Pliers and Cutters
Craftsman pliers were first offered in the 1930 (Fall-Winter edition) catalog in six basic styles,
with some styles available in several sizes.
- Combination Side-Cutting Pliers
- Button's Pattern Pliers
- Diagonal Cutters
- Electrician's Side-Cutting Pliers
- Lineman's Side-Cutting Pliers
- Long Nose Side-Cutting Pliers
The following catalog edition added one more style,
the Angle-Nose Gripping Pliers.
Over the years the Craftsman pliers stayed fairly close to these initial styles,
with only a few additional types of pliers (e.g. battery or waterpump) offered later.
This contrasts with the dozens or even hundreds of styles available from plier specialists
such as Crescent, Kraeuter, or Utica.
The secondary brands Fulton and Merit (and later Dunlap) offered additional styles such as
thin-nose combination pliers, bent thin-nose pliers, or fencing pliers.
Sometimes a secondary brand was used to introduce a new style of pliers,
which could later be offered under the Craftsman brand if it sold well.
Gripping Patterns
Craftsman pliers were typically made with patterned handles,
which served both as a decorative feature and to assist with gripping the pliers.
We'll refer to these as the handle "gripping pattern".
Initially the handle gripping patterns were chosen by the manufacturer of the pliers.
The most common early pattern was a diamond-checkered pattern consisting of a field
of small raised diamond shapes,
which was recently (2024) determined to be produced by Kraeuter.
An example can be seen on the
Craftsman Early 5783-5 Diagonal Cutters.
Another early pattern was the well known "Rope-Banded" gripping pattern used by Wilde Tool,
an example of which can be seen as the
Craftsman Early Battery Pliers.
Although seen only infrequently in the 1930s,
the "Rope-Banded" pattern became very common from the late 1940s onward
as Wilde became a major supplier of Craftsman pliers.
The "Nested Diamonds" Pattern
In the mid 1930s Sears developed a new geometric gripping pattern
consisting of a series of nested diamond shapes,
which we will refer to as the "Nested Diamonds" pattern.
Sears apparently mandated the use of the new pattern,
as Kraeuter switched to using the "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern,
and at least one other major maker used it as well.
An example of the new pattern can be seen on the
Craftsman [4488] 8½ Inch Button's Pliers.
It's difficult to track the timing of the change to the "Nested Diamonds" pattern,
as the illustrations in the Sears general catalogs are often not sufficiently detailed to determine
the exact pattern.
The 1936-1937 Fall-Winter catalog appears to show the older diamond-checkered pattern,
but the 1938-1939 Fall-Winter catalog and the 1939 Craftsman tool catalog have clear illustrations
of the "Nested Diamonds" pattern.
This suggests that the change occurred in the 1936 to 1938 time frame.
The obvious catalyst for introducing the new gripping pattern would have been the entry
of another maker of pliers.
Sears may have wanted to maintain some uniformity in the appearance of its pliers,
and also may have wanted a more level playing field for the new manufacturer.
The incumbent maker Kraeuter was well known for its skillful and intricate forged-in gripping patterns,
but the "Nested Diamonds" pattern was relatively simple and probably could have been applied
by a pressing or knurling process.
From these considerations,
we believe that the "Nested Diamonds" pattern first appeared in late 1936 or early 1937 on pliers from a new maker
using the "C-Circle" code,
recently (2024) determined to be Champion DeArment.
We have an example of an apparent prototype of
Craftsman Vanadium End Nippers
from around 1936 with plain (unfinished) handles,
and presumably the next iteration would have been produced with the "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern.
Apart from this early prototype,
all known Craftsman Vanadium pliers marked with the "C-Circle" code use the "Nested Diamonds" pattern.
Once the new maker was up to speed,
Sears then asked Kraeuter to switch to the new pattern as well.
Kraeuter probably started changing to the "Nested Diamonds" pattern in early 1938,
and with Craftsman pliers now having a consistent handle pattern,
the 1938-1939 catalogs provided clear illustrations of the "Nested Diamonds" pattern.
The later Craftsman tool catalogs show that the "Nested Diamonds" pattern remained in use through the 1950s,
and into the 1960s for at least some models.
"Craftsman Vanadium" Pliers
Sears began using the "Craftsman Vanadium" sub-brand for wrenches in 1933,
but the corresponding marking for pliers appears to have been delayed for a number of years.
With the exception of the angle-nose gripping pliers,
the Sears catalogs did not start mentioning the use of vanadium steel for pliers until 1938.
We think this may be an indication of some tension between Sears and Kraeuter,
its primary contract manufacturer of pliers at the time.
Chrome vanadium steel is excellent for many types of tools,
but it is not necessarily ideal for pliers,
or for all types of pliers.
As a leading maker of pliers,
Kraeuter probably used proprietary alloys for its production,
and might have resisted changing to vanadium steel on the grounds that it would disrupt production and require different
heat treatment.
A review of Craftsman pliers made by Kraeuter found no "Vanadium" markings on examples with the earlier
fine-grained diamond-checkered gripping pattern,
which probably remained in use until at least the 1936-1937 time frame.
With the situation with Kraeuter at an apparent impasse,
by around 1936 pliers marked with "Craftsman Vanadium" started appearing,
but made by a new manufacturer using the "C-Circle" code,
now known to be Champion DeArment.
Our hypothesis is that the Sears marketing types grew impatient with the delays from Kraeuter,
and responded by offering a supply contract to a new maker who was willing to make pliers using chrome-vanadium steel.
An example of one of the first products from the new supplier can be seen as the
Craftsman Vanadium "C-Circle" 6 Inch End Nippers.
Kraeuter eventually realized its mistake and by around 1938 had started using vanadium steel,
but now it had a new competitor for the Sears business.
This is an area of ongoing (2024) research and we'll update this section as we learn more.
Manufacturer's Codes and Characteristics
The identification of the makers of Craftsman pliers (and other tools) is an ongoing project,
and the reader can find more information in our article on
Craftsman Manufacturer's Codes.
Several types of probable manufacturer's codes have been observed on Craftsman pliers.
One fairly common marking is a stamped or forged "C" inside a circle,
typically placed on the inside of the handles near the ends.
This code has just recently (May 2024) been attributed to
Maker Champion DeArment,
the company best known for its Channellock pliers.
Other pliers have been found with a stamped "AM" code,
usually with one or more digits before or after the letters.
The manufacturer using the "AM" code has recently (2024) been identified as Kraeuter,
and additional information can be found in the section on
Maker Kraeuter.
Pliers without any apparent code markings can sometimes be attributed to a particular manufacturer
based on characteristics such as the handle gripping pattern or forge marks remaining on the finished tool.
An example would be the "Rope-Banded" gripping pattern frequently used by Wilde Tool.
Slip-Joint Pliers
Slip-joint pliers include several different styles such as combination pliers,
waterpump pliers, and angle-nose gripping pliers.
Craftsman combination pliers were offered in 1930 as model 5797,
with two sizes available, 5.5 and 7 inch.
As expected for "combination" pliers,
the design included both flat and round gripping surfaces,
and the Craftsman model included cutters as well.
Craftsman 5797-5½ 5.5 Inch Combination Pliers with Side-Cutters
We were fortunate to acquire a rare early pair of Craftsman combination pliers,
as seen in the figure below.
