Utica Drop Forge & Tool Company

Utica 3-Diamonds Logo from 1911 Trademark.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Utica Drop Forge & Tool was an important early maker of pliers, nippers, and other hand tools. The company was a pioneer in the production of low-cost but high-quality pliers, and later became an important producer of adjustable wrenches as well.

In the 1950s Utica was on the vanguard of the consolidation of the tool industry, becoming the first company in a roll-up that eventually included Herbrand, Bonney, and Diamond.

Company History

The Utica Drop Forge & Tool Company was founded in 1895 by W. Pierrepont White and Hubert L. White in Utica, New York. The company initially operated as a maker of pliers and nippers, with their first address at 75 Genesee Street in Utica.

Among the company's first products were the Hall's Patent Nippers, a popular tool based on patents by Thomas G. Hall. These nippers had previously been manufactured by the Interchangeable Tool Company, which is believed to have had a family connection with the inventor, as one Henry G. Hall served as president during the 1880s.

Fig. 1. 1896 Notice for Hall's Patent Nippers. [External Link]

Fig. 1 shows a notice stating that the Hall nipper patents were now owned by Utica Drop Forge, as published on page 346 of the July 1896 issue of Machinery.

The 3-Ovals Trademark

In 1900 Utica filed a trademark application for a logo with three linked ovals, which was issued as #35,363 on October 30 of that year. The illustration with the trademark application showed plain ovals, but the trademark was soon being presented with the text "U-TI-CA" inside the ovals.

The 3-Ovals trademark was stamped on early tools and is a useful indicator for early production.

Russell Patent Pliers

Also included in Utica's early products were the Russell patent staple-puller pliers, for which it had signed a contract with the Russell Hardware and Implement Company in January of 1900. As it turned out, this contract later lead to a lawsuit over royalty payments, and by virtue of the resulting court records, we have an unusually detailed account of this early part of Utica's business activities.

Russell Hardware was the owner of the main patent #545,537 for the staple-pulling pliers, issued on September 3 of 1895, and had been producing the pliers since 1895. Russell had also later acquired rights to a related "Heard patent" of June 14, 1892.

As required in the contract with Russell, Utica initially assumed responsibility as the sales agent for Russell's production of the pliers, then by April of 1901 Utica had commenced production of the pliers in their own factory.

Based on the court documents, the Utica production of the pliers from 1901 through about March of 1904 was marked with both the 1895 and 1892 patents, and during this time the pliers were advertised as the "Russell Staple Puller".

The court case documents indicate that some time after 1904 Utica stopped marking the pliers with the Russell patents, and the pliers were described as "Utica Improved Staple Pullers", evading the royalties and triggering the lawsuit.

Fig. 2. 1901 Advertisement for Utica Russell Staple Pullers.

The scan in Fig. 2 shows an ad illustrating the Utica version of the Russell Staple-Pulling Pliers, as published on page 34 [External Link] of the December, 1901 issue of Science and Industry.

Note the use of the 3-Ovals logo on the pliers. This advertisement is currently the earliest known usage of the 3-Ovals mark.

Smith & Hemenway Sales Agents

The reader may have noticed that that the above advertisement was placed by Smith & Hemenway as the sales agent and contact company. During the early 1900s Utica had a sales agreement with Smith & Hemenway, perhaps to gain access to the S&H New York City address.

The two companies published joint catalogs of their products while the agreement was in effect. However, the agreement seems to have had a relatively short duration, and by 1908 (or before) the companies were advertising separately.

Hall's Compound Leverage End Nippers

Fig. 3. 1902 Advertisement for Utica Compound Nippers. [External Link]

Fig. 3 shows an advertisement from a 1902 issue of Telephone Magazine with another example of Utica's early production, a pair of compound leverage nippers.

This style of nippers were generally referred to as "Hall's Compound Lever Nippers", after the early patent #209,677 issued to T.G. Hall in 1878.

The (U)(TI)(CA) Trademark

In 1905 Utica filed an application for a variant of the 3-Ovals logo with the text "U-TI-CA" inside the linked ovals. The trademark was issued as #49,173 in early 1906.

Fig. 4. 1905 Advertisement for Utica Pliers.

The scan in Fig. 4 shows an ad for Utica pliers with the "(U)(TI)(CA)" 3-Ovals trademark prominently displayed at the top, as published on page 954 [External Link] of the December, 1905 issue of the Hardware Dealers' Magazine.

As can be seen in the ad, Utica made a number of other types of pliers in addition to the Hall's compound leverage nippers and Russell staple-pulling pliers. The illustration shows several models of pliers, including side-cutting pliers, combination pliers, and long-nose chain pliers.

The pliers at the top are presented as the No. 1050 "Duke" side cutting pliers, a curious association we haven't seen in other ads or catalogs. The address on Broadway Avenue in New York City indicates that the ad was placed by Utica's agents Smith & Hemenway, and the "Duke of Utica" is probably their creation.

A New Location

By 1906 Utica Drop Forge had moved to a new location at 800 Whitesboro Street in Utica, New York. This address is reported in a 1906 ASME Yearbook entry for H.F. Kellemen, who was listed as the Superintendent of Utica Drop Forge.

Fig. 5. 1906 Advertisement for Utica Pliers and Nippers.

The scan in Fig. 5 shows another example of Utica's early production, an ad for "Utica Pliers & Nippers" printed at the back [External Link] of the 1906 Popular Mechanics Shop Notes.

The illustration shows the No. 1650 box-joint side cutters, No. 50 side Cutters, No. 700 combination side cutters, No. 1000 giant button's pliers, and No. 60 "Bull Dog" end nippers.

This advertisement also makes prominent use of the Utica 3-Ovals logo in the text, which claims it as a trademark.

As we currently don't have any Utica catalogs covering this early period, this type of advertisement has been very valuable in documenting their products of the time.

In 1907 the company's factory was destroyed by fire, and when their new factory opened in 1908, the company had extended their products to a full line of pliers. Utica continued as a maker of pliers and related tools for many years after this.

Introduction of the 3-Diamonds Logo

In 1911 Utica registered their well-known 3-Diamonds logo as a trademark, which was then used extensively in advertisements and as a marking on the tools.

The 3-Diamonds trademark was the successor to the 3-Ovals trademark used on earlier tools.

Fig. 6. 1912 Advertisement for Utica Universal Pliers. [External Link]

The scan in Fig. 6 shows an advertisement for Utica Universal Pliers [External Link], as published in 1912 in Volume 23 of The World's Work.

In the illustration, note that the new 3-Diamonds trademark is prominently displayed in the corners, and that the pliers have smooth (non-patterned) handles; we'll refer to this again shortly.

Another example of the trademark can be seen in an advertisement for Utica pliers on page 104 [External Link] of the January-June 1912 issue of The American Review of Reviews. The new 3-Diamonds logo is displayed in the upper corners of the ad, and the text notes the logo as a registered trademark.

Patterned Handles

Sometime around 1913 Utica began offering patterned handles with some of their plier models. Utica's earliest pattern was a diamond checkered field extending back from the middle of the handle, with a V-shaped opening towards the front of the pliers.

The scan in Fig. 7 below shows an illustration of the gripping pattern found near the back of the 1915 Utica catalog. The text explains the advantages of the pattern and takes care to point out that the pattern is not produced by knurling.

Fig. 7. 1915 Catalog Illustration of Utica Checkered Handle.

Utica's handle pattern appears to have been produced by a secondary forging process, as the gripping pattern is usually found with a forged-in 3-Diamonds logo on the underside of the handles. In addition, pliers with patterned handles rarely show any trace of the parting line from the original forging die.

A secondary forging step would also allow the handles to be given a more precise shape, for example, a fashioned handle to fit the hands better.

Fig. 8. 1913 Advertisement for Utica Lineman's Pliers. [External Link]

Fig. 8 shows an ad with an example of the checkered gripping pattern, as published on page 193 of the November, 1913 issue of McClure's magazine.

This is the earliest known advertisement showing Utica pliers with patterned handles.

Another example of the checkered handle pattern can be seen on the Utica Early 1300 Gas and Burner Pliers in a later section of this article.

The introduction of handle patterns was probably intended both to improve the functionality and appearance of the pliers. Utica's competitors, such as Kraeuter & Company, were also producing pliers with attractive and functional gripping patterns around this same time. A review of Utica's published advertisements found no examples of patterned handles for 1912, but several examples for 1913. This suggests late 1912 or early 1913 as the introductory date of the pattern feature.

Adjustable Wrenches

A "Utica Nippers and Pliers" catalog from about 1926 listed numerous models of pliers and related tools such as tin-snips. The catalog gives the company's address as 2800 Whitesboro Street in Utica.

By 1931 Utica had broadened their product line to include Crescent-style adjustable wrenches. Catalog No. 30 illustrates the No. 90 adjustable wrench and notes that the movable jaw was made of alloy steel.

The adjustable wrenches were initially made of carbon steel (with an alloy jaw), but by the late 1930s Utica was offering both carbon steel and full alloy steel models. More information on these important tools can be found in the later section on Adjustable Wrenches.

"Rib-Joint" Tongue-and-Groove Pliers

Fig. 8B. 1956 Catalog Listing for Utica Rib-Joint Pliers.

In 1952 Willis Daugherty of Utica Tool received patent 2,622,464 for an improved method of making tongue-and-groove pliers. The original "Channellock" patent for this design had expired in 1951, allowing other companies to develop improvements to the design.

Champion DeArment made its Channellock pliers by milling the grooves after forging the handles, but the Daugherty patent described a way of directly forging the interlocking parts.

Utica coined the term "Rib-Joint" for their tongue-and-groove pliers, and in addition to producing the pliers for their own brand, they also licensed the patent. The patent licensees included the Diamond Calk Horseshoe Company, J.P. Danielson, McKaig-Hatch, and possibly others.

The scan in Fig. 8B shows a catalog listing for the "Rib-Joint" pliers, as published on page 10 of Utica catalog No. 66 from 1956.

The Daugherty patent was a major advancement, as it allowed for efficient and inexpensive production of these important tools, at least for companies that had mastered precision forging.

Later Developments

In 1956 Utica was purchased by the Kelsey Hayes Corporation, and Utica continued operations as the Utica Tool Division of the parent.

In 1961 Kelsey Hayes added to its tool division by acquiring the Herbrand Automotive Tool line from the Bingham-Herbrand Corporation, and in the summer of 1962 the Utica-Herbrand operations were moved to a new factory in Orangeburg, South Carolina. (See our article on Herbrand for more information on this interesting tool company.)

Kelsey Hayes made one more addition to its tool company roll-up with the 1964 acquisition of Bonney Forge & Tool Works. (See our article on Bonney for more information.)

