Old(?) Craftsman linesman pliers questions

[FrankLee]

sold

 

[gsmornot]

Scroll down to figure 183. Looks like the handles were added bu just my guess.
http://home.comcast.net/~alloy-artifacts/craftsman-early-tools-p4.html

 

[woody 73]

Yes indeed the handles were added at a later date, I see them from time to time on other tools from different tool companies.

 

[neophyte]

The handles on that pair of pliers appears to be a cellulose acetate type material such as Tenite. I've seen a number of older pliers that have used that type of material for the handles both on US made, and European made pliers. It's possible the handles were a variation of the pliers that was available to purchase in addition to the regular ungripped pliers. It's also possible the handles were added aftermarket by the owner. Klein still sells replacement Tenite grips that can be added to their pliers. Ideal also sells replacement Tenite grips for pliers. My understanding is that some electricians prefer the Tenite because of durability and the textured surface. The Klein and Ideal handles have different grip patterns that neither match each other, or the grips on those pliers, but there were like other patterns back when that material was more common. As far as the patterning on the steel plier handles, it was probably just easier to manufacture the same base pliers and add handles when an order came in for the acetate handled version.

 

[SweetD]

I think that those pliers are pretty old though regardless of the plastic covers. The lettering of the C-man logo is cool.



Dave

 

[Flatintoone]

I've seen some old cman catalogs from about that era, and remember seeing a lot of clear yellow stuff in them. On the other hand,for some reason replaceable grips in about that color and style seem really familiar...

Btw, Franklee, i have a package i need to send you...

 

[rickhigginshtbr]

I wouldn't be shocked if they're just yellowed with age and were originally clear. Judging by the logo, you got yourself a pre-1950ish lineman there. Trade you a Klien from the similar time frame

 

[Outlawmws]

Those Lineman's are more like 30's to mid 40's or so...

Definitely not factory grips, but Craftsman might have offered them at some point or another.

 

[Trucky]

Man, those jaws are in primo shape for their age!

I bid 5$!

Got no clue on the grips.. but the handles are sweet.

 

[jeffmoss26]

Klein handles most likely. I've got an old pair of Klein long nose with the same yellow handles.

 

[KF5LCH]

FrankLee, I have the same pliers. They're real beauties!

There should be a circle "C" on the bottom inside of the handles. I'm almost 100% sure the yellow grips are aftermarket. I did quite a bit of research on them when I got mine. Everything I can find points to pre WWII. Mid to late 30's.

I found these laying in the dirt floor of an old barn we tore down last year. They were totally locked up. A few days in some diesel to unlock them & a week in the electrolysis tank to rid them of the rust & here they are. These are some of the best pliers I have ever held in my hand. VERY well built.