Fig. 196 shows
an early pair of Craftsman 5797-5½ 5.5 inch combination pliers with cutters,
stamped with the model number and size,
with "Craftsman" in block text and "U.S.A." below.
The overall length is 5.6 inches,
and the finish is polished nickel.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles.
This gripping pattern closely resembles the pattern observed on the
Craftsman Early 5783-5 Diagonal Cutters and
Craftsman Early Buttons Pliers.
The marked model number is rare for Craftsman tools of this era.
The Craftsman model 5797 pliers had been discontinued by 1935,
providing a bracket for the manufacturing dates for this model.
The Craftsman name in block text and the model number marking suggest an earlier date
within this range.
These pliers were recently (2024) identified as production by Kraeuter
based on the intricate diamond-checkered gripping pattern and unusual model number marking.
An example of the corresponding model by the maker can be seen as the
Kraeuter "GripKut" 1973-5½ Combination Pliers.
Craftsman Vanadium 6½ Inch Slip-Joint Combination Pliers
This next figure shows another pair of Craftsman combination pliers of a somewhat different design.
Fig. 197 shows
a pair of Craftsman Vanadium 6½ inch slip-joint combination pliers,
stamped "Vanadium" below the Craftsman underline logo,
and with a "41AM" code on the underside of one handle (see inset).
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern on the handles.
The small inset shows a close-up of the "41AM" code stamped on the underside of one handle.
The overall length is 6.5 inches,
and the finish is polished nickel.
Currently we don't have a catalog reference for these pliers.
Based on our catalog reviews,
after 1935 Sears did not offer combination pliers in the Craftsman brand for a number of years,
although they were offered in other brands.
These pliers were recently (2024) identified as production by Kraeuter based on the stamped "AM" code,
and the "41" digits are likely a date code for 1941.
For more information please refer to the section on
Maker Kraeuter.
Kraeuter switched to the "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern around 1938,
and the "Craftsman Vanadium" marking was used until 1941,
leading to an a priori date estimate of 1938-1941.
Craftsman Angle-Nose Gripping Pliers (Model 5835/4528)
Craftsman's angle-nose gripping pliers were a type of slip-joint pliers with an angled head
and three adjustment positions.
The catalogs initially referred to these as simply "gripping" pliers and later as "universal" pliers,
although the description sometimes changed from year to year.
The design of the pliers resembled the
Wilde Wrench Pliers
shown in our article on Wilde,
which with its 1928 introduction was probably the prototype for this style.
Sears first offered Craftsman angle-nose pliers as model 5835 in the spring of 1931,
and the pliers were available only in an 8 inch size.
The scan in Fig. 198A shows
the first listing for the Craftsman Vanadium 5835 gripping pliers,
as published on page 866 of the 1931 Sears catalog No. 162.
The illustration is fairly rough,
but it shows the slip-joint slot as circular openings joined by a narrow slot
in the center.
The text notes the nickel plated finish.
The angle-nose gripping pliers were unusual in being the first Craftsman pliers
noted as being made of vanadium steel.
(Other types of pliers did not note vanadium steel until around 1938.)
In the spring of 1935 the model number for the angle-nose pliers changed to 4528,
but the listings continued to note vanadium steel and a nickel plated finish.
By 1947 the No. 4528 pliers were being listed as simply slip-joint pliers,
but with the description noting them as a "combination plier-wrench".
Two sizes were available at this time, 6 and 8 inches.
Recently (2024) were were able to find online photographs of early Craftsman 5835 pliers
and confirmed that they were made by Kraeuter,
the primary maker of Craftsman pliers beginning in 1930.
We think it's likely that Sears asked Kraueter if they could make pliers similar to the
"Wilde Wrench" pliers popular at that time,
and the result was the Craftsman 5835 angle-nose gripping pliers.
The Craftsman 5835 pliers appear to be very similar to the
Kraeuter 743-8 Angle-Nose Pliers,
or perhaps more correctly,
the Kraeuter 743-8 pliers were very similar to the Craftsman model.
Craftsman 5835 pliers were first offered in 1931,
a year earlier than the earliest catalog listing for the Kraeuter 743 pliers.
It appears that after designing the pliers for Sears,
Kraeuter then added the same design to its own product line as the 743 pliers,
with additional sizes of 6 and 7 inches.
The next figures show some examples of the Craftsman angle-nose gripping pliers.
Early Craftsman 5835-8 8 Inch Angle-Nose Gripping Pliers
Fig. 198BA shows
an early pair of Craftsman 5835-8 8 inch angle-nose gripping pliers,
stamped with the Craftsman block logo and "U.S.A." on the handle.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the finely detailed diamond-checkered gripping pattern on the handles.
The overall length is 8.4 inches fully extended,
and the finish is polished steel,
The maker of these pliers can be identified as Kraeuter based on the intricate diamond-checkered gripping pattern
and the unusual model number marking.
An example of the corresponding model by the maker can be seen as the
Kraeuter 743-8 Angle-Nose Pliers.
Some construction details of these early 5835 pliers are different from the later models in the figures below.
In particular,
the slip-joint slot is composed of three circular openings with a narrow slot in the center,
instead of having one flat side to the slot.
In addition,
there is no raised land under the pivot.
These pliers have nine major notches on the upper jaw,
the same as noted on later models.
Craftsman [4528] Transitional 8 Inch Slip-Joint Angle-Nose Gripping Pliers
The next three figures show examples of angle-nose gripping pliers believed to be representative of production
from 1938 to the mid 1940s,
beginning with a transitional example from around 1938.
Fig. 198B shows
a pair of Craftsman Vanadium 8 inch slip-joint angle-nose gripping pliers,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" on the handle.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern on the handles.
The undersides of the handles are smooth,
without a manufacturer's code marking.
The overall length is 8.3 inches fully extended.
The finish is plain steel,
with pitting due to rust and traces of a plated finish.
The construction of these pliers is nearly identical to the examples in the following figures,
confirming production by Kraeuter.
The absence of a manufacturer's code suggests that these pliers were transitional production from 1938,
just after Kraeuter began supplying "Craftsman Vanadium" pliers with the "Nested Diamonds" pattern,
but before 1939 when the company began marking the "AM" manufacturer's code.
Craftsman [4528] "AM" 8 Inch Slip-Joint Angle-Nose Gripping Pliers
Fig. 199A shows
a pair of Craftsman Vanadium 8 inch slip-joint angle-nose gripping pliers,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" on the handle.
The underside of one handle is stamped with a "9AM" code,
as shown in the lower inset.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern on the handles.
The overall length is 8.3 inches fully extended,
and the finish is polished nickel.
The slip-joint slot provides semi-circular openings for three adjustment positions.
Note that the front edge of the slot is flat,
with the semi-circular openings positioned on the opposite side.
The upper jaw has nine major notches,
and there is a raised land under the pivot,
with a shallow trough before the wide part of the lower jaw.
The 1939 Craftsman catalog has a very clear illustration of this model as the No. 4528 "universal" pliers,
and it shows the slip-joint slot with the front side flat, nine notches on the upper jaw,
and a similar raised land under the pivot.
These pliers were recently (2024) identified as production by Kraeuter based on the stamped "AM" code,
and the "9" digit is likely a date code for 1939.
For more information please refer to the section on
Maker Kraeuter.
Kraeuter switched to the "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern around 1938,
and the "Craftsman Vanadium" marking was used until 1941,
leading to an a priori date estimate of 1938-1941.