Formation of the Triangle Corporation

In 1967 Kelsey Hayes sold its tool division to the newly formed Triangle Corporation, and the renamed Utica Tool Company operated as a division of Triangle for a number of years. Triangle was later acquired by Cooper Tools.

Patents

Trademarks

In the early 1900s Utica used a trademark consisting of three oval chain links enclosing the letters "(U)(TI)(CA)", very similar to the later 3-Diamonds trademark. The registration for this trademark was recently discovered and provides the first use date as April 6 of 1900. This early 3-Ovals logo was superseded by the 3-Diamonds logo in late 1910.

In 1911 Utica registered their "3-Diamonds" trademark, consisting of the company name as "U-TI-CA" enclosed by three interlocking diamonds. The first-use date was listed as December, 1910, and this well-known 3-Diamonds logo continued to be marked on their tools for many years.

In 1948 the "Utica" name in plain text was registered as a trademark, again with the first use listed as December, 1910. In 1949 the text "Utica Tools" in a semicircle was registered as a trademark, with the first use listed as December, 1943.

Utica used the mark "Lubring" as a trademark for pliers with a patented lubrication insert, but the mark is not listed in the USPTO trademarks database.

Tool Identification

3-Ovals Logo

Fig. 9. Utica 3-Ovals Logo.

3-Diamonds Logo

Fig. 10. Utica 3-Diamonds Logo from Trademark 83,793.

Manufacturing Dates

Utica tools are generally not marked with a date code or other explicit indication of the manufacturing date. In some cases, the manufacturing date for a tool can be estimated based on the markings or other observed information. The following list of observations may be helpful in estimating the manufacturing date for some tools.

• 3-Ovals Logo. By the early 1900s Utica was marking its tools with a logo resembling three chain links containing the letters for UTICA, similar to "(U)(TI)(CA)". We'll refer to this as the 3-Ovals logo in the text here. The trademark registration states that this mark was first used on April 6, 1900, and currently the earliest known advertisement using the 3-Ovals logo is from 1901. The 3-Ovals logo remained in use until at least 1910, after which it was superseded by the 3-Diamonds logo.

• 3-Diamonds Logo. In 1911 Utica filed a trademark application for a logo with UTICA inside three linked diamonds, similar to "<U><TI><CA>". The trademark was registered with the first use listed as December 1, 1910. This well-known trademark remained in use for many years and is referred to as the 3-Diamonds logo in the text here.

• 3-Ovals with 3-Diamonds. A small number of tools have been found with both the 3-Ovals and 3-Diamonds markings, typically with the 3-Ovals logo stamped on the front and the 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside of the handle. These are presumed to be transitional tools made from late 1910 to around 1914, as the older marking was being phased out.

• Early Diamond Checkered Handle Pattern. Sometime around 1913 (or late 1912) Utica began using a diamond checkered gripping pattern on some of their plier models, typically with a "V" opening towards the front of the pliers. A number of advertisements from 1913 have been found with the checkered pattern visible in the illustrations, and the 1916 J.M. Waterston catalog includes illustrations of Utica pliers with the diamond checkered gripping pattern. Prior to the adoption of handle patterns, plier handles had been finished with rough or fine grinding, and the parting line from the forging process was often still visible on the underside of the handles. An example of this early gripping pattern can be seen on the Utica Early 1300 Gas and Burner Pliers.

• Model Number Marking. Earlier Utica tools were generally not marked with the catalog model number, although some early advertisements do show model numbers. Utica began marking model numbers consistently around 1920, although the exact date is not yet known. The presence of a model number marking is probably a good indicator of relatively later production.

• Squared-Off Diamond Checkered Handle Pattern. Utica later made a minor change to its diamond checkered gripping pattern by making the ends of the pattern squared off relative to the handle, instead of with a V-shaped opening towards the front. (For example, compare the Utica Early [No. 50-6] and Utica No. 50 pliers.) This change appears to have been made sometime in the 1920s, although the exact date is uncertain. For reference, most pliers with marked model numbers have the squared-off handle pattern (prior to the late 1940s), and most pliers without model numbers have the V-shaped pattern.

• "Alloy Steel" Marking. Utica began using alloy steel for pliers sometime around 1930, around the same time that its competitors Crescent Tools and Diamond Calk Horseshoe also adopted alloy steel. Utica added an "Alloy Steel" marking to its pliers for a period of time, probably from early the 1930s to early 1940s. Currently we do not know of any examples of the alloy marking with the later "Utica Tools" marking style, suggesting a cutoff date of late 1943.

• "Utica Tools" Trademark. Utica registered a trademark with the words "Utica Tools" arranged in a semicircular arc, with the first use listed as December 1, 1943.

• Utica, N.Y. U.S.A. Marking. The "U.D.F.&T." name was later simplified to just "Utica" or "Utica Tools", followed by the location in Utica, NY. This change was probably made around 1944 as part of the change to the "Utica Tools" trademark.

• "Lubring" Patent and Trademark. The patent associated with the "Lubring" trademark was filed in 1944.

• Plain Handles, Again. Sometime in the mid to late 1940s Utica dropped its patterned handle feature in favor of polished plain handles. We're not sure of the exact date, but most pliers with the "Utica Tools" marking have plain handles.

• Tongue-and-Groove Patent. The patent for Utica's "Rib-Joint" tongue-and-groove pliers was filed in late 1951.

• Utica USA Marking. Tool markings were further simplified to just "Utica USA" some time between 1956 and 1961, probably after 1960. The timing is based on examples of pliers obtained in original boxes, which noted Utica as a division of Kelsey-Hayes, but with the location still in Utica, New York. This change was likely made in anticipation of the move to Orangeburg, South Carolina, which took place in 1962.

References and Resources

Photographs and observations of particular tools are based on items in the Alloy Artifacts collection.

A 1906 report from the New York appellate court on the Russell Hardware v. Utica Drop Forge [External Link] case provided background information on Utica's early contract with Russell Hardware.

Catalog Coverage

Product information was obtained from a number of Utica catalogs, as summarized in the table below.

Industrial Distributors

Utica tools were available through many industrial and automotive distributors, and the catalogs from these companies offer additional product information.

• Chandler & Farquhar 1910. The 1910 catalog No. 115 from the Chandler & Farquhar Company, an industrial distributor in Boston, lists only one model of Utica pliers, the No. 3 compound nippers. The illustration shows the markings "U.D.F.&T. Co." with the 3-Diamonds logo.

• Pittsburgh Gage & Supply 1913. The 1913 catalog from the Pittsburgh Gage & Supply Company lists Utica pliers on pages 988-992.

• J.M. Waterston 1916. The 1916 catalog No. 22 from J.M. Waterston, a tool distributor based in Detroit, lists Utica pliers on pages 191, 194, and 195. The Utica No. 1000 Giant Button's Pliers are offered in four sizes from 4.5 to 10 inches nominal, with prices ranging from $0.40 to $0.65. The illustration shows pliers with handles with the diamond checkered gripping pattern, and the markings have "U.D.F. & T. Co." and the 3-Diamonds logo stamped around the pivot.

  Also listed are the No. 5002 combination pliers in the 6 inch size for $0.25 each. These pliers also have the diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles, and the Utica 3-Diamonds logo is shown forged into the underside of the handles.

  Three additional Utica models are listed: the No. 654 Long Chain Nose Side Cutting Pliers, the No. 1950 Heavy Side Cutting (Lineman's) Pliers, and the No. 325 Round Nose Combination Pliers. The illustrations show the No. 654 and No. 1950 with the diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles.

• Wm. Frankfurth Hardware 1917. The 1917 catalog No. 5 from the Wm. Frankfurth Hardware Company of Milwaukee lists Utica pliers on pages 202-207. The listed models include No. 3C compound nippers, No. 20 flat nose pliers, No. 21 round nose pliers, No. 024 milliner's pliers, No. 42 diagonal cutters, Nos. 50 lineman's pliers, No. 60 Bull Dog nippers, No. 650 flat nose side-cutting pliers, No. 700 universal pliers, No. 777 needlenose pliers, No. 1000 Giant Button's pliers, No. 1300 burner pliers, No. 1300G gas and burner pliers, No. 1950 lineman's pliers, and No. 6006 box-joint slip-joint pliers.

• Ducommun Catalog "E" 1918. The 1918 catalog "E" from the Ducommun Hardware Company of Los Angeles lists a wide selection of Utica pliers on pages 285 through 298. The listings include the No. 3 compound end nippers, Nos. 50, 350, 1050, 1950, and 3050 lineman's pliers, Nos. 1000 and 3000 Button Pattern pliers, No. 1300 gas and burner pliers in sizes 5, 6, 7, 8, and 10 inches, Nos. 1900 and 1909 fencing pliers, and the No. 6000 box-joint slip-joint pliers.

• Chandler & Farquhar 1919. The 1919 catalog "A" from the Chandler & Farquhar Company of Boston lists Utica pliers on page 222-223. The listed models include No. 3 compound nippers, No. 20 flat nose pliers, No. 21 round nose pliers, No. 024 milliner's pliers, No. 42 diagonal cutters, Nos. 50 lineman's pliers, No. 60 Bull Dog nippers, No. 612 cotter pin pliers, No. 654 long nose side-cutting pliers, No. 655 needlenose pliers, No. 700 universal pliers, No. 1000 Giant Button's pliers, No. 1300 burner pliers, No. 1300G gas and burner pliers, No. 1950 lineman's pliers, No. 3000 Button's pliers, and No. 3050 side cutting and splicing pliers.

• Cragin & Company 1921. The 1921 catalog No. 2 from Cragin & Company of Seattle lists Utica pliers on pages 114-115. The models include Nos. 11, 20, 21, 42, 55, 60, 612, 655, 700, 1000, 1050, and 1950.

• Marwedel 1922. The 1922 catalog No. 11 from the C.W. Marwedel Company, an industrial supplier, lists Utica pliers on pages 402-404. The models shown include the No. 3 Compound Nippers, Nos. 60 and 360 End Nippers, No. 130 Gas and Burner Pliers, No. 1000 Giant Button's Pliers, and No. 4000 Slip Joint Box Joint Pliers.

• Ducommun Catalog "G" 1926. The 1926 catalog "G" from the Ducommun Corporation of Los Angeles lists a wide selection of Utica pliers on pages 289 through 301.

• White Tool and Supply 1928. The 1928 catalog "B" from the White Tool and Supply Company, a Cleveland-based industrial distributor, lists Utica pliers on pages 185 and 186.

