#52 Hat Block -- Indy? Or Not?

[Howard Weinstein]

So, I've seen info here and there stating that vintage wooden hat blocks designated as a #52 are (more or less) Indy-shaped blocks. Presumably, meaning the #52 is more squared-off with a flatter top and a generally wider, straight-sided shape than other blocks.

Would any of the real hat experts (not me, for sure!) care to weigh in: Is this true? Or wishful thinking?
Thanks for sharing any info and opinions!

[Howard Weinstein]

* crickets *
So far, nobody has a clue?

[Chewbacca Jones]

Never start a thread on a Friday.... especially on a holiday weekend!

[Howard Weinstein]

Never start a thread on a Friday.... especially on a holiday weekend!

I didn't even think of that!

[Screencapped]

It's about the closest you'll get without a little modifying. I bought a #52 a couple years ago and sanded the sides a little straighter and ended up with the result I was after.

[Jeremiah]

What did you use to seal it again after sanding?

[darthjones2]

I was thinking the same thing - block 52. But just a heads up that this HJ Raiders block has just about stove pipe sides. But I guess TOD - CS have some taper.

I'd say take any hat block a full quarter inch taller for shrinkage. I'm not a hat maker but you'll see the difference a year in my experience.

But block 52 seems great for local reblocks!

[Screencapped]

What did you use to seal it again after sanding?

If I recall correctly it was a cheap wood sealant/strainer by krylon I picked up at Walmart for a few bucks. Probably not the most proficient way to do it but sufficed nevertheless.

[Jeremiah]

Ok cool. Thanks