Fig. 199B shows
a similar pair of Craftsman Vanadium 8 inch angle-nose gripping pliers,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" on the handle.
The underside of one handle is stamped with an "AM" code,
possibly followed by a number,
but the marking is not clear enough to read.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern on the handles.
The overall length is 8.3 inches fully extended.
The original finish is was chrome or nickel plating,
but most has been lost due to wear and rust.
As with the previous example,
the front edge of the slip-joint slot is flat,
with the semi-circular openings positioned on the opposite side.
The upper jaw has nine major notches,
and there is a raised land under the pivot,
with a shallow trough before the wide part of the lower jaw.
The "AM" code was recently (2024) identified as a manufacturer's code for Kraeuter.
For more information please refer to the section on
Maker Kraeuter.
Kraeuter first started using the "AM" code in 1939,
and the "Craftsman Vanadium" marking was used until 1941,
leading to a date estimate of 1939-1941.
Later Craftsman [4528] 8 Inch Slip-Joint Angle-Nose Gripping Pliers
Fig. 199B shows
a later pair of Craftsman [4528] 8 inch slip-joint angle-nose gripping pliers,
stamped with a transitional form of the double-line logo resembling "== U.S.A. ==".
The overall length is 8.3 inches.
The finish is polished steel with no plating,
which together with the double-line logo suggests a manufacturing date around 1945.
The production characteristics of these later angle-nose pliers are different from the earlier examples.
In particular,
the jaws are shorter and the handles have multiple curves instead of a simple bow shape.
(The 1947 catalog illustration shows this style of handles.)
Note that the front edge of the slip-joint slot is flat,
with the semi-circular openings positioned on the opposite side.
The top jaw has six major notches.
Early Craftsman 5774-9 9 Inch Slip-Joint Waterpump Pliers
Fig. 200 shows
a rare early pair of Craftsman 5774-9 9 inch waterpump pliers,
stamped with the Craftsman block logo and model number near the pivot.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the plain handles.
The overall length is 9.0 inches closed and 9.5 inches fully extended.
The finish is plain steel,
with traces of the original nickel plating.
The pliers are constructed with a conventional four-position slip-joint adjustment mechanism.
The Craftsman 5774 pliers were first listed in the 1933-34 Fall and Winter catalog,
but without an illustration.
The block logo and model number marking on these pliers suggest an even earlier production date,
when the pliers might have been offered in the stores ahead of the catalog listing.
Button's Pattern Pliers (Model 5781/4488)
Button's pattern pliers have a long and interesting history going back well into the 19th century.
This style of pliers were first made by J.M. King & Company
and were based on an 1867 patent.
By the early 20th century Button's pliers were being made by a number of companies,
including Kraeuter, Smith & Hemenway, and Utica.
Sears first offered Craftsman Button's pliers in the fall of 1930,
but had previously sold them under the Fulton brand.
The Craftsman Button's pliers were initially available in sizes 6, 8, and 10 inches.
In the late 1930s the pliers were briefly discontinued,
then returned in 1939,
but only in an 8.5 inch size.
One quirk of the Button's pliers is that they were never offered in alloy steel
and therefore did not carry the "Vanadium" marking.
Craftsman Early 5781-8 8 Inch Button's Pattern Combination Pliers
The next two figures show early examples of the No. 5781 8 inch Button's pliers.
Fig. 201 shows
an early pair of Craftsman 5781-8 8 inch Button's Pattern combination pliers,
stamped with the "5781-8" model number across the pivot,
followed by the Craftsman block logo and "U.S.A." on the face.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles.
(The curled-up tip of the upper handle in this example was not standard for this model
and was probably done by the former owner.)
The overall length is 8.0 inches,
and the finish is plain steel.
The middle inset shows a close-up of the jaw construction.
Note that the center slot is oriented perpendicular to the face of the pliers,
in contrast to the slightly angled slot typically used by other makers of Button's pliers,
including the original J.M. King Button pliers.
The presence of the model number on these pliers is somewhat unusual,
but is very helpful in estimating the production date.
A quick check of our catalog reviews found that the 5781 model was used from late 1930 until early 1935,
after which it was succeeded by the 4488 model number.
Since the model number marking itself was used only briefly,
these pliers were probably made in the early part of the range,
around 1930-1932.
Fig. 201B shows
another early pair of Craftsman [5781-8] 8 inch Button's Pattern combination pliers,
stamped with the Craftsman block logo and "U.S.A." on the face.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles.
The lower inset shows a close-up of the jaw construction.
Note that the cutting slot is perpendicular to the faces.
The overall length is 8.0 inches,
and the finish is plain steel,
with possible traces of nickel plating.
The use of the Craftsman block logo and distinctive diamond checkered gripping pattern
suggest an early production date for these pliers.
These Craftsman Button's pliers were recently (2024) identified as Kraeuter production based on
their distinctive construction features.
See our discussion in the section on
Maker Kraeuter
for further information.
Craftsman Early 5781-10 10 Inch Button's Pattern Combination Pliers
Fig. 202 shows
an early pair of Craftsman 5781-10 10 inch Button's Pattern combination pliers,
stamped with the "5781-10" model number across the pivot,
followed by the Craftsman block logo and "U.S.A." on the face.
The left middle inset shows a close-up of the jaw construction.
Note that the center slot is perpendicular to the face of the pliers.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles.
Note the curved transition from the convex surface of the angled side
to the flat side of the pliers.
The overall length is 9.7 inches,
and the finish is black oxide.
The presence of the model number on these pliers is somewhat unusual,
but is very helpful in estimating the production date.
A quick check of our catalog reviews found that the 5781 model was used from late 1930 until early 1935,
after which it was succeeded by the 4488 model number.
Since the model number marking itself was used only briefly,
these pliers were probably made in the early part of the range,
around 1930-1932.
These Craftsman Button's pliers were recently (2024) identified as Kraeuter production based on
their distinctive construction features,
and an example of the corresponding model by the maker can be seen as the
Kraeuter 1841-10 Button's Pliers.
See our discussion in the section on
Maker Kraeuter
for further information.
Craftsman [4488] "AM" 8½ Inch Button's Pattern Combination Pliers
The next two figures show later examples of the Craftsman No. 4488 Button's Pattern pliers in the 8½ inch size.
A review of the catalogs shows that Button's pliers were available only in this size from 1939 through 1941,
but had been discontinued by 1942.
Fig. 203 shows
a pair of Craftsman [4488] 8½ inch Button's Pattern combination pliers,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo near the pivot,
and with an "AM9" code on the underside of one handle.
The top inset provides a side view of the pliers,
showing the "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern on the handles.
Note the curved transition from the convex surface of the angled side
to the flat side of the pliers.
The overall length is 8.8 inches,
and the finish is plain steel.
The middle inset shows a close-up of the jaw construction,
illustrating an important feature of the center cutting slot.
Note that the center slot is oriented at a right angle to the face of the pliers,
in contrast to the slightly angled slot used by most makers of Button's pliers,
including the original J.M. King Button pliers.
Fig. 204 shows
another pair of Craftsman 8.5 inch Button's Pattern combination pliers,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo faintly visible near the pivot,
and with an "41AM" code on the underside of one handle.
The top inset provides a side view of the pliers,
showing the "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern on the handles.
Note the curved transition from the convex surface of the angled side
to the flat side of the pliers.
The middle inset shows a close-up of the jaw construction,
illustrating an important feature of the center cutting slot.
