Barker

L.S. Barker Woodworking Heritage

L.S. Barker woodworking was an esteemed Australian manufacturer of woodworking machinery, established by Lot Sydney Forbes Barker around 1925. Initially operating as L.S. Barker Engineer, an engineering firm, the company was first listed at 23 Cumberland Place, Melbourne. Over the years, this pioneering L.S. Barker woodworking business relocated to 11 Collie Street, North Melbourne (1928–1939), and later to 20 Willis Street, North Melbourne (from 1940 onward).

The company produced a comprehensive variety of woodworking tools, including bandsaws, planers, and combination machines. One notable product from L.S. Barker woodworking was a four-in-one combination machine, reflecting the 1960s trend of multifunctional woodworking equipment. L.S. Barker collaborated with McPherson's, a prominent machinery distributor, to market their woodworking machinery throughout Australia. McPherson's also distributed other brands, such as Macson for metalworking machinery.

Continuing the L.S. Barker Woodworking Legacy

After Lot Sydney Forbes Barker's sudden passing in 1947, the L.S. Barker woodworking company's operations continued under different management. The legacy of this distinguished Australian manufacturer persists today, with Barker Woodwork Engineering in Heidelberg West, Victoria, being considered the last remnant of the original company. This firm continues to provide parts, repairs, and second-hand machinery, specializing in servicing Barker wide belt sanders and preserving the tradition of quality L.S. Barker woodworking tools.

Modern Spiral Cutterhead Upgrades

Sheartak Tools Ltd. manufactures precision-engineered spiral cutterhead solutions compatible with select L.S. Barker woodworking planers and jointers. Our advanced cutter head technology transforms these classic Australian machines into modern high-performance systems. Each spiral cutterhead jointer conversion features premium carbide inserts as mechanical components arranged along helical grooves, creating a true shear-cut that dramatically reduces noise and eliminates tear-out.

These mechanical component upgrades deliver exceptional surface finishes while honoring the quality legacy of L.S. Barker woodworking machinery. The advanced cutter head design provides more than 10 times the blade life of traditional straight knives. When an edge dulls on your spiral cutterhead jointer, simply rotate the insert 90 degrees for a fresh cutting edge—no blade removal or sharpening required.

Supporting L.S. Barker Woodworking Tools

We're pleased to support loyal L.S. Barker woodworking machine owners in upgrading and experiencing the advantages of modern spiral cutting technology. Whether you own a vintage planer, jointer, or combination machine, Sheartak Tools Ltd. can provide custom mechanical components designed to maximize the potential of your classic Australian woodworking tools while preserving their distinguished heritage.