The Facom Tools Thread.

[Dave455]

There isn’t much here in Switzerland unless you want PB Swiss and stuff like that. However, I did find and buy some good Hazet items by dumb luck.

Although I’ve only ever found slim pickings on the used front, I always suspected that was because I’ve been in big cities like Geneva and Zurich, and wasn’t looking in the right places.

I get the impression that the Swiss way, much like the British, is to re use quality stuff wherever possible.

I have often found things I wanted new though. Rarer, but useful, things such as Vallorbe “Valtitan” needle files, diamond files, and the small escapement files are all good purchases if you can track them down, although typically there isn’t much of a saving on the U.K. price.

I could never resist the (at the time) unique models of Alox Victorinox knives available through Bugnard in their ”house” yellow.

Facom in use today in the beautiful French city of Lyon, the culinary capitol of the world.

I own the larger version of this tool bag and it is wonderfully made and great engineering thought went into it. Including the waterproof construction and the rubberized-plastic bottom base.

I am in the market for a tool bag and was wondering about those.

 

[Jeffrey D]

Picked these socket adapters up years ago (I forgot where) when I was a flight mechanic on the MD11F. The low profile comes in handy.

 

[CGarage]

I am in the market for a tool bag and was wondering about those.

Honestly, the best one on the market I think. Really well thought out and resist elements well. I gifted two to friends and they are proper chuffed with it. Including one friend who has a complete garage, and I mean everything, ALL Hazet.

My only complaint is the big one is easy to overload and it can become heavy and difficult to move. I also like the U.K. Raco taco bags.

 

[YesIHaveAHammer]

Spotted some of the very biggest Cles a pipe on eBay, good price. Not in any standard metric size, or any size I have a use for.

It would be wrong and wasteful to buy a tool as a 2kg shiny ornament.

 

[YesIHaveAHammer]

People who bought the French style riveting hammer (200H, 200C), what do you think of them?

@ChefRex 32 https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/threads/the-facom-tools-thread.520605/page-7#post-10494406
@Squankum 26 https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/threads/the-facom-tools-thread.520605/page-9#post-10874885
@Etchase 26 https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/threads/the-facom-tools-thread.520605/page-12#post-10971180

I'm curious, but I'm not a blacksmith nor do I set rivets. Just hit other tools or metal to bend it. Seems a square face would have some benefit for the latter, and currently my smallest square hammer is a 1kg lump. Most likely to consider 30/32/36.

Compared to the German (square), the head is shorter end to end, with a taller face (rectangular) to compensate, and only 1mm narrower. That seems like a good idea for accuracy and moving in a confined space. But less good for reaching past obstacles or hitting a small target surrounded by obstacles. The smallest sizes seem very narrow compared to ball peins of similar weights. Facom doesn't list widths, but Beta has them for theirs.

Compared to a ball peen (circular), the face is is taller but narrower than the diameter by 3-5mm. You have more room for a miss-hit lengthwise, a lot more room diagonally, but less room widthwise. And of course you can hit a straight line and get into corners.

I can imagine the cross pein could be of use, certainly more for me than the ball pein. But any pros/cons vs. the German? Does the "step" have any functionality beyond mass distribution?

 

[Etchase]

People who bought the French style riveting hammer (200H, 200C), what do you think of them. [/QUOTE

I like the construction and the feel. I have a hammer problem, so don’t use any one a lot of experience with it. Mine was only 13 ounces, but the graphite handle gives it the feel of a solid impact. I use it for taps near obstructions.]

 

[ChefRex]

People who bought the French style riveting hammer (200H, 200C), what do you think of them?

@ChefRex 32 https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/threads/the-facom-tools-thread.520605/page-7#post-10494406
@Squankum 26 https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/threads/the-facom-tools-thread.520605/page-9#post-10874885
@Etchase 26 https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/threads/the-facom-tools-thread.520605/page-12#post-10971180

I'm curious, but I'm not a blacksmith nor do I set rivets. Just hit other tools or metal to bend it. Seems a square face would have some benefit for the latter, and currently my smallest square hammer is a 1kg lump. Most likely to consider 30/32/36.

