Columbia BC Machine - Horn Options

[GeorgeDixon]

Can I get some advice from members as to what was both the original stock and optional horns for a BC Machine?

Thank you,
Ben

[Uncle Vanya]

For starters,there was the short aluminum horn, as shown in some original literature. Being but 14" or 15" long it was not particularly satisfactory, though it makes a nice display. There was a big Nickle played brass petal horn (often painted) which occasionally turns up. Then there is the big 56" long brass horn as originally used to with the Columbia Grand machines which is frequently found with a fitting for the BC reproducer. I have a couple of the big brass horns put back. Both require more or less work but are completely and without cracks. The 56" brass horns are impressive indeed when fixed and polished.

[Zwebie]

Here are three options:

[edisonclassm]

Columbia also offered a 36" all aluminum horn for the BC. It is rarely seen. It was also used on the disc machine AY. Years ago I used to see these machines (AY) at Union with the 36" aluminum horns and wondered why these horns were equipped with the same horn hanger you would find on a cylinder machine horn. My curiosity was answered when I found a BC in the wild complete with one of these 36" horns and its original rubber horn connector and horn crane.

[zapper]

Hi Ben
Mine came with a 51" copper horn, which I have connected to the reproducer with a section of cricket handle rubber. This machine was handed to me by my grandfather in the 1970's to restore. The horn has small holes around the bell which I can only guess were for a 'protection mesh' I am currently adding decals purchased 30+ years ago to the frame and servicing it.
Brian