V* 
38 
REPORT ON THE CAOUTCHOUC OE COMMERCE. 
the pomt more of a V shape, and a guard running through it 
such as oyster or preserved meat-tin knives are provided with 
might he added. 
New form of Tapping Knife (James Collins). 
-» 
'm* 
Fig. 10. 
Fig. 11. 
A 11 1 A" 
A, shoulder ; B, triangular base of knife blade ; C, knife edge. 
Fig. 12 . 
Simple form of handle with a 
blade with the same description of 
cutting edge. 
After fully considering the various requisite points in order to 
produce the best form of cutting instrument, I have constructed a 
small model which I send herewith, and of which a drawing is given 
(Eigs. 10-12). In using it, it is drawn towards the operator, against 
the bark. The first part of the blade is sharp so as to cut through 
the hark. This blade gradually widens at its base till at its termina- 
.jt 
