Even in the modern world, where power and air tools are commonplace and affordable, the humble hand tool is still the most popular by far. Almost everybody has a screwdriver, a hammer, and a wrench. Hand tools are easy to use, easy to maintain, easy to store, and extremely durable. They can be used in many industries, from engineering, to automotive, to carpentry.
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A hand tool is more than a brand name. There are some brands that make subpar tools at a premium price, and many people are more than willing to pay just for that name.
What separates good hand tools from great hand tools is the quality of their materials, the innovation in their designs, and the care taken by the craftsmen who make them.
In this article we’d like to introduce you to some brands you may not have heard of, brands that produce high quality tools that can easily compete with the big names, at much more affordable prices.
This is our ultimate list of the best hand tool brands on the market. If you’re in the market for a hand tool, you’re bound to find something for you on this list.
Over its 70 years of history operating out of Sanjo, Niigata - an area renowned for quality stainless steel, Anex has established itself as one of the world’s leading fastening tool specialists.
Anex has a great range of quality JIS Japanese screwdrivers and drill bits, which make up the bulk of their catalog, but they also sell nippers, hammers, and tweezers.
Their screwdrivers are popular worldwide thanks to their compatibility with JIS screws, making them extra versatile.
Canary is a sub-brand of bladesmith Hasegawa Cutlery. Hasegawa Cutlery was founded in in Seki, a premier blade-making city, and Canary was established roughly two decades later in .
Canary is one of the world's most popular brands for bladed tools and scissors. Their corrugated cardboard cutters, particularly, are carried by many logistics workers to cut and break down cardboard boxes. They also have a wide variety of very sharp office scissors and other cutting tools.
Deen is a tool brand developed by a leading tool shop, Factory Gear, in response to public demand. Factory Gear specialized in selling high-end American automotive tool brands, but after listening to the feedback of their customers, they became aware of many ways that they could improve upon the tools on the market.
Deen have added features and design improvements to a variety of popular tools, and developed some entirely unique tools and supplies too. They make various types of ratchets and wrenches, swivel ratchets, pliers, vise grips, crimping pliers, ratcheting screwdrivers, steel tool boxes and more.
Engineer is a popular tool making company that makes some pretty special tools. In particular, their Neji Saurus range of screw removal tools are very popular around the world. These unique pliers were designed to remove stuck and damaged screws wherever they may be. Their specially-designed jaws grip onto the screw head so that you can twist it out.
Aside from the Neji Saurus range, Engineer's award-winning combination scissors are highly recommended. These 4-in-1 scissors can cut paper, cloth, wire and cardboard. With micro-serrations, and a built-in wire cutter and box opener, these are the last scissors you'll ever need.
Fujiya makes some of the world’s best pliers, nippers and wrenches. Their Kurokin range of premium tools really stand out among the competition with black and gold styling and high-end materials.
Popular with linemen, electricians, and mechanics, Fujiya tools don’t just look great, they’re functional and durable, and will take the beating that those tough industries often provide.
If you're looking for cable cutters, lineman pliers, adjustable monkey wrenches, nippers, or wire strippers, look no further than Fujiya.
Godhand is a brand that is globally known and loved within certain hobbies and niches. For those who love to build plastic models like Warhammer, Gunpla, or model aircraft, these nippers are the best on the market.
Known for their special design that features a single, ultra-thin blade that shaves through plastic - rather than pinching it between two blades - the result is a super clean cut without white, stressed plastic or burrs.
Gyokucho was founded in the s in Miki City, a region well-known for its tool-making industry. Their flagship brand, Razorsaw, contains a variety of quality Japanese pull saws - saws that cut on the pull stroke, rather than the push. Pull saws are less physically demanding, and more accurate than the push saws we're used to in the west.
Gyokucho's range includes woodworking saws, pruning saws, and specialist saws for raw wood, fruit trees, bamboo and more. They have saws in the traditional shape and style, with bamboo handles, and more modern folding saws with rubber grips.
Hounen Kihan is another popular toolmaker from Miki City. They specialize in bladed tools such as sickles, pruning shears, and nata hatchets.
They use Japan's finest high-carbon steel, yasugi aogami, for many of their blades, ensuring they're incredibly sharp. They also produce hardened steel and stainless steel bladed tools, such as their stainless steel sickles, for a more day-to-day option that is resistant to rust and other elemental damage.
Their tools are trusted by gardeners and farmers alike for their high quality and durability.
Kakuri was founded in , and had their first hit product just a few years later. Their Carpentry Tool Set, a wooden box full of various useful tools such as hammers, planes, and chisels, was just what Japan needed during the post-war reconstruction.
It was so popular that it spurred a DIY boom in Japan, and was even selected as a New Year Prize in the annual Japanese Postal Service giveaway in , , and . The popularity of the set is a testament to the quality of Kakuri's tools.