• Samuel Harris 1931. The 1931 catalog No. 57 from Samuel Harris & Company of Chicago lists Utica pliers on pages 240-241. The models listed are the No. 1 Battery Pliers, No. 16 Battery Terminal Lifters, No. 42 Diagonal Cutters, and No. 1000 Giant Button's Pliers.

Advertisements

Utica advertised its products in trade journals and popular magazines beginning in the early 1900s. The following links show examples of some of these ads.

• A full-page ad at the back of the Popular Mechanics Shop Notes for 1906 shows several models of Utica Pliers & Nippers, including the No. 1650 Box-joint side cutters, No. 50 Side Cutters, No. 700 Combination Side Cutters, No. 1000 Giant Button's Pliers, and No. 60 End Nippers. The text shows the use of the early linked-chain form of the Utica 3-Diamonds logo.

• An ad on the back page of the October 1906 edition of Popular Mechanics offers the Utica No. 1000 Giant Button's Pliers, in sizes of 4 1/2, 6, 8, and 10 inches. The illustration shows the underside of the handles with "Pat. Apd. For", and the text shows the linked-chain form of the Utica 3-Diamonds logo.

• The June, 1907 edition of the Hardware Dealers' Magazine shows an ad for Utica nippers and pliers on page 1066, with an illustration of the No. 1000 Giant Button's Pliers:

  
  

  The text shows the linked-chain form of the Utica 3-Diamonds logo, and the company address is listed as 75 1/2 Genesee Street in Utica.

• A full-page ad on page 1228 of the June 1910 edition of the Hardware Dealer's Magazine shows the Utica No. 1300 Gas and Burner Pliers. The text shows the linked-chain form of the Utica 3-Diamonds logo.

Early Production

In this section we'll look at some examples believed represent Utica's early production, with manufacturing dates ranging from 1895 up to around 1910.

Hall's Patent Nippers

Among the earliest tools produced by Utica were the Hall's Patent nippers, a popular style of compound-leverage end nippers capable of cutting hardened wire. The earliest of the Hall's patents actually dates to 1867, long before the founding of Utica Drop Forge. Subsequent improvements were patented in 1878, 1884, and 1890.

Utica [No. 3] Hall's Patent Compound-Leverage Nippers

Fig. 11. Utica [No. 3] Hall's Patent Compound Leverage Nippers, with Insets for Side View, Jaw, and Marking Detail, ca. 1895-1910.

Fig. 11 shows an early pair of Utica [No. 3] Hall's Patent compound-leverage nippers, stamped on the face with "Utica Drop Forge & Tool Co." arranged in a circle, with the 3-Ovals logo stamped below.

The overall length is 8.1 inches with the handles closed. The finish is plain steel, with extensive pitting due to rust.

The pliers are also marked with four patent dates, although the markings are only partially legible due to pitting. By reference to a later version of the tool, the patent dates are listed as "May, 67", "Nov. 78", "Feb. 84", and "Jan. 90".

The first patent date refers to patent #64,664, filed by T.G. Hall in 1866 and issued in 1867.

The second patent date refers to patent #209,677, filed by T.G. Hall in 1878 and issued later that year.

The third patent date refers to patent #294,034, filed by T.G. Hall in 1883 and issued in 1884.

The final patent date refers to patent #419,666, filed by T.G. Hall in 1881, but not issued until 1890.

Russell Patent Staple-Pulling Pliers

Utica Russell Patent Staple-Pulling Pliers

The next two figures show early examples of Utica's Russell Patent pliers, with minor differences in the markings.

Fig. 12. Utica Russell Patent Staple Pulling Pliers, with Insets for Side View, Jaw, and Marking Detail, ca. 1901-1904.

Fig. 12 shows an early pair of Utica 10 inch staple-pulling pliers based on the Russell patents. The pliers are stamped "U.D.F. & T. Co." and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." near the pivot, and with the early 3-Ovals logo stamped on the lower handle (see lower right inset). The back side is stamped with a patent notice "Pat. June 14, 92 Sept. 3, 1895" near the pivot, shown as a close-up in the middle right inset.

The overall length is 10.0 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The first patent date refers to patent #477,005, filed by J. Heard in 1891 and later licensed by the Russell Hardware and Implement Company.

The second patent date refers to patent #545,537, filed by A.H. Russell in 1895. These two patents are collectively the "Russell Patents" licensed by Utica in their contract with the Russell company.

Fig. 13. Utica Russell Patent Staple Pulling Pliers, with Insets for Side View, Jaw, and Marking Detail, ca. 1901-1904.

Fig. 13 shows another early pair of Utica 10 inch staple-pulling pliers, stamped "U.D.F. & T. Co." and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." near the pivot, with the early 3-Ovals logo stamped below (see lower right inset).

The back side is stamped with a patent notice "Pat. June 14, 92 Sept. 3, 1895" near the pivot, shown as a close-up in the middle right inset. (The second date is faintly stamped and difficult to read.)

The overall length is 10.1 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The patent dates refer to patents #477,005 and #545,537 respectively, as noted in the previous figure. Both patents were acquired by the Russell Hardware and Implement Company and licensed to Utica.

Early Button's Pattern Pliers

Button's Pattern pliers were a style of wire-cutters first introduced by J.M. King & Company in the late 1860s. These pliers were typically produced with two or three wire-cutting slots situated at the sides or between the jaws. Button's pliers were very popular during the 19th century and were probably among the earliest tools produced by Utica.

Utica Early 6 Inch Button's Pattern Pliers

Fig. 14. Utica Early 6 Inch Button's Pattern Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Construction Detail, ca. 1901-1905.

Fig. 14 shows an early pair of Utica 6 inch Button's Pattern wire-cutting pliers, stamped "U.D.F.&T.Co." and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." on the upper handle, with the 3-Ovals logo on the lower handle.

The overall length is 6.3 inches, and the finish is plain steel. The pliers are made of high-carbon steel with the head and jaws hardened.

The 3-Ovals marking on these pliers suggests a slightly later production date. This logo appears in advertisements as early as 1901, but was not marked on other examples of early Button's pliers.

Utica Early 8 Inch Button's Pattern Pliers

The next two figures show early Utica Button's pliers in the 8 inch size.

Fig. 15. Utica Early 8 Inch Button's Pattern Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Construction Detail, ca. 1895-1901.

Fig. 15 shows a very early pair of Utica 8 inch Button's pattern wire-cutting pliers, stamped "U.D.F.&T.Co." and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." on the lower handle.

The overall length is 8.0 inches, and the finish is plain steel. The pliers are made of high-carbon steel with the head and jaws hardened.

The middle left inset shows a close-up of the jaws, illustrating the angled cutting slot between the jaws. This was typical of early Utica Button's pliers.

The middle right inset shows the underside of the handles, with the parting line from the forging dies clearly visible. The rough finish of the handles suggests an early production date.

These pliers are not marked with the Utica 3-Ovals logo, suggesting an earlier production date.

Fig. 16. Utica Early 8 Inch Button's Pattern Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Construction Detail, ca. 1895-1901.

Fig. 16 shows another very early pair of Utica 8 inch Button's Pattern wire-cutting pliers, stamped "U.D.F.&T.Co." and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." on the lower handle.

The overall length is 8.0 inches, and the finish is plain steel, with extensive pitting due to rust.

The middle left inset shows a close-up of the jaws, illustrating the angled cutting slot between the jaws. This was typical of early Utica Button's pliers.

These pliers are not marked with the Utica 3-Ovals logo, suggesting an earlier production date.

Utica Improved Button's Pattern Pliers

By 1906 Utica had introduced a significant improvement to the Button's style by splitting the cutting slot between the jaws into two angled slots, so that the improved pliers offered four cutting slots. This design became the well-known Utica No. 1000 "Giant" Button's Pliers. The provision for two slots between the jaws is described by the 1909 Kellemen patent #942,504.

Although the 1909 Kellemen patent wasn't filed until early in 1909, Utica was definitely producing the improved pliers as early as 1906. These pliers can be seen as the "Giant Buttons Pliers" in the 1906 Utica Advertisement shown earlier in this article. A careful look at that illustration shows a patent applied notice on the underside of the handles, suggesting that the Kellemen patent may have been filed earlier and rejected, then revised and filed successfully in 1909.

Utica Early [No. 1000-8] 8 Inch "Giant" Button's Pattern Pliers

Fig. 17. Utica Early [No. 1000-8] 8 Inch "Giant" Button's Pattern Pliers, with Insets for Side View, Construction, and Marking Details, ca. 1906-1909.

Fig. 17 shows an early pair of Utica [No. 1000-8] 8 inch "Giant" Button's Pattern pliers, stamped with an early 3-Ovals logo on the face, with "Pat. Apd For" and "Giant" plus the 3-Ovals logo forged into the underside of the handles.

The overall length is 8.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

Although not marked with a model number, these pliers match the illustration of the No. 1000 "Giant Buttons Pliers" in the 1906 Utica Advertisement shown earlier in this article.

The patent pending status refers to patent #942,504, filed by H.F. Kellemen in 1909 and issued later that year. The patent describes that two angled slots between the jaws (see middle left inset), which allow the pliers to grasp the piece of wire after cutting it.

Utica Early [No. 1000-10] 10 Inch "Giant" Button's Pattern Pliers

Fig. 18. Utica Early [No. 1000-10] 10 Inch "Giant" Button's Pattern Pliers, with Insets for Side View, Construction, and Marking Details, ca. 1906-1909.

Fig. 18 shows an early pair of Utica [No. 1000-10] 10 inch "Giant" Button's Pattern pliers, stamped with the early 3-Ovals logo on the face, with "Pat. Apd For" and the 3-Ovals logo forged into the underside of the handles. (The markings on the underside of the handles are only partially struck, and the "Giant" marking seen in the previous figure is missing from this example.)

The overall length is 10.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

Although not marked with a model number, these pliers match the illustration of the No. 1000 "Giant Buttons Pliers" in the 1906 Utica Advertisement shown earlier in this article.

These pliers are described by the Kellemen 1909 patent #942,504, and the patent applied notice on the underside may refer to this patent. The patent describes the two angled cutting slots between the jaws (see middle left inset), which allow the pliers to grasp a piece of wire after cutting it.

Utica Early [No. 1000-6] 6 Inch "Giant" Button's Pattern Pliers

The next two figures show early examples of the Utica 1000 pliers in the 6 inch size.

Fig. 19. Utica Early [No. 1000-6] 6 Inch "Giant" Button's Pattern Pliers, with Insets for Side View, Construction, and Marking Details, ca. 1906-1909.

