A massive antique laminated chisel by one of the most respected makers of all time. Very thick at the neck. Bright, clean, razor sharp. Laminated chisels are sought after because the combination of softer steel and harder steel not only makes for a tougher chisel, but it also makes them much easier to sharpen. The softer material is easily ground away like butter. The toughness also allows the use of harder steel at the edge without fear of the chisel breaking. 1877-1951. The single-most respected name for edge taking and holding of all time! James Swan emigrated from Scotland in 1854 and worked at the Bassett Iron Works in Birmingham, CT, the Farrel Foundry & Machine Co in Ansonia, CT, and for Oliver Annes before buying Annes' business in 1877. He acquired Douglass Mfg. Co. and changed its name, but apparently still used its name in 1894. Upon Swan's death, the company passed to his son William, followed by his brother John, followed by James, son of John. The company headquarters were located in Seymour, CT.