Note that the center slot is oriented at a right angle to the face of the pliers,
in contrast to the slightly angled slot used by most makers of Button's pliers,
including the original J.M. King Button pliers.
The overall length is 8.8 inches,
and the finish is plain steel,
with extensive pitting due to rust.
These Craftsman Button's pliers were recently (2024) identified as Kraeuter production based on
their distinctive construction features.
See our discussion in the section on
Maker Kraeuter
for further information.
Diagonal Cutters (Model 5783/4506)
Craftsman diagonal cutting pliers were first offered in the 1930 Fall and Winter catalog,
initially with model number 5783 and in two sizes,
5 and 6 inches.
In the 1935 Spring and Summer catalog the model number changed to 4506,
and the 1935 Fall and Winter catalog offered an additional 7 inch size.
By 1938 the 5 inch diagonal cutters had been discontinued.
Craftsman Early 5783-5 5 Inch Diagonal Cutters
This next figure shows a rare early example of the Craftsman 5783-5 diagonal cutters.
Fig. 205 shows
an early pair of Craftsman 5783-5 5 inch diagonal cutters,
stamped with the "5783-5" model number across the pivot,
followed by the Craftsman block logo and "U.S.A." on the face.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles.
This gripping pattern closely resembles the pattern observed on the
Craftsman Early 5783-6 Diagonal Cutters
and
Craftsman Early 5781-8 Buttons Pliers.
The overall length is 5.1 inches,
and the finish is polished steel.
The presence of the model number on these pliers is somewhat unusual,
but is very helpful in estimating the production date.
A quick check of our catalog reviews found that the 5783 model was used from late 1930 until early 1935,
after which it was succeeded by the 4506 model number.
Since the model number marking itself was used only briefly,
these pliers were probably made in the early part of the range,
around 1930-1932.
These Craftsman diagonal cutters were recently (2024) identified as Kraeuter production based on
the intricate diamond-checkered gripping pattern and the presence of a marked model number.
See our discussion in the section on
Maker Kraeuter
for further information.
Craftsman Early 5783-6 6 Inch Diagonal Cutters
The next two figures show early examples of the Craftsman 5783-6 diagonal cutters.
Fig. 206 shows
an early pair of Craftsman 5783-6 6 inch diagonal cutters,
stamped with the "5783-6" model number across the pivot,
followed by the Craftsman block logo and "U.S.A." on the face.
The overall length is 5.9 inches,
and the finish is polished steel.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles.
This gripping pattern closely resembles the pattern observed on the
Craftsman Early 5783-5 Diagonal Cutters and
Craftsman Early 5781-8 Buttons Pliers.
The presence of the model number on these pliers is somewhat unusual,
but is very helpful in estimating the production date.
A quick check of our catalog reviews found that the 5783 model was used from late 1930 until early 1935,
after which it was succeeded by the 4506 model number.
Since the model number marking itself was used only briefly,
these pliers were probably made in the early part of the range,
around 1930-1932.
Fig. 207 shows
another early pair of Craftsman [5783-6] 6 inch diagonal cutters,
stamped with the Craftsman block logo and "U.S.A." on the face.
The underside of one handle is also stamped with "6" (or "9") digit (see lower inset).
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles.
The overall length is 6.1 inches,
and the finish is polished steel.
The use of the Craftsman block logo and distinctive diamond checkered gripping pattern
suggest an early production date for these pliers.
These Craftsman diagonal cutters were recently (2024) identified as Kraeuter production based on
the intricate diamond-checkered gripping pattern.
See our discussion in the section on
Maker Kraeuter
for further information.
The absence of a "Vanadium" marking on these pliers may be significant as evidence of a disagreement between
Sears and Kraeuter.
See the section on
"Craftsman Vanadium" Pliers for more discussion.
Craftsman Vanadium [4506-5] "C-Circle" 5 Inch Diagonal Cutters
Fig. 208 shows
a pair of Craftsman Vanadium [4506-5] 5 inch diagonal cutters,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" around the pivot.
The underside of the handles is also stamped with a "C-Circle" mark (see lower inset).
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the distinctive "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern on the handles.
The overall length is 5.0 inches,
and the finish is plain steel.
The "C-Circle" code indicates production by Champion DeArment.
Champion DeArment began supplying Craftsman pliers in 1936,
and Sears had discontinued the 5 inch diagonal cutters by 1938,
giving us an estimated 1936-1937 production date for this tool.
These particular pliers were helpful in estimating the starting date for the "C-Circle" manufacturer.
Craftsman Vanadium [4506-6] 6 Inch Diagonal Cutters
The next two figures show examples of Craftsman Vanadium diagonal cutters in the 6 inch size,
with differences in the manufacturer's code.
Fig. 209 shows
a pair of Craftsman Vanadium [4506-6] 6 inch diagonal cutters,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" around the pivot.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the distinctive "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern on the handles.
The undersides of the handles have forged-in "L" and "R" marks (not shown).
The overall length is 6.2 inches,
and the finish is plain steel.
Note that the handle pattern is a bit different from other examples
of the "Nested Diamonds",
with deeper valleys between the ridges of the pattern.
The standard markings and handle pattern with the absence of a manufacturer's code suggest
that these pliers may be a rare example of transitional production by Kraeuter,
made right after it started supplying "Craftsman Vanadium" pliers with the "Nested Diamonds" pattern,
but before 1939 when it started to use the "AM" manufacturer's code.
We are tentatively classifying these cutters as 1938 Kraeuter production,
but would like to compare the construction with a similar example marked with the "AM" code.
If these cutters were not made by Kraeuter,
it would indicate that Sears was using a third supplier for diagonal cutters during this period.
Craftsman Vanadium [4506-6] "C-Circle" 6 Inch Diagonal Cutters
Fig. 210 shows
a similar pair of Craftsman Vanadium [4506-6] 6 inch diagonal cutters,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" around the pivot.
The undersides of the handles have a stamped (or forged) "C-Circle" mark,
as seen in the lower inset.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the distinctive "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern on the handles.
The overall length is 6.2 inches,
and the finish is plain steel.
The "C-Circle" mark indicates production by Champion DeArment.
The "Vanadium" marking suggests production by 1941 or earlier.
Craftsman Vanadium [4506-7] "AM" 7 Inch Diagonal Cutters
The next two figures show examples of the Craftsman Vanadium 7 inch diagonal cutters.
Diagonal cutters in the 7 inch size were first offered in the 1935 Sears catalog.
Fig. 211 shows
a pair of Craftsman Vanadium [4506-7] 7 inch diagonal cutters,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" around the pivot,
and with "41AM" on the underside on one handle (see lower inset).
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the distinctive "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern on the handles.
The overall length is 7.3 inches,
and the finish is plain steel.
These pliers were recently (2024) identified as production by Kraeuter based on the stamped "AM" code,
and the "41" digits are likely a date code for 1941.
For more information please refer to the section on
Maker Kraeuter.
Kraeuter switched to the "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern around 1938,
and the "Craftsman Vanadium" marking was used until 1941,
leading to an a priori date estimate of 1938-1941.
Craftsman Vanadium [4506-7] "C-Circle" 7 Inch Diagonal Cutters
Fig. 212 shows
another pair of Craftsman Vanadium [4506-7] 7 inch diagonal cutters,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" near the pivot.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the distinctive "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern on the handles.