Compared to the German (square), the head is shorter end to end, with a taller face (rectangular) to compensate, and only 1mm narrower. That seems like a good idea for accuracy and moving in a confined space. But less good for reaching past obstacles or hitting a small target surrounded by obstacles. The smallest sizes seem very narrow compared to ball peins of similar weights. Facom doesn't list widths, but Beta has them for theirs.

Compared to a ball peen (circular), the face is is taller but narrower than the diameter by 3-5mm. You have more room for a miss-hit lengthwise, a lot more room diagonally, but less room widthwise. And of course you can hit a straight line and get into corners.

I can imagine the cross pein could be of use, certainly more for me than the ball pein. But any pros/cons vs. the German? Does the "step" have any functionality beyond mass distribution?

????

 

[YesIHaveAHammer]

Sorry wrong chef!

@Chefjpd

 

[Squankum]

People who bought the French style riveting hammer (200H, 200C), what do you think of them?

@ChefRex 32 https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/threads/the-facom-tools-thread.520605/page-7#post-10494406
@Squankum 26 https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/threads/the-facom-tools-thread.520605/page-9#post-10874885
@Etchase 26 https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/threads/the-facom-tools-thread.520605/page-12#post-10971180

I'm curious, but I'm not a blacksmith nor do I set rivets. Just hit other tools or metal to bend it. Seems a square face would have some benefit for the latter, and currently my smallest square hammer is a 1kg lump. Most likely to consider 30/32/36.

Compared to the German (square), the head is shorter end to end, with a taller face (rectangular) to compensate, and only 1mm narrower. That seems like a good idea for accuracy and moving in a confined space. But less good for reaching past obstacles or hitting a small target surrounded by obstacles. The smallest sizes seem very narrow compared to ball peins of similar weights. Facom doesn't list widths, but Beta has them for theirs.

Compared to a ball peen (circular), the face is is taller but narrower than the diameter by 3-5mm. You have more room for a miss-hit lengthwise, a lot more room diagonally, but less room widthwise. And of course you can hit a straight line and get into corners.

I can imagine the cross pein could be of use, certainly more for me than the ball pein. But any pros/cons vs. the German? Does the "step" have any functionality beyond mass distribution?

I have what's probably the lightest one, 200C with graphite handle. And I used it in "anger" for the first time a few weeks ago, and I liked it. Square didn't seem to affect things one way or the other. Nothing got peened.



What I like about it is the handle! Nice contouring, smooth yet somehow nonslip. And zero vibrations seem to come through. Not that was I was bopping with it was all that heavy duty or the shock waves through the wooden handle of a small ball peen hammer would have caused me any problems, but it's pretty neat. I don't regret the purchase. I could see getting a bigger/heavier one someday, if I felt the need to support the FACOM company.

Like most of you, I really don't need another hammer. But I'll probably be buying more hammers in the future.

 

[autobon7]

Anyone buy from Expert Tool Store? https://www.expert-toolstore.com/us/facom-special-offers
Seems like good pricing on the special offers tab. Making sure they are legit.

 

[YesIHaveAHammer]

And the offset (and slightly longer ) No.41 is also available.

Consequently, they don’t seem to be in a rush to offer a wide variety of the 440XL, which is a shame as it’s a superb design. My suspicion is that the range will get expanded as the design is still relatively new.

Took a closer look at how much longer than the 440 standard.

• Unlike the 440 which has a different length for each size, adjacent sizes (e.g. 7 & 8mm) in 41 have the same length.
• The odd numbered sizes are longer by more.
• Below 13mm, the variation is trivial (within 6mm), with the even sizes actually being shorter.
• From 13 to 16mm, we have +10, 0, +15, +5mm longer
• Above that (looked up to 24mm), they're always meaningfully longer, the odd sizes about 15% and the evens 10%.

