Recent content by Sco Deac

I’m guessing rebadged vice grips. The specifications tap says, “Weight 8lb Type (Locking Pliers) Vise Grips”. They don’t note that Vice Grips is a trademarked term but I don’t think they would use it without permission.

That’s a metric/SAE combination adjustable.

The 1974 Craftsman catalog uses the terms open end, box end, and combination. As an aside, plugging these prices into an inflation calculator is a fun distraction. The 14 piece combination wrench set (3/8 to 1-3/8) was $33.53. In today’s dollars that’s $171.49. Today, SK has a 15 piece set...

Which boxes? They have a range offerings from cheap $99 ones to some approaching 4 figures. I saw the top line series 3000 version yesterday. Seems like it was sturdy and the drawer layout was something that was better than many offerings at that price point. Obviously it won’t be giving an...

If I recall, at the launch event, they were discussing this in terms of percentage of sales revenue. Between the Waterloo acquisition and the investment in MTD for power outdoor equipment, there will be some higher priced items made in the US. If they sell a customer 1 US made tool chest combo...

I noticed the breadth of CM products available at Lowes is expanding. I would like to get a set of metric reversible ratcheting wrenches. Not sure I liked what is saw but I stumbled across their new Gunmetal wrenches. They are available in a different lengths and have non-slip features. Made in...

It seems like its too small to be that big. It is 41 inches long, but the top drawer is 28.62 inches wide. The paired drawers are 17.64 inches and 8.90 inches (for a total of 26.54 inches). The large work surface top might be nice, not sure about the cabinet, but you have to lug around and...

Where is the used tool market good? I’d consider contacting to the best eBay seller for my brand of choice to see what deal I could make for a big purchase that I pick up myself. Also let them know what you are doing and they may have leads on some used market sources they can tap.

Fair points. Ideal/SK's challenges were 1) sourcing/procurement; 2) distribution; and 3) learning to be a tool manufacturer. That being said, they are clearing many of those hurdles, so why is there still a delay. I submit its because engineering clean-sheet new tools and establishing...

I was impressed with what they are doing from a business standpoint. They are getting ta foothold in the lawn and garden space which will be important for the brand. SBD recently bought an implement business so they are expanding into light ag and construction in a way they haven’t previously...

This list reminded me that Wright has the Cougar Pro line that fits this category. Williams offers US and foreign sourced tools, but they are not branded differently. Still sold at different price points and they usually are up front about the COO.

I always compared Mac’s “Expert” line to Blue Point. It’s not as broad a line, no carts or boxes, but it is a collection of non-US tools.

Good tip to check the website. Says handtool will come back to US (with global materials). This chart shows where. Interestingly, some current SBD facilities are not on the chart, like Shelbyville, KY.

Maybe I don't understand how you define stubby, but Snap on has some. Here is the 21 piece SAE. https://store.snapon.com/Short-Handle-inches-21-pc-12-Point-SAE-Flank-Drive-Short-Combination-Wrench-Set-P633278.aspx or their midget size...

I haven’t handled one but the new DeWalt round head ratchets are reportedly made in Italy and their resemblance to USAG is pretty obvious.