The lower inset shows the "C-Circle" mark on the underside of the handles.
The overall length is 7.3 inches,
and the finish is plain steel.
The "C-Circle" marking was recently (2024) identified as the manufacturer's code for Champion DeArment.
See the section on
Maker Champion DeArment
for more information.
Champion DeArment began supplying Craftsman pliers in 1936,
and the "Craftsman Vanadium" marking was used until 1941.
Lineman's and Electrician's Side-Cutting Pliers
Craftsman offered lineman's style side-cutting pliers in two similar models,
a lighter version generally listed in the catalogs as "Electrician's Side-Cutting Pliers",
and a heavier-duty model called "Lineman's Pliers".
Electrician's Pliers (Model 5778/4516)
The Electrician's pliers were listed as model number 5778 before 1935 and as model 4516 from 1935 onward.
These pliers were typically available in sizes 6, 7, and 8 inches,
but some years specified the smallest size as 6.5 inches or the largest size as 8.5 inches.
Lineman's Pliers (Model 5782/4518)
Craftsman's heavier-duty lineman's pliers were listed as model number 5782 before 1935
and as model 4518 from 1935 onward.
The description for these pliers sometimes mentioned the "Klein Pattern" style,
a reference to the well-known style popularized by
M. Klein & Sons.
The heavy-duty lineman's pliers were typically available in sizes 6, 7, and 8.5 inches.
Some editions of the Sears catalogs did not list the model 5782 Lineman's Pliers,
possibly an accidental omission or perhaps a problem with the supplier of the tools.
Since Craftsman tools of this early era were generally not marked with model numbers,
there may be some ambiguity as to whether a given example of the lineman's style should be
classified as the Electrician's or Lineman's model.
With the limited examples available so far,
we have classified the pliers with heavy faceted heads (the "Klein Pattern") as the Lineman's model,
and the remaining examples as the Electrician's model.
Craftsman Vanadium [4516] "C-Circle" 6 Inch Electrician's Side-Cutting Pliers
Fig. 213 shows
a pair of Craftsman Vanadium [4516] 6 inch electrician's side-cutting pliers,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" near the pivot.
The top inset shows a side-view of the pliers,
illustrating the "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern on the handles.
The lower inset shows the stamped "C-Circle" mark found on the inside of the handles.
The overall length is 6.2 inches,
and the finish is plain steel.
The rounded head of these pliers is characteristic of the "New England" style of lineman's pliers.
The 1938 Craftsman tools catalog illustrates the "Electrician's" pliers with this rounded head style,
although by this time the pliers were available only in the 7 inch size.
The "C-Circle" marking was recently (2024) identified as the manufacturer's code for Champion DeArment.
See the section on
Maker Champion DeArment
for more information.
Champion DeArment began supplying Craftsman pliers in 1936,
and the 6 inch electrician's pliers were offered up through 1937.
Craftsman Vanadium [4518] "AM" 7 Inch Lineman's Pliers
The next two figures show examples of Craftsman 7 inch lineman's pliers from the Vanadium generation.
Fig. 214 shows
a pair of Craftsman Vanadium [4518] 7 inch lineman's pliers,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" around the pivot.
The underside of one handle is stamped with an "AM42" code,
as shown in the lower inset.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the distinctive "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern
frequently found on pliers of the Craftsman Vanadium series.
The overall length is 7.2 inches,
and the finish is plain steel.
These pliers were recently (2024) identified as production by Kraeuter based on the stamped "AM" code,
and the "42" digits are likely a date code for 1942.
The "Vanadium" marking usually suggests production in 1941 or earlier,
but this example suggests that the marking persisted into part of 1942.
For more information please refer to the section on
Maker Kraeuter.
Craftsman Vanadium [4518] "C-Circle" 7 Inch Lineman's Pliers
Fig. 215 shows
a pair of Craftsman Vanadium [4518] 7 inch lineman's pliers,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" near the pivot.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern on the handles.
The small middle inset shows the forged-in "0" code on the underside of the handle,
which has been partially removed by the serrations for crimping splices.
The undersides of the handles have a stamped (or forged) "C-Circle" mark,
as shown in the lower inset.
The overall length is 7.3 inches,
and the finish is plain steel.
The "C-Circle" marking was recently (2024) identified as the manufacturer's code for Champion DeArment.
See the section on
Maker Champion DeArment
for more information.
Champion DeArment began supplying Craftsman pliers in 1936,
and the "Craftsman Vanadium" marking was used until 1941.
Craftsman [4518] "AM" 7 Inch Lineman's Pliers
The next figure shows a later example of Craftsman 7 inch lineman's pliers from the post-Vanadium generation.
Fig. 216 shows
a pair of Craftsman [4518] 7 inch lineman's pliers,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo near the pivot,
but without the Vanadium sub-brand.
The underside of one handle is stamped with an "AM43" code,
as seen in the lower inset.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the distinctive "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern.
The overall length is 7.2 inches,
and the finish is polished steel.
The absence of a "Vanadium" marking suggests a 1942-1945 production date.
These pliers were recently (2024) identified as production by Kraeuter based on the stamped "AM" code,
and the "43" digits are likely a date code for 1943.
For more information please refer to the section on
Maker Kraeuter.
Craftsman 5782-8½ 8.5 Inch Lineman's Pliers
Fig. 217A shows
an early pair of Craftsman 5782-8½ 8.5 inch lineman's pliers,
stamped with "Craftsman" and "U.S.A." on the face.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles.
The overall length is 8.5 inches,
and the finish is plain steel.
The presence of the model number on these pliers is somewhat unusual,
but is very helpful in estimating the production date.
A quick check of our catalog reviews found that the 5782-8½ model was offered from the spring of 1931
through the end of 1934,
after which it was succeeded by the 4518 model number.
Since the model number marking itself was used only briefly,
these pliers were probably made in the early part of the range,
around 1931-1932.
The use of the Craftsman block logo and distinctive diamond checkered gripping pattern
are consistent with an early production date.
These Craftsman lineman's pliers were recently (2024) identified as Kraeuter production based on
the intricate diamond-checkered gripping pattern.
See our discussion in the section on
Maker Kraeuter
for further information.
Craftsman Vanadium [4518] "C-Circle" 8.5 Inch Lineman's Pliers
The next figure shows an example of the Craftsman 8.5 inch lineman's pliers from the Vanadium generation.
Fig. 217 shows
an earlier pair of Craftsman Vanadium [4518] 8.5 inch lineman's pliers,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" on the face,
and with a C-Circle mark stamped on the underside of each handle.
The pliers also have a forged-in "0" code on the underside of one handle,
as seen in the small middle inset.
The lower inset shows the "C-Circle" mark stamped on the underside of the handles.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the distinctive "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern on the handles.
The overall length is 8.5 inches,
and the finish is plain steel.
The "C-Circle" code indicates production by Champion DeArment,
which began supplying Craftsman pliers in 1936.
The "Vanadium" marking indicates production up to 1941.
Craftsman [4518] "AM" 8.5 Inch Lineman's Pliers
The next two figures show later examples of the Craftsman 8.5 inch lineman's pliers
from the post-Vanadium generation.
Fig. 219 shows
another later pair of Craftsman [4518] 8.5 inch lineman's pliers,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo on the face,
and with "42AM" on the underside of one handle.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the distinctive "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern on the handles.
The lower inset shows a close-up of the "42AM" marking on the underside of one handle.