Snapshot:

Size	440	41	440 XL	40.LA
10	145	142	175	n/a
13	170	180	208	n/a
17	202	224	259	n/a < 19mm
19	216	248	283	329
24	267	302	n/a > 19mm	394

The multiplier on the 440 XL increases slowly with the sizes (from 1.14 at 8mm to 1.31), whereas the 40.LA is a constant 1.5x (at least up to 24mm).

 

[Dave455]

Took a closer look at how much longer than the 440 standard.

• Unlike the 440 which has a different length for each size, adjacent sizes (e.g. 7 & 8mm) in 41 have the same length.
• The odd numbered sizes are longer by more.
• Below 13mm, the variation is trivial (within 6mm), with the even sizes actually being shorter.
• From 13 to 16mm, we have +10, 0, +15, +5mm longer
• Above that (looked up to 24mm), they're always meaningfully longer, the odd sizes about 15% and the evens 10%.

Snapshot:

Size	440	41	440 XL	40.LA
10	145	142	175	n/a
13	170	180	208	n/a
17	202	224	259	n/a < 19mm
19	216	248	283	329
24	267	302	n/a > 19mm	394

The multiplier on the 440 XL increases slowly with the sizes (from 1.14 at 8mm to 1.31), whereas the 40.LA is a constant 1.5x (at least up to 24mm).

Yes, in the smaller sizes the increased length of the No.41 is marginal (if at all) compared to the 440.

I must admit that when I wrote that I had I think a 13 and 17 in front of me.

Some smaller No.41’s (mixed vintage) compared to 440’s.


I wouldn’t advise getting the No.41’s in order to obtain a longer wrench, but rather for the offset, which is sometimes useful.

If you wanted a longer wrench, the 440XL, or even the No.40LA (in the larger sizes) is the way to go.


I think though, that the 440 and 440XL are about the best value out there in wrenches at present. Certainly for me in the U.K. (one or other of the clones might be better, depending on where you are). The design seems to have been incredibly well thought out, and they are lovely to use.

Facom, historically, have been very sensible about the styles and sizes of the wrenches they have offered. For example, the No.39 short combination wrench is only available in smaller sizes. The No.40LA only in the larger.

 

[f121]

any idea what warranty is on the 440s?

Although it probably doesn’t matter, I can’t remember the last time I broke a wrench.

 

[Dave455]

any idea what warranty is on the 440s?

Although it probably doesn’t matter, I can’t remember the last time I broke a wrench.

Lifetime.

But obviously that covers manufacturing defects, not wear, or abuse.

Which is actually the same as Snap On. The difference is that Snap On customers expect any broken or worn out tool to be replaced. If I was paying Snap On money I’d probably expect that too!

 

[YesIHaveAHammer]

I wouldn’t advise getting the No.41’s in order to obtain a longer wrench, but rather for the offset, which is sometimes useful.

Agreed, came to the same conclusion.

I didn't mention, what got me looking was what to go for in 24mm.

 

[Dave455]

Agreed, came to the same conclusion.

I didn't mention, what got me looking was what to go for in 24mm.

Hmm, quite a few options.

One of which is to go for the regular 440. They are made in a huge variety of sizes, up to 41mm I think.

The problem is, in the larger sizes I don’t think they have enough leverage. Depends what you are using them on.

I have the 440’s up to 22mm in my road box, but the only reason I have the 22 is for changing angle grinder accessories, for which they are fine.

The No.41, as discussed, offers little extra length.

The 440XL’s are yet to be available in 22mm.

So I think the best option is probably the No.40LA. Nice tools, and available up to some massive sizes.


Do you specifically want a combination wrench?

I like the No.40 open ender and they are inexpensive.


Maybe supplement with a No.55?

