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Early Craftsman Tools and Their Makers

Sears registered its Craftsman trademark in 1927 and began offering a wide variety of tools under the Craftsman brand. These tools were manufactured by some of the leading tool companies of the time, and identifying these makers is a matter of some interest (and difficulty).

The manufacturers for some tools have been identified -- see our articles on New Britain or Hinsdale for example -- but the makers of other tools are not yet known. This page will show some examples of the tools for which the maker is not known, along with whatever information has been gathered so far.


Table of Contents

Introduction

Company History


Tools in Early Sears Catalogs

Sears was selling tools long before the Craftsman trademark was developed, and their comprehensive mail-order catalogs provide an excellent source of information on the types and brands of tools available. Because of the extensive catalog resources, this article will begin with some reviews of the tool sections of early Sears catalogs.


1929 Fall and Winter Catalog

The 1929 catalog shows only a limited number of Craftsman tools, almost exclusively in the woodworking category. There are Craftsman saws, axes, bit braces, and planes, but no open-end or adjustable wrenches, no pliers, and no socket sets. It does list a Craftsman tap and die set, however, so the Craftsman selection was expanding into the area of machinist's tools.

The catalog lists a number of other brands of tools, including Fulton, Millers Falls, Greenfield Tap & Die, and Merit.

Several socket sets are listed in the automotive supplies section, and though no brand name is given, these appear to be tools from Duro/Indestro. Other automotive tools include a number of fixed-socket wrenches and specialty tools.


1931 Spring and Summer Catalog

The 1931 Sears catalog includes about 15 pages of tools in the general hardware section, plus several additional pages in the automotive supplies section. A wide variety of tool brands can be found, including such names as Fulton, Merit, Pexto, Millers Falls, Hinsdale, and many others. This time was about four years after the Craftsman trademark was registered, and a number of Craftsman-branded tools were available, mostly in the area of woodworking -- saws, planes, files, axes, etc.

At this time Sears frequently offered other brands alongside the Craftsman tools, but almost always as a less-expensive alternative; Craftsman was clearly being groomed as the top-quality brand. Fulton and Merit were probably the most frequently noted alternative brands.

Within the category of mechanic's and automotive service tools, two notable absences deserve mention: there were no Craftsman brand socket sets available at this time, although other brands of socket sets were offered. In addition, no box-end wrenches of any brand were found.

Craftsman Tools

  • Slip-joint pliers, 7 in. $0.95
  • Craftsman Lineman's pliers, 7 in. $1.25
  • Craftsman Vanadium pliers, like Wilde Wrench Pliers, $1.00
  • Craftsman Vanadium Open-End Wrenches, 6-Piece set in holder $1.85
  • Adjustable Wrenches, 8 in Vanadium $0.65, 6 & 8 in. Double-ended, $1.10
  • Oxy-Acetylene welding set, $39.90
  • Tin snips
  • Vises, fixed and swivel base
  • Tap & Die Sets
  • Micrometers, Surface Gauges
  • Electric Drills and Hand Drills
  • Ratcheting Bit Braces
  • Claw and Ball-Pein Hammers, Axes
  • Saws, Miter Saws, Hacksaws
  • Chisels, Planes, Files

Durobilt Socket Sets

The automotive section lists several socket sets of the "Durobilt" brand, and based on the illustrations and brand name, these were almost certainly made by Duro Metal Products. (Duro Metal Products did register two very similar trademarks, Duro-Grip and Durolite.)

We recently acquired a Durobilt Socket Set and can now confirm that Duro Metal Products was the manufacturer. This set is the one referred to as the "36-Piece Wrench Set" in the 1931 Sears catalog, and is generally similar to other socket sets from this time, such as the Indestro No. 1536 Socket Set.

Also very interesting was the Durobilt "40-piece Super Socket" set in alloy steel, which advertised "Chrome Nickel Steel" for the sockets. These sets were available in both the standard 6-point sockets or with the new 12-point sockets at a slightly higher cost. (The 12-point sockets were called "Twin-Hex", a phrase seen in the Duro catalogs.)

