Channellock

American pliers, specifically tongue-and-groove. Made in Meadville, Pennsylvania.

Approved

Founded: 1886
HQ: USA
Manufacturing: USA
Ownership type: Family-owned

Ownership

Family-owned, fifth generation. Manufacturing consolidated at the Meadville facility.

Reversibility

What would change our verdict

Sale. Offshoring of flagship 420 and 440 lines.

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Investigation · March 31, 2026

Your Power Tools Got Worse On Purpose

Two conglomerates bought American power tools in the 2000s. One built Milwaukee into the dominant cordless platform. The other spent $6B+ hollowing out Craftsman, Porter-Cable, and more. Plus the brands that refused to sell.

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