You will have bought two wrenches, but will have two sizes.


Alternatively, I can’t remember the USAG equivalent of the 440XL, but they may be available in more sizes.

I have some of the 285X with the non slip profile and they are superb. Brighter finish than the 440’s.

The USAG version of the Facom 40LA (285L?) is available down to 10mm (if I recall correctly) should you want a set including a greater range.

 

[YesIHaveAHammer]

One of which is to go for the regular 440. They are made in a huge variety of sizes, up to 41mm I think.

The problem is, in the larger sizes I don’t think they have enough leverage. Depends what you are using them on.

I'd probably have done just that had I not read your previous remarks on length, so thanks. For steel framed buildings and gatework, where spanners I've previously used were certainly a longer than the 440.

The No.41, as discussed, offers little extra length.

Would have been enough, and the offset neither a pro or a con. But, see later.

So I think the best option is probably the No.40LA.

Too long for my preference, it's extra long. In this size, I just wanted one versatile length.

Do you specifically want a combination wrench?

I like the No.40 open ender and they are inexpensive.

Only envisaged needing the ring end really. Also those 44s are flat profile, no offset angle.

Maybe supplement with a No.55?

I did have a look. The offset is a bit deeper on these than the 41, and you've got the other end offset the other way which needs a deep swinging area.

You will have bought two wrenches, but will have two sizes.

I thought two different end styles in the size I use would more likely be useful. The options for the other end of a 24mm are 22mm (M14 non-preferred), 26mm (non-standard), and 27mm (M18 non-preferred).

As it happens, while looking for something else I came across a Saltus 1000 combination wrench, which prompted my question in the old world thread. The length (339mm) is what the Facom 440XL would probably be if they made them that big, so I went for that.

 

[Dave455]

I'd probably have done just that had I not read your previous remarks on length, so thanks. For steel framed buildings and gatework, where spanners I've previously used were certainly a longer than the 440.


Would have been enough, and the offset neither a pro or a con. But, see later.


Too long for my preference, it's extra long. In this size, I just wanted one versatile length.


Only envisaged needing the ring end really. Also those 44s are flat profile, no offset angle.


I did have a look. The offset is a bit deeper on these than the 41, and you've got the other end offset the other way which needs a deep swinging area.


I thought two different end styles in the size I use would more likely be useful. The options for the other end of a 24mm are 22mm (M14 non-preferred), 26mm (non-standard), and 27mm (M18 non-preferred).

As it happens, while looking for something else I came across a Saltus 1000 combination wrench, which prompted my question in the old world thread. The length (339mm) is what the Facom 440XL would probably be if they made them that big, so I went for that.

I think that generally, here, we assume tools are being used for automotive applications. This is GARAGE journal after all.

The reality of course, is that most of us do a variety of things, either by choice or necessity. I’ve recently spent several days helping a friend get settled in to a new house, and have used the standard length 440’s I had with me for everything from levelling appliances to driving coach screws. They worked just fine but I didn’t need much torque.

I hope the Saltus works for you. I suspect it will.

I see more of the 440XL’s in my life over time.

 

[YesIHaveAHammer]

• “Facom Start” is a new lower priced range of popular products, which still carry the Facom lifetime Warranty, but offer great value for money. (Eventually this range will replace the “Expert by Facom” range of products).

“Facom Start” BTXJ7PB 7 Piece Torx Screwdriver Set T10-T40

I was pessimistically expecting that this would be accompanied by a reduction in quality and move to China/Vietnam etc., but this particular set is made in France.

 

[CGarage]

“Facom Start” BTXJ7PB 7 Piece Torx Screwdriver Set T10-T40

I was pessimistically expecting that this would be accompanied by a reduction in quality and move to China/Vietnam etc., but this particular set is made in France.

Facom doesn’t use China or Vietnam.

They use Taiwan for some items, which is a top quality producer.