Fig. 19 shows an early pair of Utica [No. 1000-6] 6 inch "Giant" Button's Pattern wire-cutting pliers, marked with "Pat. Apd For" and "Giant" plus the 3-Ovals logo forged into the underside of the handles (see lower inset).

The overall length is 6.1 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

Although not marked with a model number, these pliers match the illustration of the No. 1000 "Giant Buttons Pliers" in the 1906 Utica Advertisement shown earlier in this article.

The patent pending status refers to patent #942,504, filed by H.F. Kellemen in 1909 and issued later that year. The patent describes that two angled slots between the jaws (see middle inset), which allow the pliers to grasp the piece of wire after cutting it.

Fig. 20. Utica Early [No. 1000] 6 Inch Button's Pattern Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1906-1909.

Fig. 20 shows another early pair of Utica [No. 1000-6] 6 inch Button's Pattern wire-cutting pliers. The pliers are very worn from extensive use, making the markings difficult to read, but were originally stamped "U.D.F.&T. Co." with "Pat. App. For" across the pivot.

The overall length is 6.2 inches, and the finish is plain steel. The pliers are made of high-carbon steel with the head and jaws hardened.

The patent pending status is refers to patent #942,504, filed by H.F. Kellemen in 1909 and issued later that year. The patent notes that the angled slot opening into the jaws was intended to allow the pliers to grasp the piece of wire after cutting it.

Early Lineman's Pliers

Lineman's pliers are an important style of side-cutting pliers, with the name based on their widespread usage among telephone and electric utility line workers. In the years before 1910, Utica was offering at least three lines of lineman's pliers, the No. 50 basic model, the No. 1950 heavy-duty pliers, and the No. 1650 box-joint pliers.

Utica Early No. 50[-8] 8 Inch Lineman's Pliers

Fig. 21. Utica Early [No. 50] 8 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1905-1910.

Fig. 21 shows a very early pair of Utica [No. 50] 8 inch lineman's pliers, stamped with an early 3-Ovals logo resembling interlocked chain links.

The overall length is 8.1 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The use of the "3-Ovals" logo suggests production before 1910, probably in the range 1905-1910.

Fixed-Pivot Pliers

Button's Pattern Pliers

Button's Pattern pliers were a style of wire-cutters first introduced by J.M. King & Company in the late 1860s. These pliers were typically produced with two or three wire-cutting slots situated at the sides or between the jaws. Button's pliers were very popular during the 19th century and remained in production through at least the mid 20th century.

Utica began producing Button's Pattern pliers at an early stage, and examples can be seen in the section on Early Button's Pliers.

By 1906 Utica had introduced a significant improvement to the Button's style by splitting the cutting slot between the jaws into two angled slots, so that the improved pliers offered four cutting slots. This design became the well-known Utica No. 1000 "Giant" Button's Pliers. The provision for two slots between the jaws is described by the 1909 Kellemen patent #942,504.

Utica 3000 6 Inch Button's Pliers with Opening Stops

Fig. 22. Utica 3000 6 Inch Button's Pliers with Stop, with Insets for Side View and Construction Detail, ca. 1910-1912.

Fig. 22 shows an early pair of Utica 3000 6 inch Button's pliers with built-in opening stops to align the cutting slots. The pliers are stamped with the model and 3-Diamonds logo across the pivot, and each handle has a 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside (see lower inset).

The overall length is 6.5 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The left middle inset shows the jaw opening to illustrate the two angled cutting slots placed between the jaws. The provision for two slots between the jaws was a Utica innovation and is described by the 1909 Kellemen patent #942,504.

The plain non-patterned handles suggest production before 1913, when Utica began producing patterned handles for most models.

The most distinctive design feature of these pliers are the raised ridges used to limit the opening, such that the cutting slots are brought into perfect alignment. The ridges can be seen in the side view of the pliers (top inset), visible on either side of the cutting slots. This feature has not been seen previously on any Utica pliers, although no patent is known for the design.

1000-8 8 Inch Giant Button's Pliers

Fig. 23. Utica 1000-8 Giant Button's Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1944-1959.

Fig. 23 shows a pair of Utica 1000-8 8 inch wire-cutting pliers, referred to as the "Giant Button's Pliers" in the catalogs. The pliers are marked "Utica Tools" and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." across the pivot.

The overall length is 8.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The 1939 Utica catalog listed pliers of this model in sizes 4½, 6, 8, and 10 inches, but by 1952 the No. 1000 model was available only in 8 and 10 inch sizes. The slightly bowed handles of the present example match the illustration in the 1952 catalog.

1000-10 10 Inch Giant Button's Pliers

Fig. 24. Utica 1000-10 10 Inch Giant Button's Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1950.

Fig. 24 shows a pair of Utica 1000-10 10 inch wire-cutting pliers, referred to as the "Giant Button's Pliers" in the catalogs. The pliers are marked "Utica Tools" and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot, with a "Pat.App. For" patent notice across the bottom.

The overall length is 10.5 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The patent corresponding to the pending notice on the tool is not yet known.

The 1939 Utica catalog listed pliers of this model in sizes 4½, 6, 8, and 10 inches, but by 1952 the No. 1000 model was available only in 8 and 10 inch sizes. The slightly bowed handles of the present example match the illustration in the 1952 catalog.

An earlier version of this pliers can be seen as the Utica Early [1000-10] Button's Pliers. An example of a similar model from another maker can be seen as the Kraeuter 1841-8 Button's Pliers.

Utica No. 29 Fencing Pliers with Button's Cutters

Fencing or staple-pulling pliers frequently included Button's style cutters on the sides, as the next figure illustrates.

Fig. 25. Utica No. 29 Fencing Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Jaw Detail.

Fig. 25 shows a pair of Utica No. 29 fencing pliers with staple-pulling jaws and Button's cutting slots, marked with just the Utica name and model.

The overall length is 10.4 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

These pliers are made of high-carbon steel, and the head and jaws are hardened to the point that a file merely bounces off. In this design the flats on either side of the head are intended for use as a hammer.

Although not marked with a patent notice, these pliers appear to be covered by patent #794,064, issued to H.L. White in 1905.

No catalog reference for this model has been found, although the Utica catalogs do list similar pliers with different model numbers. The simple markings (without even the 3-Diamonds logo) suggest that this may be a very early example of Utica's production.

Utica 2001-8 8 Inch Side Cutting Pattern Button's Pliers

Fig. 26. Utica No. 2001-8 8 Inch Side Cutting Pattern Button's Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1944-1945.

Fig. 25 shows a pair of Utica No. 2001-8 8 inch cutting pliers, referred to as "Side Cutting Pattern Button's Pliers" in the 1939 Utica catalog. The pliers are stamped "Utica Tools" and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot, with the model number stamped (faintly) across the center.

The overall length is 8.4 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The face of these pliers has only roughly finished, suggesting a wartime production date. With the "Utica Tools" marking, the production was likely in 1944-1945.

Utica [300] 10 Inch "Competition" Button's Pattern Pliers with Two Cutting Slots

Fig. 27. Utica [300] 10 Inch Button's Pattern Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Jaw Detail, ca. 1940s.

Fig. 27 shows a pair of Utica [300] 10 inch "Competition" Button's Pattern pliers with two cutting slots, marked only with the 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside of the handles.

The overall length is 10.5 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

Although not marked with a model number, these pliers were identified as the No. 300 "Competition Button's Pliers" by an illustration in Utica's No. 57 price sheet from 1941. (The reference to "competition" in this context generally meant a lower selling price.) The No. 300 pliers were available in 6, 8, and 10 inch nominal sizes.

Utica [HS-180] 10 Inch Button's Pattern Pliers with Three Cutting Slots

Fig. 28. Utica [HS-180] 10 Inch Button's Pattern Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Jaw Detail, ca. 1942-1945.

Fig. 28 shows a pair of Utica [HS-180] 10 inch Button's Pattern pliers with three cutting slots, stamped "Utica" and "N.Y." with the 3-Diamonds logo in the center.

The overall length is 10.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The middle inset provides a close-up of the jaws, showing the center cutting slot set at an angle to the faces.

Note that these pliers are made in the original Button's Pattern style, with a single cutting slot between the jaws, rather than the two slots of Utica's improved design.

Although not marked with a model number, these pliers were identified as model HS-180 by an illustration in Utica's No. 57 price sheet from 1941. This model is referred to as "Button's Pliers for Wire and Steel Mills" in the catalogs, and was available from the early 1940s (or before) up to at least the mid 1950s. The HS-180 pliers were available only in the 10 inch size.

The rough finish on the pliers and somewhat non-standard markings suggest production during the 1942-1945 wartime years.

Lineman's Pliers

Lineman's pliers are an important subcategory of fixed-pivot pliers characterized by wide blunt-nose jaws and strong side-cutting edges near the pivot. As the name implies, these pliers were widely used by telephone and electric utility line workers.

In addition to the classic lineman's pliers models No. 50, No. 1050, and No. 1950, Utica also produced side-cutting pliers resembling the lineman's design, but with the addition of other features such as rounded gripping surfaces, Button's style cutters, or screwdriver blades on the handle tips. We have included some examples of these "Lineman's Combination" models in this section.

Early [No. 50-4] 4 Inch Lineman's (Side-Cutting) Pliers

The No. 50 series of side-cutting lineman's pliers was one of Utica's more popular patterns and remained in production for many years. These pliers were produced in nominal sizes of 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 inch lengths.

We'll begin with an early 4 inch example, the smallest model of this product line.

Fig. 29. Utica [No. 50-4] 4 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Side View, Construction, and Marking Detail, ca. 1912-1913.

Fig. 29 shows an early pair of Utica [No. 50-4] 4 inch lineman's (side-cutting) pliers, stamped "??F & T. Co." with the 3-Ovals logo on the face (see middle inset), with "Pat Apd For" and the 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside of the handles (not shown).

The overall length is 4.2 inches. The finish is plain steel, with some pitting due to rust.

These pliers have a diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles, a feature introduced around 1913.

The presence of both the 3-Ovals and 3-Diamonds logo indicates that this is a transitional example of Utica's production, probably from 1910 to about 1913. The diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles further narrows the production to around 1912-1913.

The diminutive size of these pliers would not normally be associated with the name "Lineman's Pliers", but the head design closely resembles the larger No. 50 pliers shown in the later figures. The bow handles on these pliers are more suitable for pliers in smaller sizes.

Utica No. 50 5 Inch Lineman's (Side-Cutting) Pliers

Fig. 30. Utica [No. 50-5] 5 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Handle Pattern and Marking Detail, ca. 1913-1920.

Fig. 30 shows an early pair of Utica [No. 50-5] 5 inch lineman's pliers, marked with the 3-Diamonds logo and "Pat Apd For" forged into the underside of the handles.

