Channellock is one of the most famous names in tools and has earned their reputation the old-fashioned way—spending over a century delivering quality products made in America. Tracing its origins to Evansburg, Pennsylvania in 1886, when a man named George DeArment was selling tools out of a wagon. The company did not even have a name initially, eventually going by the Champion Bolt & Clipper Company. Originally formed to provide tools for crafting and maintaining horseshoes, their story nearly ended early on. Only a few years after the company began, their funds were wiped out by the Panic of 1893 which had a devastating impact on the entire American economy, but they thankfully managed to recover. A decade later, the company expanded its size and focus, moving its headquarters to Meadville, Pennsylvania, and adding various tools to its catalog.
The company grew steadily due to its quality and strong reputation but didn't achieve breakout success until 1933. Chief Engineer Howard Manning developed a new design for slip-joint pliers using a tongue-and-groove style, allowing for multi-positional use. The tool he crafted was so ingenious that it has since become a staple in modern toolboxes and was named the "Channellock," now existing as an entire category of tools. Thirty years later, that tool had become such a household name that the company to chose to name itself after this product. Over the decades, Channellock continued to innovate and make a name for itself, proudly displaying its signature blue color.
Today, the DeArment family remains at the helm, with Jonathan DeArment serving as president. Under his leadership, the company maintains its commitment to excellence and continues to espouse the Channellock Way. There is no easy path to success, but they manage by staying committed to unbeatable strength and quality. With over 350 dedicated employees and 75 types of pliers crafted from 100% U.S. steel, Channellock remains a true symbol of American craftsmanship, staying true to its roots while boldly looking toward the future.
The company grew steadily due to its quality and strong reputation but didn't achieve breakout success until 1933. Chief Engineer Howard Manning developed a new design for slip-joint pliers using a tongue-and-groove style, allowing for multi-positional use. The tool he crafted was so ingenious that it has since become a staple in modern toolboxes and was named the "Channellock," now existing as an entire category of tools. Thirty years later, that tool had become such a household name that the company to chose to name itself after this product. Over the decades, Channellock continued to innovate and make a name for itself, proudly displaying its signature blue color.