The overall length is 8.6 inches,
and the finish is plain steel.
The absence of a "Vanadium" marking suggests a 1942-1945 production date.
These pliers were recently (2024) identified as production by Kraeuter based on the stamped "AM" code,
and the "42" digits are likely a date code for 1942.
For more information please refer to the section on
Maker Kraeuter.
Craftsman [4518] "B" 8.5 Inch Lineman's Pliers
Fig. 220 shows
another later pair of Craftsman [4518] 8.5 inch lineman's pliers,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo on the face,
and with "B45" on the underside of one handle.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the smooth handles without the standard gripping pattern.
The lower inset shows a close-up of the "B45" marking on the underside of one handle.
The overall length is 8.6 inches,
and the finish is plain steel.
The absence of a "Vanadium" marking and the plain handles suggest a 1942-1945 production date.
Long Nose (Needlenose) Pliers with Side-Cutters (Model 5796/4499)
Craftsman long nose (or needlenose) pliers were first listed in the 1930 Fall and Winter catalog.
The pliers featured side-cutters and were offered as model number 5796,
in sizes 6 and 7 inches.
By 1935 the long nose pliers had changed to model number 4499,
and by 1938 the 7 inch size had been discontinued.
The known catalog illustrations are not detailed enough to show the handle gripping pattern until 1938,
at which time the "Nested Diamonds" pattern was definitely in use.
Craftsman Vanadium [4499] "AM" 6 Inch Needlenose Pliers with Side Cutters
The next two figures show examples of the 6 inch long nose pliers,
with differences in the manufacturer's code.
Fig. 221 shows
a pair of Craftsman Vanadium [4499] 6 inch long nose (needlenose) pliers with side cutters,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" around the pivot.
The inside of one handle is also marked with an "AM41" code,
as shown in the lower inset.
The overall length is 6.1 inches,
and the finish is plain steel.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern.
These pliers were recently (2024) identified as production by Kraeuter based on the stamped "AM" code,
and the "41" digits are likely a date code for 1941.
For more information please refer to the section on
Maker Kraeuter.
Craftsman Vanadium [4499] "C-Circle" 6 Inch Needlenose Pliers with Side Cutters
Fig. 222 shows
a similar pair of Craftsman Vanadium [4499] 6 inch long nose (needlenose) pliers
with side cutters,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" around the pivot.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the distinctive "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern.
The small middle inset shows the forged-in "0" code on the inside on one handle.
The inside of the handles is also marked with a forged-in (or deeply stamped) "C-Circle" code,
as shown in the lower inset.
The overall length is 6.2 inches,
and the finish is plain steel.
The "C-Circle" marking was recently (2024) identified as the manufacturer's code for Champion DeArment.
See the section on
Maker Champion DeArment
for more information.
Champion DeArment began supplying Craftsman pliers around 1936,
and the "Craftsman Vanadium" marking was used on pliers until 1941.
Craftsman Vanadium [4499] "C-Circle" 7.5 Inch Needlenose Pliers with Side Cutters
The next figure shows an example of Craftsman needlenose pliers in an unexpected 7.5 inch size.
Fig. 223 shows
a pair of Craftsman Vanadium [4499] 7.5 inch needlenose (long nose) pliers with side cutters,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" around the pivot.
The underside of one handle has a forged-in "0" code,
as seen in the middle inset.
The inside of each handle is also marked with a forged-in "C-Circle" code,
as illustrated in the lower inset.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern.
The overall length is 7.8 inches,
and the finish is polished steel.
Currently we don't have a catalog reference for this model in the 7.5 inch size.
We think it's possible that these pliers were supplied as a slightly oversized version of the 7 inch model,
which were offered through 1938.
The "C-Circle" marking was recently (2024) identified as the manufacturer's code for Champion DeArment.
See the section on
Maker Champion DeArment
for more information.
Champion DeArment began supplying Craftsman pliers around 1936,
and the 7 inch needlenose pliers were offered up through 1938.
End Nippers
Craftsman also offered end nippers in its "Vanadium" line,
but we haven't found a catalog reference for these pliers.
Early Craftsman Vanadium "C-Circle" 6 Inch End Nippers
The next figures show two generations of the Craftsman Vanadium 6 inch end nippers.
Fig. 225 shows
an earlier pair of Craftsman Vanadium 6 inch end nippers with plain handles,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" on the face.
One handle has a forged-in "0" code,
as seen in the middle inset.
The inside of one handle is also stamped with a "C-Circle" code,
as shown in the lower inset.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the plain handles,
with trimming marks from the forging step still visible.
The overall length is 6.2 inches,
and the finish is plain steel with polished faces.
The absence of a gripping pattern suggests an early production date for this example,
possibly a prototype for this style.
Craftsman Vanadium "C-Circle" 6 Inch End Nippers
Fig. 226 shows
a later pair of Craftsman Vanadium 6 inch end nippers,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" around the pivot.
The middle part of the handles have a forged-in "0" code visible near the center.
The inside of both handles are stamped with a C-Circle code,
as seen in the lower inset.
The top inset shows the distinctive "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern on the handles.
The overall length is 6.3 inches,
and the finish is plain steel with polished faces.
The "Vanadium" marking and "Nested Diamonds" gripping pattern suggest production from 1936 to 1941.
Craftsman Early Battery Pliers with Rope-Banded Pattern
Fig. 227 shows
an early pair of Craftsman battery pliers with a rope-banded gripping pattern,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo.
The overall length is 7.6 inches,
and the finish is plain steel.
The top inset shows a side view of the pliers,
illustrating the distinctive rope-banded gripping pattern,
a feature that indicates production by the Wilde Tool Company.
A similar pair of battery pliers can be seen as the
Wilde No. 410 Battery Pliers.
Craftsman "C-F" Battery Pliers
Fig. 228 shows
a pair of Craftsman battery pliers,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and a "C-F" code.
The overall length is 7.8 inches.
The "C-F" marking is believed to be a manufacturer's code,
but was previously unknown before this example was found.
These pliers were compared with the
Herbrand No. 179 battery pliers,
and with a pair of
ChromeXQuality
battery pliers made by Herbrand for Western Auto.
The design and dimensions are very similar,
suggesting that Herbrand may be the manufacturer for the "C-F" code.
See the section on
Maker Herbrand
for more discussion of this code.
Adjustable Wrenches
Craftsman adjustable wrenches were first offered in the
1930 Fall and Winter catalog
in sizes 4, 6, 8, and 10 inches.
(By 1934 a 12 inch size was available as well.)
Based on the known examples,
these early adjustable wrenches were made for Craftsman by the
Diamond Calk Horseshoe Company.
By the fall of 1934 Craftsman adjustable wrenches were being illustrated with a double-hex broached hanging hole,
a feature that along with other production characteristics identifies the manufacturer as the
J.P. Danielson Company.
The available sizes at this time were 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 inches.
Danielson continued as the maker of Craftsman adjustable wrenches until at least 1942.
In addition to the Craftsman adjustable wrenches,
Sears also offered Merit brand adjustable wrenches.
The Merit models generally had similar features and construction,
but with a cheaper finish.
Examples of Merit wrenches can be seen in the section on
Merit Adjustable Wrenches.
Early Craftsman Vanadium 4 Inch Adjustable Wrench
Fig. 229 shows
an early Craftsman Vanadium 4 inch adjustable wrench,
stamped with "Vanadium" on one side of the shank,
with "Craftsman" in block letters on the back side.
