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Hand tools are the heart of every toolkit, since no matter what your occupation is, at some point, you’ll have to use one or two! They started the whole tool industry, all the way back to the prehistoric era with stone tools, to here and now, with all the fancy and digital additions to them! That’s why it’s important to know who makes them and what are the best hand tool companies in the industry.
In this article, we’ll go through all the hand tool manufacturers around the globe and see specifically which of them supply the best products to different brands. Keep reading to discover the major names in the industry, their history, and what sets them apart. From long-established brands to emerging hand tool companies that are changing the game with modern technology, this overview will provide insight into who is leading the market.
Join us as we delve into the world of hand tool manufacturers and highlight the companies that are shaping the future of hand tool design and production.
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Hand Tool Manufacturers List: An Overview
In total, the number of hand tool manufacturers around the world is a little bit short of 200,000; with China having a substantial and growing presence among all others. Here is a list of what I found to be the 18 top hand tool companies among an ocean of other big names in the global industry.
- Apex Tool Group LLC (ATG)
With a reputation for more than 100 years, this American manufacturer supplies over 10 brands such as Crescent, GearWrench, and Weller. Covering a wide range of users, from DIYers to professionals in construction.
- Atlas Copco Industrial Technique AB
Known for industrial tools, this manufacturer is in Sweden and supplies a limited range of brands. They mostly provide high-quality industrial power tools, assembly solutions, quality assurance products, software and services.
- GEDORE Holding GmbH
Based in Germany, this manufacturer offers a range of hand tools. Their motto is “From tradition into the future”, and they mean it! They have been a family-owned business for over a century and have manufactured over 16,000 products.
- Great Star USA Tools Inc.
Founded in 2012 in the USA, this manufacturer is a child of the organization Hangzhou GreatStar Industrial Co., Ltd. which has been in the business since 1993 in China, providing a range of tools, such as hand tools, power tools, pneumatic tools, laser tools, LIDAR, tool storage, and vacuum cleaners. They primarily work under their own brand and some private labels.
- Husqvarna AB
This Swedish manufacturer was founded in Stockholm in 1689, making it the oldest organization on this list! As they put it, they “have kept innovating and re-inventing” their business for over three centuries. They supply many tools, mostly under their own brand.
- Ingersoll-Rand Industrial U.S. Inc.
Mainly known for power tools, this American manufacturer also offers some hand tools under its own brand, all designed for professionals in over 10 different industries.
- Keyang Electric Machinery Co. Ltd.
Here for over 40 years, this Korean manufacturer has mainly focused on its own brand of tools with limited brand supply.
- Klein Tools, Inc.
Having been in the industry since 1857, this manufacturer was first operated by Mathias Klein and then his descendants to the fifth generation. As they say, today, they represent much more than simply Klein pliers. They provide a broad line of hand tools for every industry, like construction, electronics, mining, and general industry in addition to the electrical and telecommunications fields.
- KNIPEX-Werk C. Gustav Putsch KG
This German manufacturer is mostly known for providing hand tools, more specifically, pliers. Their products are mostly used by professionals in many different industries, but they do appeal to DIYers and EDC markets increasingly. Founded in 1882 by Carl Gustav Putsch in his basement, this company has been an independent family-managed company for four generations.
- Makita Corporation
Primarily known for its own brand since 1915, this Japanese manufacturer mainly focuses on power tools, with a limited selection of hand tools. Their hand tool lineup includes essentials such as chisels, hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, and other commonly used items in tool kits.
- Robert Bosch GmbH
Founded in 1886 by Robert Bosch and with the motto “Invented for life”, this German company aspires to help people’s quality of life by providing high-quality products in a selection of worldwide locations. This manufacturer supplies tools under the Bosch brand and also OEMs for many other brands.
- Ronix GmbH
Founded in 2004, this international manufacturer provides a wide range of hand tools working solely under its own brand. Apart from a great selection of hand tools, Ronix offers a range of power tools and cordless tools and more.
- Stanley Black & Decker Inc.
Known for its large buyout patterns, this American manufacturer provides everything from industrial tools to household hardware. According to their website, selling products in 180 countries around the world, this company is able to sell 50 products every second!
- Techtronic Industries
Being the parent company to many subsidiary brands around the globe, this manufacturer offers power tools, outdoor power equipment, hand tools and floor care appliances. It was also the first manufacturer to pioneer cordless power tools powered by lithium-ion rechargeable batteries!