These Durobilt socket sets are significant in several ways. They establish Sears Roebuck as a retailer of early Duro/Indestro products, and illustrate the type of socket sets sold by Sears prior to the first Craftsman models. In addition, these sets provide a benchmark for the change from hex to double-hex sockets in the mass markets.

Hinsdale Socket Sets

Hinsdale socket sets are listed by name in the general hardware/tools section of the catalog, with two sets offered.

  • 46 piece Mechanic's socket wrench set, ratchet, speeder, T-L handle, $5.85
  • 18 piece set, T-L handle + 17 sockets, sliding box, $0.98

Hinsdale Open-End Wrenches

Hinsdale Vanadium open-end wrenches are listed just below the Craftsman Vanadium open-ends, and at a somewhat lower price.

  • Hinsdale Vanadium Steel 5-Piece Wrench set, $1.15

Bobcat Socket Sets

Billings Open-End Wrenches

  • Billings 6-piece Engineer's Wrench set, $0.65

Pexto (Peck, Stow, & Wilcox or P.S.W.)

  • "Knife Handle" wrenches, 6 in. $0.55, 12 in. $1.15
  • Wire Splicing pliers

1932 Catalog No. 164

The 1932 catalog is generally similar to the 1931 edition, with the tools split between a general hardware section and an automotive supplies section.

The most notable addition (from our limited viewpoint, at least) is the inclusion of double-hex box wrenches, the first known offering of these tools by Sears. Page 385 in the automotive section lists six models of offset box wrenches, with sizes ranging from 3/8x7/16 up to 15/16x1, and with prices from 39 cents to 65 cents.

The illustration of the wrenches doesn't provide enough detail to guess at the manufacturer, but it shows a deep offset style, and an inset for the openings describes them as "Twin Hex or 12-Point". The wrenches are on the same page with a number of Duro-Bilt socket sets, known to have been made by Duro Metal Products.


1935-1936 Catalog No. 171 (Fall and Winter)

The 1935-1936 catalog shows many significant changes in the mechanic's and automotive tools. Most notable are the socket sets sourced from New Britain Machine, described in our article on the Craftsman "BE" and H-Circle Tools, as well as sets identifiable as the "C-Series" shown later in this article. Box-end wrenches are also available, and most of the wrenches are shown as part of the "Craftsman Vanadium" line.

The logos on specific tools are not shown, but the text shows the Craftsman underline logo in use at this time.


1938 Craftsman Tools Catalog

This is the earliest known Sears catalog devoted exclusively to hand tools, mostly of the Craftsman brand but with some other brands listed. The cover shows a semi-transparent adjustable wrench in the foreground, with a streamlined automobile, train, and airplane in the blue background. The catalog has no obvious date, but the valve tappet table in the back lists automobiles up through the 1937 model years, so 1938 is probably a good guess. (Others have said 1939 or 1940 though.)

Whatever the year, the contents show a fully developed line of Craftsman mechanics tools, with the sockets and ratchets of the style described in our article on Craftsman "BE" and H-Circle Tools. The open-end and box-end wrenches resemble the Craftsman Vanadium examples shown later in this page, although the catalog illustrations don't show enough detail to actually see the logos.

On another interesting note, the "Dunlap" brand used by Sears makes an appearance in this catalog.


Open-End Wrenches

After our brief review of the Sears catalogs, the section will show various examples of Craftsman tools and related brands. We'll begin with open-end wrenches, as these were among the earliest Craftsman tool models offered.

Craftsman Early Chrome-Vanadium Open-End Wrench

We'll begin with an example believed to be one of the earliest open-end wrenches with the Craftsman trademark.

[Craftsman Early Chrome-Vanadium 15/16x1 Open-End Wrench]
Fig. 1. Craftsman Early Chrome-Vanadium 15/16x1 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 1 shows a Craftsman 15/16x1 open-end wrench, with forged-in markings "Craftsman" on the front and "Chrome-Vanadium" on the reverse.