The shank is also marked with "Drop-Forged" and "Tool-Steel" forged into the front,
with "Made in U.S.A." forged into the back side.
The overall length is 4.3 inches,
and the maximum opening is 0.55 inches.
The head thickness was measured at 0.38 inches.
The finish is nickel plating.
The construction and markings of this wrench are very similar to the wrenches produced
by the Diamond Calk Horseshoe Company during the 1920s and 1930s,
such as the
Diamond "Tool Steel" 4 Inch Adjustable Wrench.
In particular, the "Tool-Steel" and "Drop-Forged" markings are nearly identical to the markings
found on Diamond's production.
Early Craftsman Vanadium 8 Inch Adjustable Wrench
Fig. 230 shows
an early Craftsman Vanadium 8 inch adjustable wrench,
stamped with "Craftsman Vanadium" on both sides of the shank.
The shank is also marked with "Tool Steel" and "Made in U.S.A." forged into the front,
with "Forged" forged into the back side.
The overall length is 8.2 inches,
and the maximum opening is 1.0 inches.
The head thickness was measured at 0.57 inches.
The finish is plain steel,
with a few traces of nickel (or chrome) plating on the faces.
The construction and dimensions of this wrench closely resemble the early
Diamond "Tool Steel" wrenches produced by the Diamond Calk Horseshoe Company,
for example the
Diamond "Tool Steel" 8 Inch Adjustable Wrench.
Diamond's production of the late 1920s and 1930s was typically marked with "Tool Steel",
"Drop Forged", and "Made in U.S.A." forged into the shank,
similar to the markings on this wrench.
Another detail noted for this wrench is that the pin for the adjusting knurl is threaded on the inside end,
the standard used by Diamond and Crescent.
In contrast, the pins for J.P. Danielson wrenches are threaded on the outside (slotted) end.
Broached Hanging Holes
By the fall of 1934 Craftsman adjustable wrenches were being illustrated with a double-hex broached hanging hole,
a feature that along with other production characteristics identifies the manufacturer as the
J.P. Danielson Company.
Examples of wrenches in this style are shown in the figures below.
Craftsman Vanadium 4 Inch Adjustable Wrenches with Broached Hanging Holes
The next two figures show examples of the Craftsman Vanadium 4 inch adjustable wrenches.
Fig. 231 shows
an earlier Craftsman 4 inch adjustable wrench with a broached hanging hole,
marked with "Craftsman" and "Made in U.S.A." forged into the shank,
with "Vanadium" and an "A.0." code forged into the back side.
The overall length is 4.3 inches,
and the finish is chrome plating with polished faces.
The hanging hole has a 5/16 double-hex broached opening,
and the size marking "5/16 IN." is forged into the handle.
Several details noted on this wrench closely resemble the features of the "Bet'R-Grip" adjustable wrenches
made by J.P. Danielson,
as can be seen by comparison with the
Bet'R-Grip 4 Inch Adjustable Wrench.
Most importantly,
the "Bet'R-Grip" wrenches were also equipped with a double-hex broached opening for the hanging hole,
an unusual feature for adjustable wrenches.
In addition, a careful look at this wrench shows that the "Craftsman" and "Vanadium" markings
were made using a distinctive "Typewriter" font.
Danielson is known to have used this Typewriter font on its earlier adjustable wrenches,
and on earlier Auto-Kit wrenches as well.
Based on these similarities in features and markings,
the maker of this wrench can be identified as J.P. Danielson.
The "A.0." forged-in code on this wrench needs some further discussion.
Although the code is similar to the J.P. Danielson date code,
it doesn't match the letter-digit-digit pattern used by Danielson.
At first we thought that the "A.0." marking was a date code with just a single digit,
but we later acquired another Craftsman Vanadium wrench (see figure below)
with both an "A.0." code and a standard Danielson date code.
Based on this finding,
we now believe that the "A.0." code served as an earlier manufacturer's code for Danielson.
In the absence of a Danielson date code marking,
this wrench was likely made in 1934-1938,
prior to the introduction of the date codes.
Fig. 232 shows
a slightly later Craftsman 4 inch adjustable wrench with a broached hanging hole,
marked with "Craftsman" and "Made in U.S.A." forged into the shank,
with "Vanadium" and an "A.0." code forged into the back side.
In addition, the shank has a forged-in code "K-3-9" visible near the hanging hole,
shown as a close-up in the middle inset.
The overall length is 4.3 inches,
and the finish is chrome plating with polished faces.
The hanging hole has a 5/16 double-hex broached opening,
and the size marking "5/16 IN." is forged into the handle.
The "K-3-9" forged-in code on this wrench matches the date code pattern used by J.P. Danielson,
and the "9" year code would indicate production in 1939.
Craftsman Vanadium 6 Inch Adjustable Wrenches with Broached Hanging Holes
The next two figures show examples of Craftsman Vanadium wrenches in the 6 inch size,
both equipped with broached hanging holes.
Fig. 233 shows
a Craftsman 6 inch adjustable wrench with a broached hanging hole,
marked with "Craftsman-Vanadium" forged into the shank,
with "Forged in U.S.A." forged into the back side.
The shank also has a forged-in code "A.0." near the broached opening.
The overall length is 6.2 inches,
and the finish is chrome plating with polished faces.
The wrench handle features a double-hex broached opening of size 1/2,
and the size marking "1/2 IN." is forged into the handle.
Several details noted on this wrench closely resemble the features of the "Bet'R-Grip" adjustable wrenches
made by J.P. Danielson,
as can be seen by comparison with the
Bet'R-Grip 6 Inch Adjustable Wrench.
Most importantly,
the "Bet'R-Grip" wrenches were also equipped with a double-hex broached opening for the hanging hole,
an unusual feature for adjustable wrenches.
In addition, a careful look at this wrench shows that the "Craftsman-Vanadium" and "Forged in U.S.A." markings
were made using a distinctive "Typewriter" font,
and Danielson is known to have used this Typewriter font on its earlier Auto-Kit wrenches,
and on earlier adjustable wrenches as well.
Based on the similarities in features and markings,
this wrench was very likely made for Craftsman by J.P. Danielson.
There is one major difference to be noted between this wrench and the Danielson models,
and that is the use of a hexagonal gullet in the opening.
All other known Danielson wrenches were made with a square opening,
and in fact noted it as a feature.
However, Sears Roebuck was a major retailer,
and it's reasonable to expect that they could dictate specifications for a large order of tools.
Thus it's likely that J.P. Danielson readily agreed to modify its wrench openings for the large Craftsman order.
In the absence of a Danielson date code marking,
this wrench was likely made in 1934-1938,
prior to the introduction of the date codes.
Fig. 234 shows
another Craftsman 6 inch adjustable wrench with a broached hanging hole,
marked with "Craftsman-Vanadium" forged into the shank,
with "Forged in U.S.A." forged into the back side.
The shank also has forged-in codes "312.1" on the front,
with "J-8-0" on the back side (see middle insets).
The overall length is 6.2 inches,
and the finish is chrome plating,
with some losses due to rust.
The wrench handle features a double-hex broached opening of size 1/2,
and the size marking "1/2 IN." is forged into the back side shank.
The "J-8-0" forged-in code on this wrench matches the date code pattern used by J.P. Danielson,
and the "0" year code would indicate production in 1940.
