Need info. on a shovel

[vegascat]

While out exploring in the hills over Thanksgiving weekend, I came across a unique looking shovel. I'm attaching a pic. Does anyone have any idea what kind it is and when it was made??? I noticed that Roger Martin posted under for sale cat 50, there looked to be a similar shovel in the background. Thanks for your help.

[AJ.]

There were a good few makers of those 3/4 swing digger in the 1930's era,Austin-Westeren,Byers and Unit to name a few,it's hard to distinguish between them,it would be my guess that the one in your picture is a Unit.
AJ

[RickR]

Could that be an Insley? Insley made one that looked like it. The top track rollers look higher though but I can't rerember.

[vegascat]

Thanks guys for the response. I called Roger Martin who has several cats posted in the for sale section and we spoke for about 2 hours about the shovel, his cats and his collection of equiptment. He's a real interesting guy with lots of info. He said the shovel is an Insley built in the late 20's to early 30's.

[cwelke]

I would say that you found a late 1920's Insley model C

[M Diesel]

Where is this old gem parked?

[vegascat]

The shovel is located in Southeastern Arizona about 25 miles from the nearest town way up in the hills. Thanks.

[Aphonopelma]

I bet there's a old mine nearby. Is it on BLM land?

Very nice find, should be saved.