I.D. for Weird Tools on CL
- Thread starter bczygan
- Start date
Syntax_Error
Well-known member
They look like old Ford Model T Socket wrenches and a tire iron. The square drive multi wrench looks like an implement wrench.
woody 73
Well-known member
Private Lugnutz
Well-known member
If this is a reference to the invention of interchangeable sockets and handles, Snap-On does not own that honor. Mossberg does. Walden and then Blackhawk were also making pressed steel detachable sockets and standard handles well before Snap-On, all modeled on Mossberg's design.
Snap-On was not the first manufacturer to use a mechansim on the drive stud to limit the travel of the socket on the handle, either. That was Blackhawk, which patented and trademarked the technology (stop-pins) as "Lock-On." That led to the tabs, fixed balls and detent balls that would become an industry standard in locking sockets in place.
Granted, Snap-On built their entire business on interchangeble sockets, and they have inarguably been the most successful at perfecting it. But they were not the first.
Don't get me wrong. I like Snap-On as well as the next guy. But the mythology that surrounds its popularity tends to overshadow or ignore the historical facts sometimes.
Syntax_Error
Well-known member
Wow and it begins.
rlitman
Well-known member
Perhaps not, BUT they were the first to trademark the catchy name that also aptly describes one of a socket's unique functions. Credit where credit is due.
Private Lugnutz
Well-known member
I'm not sure what "it" is, Syntax_Error, but I'll emphasize that I appreciate Snap-On, I collect and own vintage 40's Snap-On tools, and I collaborate with members such as Snapmom and others on production questions and oddities. I also appreciate, collect, own, research, and understand the history of tools from other vintage US manufacturers. Those weren't fighting words above, just the facts.
Indeed, and that was a stroke of marketing genius.
On the more serious side, Snap-On has a whole series of socket and handle design and construction improvements to its technical credit.
they were the first to trademark the catchy name that also aptly describes one of a socket's unique functions. Credit where credit is due.
Indeed, and that was a stroke of marketing genius.
On the more serious side, Snap-On has a whole series of socket and handle design and construction improvements to its technical credit.