My Vessel screwdrivers are made in Thailand and are fantastic.

You can get all quality levels out of Asia- it is up to the manufacturer to specify and the associated cost is assessed.

 

[YesIHaveAHammer]

Facom doesn’t use China or Vietnam.

I know - I was saying that I was expecting them to start now.

You can get all quality levels out of Asia- it is up to the manufacturer to specify and the associated cost is assessed.

Yes. I wasn't trying to imply that by mentioning both issues together.

They said "lower priced range"... I thought a) reduce quality, b) move to lower cost countries. As you say, they could do one of those without the other.

 

[CGarage]

Keep in mind, Facom owns “Expert”, which is technically the lower cost tool range.

I own a bunch of Expert product and think it is great. It meets all DIN standards, too.

 

[Dave455]

“Facom Start” BTXJ7PB 7 Piece Torx Screwdriver Set T10-T40

I was pessimistically expecting that this would be accompanied by a reduction in quality and move to China/Vietnam etc., but this particular set is made in France.

Those are basically Bost drivers - you can tell from the handle shape, and to a degree the blades.

The Bost drivers are not “bad” drivers, the tips don’t seem too bad, and they are French made.

The same drivers have been rebranded as ”Stanley” and many others over the years.

Neither the handles or blades are the same level of quality as the proper Facom drivers, and I find that the plating on blades tends to corrode easily. Whether that’s thinner plating or poorer steel underneath, I couldn’t say.

Probably a good choice for a cheaper range, but a proper Facom driver is in a different league.

 

[YesIHaveAHammer]

Facom Start 40B

Unlike the "Expert by" range, not at all brand distinguished from the proper Facom range.

Roll set
Plastic clip set and another

 

[134k]

I have a metric set of Facom (France) hex keys, that have the Hex-Plus design. The individual keys themselves are stamped France and have a beautiful gun blue shiny finish, and not the flat phosphate finish, that the Wera hex keys have.
When did Facom use the Wera technology, and why did it end?

 

[Qualitytools]

I have a metric set of Facom (France) hex keys, that have the Hex-Plus design. The individual keys themselves are stamped France and have a beautiful gun blue shiny finish, and not the flat phosphate finish, that the Wera hex keys have.
When did Facom use the Wera technology, and why did it end?

Post a photo of them.

 

[134k]

I really want to use these, but I've never been so hesitant to do so because they're so nice looking. I will rotate my hex key sets every year. But year after year, these just stay in the toolbox waiting their turn. I got these in Belgium back in 2014.

 

[Hakeem]

Is there a master list in the thread of which Facom tools are still made in France?

 

[F-22]

I really want to use these, but I've never been so hesitant to do so because they're so nice looking. I will rotate my hex key sets every year. But year after year, these just stay in the toolbox waiting their turn. I got these in Belgium back in 2014.

Those are very cool. I don't think the new ones are hex-plus anymore.

 

[Dave455]

Is there a master list in the thread of which Facom tools are still made in France?

We haven’t shown a definitive list as such, but I seem to remember that one of the members posted a link to one a while back.

Some websites (e.g. Radio Spares in the U.K.) show “country of origin” as part of their compliance requirements, so that’s an easy way to check.

Basically, the French made items include

Screwdrivers


And also Screwdriver handled tools such as socket spinners.


Pliers


Hex keys

Tool bags


and tool boxes

 

[Dave455]

Wrenches, socket wrenches, and most accessories are made in Taiwan.

It has been noted however, that unlike many manufacturers, the quality of the Taiwan made tools has generally been maintained. I think most members of the forum with experience of both agree on this.

Given a choice I would generally prefer French made, but in relatively few cases is the Taiwan tool noticably lesser quality. I have both French and Taiwanese No.75 socket wrenches, and while the French made have a fractionally nicer finish, I don’t think there is any other noticeable difference in quality.

Sometimes there have been styling changes, and again I tend to prefer the French made, particularly some of the wrenches, but we are talking just styling.