- The L. S. Starrett Company
Founded in 1880 and known for precision tools, this American manufacturer mostly supplies under its own brand. They offer a wide range of hand tools, mostly precision measuring tools including calipers, micrometers, squares, levels, and more, specifically designed for accuracy and durability, which are essential in professional and industrial applications.
Top Hand Tool Manufacturers in the USA
As mentioned before, USA houses many big names in the industry when it comes to top-rated hand tool manufacturers. Names like Stanley Black & Decker, Klein Tools and Apex Tool Group. But let’s take a closer look at some other great hand tool manufacturers, namely:
- Snap-on
Another famous hand tool manufacturer is Snap-on with around 30 brands! Snap-on started their work by revolutionizing the automotive repair industry by introducing five unique handles and ten sockets that snapped on interchangeably and going on to make other revolutionary items such as the “magic” green cloth and direct-selling. This, alone, can make them one of the top hand tool manufacturers in the USA!
- Craftsman
According to their website, in 1935, using their power tools, Colleen Moore (a silent film star!) and a crew of 100 people made a fairy castle dollhouse! This process took over seven years and almost 500,000$.
But apart from their power tools, they also provide hand tools that are designed for both professionals and DIYers.
- ChannelLock
Another family-owned business going strong since 1886, ChannelLock is a completely American-made company that offers great hand tools. Today, they’re operated by the fifth generation of the family and make over 75 different types and sizes of pliers!
- Irwin Tools
Known for its iconic Vise-Grip pliers, Irwin Tools has been providing a variety of hand tools since 1884 and has a rich history, from helping America in WWII to going worldwide in more than 120 countries.
- JCBL Hand Tool
This manufacturer is one of the less-known brands that work mostly locally in the USA. They offer an extensive and wide array of hand tools, namely, wrenches, pliers, and carpenter tools.
Hand Tool Manufacturers in China
China has arguably the most prominent presence in the global market when it comes to hand tools. But that’s old news! Here, we’ll take a look at what companies focus on the domestic part of everything as well as the international export. You might have heard some of these names for being an international hand tool manufacturer, but did you know they have a local focus too?!
- Great Wall Precision Industrial Co., Ltd.
Founded in 1984, this company is one of China’s top-rated hand tool manufacturers. While they do export globally to over 80 countries, they also have a strong local presence. With over 40 years in the industry, they’re actively providing medium-to-high-end tools for industrial users around the world. - Zhejiang Wanda Group Corporation
Founded in China, Zhejiang Wanda Group Corporation mainly works in producing industrial equipment and high-quality hand tools. They are recognized for their wide range of lineups suitable for many areas, from construction to heavy industry, with a focus on both domestic and international markets. - Zhejiang YAT Electrical Appliance Co. Ltd.
YAT Electrical Appliance is known for its focus on innovative cordless garden and power tools; however, they have been expanding into hand tool production for outdoor use, too. With a strong emphasis on eco-friendly policies, YAT appeals primarily to DIYers and professionals in landscaping and gardening. - Zhejiang Jinpan Mechanic Electric Industry Co., Ltd.
Jinpan primarily manufactures industrial power and hand tools, with a particular focus on heavy-duty tasks. Within China, they are mainly recognized for their quality control and for serving industries like construction. - Xinya Tools (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd.
Xinya Tools offers a variety of precision hand tools, primarily targeted at the electronics and telecommunications industries. Known for their attention to detail and ergonomic designs, Xinya’s tools are popular in fields requiring fine, detailed work, such as electrical repairs and small-scale assembly. - Hanjiang Tools Co., Ltd.
Hanjiang Tools manufactures various types of hand tools, including cutting and fastening tools, and has a strong presence in both local and global markets. They are known for providing cost-effective, durable options, making them popular among both DIYers and professional contractors.
German Hand Tool Manufacturers
As you know, Germany is a staple country in the tool industry in general, but specifically in the hand tool sector. Until now, we’ve covered some of the most important names; but let’s look closer to two other manufacturers and what distinguishes them from other brands, letting them achieve success throughout the years. Because we all know only being German doesn’t necessarily make a brand famous! They must have done something new and different to grow so much, both internationally and locally.
