innovation milestones y of s - Irwin Industrial Tools€¦ · 2004 2006 2011 2015 2012 2014 1885...

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innovation milestones

IRWIN Tools has a long and storied history, stretching for more than a

century and set against the backdrop of a young, ambitious nation.

In 1885, Charles Irwin patented the Auger bit and, along with four business

partners, formed the IRWIN Auger Bit Company. In 1924, William Petersen, a

Danish immigrant, invented and patented VISE-GRIP® Locking Pliers. Through

innovation and a series of acquisitions, these two companies have now become

IRWIN Tools.

IRWIN Tools manufactures and distributes a broad line of hand tools and power

tool accessories including JACK® handsaws, RECORD® clamping and locking

tools, VISE-GRIP® pliers and wrenches, JORAN® drill bits, QUICK-GRIP®

clamping tools, MARPLES® chisels and woodworking tools, and UNIBIT® drill

bits.

the history of irwin tools

Innovation is the hallmark of IRWIN®. For more than 100 years, it's been an idea that

has permeated the culture of our company, and it continues to drive everything we do.

Beginning in 1885 with development of the first IRWIN® auger bit, and progressing with

the introduction of Vise-Grip® locking tools, Blue Groove flat bits, and Quick-Grip® bar

clamps, IRWIN® has been at the forefront of the industry, creating better tools in a better

way. Our impressive track record of new product development is born from our passion for

understanding the needs of our primary user – the professional tradesman. This dedication

to improving products begins in the field, where IRWIN®'s specialised end-user teams visit

construction sites. There, the IRWIN® Field Product Specialist team learns first-hand – from

the professional – how to improve our products, and how to make the pro's job easier

and more productive. This hard-earned knowledge is the foundation for a unique product

development process utilised by IRWIN®'s engineering, marketing, and manufacturing teams

to deliver a continuous stream of new products to the marketplace. Supported by a global

network of world-class manufacturing facilities and bolstered by our partnerships with

leading global retailers, IRWIN® continuously sets the professional standard in each and

every market segment in which we compete. From product feedback and development to

distribution and use in the field, we dedicate ourselves to delivering quality tools that meet

the stringent requirements of our toughest critics – professional tradesmen.

irwin® innovationBi-Metal Blades

Blue Groove 6XWood Boring Bits

VISE-GRIP® Groovelock

Water Pump Pliers

IMPACT Screwdriving BitsVISE-GRIP® Performance Pliers

VISE-GRIP® Fast ReleaseMARPLES® Chisels

JACK® Plus

Handsaw Range

MARPLES® & WELDTEC

Circular Saw Blades

Patent of IRWIN® Auger Charles Irwin formed the IRWIN® Auger Bit Co

MARPLES® Chisels

Solid Center Auger

HANSON® Taps & Dies

VISE-GRIP® Locking Pliers

SPEEDBOR® Wood Boring Spade Bits

UNIBIT® Step Drill Bits

QUICK-GRIP® Bar Clamps

RECORD®

Quick-Adjusting Vice