B65-249 WANTAGE SCALES PATENTED MEASURING TOOL. Eli S. Primes. Patented 7/23/78 by Eli S. Primes of Baltimore, according to the patent it combines both the "out stick" used when the barrel is less than half full with the "in stick" and also includes an adjustable brass gage lip. 16" long, marked with patent information, wood is worn but all markings visible. According to the records of the Internal Revenue Service, its use was required by revenue agents until 1897 when it was replaced by Alexander's Improved Wantage Rods. We can only assume Alexander contributed more to his Congressman's campaign fund. From the collection of David Jeffers. Good 80-160