In some cases, the Taiwanese made tool is actually nicer. The S.154 ratchet I recently bought is made in Taiwan, but the ratchet mechanism received a bit of an upgrade, and it’s finer tooth than the original French made tool, so in this instance I would probably prefer it.

The Taiwan made sockets are very high quality. I have quite a few and the design, steel, manufacturing quality, finishing are all first class.

Some of the newer wrench designs, such as the 440 series were Taiwanese manufactured from the outset. They are a very high quality wrench, and the level of quality control is outstanding,

Note also that some tools are made in other countries, but are still acceptable. Many ratchet’s are made in Italy in the USAG plant.

 

[drtyler]

In some cases, the Taiwanese made tool is actually nicer. The S.154 ratchet I recently bought is made in Taiwan, but the ratchet mechanism received a bit of an upgrade, and it’s finer tooth than the original French made tool, so in this instance I would probably prefer it.

The French S.154 is 72 tooth, at least the one I have. How many teeth to the new Taiwan produced tool?

 

[Dave455]

The French S.154 is 72 tooth, at least the one I have. How many teeth to the new Taiwan produced tool?

The one I have is 72 tooth also, so it looks as though that tool has been upgraded for a while. I’ve just checked the catalogues which confirm this.

The older French ones were a lower tooth count though. Not sure when they were upgraded, but I’ve used older versions of the same tool that were not quite as smooth.

 

[Hakeem]

Wrenches, socket wrenches, and most accessories are made in Taiwan.

It has been noted however, that unlike many manufacturers, the quality of the Taiwan made tools has generally been maintained. I think most members of the forum with experience of both agree on this.

Given a choice I would generally prefer French made, but in relatively few cases is the Taiwan tool noticably lesser quality. I have both French and Taiwanese No.75 socket wrenches, and while the French made have a fractionally nicer finish, I don’t think there is any other noticeable difference in quality.

Sometimes there have been styling changes, and again I tend to prefer the French made, particularly some of the wrenches, but we are talking just styling.

In some cases, the Taiwanese made tool is actually nicer. The S.154 ratchet I recently bought is made in Taiwan, but the ratchet mechanism received a bit of an upgrade, and it’s finer tooth than the original French made tool, so in this instance I would probably prefer it.

The Taiwan made sockets are very high quality. I have quite a few and the design, steel, manufacturing quality, finishing are all first class.

Some of the newer wrench designs, such as the 440 series were Taiwanese manufactured from the outset. They are a very high quality wrench, and the level of quality control is outstanding,

Note also that some tools are made in other countries, but are still acceptable. Many ratchet’s are made in Italy in the USAG plant.

Thank you kind sir. Yes, the Taiwanese Facom wrenches I own are the most well-finished wrenches I’ve ever seen. Essentially flawless. But I’m a sucker for rare & exclusive tools, and anything “Made in France” is quite rare indeed.

I handled some Mac pliers recently and they were very nice. The salesman said they were made in France, but there was no indication of COO on them. A bit odd. Silly as it is, I want that label on the tools.

Thanks again, I see some French hex keys in my future ….

 

[Dave455]

Thank you kind sir. Yes, the Taiwanese Facom wrenches I own are the most well-finished wrenches I’ve ever seen. Essentially flawless. But I’m a sucker for rare & exclusive tools, and anything “Made in France” is quite rare indeed.

I handled some Mac pliers recently and they were very nice. The salesman said they were made in France, but there was no indication of COO on them. A bit odd. Silly as it is, I want that label on the tools.

Thanks again, I see some French hex keys in my future ….

I can well believe that the Mac pliers could be made in France, but I find it a bit odd that they wouldn’t say “France” on them. Every pair that I have handled has clearly said so,

Maybe SBD are hoping that Mac customers will think they are getting a newly developed American tool? That certainly seems to be the response to the round head Proto ratchets, which are certainly nice, but ultimately a Facom design that’s three decades old!

