c.1860 John Gray Rut Niblick with ''Jn. Gray" Stamped on Head
Author and club expert Jeff Ellis includes a well-stated excerpt on the talented clubmaker in John Gray in his publication 'The Clubmaker’s Art.' “Based in Prestwick Scotland, John Gray (1824-1903) was one of the first iron makers, or cleekmakers as they came to be called, to mark his work. It is believed that Gray initially marked his clubs “J. Gray,” as seen in his earliest clubs. Gray eventually began using “Jn. Gray,” the mark found on most of his irons. John Gray is considered to be one of the premier early cleek makers. His clubs are collectable in any form – lofter, cleek or track iron,” Ellis says. 'Jn. Gray' is precisely what you will see deeply stamped on this circa 1860 rut iron head. An example from the Great Scott and third generation blacksmith head clubmaker is a necessity for any hickory club collection.
The rut iron/niblick was a utility club for just that, escaping ruts that were left in the links course by carriages. They were different times and technology has not yet taken over the golf bag, with feel playing a much larger part in the club choice and production. This example with the characteristic small head carries signs of age and usage including oxidation and nicking. The head itself is slightly smaller and more rounded than other rut niblicks. 40"
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