- ROTHENBERGER AG
With a strong presence in plumbing and HVAC tools globally, Rothenberger is well-known in both local and international markets. Almost 20 years after the launch of the company, in 1967, they introduced the so-called “R-System”, which helped this hand tool manufacturer soar in profit and recognition. The products included tools for expanding, necking and bending pipes and helped installers to connect pipes without fittings. - Karl Marbach GmbH & Co. KG
This family-owned hand tool manufacturer was founded in 1923 and provides tools, machines, and materials for the packaging industry. A remarkable innovation of them was the “Marbach cutting die” which revolutionized the die-cutting processes in the packaging industry.
Hand Tool Manufacturers in India
Another country with a large number of tool manufacturers is India. A significant number of those manufacturers provide different types of hand tools, so, here is a list of some of the great names.
- Taparia
In 1969 with the technical collaboration of a Swedish company, Taparia was founded in India. Since then, it has grown to provide primarily a wide range of hand tools, including screwdrivers, pliers, and wrenches. This company primarily works locally. - Magadh Hand Tools
Founded in 1979, this hand tool manufacturer is a recognized company among Indians. Magadh supplies heavy-duty industrial hand tools all over India and works with over 600 tradespeople. They have a wide variety of hand tools such as different types of pliers and garage hand tools. - Alok Tools
For 40 years, Alok Tools has been manufacturing industrial hand tools for professionals across different industries. Known for commitment and precision, they serve areas from automotive to construction. This brand has a strong global presence, offering reliable tools designed to meet international standards. - Groz Engineering Tools
This manufacturer is more on the global side of the market in comparison to the previous ones! Groz Engineering Tools has been in the business since 1976 and is now working with 85 countries globally. They have products for many different industries, and they provide an array of hand tools for both professionals and DIYers.
Hand Tool Manufacturers in Taiwan
With a reputation for specializing in precision and innovation, Taiwan has many great hand tool companies, all focused on exporting and making a name on an international level. This specialization has allowed them to compete directly with major players from every corner of the world. Here, we’ll explore some noteworthy brands and manufacturers you should know.
- TOPTUL (Rotar Group)
With over 40 years, TOPTUL has manufactured more than 7,500 tools and is actively growing globally in 128 countries. They mainly focus on professional-grade hand tools and are recognized for a wide range of options for different industries as well as DIY applications. Known for precision and durability, TOPTUL is considered to be one of the top-rated hand tool manufacturers in Taiwan. - King Tony Tools Co., Ltd.
In 1976, the company was founded to specialize in making hand tools for the DIY market. Due to economic changes, in less than a decade, they changed course and found a new direction. They started to produce professional tools for customers around the world. Today, they’re focusing more on international brand marketing and their commitment to quality is nothing but an ally to that aspiration! - Tien-i Industrial
Tien-i Industrial, based in Taiwan, is known for its precision in producing high-quality hand tools and custom sockets, specializing in OEM and ODM manufacturing. Distinguished by their in-house engineering capabilities, Tien-i focuses on innovation and offers tailored solutions for clients worldwide, with a strong reputation for durable, precisely engineered tools. - A-KRAFT Tools
Founded in 1988, this manufacturer has a reputation for strong investment in their R&D team, helping them be a leader in launching new and innovative products for different sectors. They produce a line of hand tools made for professionals and DIYers around the world. - Sergia Industrial Co., LTD.
Being one of the many top hand tool manufacturers in Taiwan, Sergia is known for providing automotive specialty and industrial tools. They’re an exporter in the field and work internationally with a motto of High quality is not an act, it is a habit.” They, also, offer a wide variety of hand tools suitable for different industries.
Hand Tool Manufacturers in Turkey
- İzeltaş
Being Turkey’s first hand tool manufacturer in 1968, İzeltaş produces around 20,000,000 hand tools annually and exports them to over 40 countries all over the world. In addition to hand tools, they provide services to many public and private industries with forged parts produced in the automotive sector, as well as construction, maritime and mining sectors, defense and aviation industries, agricultural industries, and infrastructure works. - Ceta Form
For 47 years, this organization has been developing and producing specifically hand tools, mostly for automotive and industrial uses. Being famous in Turkey, they have expanded their work overseas and now, they have distributors in almost 45 countries. - Ekinox Tools
Primarily known within Turkey, this hand tool manufacturer is bit by bit growing to gain recognition worldwide, too. Regarding their field of expertise and production, they mostly provide hand tools for industries like plumbing and mechanical work.