The overall length is 5.0 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

These pliers have a diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles, a feature introduced around 1913.

These pliers are not marked with a model number, but closely resemble the No. 50 pliers shown in several later figures. The bow handles on these pliers are more suitable for pliers in smaller sizes.

The patent corresponding to the pending notice marked on the tool has not yet been found, but may refer to the distinctive checkered handle design. Other examples of pliers with this patent applied marking include the Early 1300-7 Gas and Burner Pliers and Early Slip-Joint Combination Pliers, and these examples also show a similar handle pattern.

Utica No. 50 6 Inch Lineman's Pliers

The next several figures show multiple generations of the No. 50 pliers in the popular 6 inch size.

Fig. 31. Utica [No. 50-6] 6 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1912-1913.

Fig. 31 shows an early pair of Utica [No. 50-6] 6 inch lineman's pliers, stamped with "U.D.F. & T. Co." and the 3-Ovals logo on the face (see middle inset). The pliers are also marked with "Pat. Apd. For" and the 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside of the handles, shown as a close-up in the lower inset.

The overall length is 6.4 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

These pliers have a diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles, a feature introduced around 1913.

The presence of both the 3-Ovals and 3-Diamonds logo indicates that this is a transitional example of Utica's production, probably from 1910 to about 1913. The diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles further narrows the production to around 1912-1913.

Fig. 32. Utica Early [No. 50-6] 6 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Handle Pattern and Marking Detail, ca. 1913-1920.

Fig. 32 shows another early pair of Utica [No. 50-6] 6 inch lineman's pliers, marked with the 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside of the handles. (The lower inset has been rotated for readability.)

The overall length is 6.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

These pliers have a diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles, a feature introduced around 1913.

Fig. 33. Utica No. 50 6 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Inset for Handle Pattern, ca. 1920s.

Fig. 33 shows a somewhat later pair of Utica No. 50 6 inch lineman's pliers, stamped with the 3-Diamonds logo and model number across the pivot.

The overall length is 6.3 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The handles of these pliers have a diamond checkered gripping pattern with squared-off ends, a later variant of Utica's handle patterns.

Fig. 34. Utica No. 50 6 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1930s to Early 1940s.

Fig. 34 shows a somewhat later pair of Utica No. 50 6 inch pliers, marked "U.D.F. & T. Co." and "Utica, N.Y." across the pivot, with the 3-Diamonds logo at the top and "Alloy Steel" across the bottom. (The markings are a bit faint due to pitting on the face, but can be seen if the photograph is enlarged.)

The overall length is 6.4 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The "Alloy Steel" marking indicates a likely production date in the 1930s to early 1940s.

Fig. 35. Utica No. 50-6 6 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1930s to Early 1940s.

Fig. 35 shows another later pair of Utica 50-6 6 inch lineman's pliers, marked "Utica Drop Forge & Tool Co." and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot, with "Alloy Steel" across the pivot.

The overall length is 6.5 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The "Alloy Steel" marking indicates a likely production date in the 1930s to early 1940s.

Utica 50-7 7 Inch Lineman's Pliers

Fig. 36. Utica 50-7 7 Inch Lineman's Pliers, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 36 shows an example of the later production of model 50 series, a pair of Utica 50-7 7 inch lineman's pliers, marked "Utica Tools" and "Utica, N.Y. USA" near the pivot.

The overall length is 7.3 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The handles of these pliers are plain, without the cross-hatched grip pattern seen on earlier production.

Utica No. 50[-8] 8 Inch Lineman's Pliers

The next figures show several generations of the Utica No. 50 8 inch lineman's pliers, beginning with a relatively early example.

Fig. 37. Utica No. 50 8 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1920s.

Fig. 37 shows a fairly early pair of Utica No. 50 8 inch lineman's pliers, stamped with the model number and the 3-Diamonds logo.

The overall length is 8.2 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The handles of these pliers have a diamond checkered gripping pattern with squared-off ends, a later variant of Utica's handle patterns.

Fig. 38. Utica No. 50-8 8 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Inset for Handle Pattern, ca. 1930-1943.

Fig. 38 shows a later pair of Utica No. 50-8 lineman's pliers, marked "Utica Drop Forge & Tool Co." and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A.", with "Alloy Steel" on the back side.

The overall length is 8.1 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The "Alloy Steel" marking likely indicates production in the 1930s to early 1940s.

Fig. 39. Utica No. 50-8 8 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 39 shows a later pair of Utica No. 50-8 8 inch lineman's pliers, stamped "Utica Tools" and "Utica N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot.

The overall length is 8.1 inches. The finish is plain steel, with pitting due to rust.

Fig. 40. Utica No. 50-8 8 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 40 shows another later pair of Utica No. 50-8 lineman's pliers with slightly different markings. The pliers are stamped "Utica Tools" and "Utica, N.Y. USA" around the pivot, with the model number in the center.

The overall length is 8.1 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

Utica 1050[-8] 8 Inch Lineman's Pliers

The Utica 1050 series of lineman's pliers was very similar to the 50 series, but produced with plain handles and a slightly less expensive finish. The next two figures show examples of the 1050 model series.

Fig. 41. Utica 1050[-8] 8 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1920s.

Fig. 41 shows an earlier pair of Utica 1050[-8] 8 inch lineman's pliers, stamped with the model number and 3-Diamonds logo near the pivot.

The overall length is 8.2 inches. The finish is plain steel with extensive pitting due to rust.

Fig. 42. Utica 1050-8 Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1925-1943.

Fig. 42 shows a somewhat later pair of Utica 1050-8 lineman's pliers, stamped "Utica Drop Forge & Tool Corp." and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot, with the model number and "Made in U.S.A." across the center.

The overall length is 8.2 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

52-6 6 Inch Closed-Nose Side-Cutting (Lineman's) Pliers

Fig. 43. Utica 52-6 Closed-Nose Side-Cutting (Lineman's) Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. Early 1940s.

Fig. 43 shows a pair of Utica 52-6 6 inch closed-nose side-cutting pliers, very similar to the model 50 lineman's pliers.

The pliers are marked "Utica Drop Forge & Tool Corp." and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot, with "Alloy Steel" and the model number across the center.

The overall length is 6.5 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

Our only catalog reference for this model is the No. 57 price list of 1941, which lists these as "Side Cutting Closed Nose Fine Checked Jaw Pliers - Alloy Steel". The main difference from the model 50 lineman's pliers is that the jaws close tightly on the checkered gripping section at the nose.

Early 8 Inch Lineman's Pliers

Fig. 44. Early Utica 8 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Construction Detail, ca. 1913-1920.

Fig. 44 shows a pair of early Utica 8 inch lineman's pliers with a slightly rounded head, marked only with the 3-Diamonds logo on the underside of one handle (see middle inset). The model number for this example is not yet known.

The upper inset shows a side view of the pliers to illustrate the head shape and handle pattern.

The lower inset shows the semicircular openings behind the side cutters.

The overall length is 8.2 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

These pliers have a diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles, a feature introduced around 1913.

No. 1950[-6] 6 Inch Heavy-Duty Lineman's Pliers

Fig. 45. Utica No. 1950 6 Inch Heavy-Duty Lineman's Pliers, with Inset for Side View.

Fig. 45 shows an early pair of Utica No. 1950 6 inch heavy-duty lineman's pliers, stamped with the 3-Diamonds logo across the pivot.

The overall length is 6.4 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

TL-13-A 6 Inch Heavy-Duty Lineman's Pliers

The Utica model 1950-6 pliers were also produced for military contracts as the model TL-13-A pliers. The next several figures show examples of this model.

Fig. 46. Utica TL-13-A 6 Inch Heavy-Duty Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Back Side and Side View, ca. 1930s to Early 1940s.

Fig. 46 shows an earlier pair of Utica TL-13-A 6 inch heavy-duty lineman's pliers, stamped "Utica Drop Forge & Tool Corp." and "Utica N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot, with "TL-13-A" across the center.

The overall length is 6.4 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

According to one of our readers, the "TL-13-A" marking is a model number for the U.S. Signal Corps, indicating that these pliers were made for a military contract. This suggests that there may be other TL-series numbers, and we'll try to locate additional information on this.

A close look at the cutter jaws shows two nicely rounded holes, designed for stripping wire of the more commonly used gauges.

Fig. 47. Utica 1950-6/TL-13-A 6 Inch Heavy-Duty Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 47 shows a later pair of Utica 1950-6/TL-13-A 6 inch heavy-duty lineman's pliers, stamped "Utica 1950-6" and "Utica N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot, with "TL-13-A" stamped on the back side.

The overall length is 6.3 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

A close look at the cutter jaws shows two nicely rounded holes, designed for stripping wire of the more commonly used gauges.

Fig. 48. Utica TL-13-A 6 Inch Heavy-Duty Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 48 shows another pair of Utica TL-13-A [1950-6] 6 inch heavy-duty lineman's pliers, marked "Utica Tools" and "Utica N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot, with "TL-13-A" stamped across the pivot.

The overall length is 6.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel, with pitting due to rust.

As with the previous example, the cutting edges have two nicely rounded holes for stripping wire.

1950-8 8 Inch Lineman's Pliers

The next figures show three generations of the 1950-8 lineman's pliers.

Fig. 49. Utica Early [No. 1950-8] 8 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Detail, ca. 1913-1920.

Fig. 49 shows an earlier pair of Utica [No. 1950-8] 8 inch lineman's pliers, marked only with the 3-Diamonds logo on the underside of one handle (see middle inset).

The overall length is 8.5 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The upper inset shows a side view of the pliers to illustrate the head shape and diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles.

The lower inset shows the hexagonal opening in back of the side cutters. Although not marked with a model number, the head shape and heavy construction identify this as the No. 1950 lineman's pliers.

Fig. 50. Utica 1950-8 8 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Detail, ca. Early to Mid 1940s.

Fig. 50 shows a somewhat later pair of Utica 1950-8 8 inch lineman's pliers, stamped "Utica Drop Forge & Tool Corp." and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot, with "Alloy Steel" and the model number across the center.

The overall length is 8.5 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The upper inset illustrates the smooth handles on these pliers, without the gripping pattern found on earlier versions of this model. The smooth handles and "Alloy Steel" marking suggest production in the early to mid 1940s.

Fig. 51. Utica 1950-8 8 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Detail, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 51 shows a later pair of Utica 1950-8 8 inch lineman's pliers, stamped with "Utica Tools" and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot.

The overall length is 8.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel, with extensive pitting due to rust.

No. 2050[-6] 6 Inch Box-Joint Lineman's Pliers

Fig. 52. Utica 2050[-6] 6 Inch Box-Joint Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1920s.