Not only are their planes, kiridashi carving knives, and chisels extremely sharp, all of their tools, from hammers to saws, are made from quality, yet simple materials. They're easy to use, easy to maintain, and quite affordable too. Because of this, Kakuri's tools have a great reputation among professional Japanese carpenters.
Keiba has 100 years of history producing tools, and it really shows in the quality of their products and the respect their brand carries. Keiba was one of the earlier tool brands founded in Sanjo City, which is now one of the world's major hubs for toolmaking and blacksmithing. Their range of nippers are their most popular tools, and they've been selling across the world with great success.
Keiba plastic nippers are not only popular with electricians and other tradespeople, but a huge hit with hobbyists too. They're a great choice for people who build plastic models, do 3D printing, or otherwise work with soft plastics. Their linesman pliers and hobby pliers are also among their most popular products.
If you work in the automotive industry, or like working on cars and bikes as a hobby, Koken is a brand that won't need any introduction for you. Perhaps the most popular Japanese professional automotive tool company, Koken's wrenches and sockets are lauded around the world for being made to the highest standards of quality, durability and comfort.
Founded in , Koken got off to a great start, securing certifications, awards, and contracts from the Japanese Ministry of Trade, Japan Airlines, the United States Military Procurement Agency in Japan and more. Today, Koken is the leading Japanese brand for professional mechanics, and their Z-Series (Z-Eal) sockets and socket wrenches, their flagship products, are extremely sought-after in the US and other countries.
KTC, or Kyoto Tool Co, is another very well-respected automotive tool brand. During the war years, KTC existed as another company, providing tools for aircraft maintenance. After the war, this company was forced to shut down, but a few years later, in , they were able to re-open as an automotive tool manufacturer.
In the same year of its founding, KTC tools were adopted as the standard for Toyota Motor Corporation, and the next year they began selling their tools to the public. Thanks to its relationship with Toyota, in the s KTC became the top performing toolmaker in Japan, with a market share of over 10%. Their relationship with Toyota continues strong to this day, as they continue to supply Toyota, Gazoo Racing, and the Toyota F1 team with KTC tools, and their professional line "Nepros" hand tools.
KTC tools are a great choice for anyone who likes working on cars, and would like to use the same tools the professionals use.
In , when micrometers used in Japan were all imported from abroad, the founder of Mitutoyo took the first step to creating domestically-produced micrometers. Two years later, in , Mitutoyo had the capacity to develop a single lot of 100 Japan-made micrometers for the first time - and 17 of these still exist to this day, in perfect working order!
Now Mitutoyo's micrometers, calipers, gauges, microscopes, and other measuring tools and machines are known to many as the best, and most accurate in the world. Mitutoyo prides itself on its accurate measuring, and produced cutting-edge measuring machines for a variety of niche industries, such as roundness measuring machines, and roughness measuring machines.
However, it's their hand tools that are most well-known. Mitutoyo micrometers and calipers are the gold-standard for mechanical engineering and machining.
Mokuba's motto is "The best work starts with the best tools", and this has helped guide them to becoming a leading construction and demolition tool company. Founded in in Miki City, Mokuba joins the long list of renowned tool companies from the city.
They started by exclusively making chisels for carpentry, but have since expanded their range to include crowbars, scrapers, metal and rock chisels, punches, and rebar bending tools. If you work in construction or demolition, there are probably a few Mokuba tools that would go perfect in your kit. Their crowbars and pry bars in particular are extremely tough and durable.
Nonaka is one of the oldest companies on our list, as it was founded over 100 years ago in as a sewing machine company.
In they began developing their most popular product, the Screw Punch, a hole punch for fabric and leather that could be used quietly, without causing excess damage to the material around the hole.
Now the company is managed by the grandson of the founder, and the Screw Punch and its various blades are the only tool they continue to produce. For anyone interested in leatherwork, bookbinding, or other crafts that require clean holes to be cut through tough fabrics, the Screw Punch is a fantastic choice!
Olfa's story is one of the most interesting on this list. In , when Yoshio Okada was 13 years old, he lost his family home to an air raid. At the time, he decided to drop out of junior high to support his family by working. He began working as an electrical engineer, and then got a job at a printing company.
At the printing company Yoshio was tasked with cutting segments of paper with a razor blade. When the blade became dull, it had to be thrown away. Around this time, while Yoshio was eating some chocolate, he realized that the segments of chocolate could easily be snapped off, and was inspired to create a razor blade that could do the same.
In , when he was in his early 20s, Yoshio developed a utility knife with a segmented blade, that could be snapped off when dull, to reveal a new, sharp razor. It was the first of its kind, and it was a huge success.
Since then, Olfa has made many other advancements, such as developing the world’s first rotary cutter, which is now a standard tool in dressmaking and other textile-related industries. Today, Olfa’s utility knives, cutter knives, rotary cutters, and other bladed tools are lauded as among the world’s finest.
