American Straight Needle Needles

[bob mclean]

Hello

I have an old hook and awl machine that my father used for harness and sheaths. It is a very old National made about 1887. When he passed away it passed to me. I used it a few times to make a few sheaths ect.

I have now broken the needle and trying to find a new one is a bear.

One person at a harness machine company told me the number on the needle was a American Straight Needle number.

I read a post here that Sandy Morrissey replied to and it sounds like you know something about these machines.

Do you know where I can get some needles that might fit it? The number on the shank is GB 175-6.

How much lee way do I have in size with this needle? does it have to be exact?

Thanks for any help in locating this type of needle.

[trav]

Try JH COOK in Salisbury, NC thats where i bought my needles for an American Straight Needle . They handle the awls for the machine as well. This is a supplier for the shoe industry but they do sell to the public

[bob mclean]

Thanks I will check them out. I finally got hold of someone at Gross-Beckert and they said that was the same as an American Straight Needle #6. They sent me to a company that sells them buy the 100 for 478 bucks.

I am now following those leads down the chain.

Thanks a bunch.

[trav]

Bob, I bought only 10 and they were less than eight bucks each. May be a little more now, but you certainly dont have to buy that many.