Fig. 52 shows a pair of Utica 2050[-6] 6 inch box-joint lineman's pliers, stamped with the model number and 3-Diamonds logo near the pivot, and with the 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside of the handles.

The overall length is 6.5 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The top inset shows a side view of the pliers, illustrating the box-joint construction and diamond checkered gripping pattern.

No. [2050-8] 8 Inch Box-Joint Lineman's Pliers

Fig. 53. Utica [2050-8] 8 Inch Box-Joint Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1913-1920.

Fig. 53 shows a pair of Utica [2050-8] 8 inch box-joint lineman's pliers, marked with "Pat. Apd. For" and the 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside of the handles.

The overall length is 8.5 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The top inset shows a side view of the pliers, illustrating the box-joint construction and the diamond checkered gripping pattern with a V-shaped opening at the front. Utica introduced this gripping pattern around 1912 or 1913.

Early No. 25 5.5 Inch Combination Flat Nose and Burner Pliers

Fig. 54. Utica Early No. 25 5.5 Inch Combination Flat Nose and Burner Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1912-1914.

Fig. 54 shows an early pair of Utica No. 25 5.5 inch combination flat nose and burner pliers, incorporating flat and rounded gripping surfaces, side-cutters, and a tapered nose. The pliers are marked with "U.D.F.&T. Co. and the Utica 3-Ovals logo stamped on the face, with "Pat Apl For" and the 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside of the handles.

The overall length is 5.6 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The top inset illustrates the diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles with a V-shaped opening at the front. Utica introduced this pattern around 1912 or 1913.

These pliers are not marked with the model number, but were identified by the illustration and description in the 1915 catalog, which shows this model under the heading "Utica Combination Flat Nose and Burner Plier". Although designed for more specific uses, this model resembles the lineman's style with the side-cutters and blunt nose.

The use of both the 3-Ovals and 3-Diamonds logos with the early gripping pattern suggests transitional production around 1912-1914.

Early 700 6 Inch "Combination" Lineman's Pliers

Fig. 55. Utica [700] 6 Inch "Combination" Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1910-1913.

Fig. 55 shows an early pair of Utica [700] 6 inch "Combination" lineman's pliers, a basic side-cutting lineman's pattern with the addition of wire-cutting slots, flat and rounded gripping surfaces, and screwdriver and awl tips. The pliers are marked only with the Utica 3-Diamonds logo on the underside of the handle, but the model number was identified from early advertisements.

The overall length is 6.3 inches, and the finish is plain steel. The pliers are made of high-carbon steel with the head and jaws hardened.

The 3-Diamonds marking on this example indicates production sometime after late 1910. The smooth non-patterned handles on these pliers help narrow the production date, as Utica began producing patterned handles around 1913.

Utica advertised this model as "universal" pliers suitable for a wide variety of jobs, and the pliers are equipped with a number of features beyond the basic lineman's design. The jaws have both flat and rounded serrated gripping surfaces, and the standard side-cutters are backed up by two Button's-pattern cutting slots. Even the handles provide additional features, as one handle offers a flat screwdriver bit while the other functions as a reamer or awl.

Utica 700 7 Inch "Combination" Lineman's Pliers

Fig. 56. Utica 700 7 Inch "Combination" Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1920s+.

Fig. 56 shows a later pair of Utica 700 7 inch "Combination" lineman's pliers, a basic side-cutting lineman's pattern with the addition of wire-cutting slots, flat and rounded gripping surfaces, and screwdriver and awl tips.

The pliers are stamped with the model number and 3-Diamonds logo near the pivot.

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 diamond checkered gripping pattern with squared-off ends, a later variant of Utica's handle patterns.

Early 708 8 Inch Lineman's Combination Pliers

Fig. 57. Utica 708 8 Inch Lineman's Combination Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1910-1913.

Fig. 57 shows an early pair of Utica 708 8 inch lineman's combination (or "universal") pliers, stamped with the model number and 3-Diamonds logo near the pivot.

The overall length is 8.1 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The 3-Diamonds marking on this example indicates production sometime after late 1910.

The smooth non-patterned handles on these pliers help narrow the production date, as Utica began producing patterned handles around 1913.

End Nippers

Utica was offering the model No. 60 end nippers as early as 1906, and an advertisement from that year refers to this model as the "No. 60 Bull Dog End Cutting Nipper".

Early No. 60[-5] 5 Inch End Nippers

Fig. 58. Utica No. 60[-5] 5 Inch End Nippers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1918 to Early 1920s.

Fig. 58 shows an early pair of Utica No. 60[-5] 5 inch end nippers, stamped with the 3-Diamonds logo and model number, and with "Apd For" and the 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside of the handles.

The top inset shows a side view of the nippers, illustrating the relatively heavy construction and wide handles of these earlier nippers. Note that the handles have the early diamond checkered gripping pattern with a V-shaped opening at the front, a feature introduced in 1912 or 1913.

The overall length is 5.2 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The model number marking indicates a somewhat later production date.

Early [No. 60] 6 Inch End Nippers

Fig. 59A. Early Utica [No. 60] 6 Inch End Nippers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1912-1913.

Fig. 59A shows an early pair of Utica [No. 60] 6 inch end nippers, stamped with "U.D.F. & T.Co." and the 3-Ovals logo around the pivot.

The pliers are also marked with "Pat. Apd. For" and the 3-Diamonds logo forged into the undersides of the handles.

The top inset shows the relatively heavy construction and wide handles of these early pliers. Note that the handles have the early diamond checkered gripping pattern with a V-shaped opening at the front, a feature introduced in 1912 or 1913.

The overall length is 6.2 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

Utica was offering the model No. 60 nippers as early as 1906, and an advertisement from that year refers to this model as the "No. 60 Bull Dog End Cutting Nipper".

No. 60[-6] 6 Inch End Nippers

Fig. 59B. Utica No. 60[-6] 6 Inch End Nippers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1925-1943.

Fig. 59B shows a pair of Utica No. 60 6 inch end nippers, stamped with the 3-Diamonds logo followed by "U.D.F. & T.Co." and "Utica, N.Y." plus the model number.

The top inset shows the relatively heavy construction and wide handles of these earlier pliers. The handles of the pliers have a diamond checkered gripping pattern with squared-off ends, a later variant of Utica's handle patterns.

The overall length is 6.3 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

60-7 7 Inch End Nippers

Fig. 60. Utica 60-7 7 Inch End Nippers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1925-1943.

Fig. 60 shows a pair of Utica 60-7 7 inch end nippers, stamped with "Utica Drop Forge & Tool Corp." and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." with the model number in the center.

The overall length is 7.3 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The top inset shows the relatively heavy construction and wide handles of these earlier pliers. The handles of the pliers have a diamond checkered gripping pattern with squared-off ends, a later variant of Utica's handle patterns.

65-5 5 Inch Jeweler's End Nippers

Fig. 61. Utica 65-5 5 Inch Jeweler's End Nippers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 61 shows a pair of Utica 65-5 5 inch jeweler's end nippers, stamped "Utica Tools" and "Utica, N.Y. USA" around the pivot.

The overall length is 5.1 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

260-6 End Nippers

The next several figures show examples of the Utica 260 series of end nippers, a later model utilizing a new lubricated joint.

Fig. 62. Utica 260-6 End Nippers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1948-1960.

Fig. 62 shows a later pair of Utica 260-6 end nippers, marked "Utica N.Y. U.S.A." near the pivot, with "Lubring" and "Patented" on the back side.

The overall length is 6.4 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

Fig. 63. Utica 260-6 End Nippers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1960+.

Fig. 63 shows a still later example of the Utica 260-6 end nippers, stamped "Utica" and "USA" near the pivot, with "Lubring" and "Patented" on the back side.

The overall length is 6.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The simplified marking with just "USA" instead of "Utica, N.Y." suggests production around 1960 or later, when production moved to the Orangeburg factory.

260-7 End Nippers

Fig. 64. Utica 260-7 End Nippers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1944-1948.

Fig. 64 shows a pair of Utica 260-7 end nippers, marked "Utica Tools" and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." near the pivot, with "Lubring Joint" and the 3-Diamonds logo on the back side.

The overall length is 7.3 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The "Lubring" marking refers to the Barnes 1948 patent #2,441,552, which describes a method of joint construction to provide continuous lubrication.

Although not marked with a patent pending notation, this pair of pliers is thought to be slightly earlier than the previous two examples, which were clearly marked to indicate the patented status.

360-7 7 Inch End Nippers

Fig. 65. Utica 360-7 7 Inch End Nippers, with Insets for Side View and Jaw Detail, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 65 shows a pair of Utica 360-7 7 inch end nippers, marked "Utica Tools" and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." near the pivot.

The overall length is 7.2 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

Diagonal Cutters

Diagonal cutting pliers are an important and popular style of cutting pliers, and we've been interested in tracing the origin of these tools. It appears now that diagonal cutters were first developed in Europe, with Germany, Sweden, and England possible as the place of origin.

In the United States, Peck, Stow & Wilcox are known to have offered box-joint diagonal cutting pliers in 1903, which were made as copies of a Swedish maker.

Utica first offered diagonal cutters in the 1909 "Plier Palmistry" catalog, but as imports from an unspecified country.

Catalog Listing of No. 842 Box-Joint Diagonal Cutting Pliers

Fig. 66A. 1909 Catalog Listing of Utica No. 842 Diagonal Cutting Pliers.

Fig. 66A shows a catalog listing for Utica No. 842 diagonal cutting pliers, as published on page 9 of the 1909 Utica "Plier Palmistry" catalog.

The pliers were available in six sizes from 3½ inches up to 6 inches.

Note the early form of the Utica "Three Ovals" logo at the top of the page.

The listing is stamped "Imported", and although the text doesn't provide any information on the country of origin, we think it's likely that the pliers are from F.E. Lindström of Eskilstuna, Sweden. Very similar Lindström No. 342 Diagonal Cutters were listed in the 1912 "Green Book" catalog from Smith & Hemenway, Utica's sales agent in the early 1900s.

No. 43 6 Inch Box-Joint Diagonal Cutting Pliers

By around 1926 Utica had revamped its models to offer No. 42 and No. 43 box-joint diagonal cutters, along with No. 40 and No. 41 lap-joint diagonal cutters. The lower prices made the No. 41 pliers a very popular model.

Fig. 66B. Utica No. 43 6 Inch Box-Joint Diagonal Cutters, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail.

Fig. 66B shows an early pair of Utica 43-6 box-joint diagonal cutting pliers, stamped "Utica, N.Y." with the 3-Diamonds logo on the face, and with a 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside of the handles.