I have had the Facom pliers in my road box for a few years now and they seem to be lasting well, in addition to being nice to use. Note that the designs follow European practice though, so while very nicely made, are of different patterns, compared to American pliers.

The Facom hex keys are quite special, although they don’t look it. Here’s what I wrote in the “hex keys” thread, comparing Facom to just about all else.

 

[richfinn]

I can well believe that the Mac pliers could be made in France, but I find it a bit odd that they wouldn’t say “France” on them. Every pair that I have handled has clearly said so,

Maybe SBD are hoping that Mac customers will think they are getting a newly developed American tool? That certainly seems to be the response to the round head Proto ratchets, which are certainly nice, but ultimately a Facom design that’s three decades old!

I have had the Facom pliers in my road box for a few years now and they seem to be lasting well, in addition to being nice to use. Note that the designs follow European practice though, so while very nicely made, are of different patterns, compared to American pliers.

The Facom hex keys are quite special, although they don’t look it. Here’s what I wrote in the “hex keys” thread, comparing Facom to just about all else.

I bought the Metric Facom set on eBay brand new for £13, definitely a bargain, I suspect whatever they are made out of is simply better than regular Hex Keys, they aren't as springy as my cheap Draper (RAC issued set).

For metal hand tools you can't really go wrong with anything Facom regardless of COO in my opinion..

 

[glenng]

Thank you kind sir. Yes, the Taiwanese Facom wrenches I own are the most well-finished wrenches I’ve ever seen. Essentially flawless. But I’m a sucker for rare & exclusive tools, and anything “Made in France” is quite rare indeed.

I handled some Mac pliers recently and they were very nice. The salesman said they were made in France, but there was no indication of COO on them. A bit odd. Silly as it is, I want that label on the tools.

Thanks again, I see some French hex keys in my future ….

Lone Star Mopars did a review of the Mac Tools C.S.T pliers and they say made in France on the bag they come in, but it didn't look like it said so on the actual pliers.

 

[Hakeem]

I can well believe that the Mac pliers could be made in France, but I find it a bit odd that they wouldn’t say “France” on them. Every pair that I have handled has clearly said so,

Maybe SBD are hoping that Mac customers will think they are getting a newly developed American tool? That certainly seems to be the response to the round head Proto ratchets, which are certainly nice, but ultimately a Facom design that’s three decades old!

Cynically, I’m wondering if “Made in France” is thought to be perceived negatively by the target demographic for Mac customers. You may recall the “freedom fries” period from ~20 years ago. Or perhaps customers would wonder (and justifiably so) why they aren’t made domestically.

Whatever the reason, it’s a shame. I would almost certainly buy a pair or three if the pliers displayed their provenance, but without the COO I’m much less interested.

Thanks to @glenng for confirming my experience

 

[CGarage]

Cynically, I’m wondering if “Made in France” is thought to be perceived negatively by the target demographic for Mac customers. You may recall the “freedom fries” period from ~20 years ago. Or perhaps customers would wonder (and justifiably so) why they aren’t made domestically.

Whatever the reason, it’s a shame. I would almost certainly buy a pair or three if the pliers displayed their provenance, but without the COO I’m much less interested.

Thanks to @glenng for confirming my experience

I agree with you. I am often confronted with the profound reality that Americans, in particular, are ignorant of and fail to recognize the vast achievements of France and her people.

 

[RTM]

Cynically, I’m wondering if “Made in France” is thought to be perceived negatively

am often confronted with the profound reality that Americans, in particular, are ignorant of and fail to recognize the vast achievements of France

I dunno, I think the quality / support of Peugeot cars and bicycles in the mid 70s tainted a lot of people against French manufacturing.

I have a handful of French made wooden planes from earlier that are as good as their peers from anywhere in the same eras, and the steel in them is good, so no complaints.