the person I asked suggested they may have made them for the Australian market only.

An acquaintance in Brisbane found a pair of Cox's design, one made by Ridgeway’s, Sheffield, the other by Mathiesons of Glasgow. Neither bit has any reference to Cox on them indicating they may be later than the Marples versions.

Mr Cox gave his occupation as fencer and there is a war service record of an E.T. Cox at the Australian War Memorial as being killed in action 19th July 1916 in France aged 42.