The overall length is 6.2 inches, and the finish is plain steel with polished faces.

Although not marked with a model number, these pliers were identified by illustrations in the 1926 Utica catalog. That catalog offered two models of box-joint diagonal cutters, the No. 42 with a plain cutting edge and the No. 43 with a hole for wire stripping.

40-7 7 Inch Heavy-Duty Diagonal Cutting Pliers

The No. 40 lap-joint heavy-duty diagonal cutters were first offered in a supplement to the 1926 catalog.

Fig. 66C. Utica 40-7 7 Inch Heavy-Duty Diagonal Cutting Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 66C shows a pair of Utica 40-7 7 inch heavy-duty diagonal cutting pliers, marked "Utica Tools" and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." near the pivot.

The overall length is 7.1 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

41[-6] 6 Inch Diagonal Cutting Pliers

The next figures show several examples of the popular Utica 41-6 diagonal cutting pliers. The No. 41 diagonal cutters were first offered in a supplement to the 1926 catalog.

Fig. 69. Utica 41[-6] 6 Inch Diagonal Cutting Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1930s.

Fig. 69 shows an earlier pair of Utica 41[-6] 6 inch diagonal cutters, stamped with "U.D.F.&T.Co." and "Alloy Steel" on the face, with the 3-Diamonds logo across center.

The overall length is 6.3 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The top inset shows a side view of the pliers, illustrating the cross-hatched gripping pattern on the handles.

Fig. 70. Utica 41-6 6 Inch Diagonal Cutting Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. Mid 1930s to 1943.

Fig. 70 shows a somewhat later pair of Utica 41-6 6 inch diagonal cutters, stamped with "Utica Drop Forge & Tool Co." and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot, with "Alloy Steel" across the center.

The overall length is 6.0 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The handles have a cross-hatched gripping pattern with traces of red paint, although the paint is not known to be original.

Fig. 71. Utica 41-6 Diagonal Cutting Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 71 shows a later pair of Utica 41-6 diagonal cutters, marked "Utica Tools" and "Utica, N.Y. USA" around the pivot, with the "41 6" model on top of the pivot.

The overall length is 6.0 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

Fig. 72. Utica 41-6 Diagonal Cutting Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 72 shows a pair of Utica 41-6 pliers very similar to the previous example, but with slightly different markings "Utica 41-6" and "Utica, N.Y. USA" around the pivot.

The overall length is 6.0 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

38-4 Diagonal Cutting Pliers

Fig. 74A. Utica 38-4 Diagonal Cutting Pliers, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 74A shows a pair of Utica 38-4 spring-loaded diagonal cutters, marked "Utica NY USA" near the pivot.

The overall length is 4.4 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

39-7 Diagonal Cutting Pliers

Fig. 74B. Utica 39-7 Diagonal Cutting Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 74B shows a pair of Utica 39-7 diagonal cutters, marked "Utica Tools" and "Utica N.Y. USA" near the pivot.

The overall length is 7.3 inches, and the finish is polished steel.

45-6 Aviation Special Diagonal Cutting Pliers

Fig. 74. Utica 45-6 Aviation Diagonal Cutters, with Inset for Side View.

Fig. 74 shows a pair of Utica 45-6 diagonal cutting pliers, marked "Utica 45-6" and "Utica, N.Y. USA" near the pivot.

The overall length is 5.9 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The Utica catalog describes this model as specially designed for aviation applications, with a shorter nose and with the pivot closer to the cutting edges for better leverage.

Gas and Burner Pliers

The "Gas and Burner" pattern was a popular style of pliers favored for light-duty plumbing. This style included one or more rounded gripping areas for use with small pipes, plus a small serrated opening in the tip of the jaws for adjusting oil burners. (See the Utica 1300-6 Pliers below for the jaw detail.)

The Gas and Burner style was also offered by a number of other manufacturers, and currently we're unsure of when and by whom the pattern was first introduced.

Utica was offering the No. 1300 Gas and Burner Pliers at least as early as 1910, based on an advertisement in the Hardware Dealer's Magazine from that time. The pliers were available in sizes 5, 6, 7, 8, and 10 inches.

Early [1300] 8 Inch Gas and Burner Pliers

We'll begin this section with an example believed to represent the earliest gas and burner models.

Fig. 75. Utica [1300] 8 Inch Gas and Burner Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1912-1914.

Fig. 75 shows an early pair of Utica [1300] 8 inch gas and burner pliers, stamped near the pivot with "U.D.F. & T. Co." and the Utica linked-chains logo, an unusual transitional marking currently known only by this example. The pliers are also marked with "Pat. Apd. For" and the 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside of the handle, as shown in the middle inset.

The overall length is 8.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel, with extensive pitting due to rust.

The top inset shows a side view of the pliers, illustrating the diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles. This gripping pattern began appearing in Utica advertisements in 1913.

The lower inset shows a close-up of the transitional marking, clearly showing the older "linked chains" form of the Utica logo at the bottom. The presence of both the linked-chains logo and the successor 3-Diamonds trademark suggests production fairly soon after the introduction of the 3-Diamonds logo in (late) 1910. The estimated manufacturing date can be refined by noting the presence of the diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles, a feature first advertised in 1913. Based on these combined features, we would estimate the production date as late 1912 or 1913.

Another detail to note on these early gas-and-burner pliers is that ends of the handles include a screwdriver point. This feature appears to have continued into the 1920s, but is not found on later models.

[1300-5] 5 Inch Gas and Burner Pliers

This next figure show a rare early version the Utica 1300 gas and burner pliers in the smallest standard size.

Fig. 76. Utica Early [1300-5] 5 Inch Gas and Burner Pliers, with Insets for Side View and and Marking Detail, ca. 1910-1912.

Fig. 76 shows a rare early pair of Utica [1300] 5 inch gas and burner pliers, marked only with the 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside of the handles. Note the screwdriver tip on one of the handles.

The overall length is 5.5 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The top inset shows a side view of the pliers, illustrating the plain handles.

The lower inset shows the forged-in 3-Diamonds logo as it appears on the underside of the handles.

The lack of a company marking suggests that this may have been made as contract production, and the plain handles suggest production before 1912.

1300-6 6 Inch Gas and Burner Pliers

The next figures show several generations of the Utica 1300-6 gas and burner pliers.

Fig. 77. Utica Early [1300-6] 6 Inch Gas and Burner Pliers, with Insets for Side View, Construction, and Marking Detail, ca. 1913-1920.

Fig. 77 shows an early pair of Utica 1300 6 inch gas and burner pliers, marked with "Pat. Apd. For" and the 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside of the handles.

The overall length is 6.6 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The top inset shows a side view of the pliers, illustrating the early diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles. Utica introduced this handle pattern in 1912 or 1913.

The middle (left) inset shows a close-up of the jaws, illustrating the small serrated opening at the tip of the jaws. This is a defining characteristic for the "Gas and Burner" style.

The lower inset shows the forged-in 3-Diamonds logo as it appears on the underside of the handles, bracketed by the "Pat. App. For" marking.

Fig. 78. Utica 1300-6 6 Inch Gas and Burner Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1920s.

Fig. 78 shows a somewhat later pair of Utica 1300 6 inch gas and burner pliers in the nominal 6 inch size, marked with the 3-Diamonds logo across the pivot.

The overall length is 6.6 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The top inset shows a side view of the pliers, illustrating the later diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles.

The lower inset shows the forged-in 3-Diamonds logo as it appears on the underside of the handles, followed by "App. For" in raised letters.

Fig. 79. Utica 1300-6 6 Inch Gas and Burner Pliers, with Inset for Handle Detail, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 79 shows a somewhat later example of the Utica 1300-6 6 inch gas and burner pliers, marked "Utica N.Y. U.S.A." near the pivot.

The overall length is 6.5 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The inset shows the cross-hatched gripping pattern on the handles.

The marking style indicates production from the mid 1940s through 1950s.

Early [1300] 7 Inch Gas and Burner Pliers

Fig. 80. Utica Early [1300-7] 7 Inch Gas and Burner Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1913-1920.

Fig. 80 shows an early pair of Utica [1300-7] gas and burner pliers in the nominal 7 inch size, marked with the 3-Diamonds logo and "Pat. Apd. For" forged into the underside of the handles. (The markings are shown in the lower inset, which has been rotated for ease of readability.)

The overall length is 7.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The top inset shows a side view of the pliers, illustrating the early diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles. Utica introduced this handle pattern in 1912 or 1913.

Although not marked with a model number, these pliers were identified by the illustration in a 1926 Utica catalog. The illustration there shows this style of "fashioned" handle with tapered tips, for use as a screwdriver or light-duty prybar.

1300[-8] 8 Inch Gas and Burner Pliers

Fig. 81. Utica 1300[-8] 8 Inch Gas and Burner Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Jaw Detail, ca. 1920s.

Fig. 81 shows a pair of Utica 1300[-8] gas and burner pliers in the nominal 8 inch size, stamped with the 3-Diamonds logo across the pivot.

The overall length is 8.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The top inset shows a side view of the pliers, illustrating the later diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles.

The small lower inset shows the serrations on the jaw, with the longitudinal grooves at the tip characteristic of "burner" pliers.

1300-10 10 Inch Gas and Burner Pliers

Fig. 82. Utica 1300-10 10 Inch Gas and Burner Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Detail, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 82 shows a pair of Utica 1300-10 10 inch gas and burner pliers, stamped "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot.

The overall length is 10.5 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The lower inset shows the small serrated opening in the end of the jaws, a defining characteristic for the "Gas and Burner" style.

130[-8] 8 Inch Gas and Burner Pliers with Wire Cutters

In addition to the more popular 1300 series, Utica also offered the model 130 gas and burner pliers with Button-style wire cutters.

Fig. 83. Utica 130[-8] 8 Inch Gas and Burner Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1915 to 1920s.

Fig. 83 shows a pair of Utica 130[-8] 8 inch gas and burner pliers with Button-style wire cutters, stamped with "Guaranteed" and the 3-Diamonds logo across the pivot. The inset between the handles shows the forged-in 3-Diamonds logo on the underside of the handles, bracketed by "Pat." and "App. For" in raised letters.

The overall length is 8.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The top inset shows a side view of the pliers, illustrating the early diamond checkered gripping pattern on the handles. Utica introduced this handle pattern in 1912 or 1913.

The presence of the model number marking suggests a later production date.

Flat-Nose and Needlenose Pliers

20[-4] 4 Inch Flat-Nose Pliers

Fig. 84. Utica 20[-4] 4 Inch Flat-Nose Pliers, with Inset for Detail, ca. Early to Mid 1920s.