The "312.1" code is believed to be a later manufacturer's code for J.P. Danielson,
as this code has been observed on other Craftsman wrenches.
Craftsman Vanadium 8 Inch Adjustable Wrench with Broached Hanging Hole
Fig. 235 shows
a Craftsman 8 inch adjustable wrench with a broached hanging hole,
marked with "Craftsman - Vanadium" forged into the shank,
with "Forged in U.S.A." forged into the back side.
The shank is also marked with a "312.1" code visible near the broached opening,
and the back side has a forged-in code "S-7-0",
shown as a close-up in the middle inset.
The overall length is 8.2 inches,
and the maximum opening is 0.9 inches.
The head thickness was measured at 0.49 inches.
The finish is chrome plating,
with losses due to wear and rust.
The wrench handle features a double-hex broached opening of size 9/16,
and the size marking "9/16 IN." is forged into the handle.
This example shares the features noted on other Craftsman adjustable wrenches made by J.P. Danielson,
in particular the broached hanging hole, typewriter font markings,
and forged-in date code ("S-7-0" in this particular case).
(See for example the Craftsman 6 Inch Adjustable Wrench.)
The year code "0" in the Danielson date code indicates production in 1940.
The "312.1" code forged into the shank has been observed on other Danielson production for Craftsman,
suggesting that this is the manufacturer's code.
Craftsman Vanadium 10 Inch Adjustable Wrench with Broached Hanging Hole
Fig. 236 shows
a Craftsman 10 inch adjustable wrench with a broached hanging hole,
marked with "Craftsman-Vanadium" forged into the shank,
with "Forged in U.S.A." forged into the back side.
The shank also has the "10 In." nominal size forged into both sides near the head.
The overall length is 10.2 inches,
and the maximum opening is 1.2 inches.
The head thickness was measured at 0.63 inches.
The finish is chrome plating,
with some losses due to wear.
The wrench handle features a double-hex broached opening of size 3/4,
and the size marking "5/8 IN." is forged into the handle.
This example shares most of the features of the other Craftsman wrenches made by J.P. Danielson,
in particular the broached hanging hole and typewriter font markings.
(See for example the Craftsman 6 Inch Adjustable Wrench.)
The notable difference is the absence of a forged-in date code.
Since Danielson is believed to have added the forged-in date codes to adjustable wrenches in 1939,
the missing code for this example suggests production in 1938 or earlier.
Craftsman Vanadium 12 Inch Adjustable Wrench with Broached Hanging Hole
Fig. 237 shows
a Craftsman 12 inch adjustable wrench with a broached hanging hole,
marked with "Craftsman-Vanadium" forged into the shank,
with "Forged in U.S.A." forged into the back side.
The shank is also marked with a "312.1" code visible near the broached opening,
and the back side shank has a forged-in code "C.8.1" near the broached opening.
The overall length is 12.3 inches,
and the finish is chrome plating.
The wrench handle features a double-hex broached opening of size 3/4,
and the size marking "3/4 IN." is forged into the handle.
Several details noted on this wrench closely resemble the features of the "Bet'R-Grip" adjustable wrenches
made by J.P. Danielson.
(See the Bet'R-Grip 12 Inch Adjustable Wrench
for comparison.)
The Danielson "Bet'R-Grip" wrenches were also equipped with a double-hex broached opening for the hanging hole,
and the forged-in code "C.8.1" on this wrench is very similar to the codes used on most J.P. Danielson production.
(These codes have been established as a manufacturing date code system used by Danielson.)
In addition, a careful look at this wrench shows that the "Vanadium" and "Forged in U.S.A." markings
were made using a distinctive "Typewriter" font,
and Danielson is known to have used this Typewriter font on many of its Auto-Kit wrenches.
The similarities in features and markings indicate that this wrench was made for Craftsman by J.P. Danielson.
The "C.8.1" forged-in marking matches the pattern of the Danielson date code,
and the "1" year code would indicate production in 1941.
One major difference to be noted between this wrench and the Danielson models is the use of a hexagonal gullet
in the opening --
all other known Danielson wrenches used a square opening,
and in fact noted it as a feature.
However, Sears Roebuck was a major retailer,
and it's reasonable to expect that they could dictate specifications for a large order of tools.
Thus it's likely that J.P. Danielson readily agreed to modify its wrench openings for the large Craftsman order.
The "312.1" code forged into the shank has been observed on other Danielson production for Craftsman,
suggesting that this is the manufacturer's code.
Craftsman "BT" 6 Ounce Ballpeen Hammer
Fig. 238 shows
a Craftsman "BT" 6 ounce ballpeen hammer,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Reg. U.S. Pat. Off.",
and with a "BT" manufacturer's code below.
The overall length is 11.6 inches,
and the length of the head is 2.7 inches.
The finish is plain steel.
The "BT" code identifies the manufacturer as Vlchek Tool,
a well-known maker of hammers and striking tools as well as wrenches.
See the section on
Maker Vlcheck
for more information.
Craftsman Vanadium "BC" 1/2 Flat Chisel
Fig. 239 shows
a Craftsman Vanadium 1/2 flat chisel,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" on the octagonal shank,
and with a "BC" manufacturer's code.
The overall length is 5.0 inches,
and the finish is chrome plating.
The manufacturer associated with the "BC" code is not yet known.
Craftsman Vanadium "BC" 5/32 Tapered Punch
Fig. 240 shows
a Craftsman Vanadium 5/32 tapered punch,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium",
and with a "BC" manufacturer's code.
The overall length is 4.5 inches,
although the tool appears to have been shortened slightly.
The finish is chrome plating.
The manufacturer associated with the "BC" code is not yet known.
Craftsman Vanadium "BC" Cotter Pin Puller
Fig. 241 shows
a Craftsman cotter pin puller,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium",
and with a "BC" manufacturer's code.
The overall length is 7.7 inches,
and the finish is chrome plating.
The manufacturer associated with the "BC" code is not yet known.
Craftsman "BC" 3/4 Wood Chisel
Fig. 242 shows
a Craftsman 3/4 wood chisel,
stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and the size,
and with a "BC" manufacturer's code.
The overall length is 9.6 inches.
The chisel has a plated finish with a dull gray matte surface.
The manufacturer associated with the "BC" code is not yet known.
We will need to review the catalogs to estimate the manufacturing date for this chisel.
Note that the absence of a "Vanadium" marking does not necessarily indicate later production —
wood chisels typically are made of high carbon steel.
Craftsman "F-Circle" Four-Way Offset Screwdriver
Fig. 243 shows
a Craftsman four-way offset screwdriver,
stamped "Made in USA" with an "F-Circle" manufacturer's code.
The overall length is 5.3 inches,
and the finish is plain steel.
This Craftsman offset screwdriver is virtually identical to the
Millers Falls No. 199 Offset Screwdriver,
a popular tool sold from the 1930s onward.
We measured both tools with digital calipers and found that the cross dimensions matched within
a few thousandths,
and that the lengths matched within less than 0.01 inch.
As these differences are likely within normal manufacturing tolerances,
Millers Falls is likely the manufacturer for the F-Circle code.
Generally we would prefer to have more than one tool available to determine
the maker of a manufacturer's code,
and we hope to find more examples of the Craftsman F-Circle marking.
Millers Falls is known to have been a major supplier of Craftsman planes and bit-braces,
but these tools are outside of the scope of Alloy Artifacts.
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