Tone is a fastening tool manufacturer founded and mostly based in Osaka, Japan. Their large range of fastening tools covers everything required from the home hobbyist to professional race team mechanics when it comes to torque control and bolt tightening.
Their wrenches are some of the best from Japan, particularly their lightweight monkey wrenches, which weigh significantly less than others on the market. In addition, they make a wide variety of ratchets, screwdrivers, allen wrenches, pipe wrenches and more.
They don't limit themselves to just hand tools though, as they also manufacture professional power tools and air tools like nutrunners, shear wrenches, impact wrenches and more.
Tajima Tool has, by far, the widest variety of hand tools out of any company on this list. While they have a heavy focus on measuring and surveying tools, their range covers pretty much everything. For example:
And much, much more. It’s hard to pick just one industry or hobby for which Tajima is a good choice. If you’re looking for a particular tool, and you want one designed and made by a company with a great reputation, Tajima probably has it.
Tohnichi's corporate mission sits on one important goal: safety. The technology we rely on in our day-to-day lives is often held together by small parts. Heavy machinery, aircraft, cars, buses, and even bicycles - all held together by screws, nuts, and bolts. If just one fastener is improperly tightened the consequences could be dire: aircraft accidents, plant explosions, gas and oil leaks. By producing industry-leading torque control tools, Tohnichi wants to help prevent some of these accidents, by ensuring that every screw, every nut, and every bolt is tightened with absolute precision - never too tight, and never too loose.
Tohnichi’s torque wrenches and torque screwdrivers are expertly calibrated in Japan, and each comes with a calibration certificate. These tools allow you to tighten fasteners to precise levels of torque, to avoid damage or gradual loosening. If you work with any machinery that has standard levels of torque laid out in the manual (vehicles, aircraft, air conditioning units, factory machinery, heavy machinery etc.) then a Tohnichi torque wrench is perfect for you.
Tonkachi Susa, another tool manufacturer located in Sanjo City, specializes in demolition tools. One feature that sets Tonkachi apart from their competitors is that they favor premium materials, often choosing white oak for handles, and premium chrome-plated steel for heads.
Tonkachi Susa produces six popular brands of hand tools, with two leading the pack, namely: Osho and Magnum. Tonkachi's Osho brand, in particular, is extremely high quality, with their chrome-plated pry bars, shock-resistant sledge hammers, and other tools all standing out on the shelf.
Tonkachi focuses not only on using quality materials but also on producing tools with high usability and comfort. So their heads are heavy, their blades are sharp, their handles are lightweight and non-slip, and everything looks fantastic!
Vessel is an Osaka-based fastening tool manufacturer that prides itself on making quality tools to Japanese Industrial Standards.
Founded in , Vessel was one of Japan's first companies to mass-produce screwdrivers, and while it took them some time to get started, by they had developed Japan's first domestically-produced screwdriver, and experienced rapid growth in the decades to come.
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In the s they sought to expand, and came up with the idea that any tool with the name "driver" would be produced by Vessel. At this point they began producing more screwdrivers, drill bits, wrenches, and even air tools such as impact wrenches, which helped them secure a foothold as Japan's leading manufacturer of fastening tools.
Today, Vessel's tools, particularly their Megadora range of non-slip JIS screwdrivers that grip into the screw head, and their Woody range of wood-composite handled screwdrivers and wrenches, are loved around the world for meeting JIS standards, and international standards of quality, durability and comfort.
There you have it, the ultimate guide to the world’s top hand tool brands. Have you tried tools from any of the brands on the list? Which one is your favorite?
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When it comes to purchasing tools for your business, buying wholesale wrenches can be a cost-effective solution, whether you’re stocking up for a repair shop, a construction project, or retail distribution. However, selecting the right wrenches requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure you’re getting the best quality and value for your investment. In this article, we’ll guide you through the key considerations when buying wrenches in bulk.
There are many types of wrenches, each designed for specific tasks. Understanding which type you need is essential when purchasing wholesale wrenches. The most common types include:
Open-End Wrench: These wrenches have a U-shaped opening at both ends and are ideal for fasteners that don’t require a high torque.
Box-End Wrench: A closed-loop wrench that grips the fastener more securely and is ideal for high-torque applications.
Adjustable Wrench: Also known as a crescent wrench, this tool has an adjustable jaw that allows it to fit various sizes of fasteners.
Socket Wrench: Used with interchangeable sockets, this wrench is popular for tasks that require precise torque control, such as automotive repairs.
Torque Wrench: A specialized tool used to apply a specific torque to a fastener, often used in mechanical and automotive applications.
Pipe Wrench: Designed for gripping and turning pipes, these wrenches are commonly used in plumbing work.
