Proto locking pliers 292-WR

[Cwalter]

Hi to all,

I need info for Proto locking pliers 292-WR (please see photo).
Is this the original? How old is it? How is its quality and how much does it value?

<img border=0 src="http://matchbox.persiangig.com/proto_2018-01-18_17-32-06.jpg">

<img border=0 src="http://matchbox.persiangig.com/proto.jpg">

<img border=0 src="http://matchbox.persiangig.com/proto_2018-01-18_17-28-27.jpg">

Thank you for your help.

 

[ssdave]

Nice old stock. Collectible because of the condition and particularly because of the box; I'd expect $25 to $40 depending on who is bidding on it.

 

[Richard Cranium]

I agree, I think you are in the correct price range.

 

[four.cycle]

That's interesting that it appears to have a serial number stamped on the tool itself, or is that a patent number?
My question would be: does it have a patent number stamped on it?
Does the patent number lead back to Petersen Manufacturing in Dewitt, Nebraska?

As for "original", no. The "original" was made by Petersen. (Now owned by Irwin, which touts its lousy knock-off as "the original".)

 

[Strouty]

Those sure look like rebranded Petersens to me, that 10WR is the dead giveaway.

The serial number is stamped in them, you can see it written on the box as well.

 

[Cwalter]

Thank you for your advice.
The only thing that made me doubt, difference is in release lever pivot point.
Petersen not used rounded head pivot in that part!

 

[d42jeep]

There is little doubt that Petersen was making Proto's vise grips. Here is a comparison shot between two of mine. Although slightly different sizes, the construction is identical.
-Don

 

[Cwalter]

Thanks for photos, as shown in the your photos the release lever pivot point is exactly the Petersen sign. But in 292-WR release lever Used rounded rivets!
Given that Ingersoll Rand sold Proto in 1984,this L pliers must, as a rule, be at least 33 years old. While the release lever pivot and the hex adjustable screw are completely in conflict with the design of that time.