Related Article : Top Power Tool Manufacturers
Top 3 Hand Tool Manufacturers
Looking through different articles regarding the top three best hand tool companies, you’ll discover the fact that not all coincide! That’s because it isn’t so easy choosing three companies since many different criteria come into play while comparing them to each other. Here, you can read about the ones I have chosen and why I think they deserve to be in the top three.
- Adapting to All Users: The Versatile Impact of Techtronic Industries (TTI)
Starting off strong, this Hong Kong-based multinational company has been in the industry since 1985 and is going strong worldwide. From designing and producing to marketing hand tools, this company does it all while targeting a wide demographic of professionals, tradespeople, homeowners, DIYers and many more.
Techtronic Industries (TTI), not only offers hand tools, but also power tools, cordless tools and cleaning tools! However, looking at their hand tool lineups, they offer a significantly broad selection for a wide variety of target markets. This has been possible thanks to the more than 10 global brands they have.
- A Legacy in Every Tool: Klein Tools
Having been founded in 1857, Klein Tools has come a long way in the industry without losing its family heritage! It’s still family-owned and that in itself is a pure indication of trust and consistency.
Klein Tools is highly regarded among electricians and linemen for its specialty tools like pliers, cutters, screwdrivers, and multimeters, which are made for electrical applications. However, that is not all that they have done to deserve this spot in this article! This brand is its own manufacturer and offers exceptional build quality with every product.
- Ronix: Balancing Quality and Affordability in Hand Tools
Continuing with the list of top three hand tool companies, Ronix takes a spot due to offering distinguishing features such as competitive prices at high quality. Also, Ronix has recently hinted at a brand-new lineup of German-made hand tools! Looking at past productions, Ronix always combines quality materials, innovative design, and testing processes to meet international standards, which allows them to offer tools that balance affordability with great performance across various industries. The result makes them stand out among other top-rated hand tool manufacturers.
The Largest Hand Tool Manufacturer
Drum roll, please! Of course, we can’t say it’s the best hand tool manufacturer, that depends on what your expectations are from a manufacturer, though, as of now, owning over 20 brands, Stanley Black & Decker is considered to be the largest of all! Here’s a brief introduction to the company:
Although this hand tool manufacturer is not the largest by market cap, it is one of the companies with the most influence on the market, owning iconic brands such as Stanley, DeWalt, Bostitch, and Craftsman. Stanley Black & Decker provides a wide range of hand tools, and all are known to be both high-quality and affordable. Because of their wide variety in owning of brands, they have been able to create a distribution network across many continents.
One of the main features of this hand tool company is its heavy investment in R&D (Research and Development). This makes them a leader when it comes to advancements in the hand tool industry. Also, they have proven in many ways to make significant moves toward environmental goals, for instance, zero emissions and investing in sustainable practices.
Hand Tools across Borders
Reading about each manufacturer from different countries might have made you confused as they might have seemed all the same before, but hopefully, with this guide in your hands, you can easily distinguish them from each other. It is important to know the differences they have and their overall aspirations, worldwide recognition and moral codes, to be able to find the best in case you need to. Or to simply familiarize yourself with the industry and how it has started and has been functioning because, with that in mind, we can get a better idea of how it will continue to work in the future. I’m sure you can guess some of these names have the power to change the industry!
All in all, we can say these are what makes each country different in their own way when it comes to their best hand tool companies:
We have the USA, with a strong emphasis on quality control and safety standards, along with Germany, known for high-end engineering and durability. China offers large-scale production and affordable costs, while India is facing growing manufacturing and export possibilities; and finally, Taiwan, with their priority of precision and innovation and Turkey with a focus on both local and export markets; all contribute to the same industry: HAND TOOLS!
Thank you so much for being with me along this handbook of hand tool manufacturers, and let’s reconnect with future articles!
Related Article : Best Hand Tool Brands
FAQ
Who is the largest hand tool manufacturer in the world?
Determining the largest one can vary depending on what criteria you’re basing it upon, though in this article, we pronounce Stanley Black & Decker as the largest hand tool manufacturer in the world.
Which country has the best hand tool manufacturer in the world?
Depending on what you consider “best”, the answer might vary, though Germany can be considered the best country in the industry, because of its engineering and product durability.
Nika
2 November 2024