By understanding the types of wrenches available, you can choose the ones best suited for your business needs, whether you’re selling to consumers or providing tools for employees.
USA Type Wrench
The material from which the wrench is made plays a significant role in its durability, strength, and resistance to wear and tear. Most wrenches are made from the following materials:
Steel: The most common material for wrenches, steel offers strength and resilience. Chrome vanadium steel is often used for higher quality wrenches due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio.
Forged Steel: Wrenches made from forged steel are stronger and more durable, making them ideal for heavy-duty tasks.
Stainless Steel: Resistant to rust and corrosion, stainless steel wrenches are perfect for environments with high moisture levels or exposure to chemicals.
Aluminum: Lighter than steel, aluminum wrenches are used for lighter applications and are ideal when weight is a factor, though they may not be as durable as steel counterparts.
When purchasing wrenches wholesale, it’s essential to balance durability with cost. For high-demand or heavy-duty applications, investing in forged steel or chrome vanadium steel wrenches may be a better long-term investment.
Wrenches come in various sizes, and it’s important to consider the size range that suits your business. If you’re purchasing wrenches for resale, offering a variety of sizes can meet the diverse needs of your customers. For professional use, having a comprehensive set that covers a wide range of sizes ensures your team can tackle various tasks without needing multiple tools.
Considerations:
What size range does your business commonly require?
If you’re stocking for resale, do you need to offer both small and large wrenches?
Is there a demand for specific sizes in the markets you serve?
Many wholesale suppliers offer wrench sets that include multiple sizes, which is a great option for ensuring your customers or employees have access to a wide variety of tools in one purchase.
The ergonomics of a wrench are essential for comfort, particularly during long periods of use. A poorly designed wrench can cause hand fatigue, leading to decreased productivity and discomfort. When selecting wholesale wrenches, pay attention to the following factors:
Handle Design: A well-designed handle reduces hand strain and improves grip. Look for wrenches with rubberized or textured handles that enhance comfort and prevent slipping.
Weight: Heavier wrenches may be more durable, but they can cause fatigue during extended use. Lighter wrenches, on the other hand, are more comfortable for prolonged tasks but may not be as durable.
Handle Length: Longer handles provide more leverage for tougher tasks but may be harder to maneuver in tight spaces.
Ensuring that the wrenches you purchase offer a comfortable grip and ergonomic design will lead to a better user experience, especially for your employees or customers who need to use the tools regularly.
The brand reputation of the wrenches you’re purchasing can give you valuable insight into their quality and reliability. Established tool manufacturers often offer warranties on their products, which can give you peace of mind and protection against defects.
Factors to consider:
Look for well-known, reputable brands with a history of producing quality tools.
Check whether the brand offers a warranty, and if so, understand the terms and coverage.
Research customer reviews to gauge the quality and reliability of the wrenches from a particular manufacturer.
Opting for well-established brands may cost slightly more upfront but can save you money in the long run due to fewer warranty claims and product replacements.
One of the primary reasons to purchase wrenches wholesale is to take advantage of bulk discounts, which can significantly lower the per-unit cost. However, it’s essential to ensure that the wrenches you’re purchasing are not only cost-effective but also of high quality.
Things to keep in mind:
Compare prices from different wholesalers to find the best deal.
Ensure that the quality of the wrenches is not compromised in favor of cost savings.
Consider the long-term value of the wrenches. Low-cost wrenches may need to be replaced more frequently, which could increase the overall cost over time.
Wholesalers often offer tiered pricing based on order quantity, so ordering in larger quantities may result in significant savings.
When purchasing wrenches wholesale, it’s important to confirm that the wrenches are of high quality and have passed quality control tests. Poorly manufactured wrenches may not hold up under heavy use and could be a liability in safety-critical applications.
Check for:
Compliance with industry standards and certifications.
Testing for strength, durability, and performance.
Customer feedback regarding the longevity and reliability of the wrenches.
Make sure the wrenches you choose meet the necessary safety and performance standards required for your industry to avoid potential issues down the line.
When buying wrenches wholesale, consider the shipping times and costs associated with the order. Delays in delivery can affect your ability to meet project deadlines or stock products for customers.
Consider:
The reputation of the supplier’s delivery and shipping services.
Shipping fees, particularly for large or heavy orders.
Lead times for bulk orders and whether expedited shipping is available if needed.
It’s always a good idea to confirm shipping policies and lead times with the supplier to avoid unexpected delays.
Purchasing wholesale wrenches can be a smart decision for businesses looking to save money while equipping themselves with high-quality tools. By carefully considering the type, material, size range, ergonomics, brand reputation, and price, you can ensure that you choose the right wrenches for your needs. Whether you’re purchasing for resale or for internal use, understanding these factors will help you make an informed decision and get the best value from your wholesale wrench purchase.
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