Fig. 84 shows a pair of Utica 20[-4] 4 inch flat-nose pliers, stamped with the Utica 3-Diamonds logo on the pivot, and with the 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside of the handles.

The overall length is 4.2 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

[20-5] 5 Inch Flat-Nose Pliers

Fig. 85. Utica 20-5 5 Inch Flat-Nose Pliers, with Inset for Marking Detail, ca. 1911-1920.

Fig. 85 shows an early pair of Utica [20-5] 5 inch flat-nose pliers, marked with the Utica 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside of the handles.

The overall length is 5.1 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The model number is not marked on these pliers, but was found by reference to a 1926 Utica catalog. The absence of the model number marking suggests early production.

20-6 6 Inch Flat-Nose Pliers

The next figures show two generations of the Utica 20-6 flat-nose pliers.

Fig. 86. Utica [20-6] 6 Inch Flat-Nose Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1911-1920.

Fig. 86 shows an early pair of Utica [20-6] 6 inch flat-nose pliers, marked with the Utica 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside of the handles.

The overall length is 6.2 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The model number is not marked on these pliers, but was found by reference to a 1926 Utica catalog. The absence of the model number marking suggests early production.

Fig. 87. Utica 20-6 6 Inch Flat-Nose Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 87 shows a later pair of Utica 20-6 6 inch flat-nose pliers, stamped with the model number and "Utica N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot.

The overall length is 6.2 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

21-4 4 Inch Round-Nose Pliers

Fig. 88. Utica No. 21-4 4 Inch Round-Nose Pliers, with Inset for Marking Detail, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 88 shows a pair of Utica 21-4 4 inch round-nose pliers, stamped "Utica NY USA" near the pivot.

The overall length is 4.1 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

21[-5] 5 Inch Round-Nose Pliers

Fig. 89. Utica 21[-5] 5 Inch Round-Nose Pliers, with Inset for Marking Detail, ca. 1920s.

Fig. 89 shows an early pair of Utica 21[-5] 5 inch round-nose pliers, stamped with the Utica 3-Diamonds logo near the pivot, and with the logo forged into the underside of the handles as well.

The overall length is 5.6 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The inset shows a close-up of the forged-in 3-Diamonds logo as it appears on the underside of the handles.

22-4½ 4.5 Inch Short Needlenose Pliers

Utica offered the No. 22 series of short needlenose (or "chain nose") pliers in nominal sizes 3, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, and 6 inches. All sizes had bow handles.

These models were available by 1915 (or earlier), and the 1915 catalog recommended them for such applications as jewelry, watchmaking, and electrical work.

Fig. 90. Utica 22-4½ 4.5 Inch Short Needlenose Pliers, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 90 shows a pair of Utica 22-4½ 4.5 inch short needlenose pliers, stamped with "Utica Tools" and "Utica, N.Y." around the pivot.

The overall length is 4.5 inches, and the finish is plain steel, with extensive pitting due to rust.

22-5 5 Inch Short Needlenose Pliers

Fig. 91. Utica 22-5 5 Inch Short Needlenose Pliers, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 91 shows a pair of Utica 22-5 5 inch short needlenose pliers, marked "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." near the pivot.

The overall length is 5.0 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

22[-5½] 5.5 Inch Short Needlenose Pliers

Fig. 92. Utica 22[-5½] 5.5 Inch Short Needlenose Pliers.

Fig. 92 shows an early pair of Utica 22[-5½] 5.5 inch short needlenose pliers, marked with the model number and 3-Diamonds logo.

The overall length is 5.5 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

22-6 6 Inch Short Needlenose Pliers

Fig. 93. Utica 22-6 6 Inch Short Needlenose Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1925-1943.

Fig. 93 shows an earlier pair of Utica 22-6 6 inch short needlenose pliers. The stamped markings have "Utica Drop Forge & Tool Corp." and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." arranged in a circle, with the model number and "Made in U.S.A." across the pivot.

The overall length is 6.1 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

Fig. 94. Utica 22-6 6 Inch Short Needlenose Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1960s to 1970s.

Fig. 94 shows a later pair of Utica 22-6 6 inch short needlenose pliers. The etched markings show "Utica" and "USA", but are rather difficult to read.

The overall length is 6.3 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

B120 Tapered-Nose Pliers

Fig. 95. Utica B120 Long-Nose Pliers, with Insets for Marking and Handle Pattern, ca. 1914 to Mid 1920s.

Fig. 95 shows a pair of Utica B120 pliers, marked "Utica, N.Y." with the 3-Diamonds logo.

The overall length is 5.3 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The inset illustrates the diamond checkered gripping pattern.

These pliers were apparently designed for some specialized application, as the tapered jaws have an angular notch for holding an object. (Currently we don't have a catalog reference for this model.)

No. 31 Duckbill Assembly Pliers

Fig. 96. Utica No. 31 Duckbill Assembly Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail.

Fig. 96 shows a pair of Utica No. 31 duckbill assembly pliers, marked with the Utica 3-Diamonds logo on the back side.

The overall length is 7.9 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The upper inset shows a profile view of the pliers, illustrating the wide nose and handles.

The Utica catalog mentions the use of these pliers in assembly work, though of course many other applications are possible.

82[-8] 8 Inch Needlenose Assembly Pliers

The next two figures show examples of the No. 82 needlenose assembly pliers, with minor differences in marking.

Fig. 97. Utica No. 82 8 Inch Needlenose Assembly Pliers, with Inset for Back Side Detail.

Fig. 97 shows a pair of Utica No. 82 8 inch needlenose assembly pliers, stamped with the Utica 3-Diamonds logo on the back side.

The overall length is 7.9 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

Fig. 98. Utica 82-8 8 Inch Needlenose Assembly Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail.

Fig. 98 shows a pair of Utica 82-8 8 inch needlenose assembly pliers, stamped with the Utica 3-Diamonds logo and the "82-8" model number.

The overall length is 7.9 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

86-6 6 Inch Long Flat-Nose Pliers

Fig. 99. Utica 86-6 6 Inch Long Flat-Nose Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 99 shows a pair of Utica 86-6 6 inch long flat-nose pliers, stamped with "Utica" and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot.

The overall length is 6.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

86[-8] 8 Inch Long Flat-Nose Pliers

Fig. 100. Utica 86[-8] 8 Inch Long Flat-Nose Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1920s.

Fig. 100 shows a pair of Utica 86[-8] 8 inch long flat-nose pliers, stamped with the model number and 3-Diamonds logo over the pivot.

The overall length is 7.7 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

87-7 7 Inch Long Duckbill Pliers

Fig. 101. Utica 87-7 7 Inch Long Duckbill Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. Late 1920s to Mid 1940s.

Fig. 101 shows a pair of Utica 87-7 7 inch long duckbill pliers, marked "Utica Drop Forge & Tool Corp." and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." near the pivot.

The overall length is 7.2 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

This model was not listed in the 1926 Utica catalog, but was available in the 1939 catalog No. 50. The catalog description calls these "Extra Long Duck Bill Pliers".

227 6.5 Inch Needlenose Pliers

Fig. 102. Utica 227 6.5 Inch Needlenose Pliers, ca. 1948-1960.

Fig. 102 shows the Utica 227 6.5 inch needlenose pliers, marked "Utica, N.Y. USA" near the pivot, with "Lubring" and "Patented" on the back side.

The overall length is 6.6 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The "Lubring" marking refers to a patented method of providing continuous lubrication, as described by patent #2,441,552, issued to W.A. Barnes in 1948. The pivot joint includes a disk of highly compressed but porous powdered iron, which can soak up oil and slowly release it to maintain lubrication for the joint.

777-6 6 Inch Needlenose Pliers

Fig. 103. Utica 777-6 6 Inch Needlenose Pliers, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 103 shows the Utica 777-6 6 inch needlenose pliers, marked "Utica 777-6" and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." near the pivot.

The overall length is 6.1 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

1033-6 6 Inch Needlenose Pliers

Fig. 104. Utica 1033-6 6 Inch Needlenose Pliers, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 104 shows the Utica 1033-6 6 inch needlenose pliers, marked "Utica 1033-6" and "Utica, N.Y. USA" near the pivot.

The overall length is 6.2 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

654-6 6 Inch Needlenose Pliers with Cutters

The No. 654 needlenose pliers with side cutters were first offered in a catalog supplement from around 1926, and were available in sizes 5.5, 6, and 7 inches.

The next figures show two generations of the Utica 654-6 pliers.

Fig. 105. Utica 654-6 6 Inch Needlenose Pliers with Cutters, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1942-1943.

Fig. 105 shows an earlier pair of Utica model 654-6 6 inch needlenose pliers with side cutters, stamped "Utica Drop Forge & Tool Corp." around the pivot, with the model number and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." across the center.

The overall length is 6.3 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

These pliers are also marked with another "U.S.A." stamping above and to the right of the pivot, and the underside of the handles has a forged-in "V" code (perhaps for "Victory"). These extra markings are believed to indicate production for a government contract during the wartime years.

Since the standard markings on the pliers were in use up until late 1943, the production was likely in 1942-1943.

Fig. 106. Utica 654-6 Needlenose Pliers with Cutters, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 106 shows a somewhat later pair of Utica model 654-6 needlenose pliers with side cutters, stamped "Utica 654-6" and "Utica, NY USA" around the pivot.

The overall length is 6.3 inches, and the finish is plain steel with painted handles.

655[-6] 6 Inch Needlenose Pliers with Side Cutters

The next two figures show two generations of the model 655 pliers in the 6 inch size.

Fig. 107. Utica 655-6 6 Inch Needlenose Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Back Side Detail, ca. 1920s.

Fig. 107 shows an earlier pair of Utica 655 6 inch needlenose pliers with side cutters, stamped with the model number and 3-Diamonds logo across the center.

The overall length is 6.1 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The upper inset shows a side view of the pliers to illustrate the squared-off diamond checkered gripping pattern.

Fig. 108. Utica 655-6 Needlenose Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1925-1943.

Fig. 108 shows a later pair of Utica model 655-6 needlenose pliers with side cutters, stamped "Utica Drop Forge & Tool Corp." around the pivot, with the model number and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." across the center.

The overall length is 6.5 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

888-6 6 Inch Bent Needlenose Pliers

Fig. 109. Utica 888-6 6 Inch Bent Needlenose Pliers, with Inset for Top View, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 109 shows the Utica model 888-6 6 inch bent needlenose pliers, with views from the side and top. The pliers are marked "Utica 888-6" and "Utica, N.Y. USA" near the pivot, and the handles are smooth without a gripping pattern.

The overall length (tip-to-tip) is 5.6 inches, and the finish is black oxide.