The overall length is 10.3 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

Craftsman "CI" Mark

Many of the early Craftsman wrenches are marked with what appears to be a "CI" (or "Cl") code, in some cases as part of the forging, and in other cases stamped along with other markings. The meaning of the code is not known, but as it also occurs on other brands of tools, the code appears to indicate a particular maker. See for example the Fulton wrench that is very similar to the Craftsman models.

Craftsman 1725B "CI" Open-End Wrenches

The next two figures show examples of Craftsman 1725B wrenches with the "CI" marking.

[Craftsman CI 1725B Open-End Wrench]
Fig. 2. Craftsman 1725B "CI" 1/2x9/16 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

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

[Craftsman CI 1725B Open-End Wrench]
Fig. 3. Craftsman 1725B "CI" 1/2x9/16 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

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

This example also shows a forged-in "N4" marking, another code that appears frequently on early Craftsman tools.

Craftsman 1027 "CI" Open-End Wrench

[Craftsman 1027 Open-End Wrench]
Fig. 4. Craftsman 1027 "CI" 19/32x11/16 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Reverse.

Craftsman 1031 "CI" Open-End Wrench

[Craftsman 1031 25/32x7/8 Open-End Wrench]
Fig. 5. Craftsman 1031 "CI" 25/32x7/8 Open-End Wrench, with Insets for Side View and Reverse Detail.

The overall length is 8.5 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.

Fulton "CI" 25/32x7/8 Open-End Wrench

[Fulton CI 25/32x7/8 Open-End Wrench]
Fig. 6. Fulton "CI" 25/32x7/8 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Reverse.

Craftsman "Vanadium" Sub-Brand

During the 1930s Craftsman used the "Vanadium" mark as a sub-brand on many of its tools. This brand was undoubtedly intended to draw attention to the alloy steel used for the tools, as the tool-buying public of that time had learned to associate the common alloying elements (vanadium, chromium, and molybdenum) with the highest quality tools.

Craftsman Vanadium 1020 Open-End Wrenches

The next two figures show examples of Craftsman Vanadium model 1020 open-end wrenches, with small but significant differences in marking and construction.

[Craftsman Vanadium 1020 1/4x5/16 Open-End Wrench]
Fig. 7. Craftsman Vanadium 1020 1/4x5/16 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Reverse.

The first example is shown in Fig. 7 at the left, a Craftsman Vanadium 1020 1/4x5/16 open-end wrench with depressed panels, marked with the Craftsman underline logo forged into one side and "Forged in U.S.A." on the reverse.

The overall length is 3.8 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.

This wrench has a relatively flat shank (excluding the panels) with square sides, and the edge retains some markings from the trimming process.

[Craftsman Vanadium 1020 AF 1/4x5/16 Open-End Wrench]
Fig. 8. Craftsman Vanadium 1020 "AF" 1/4x5/16 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Reverse.

The second example is shown in Fig. 8 at the left, a Craftsman Vanadium 1020 wrench with depressed panels, marked "Forged in U.S.A." with an "AF" code on the reverse.

The "AF" code is another recently noted marking on early Craftsman tools, and is generally stamped on the shank. The meaning is not yet known, but it may indicate a particular manufacturer. Other examples of the "AF" code can be seen on the Craftsman Vanadium 1729 Wrench in the next figure, and the Craftsman Vanadium Offset Box Wrench shown later in this article.

The shank of this wrench is more oval and rounded than the previous example, and the edges have been smoothly rounded after trimming. The differences in marking and construction suggest that these wrenches were made by different manufacturers.

Craftsman Vanadium 1725B "AF" Open-End Wrench

[Craftsman Vanadium 1725B 1/2x9/16 Open-End Wrench]
Fig. 9. Craftsman Vanadium 1725B "AF" 1/2x9/16 Open-End Wrench, with Insets for Side View and Reverse Detail.

Fig. 9 shows a Craftsman Vanadium 1725B 1/2x9/16 open-end wrench. The shank has depressed oval panels with forged-in markings for the Craftsman underline logo and Vanadium sub-brand, with "Forged in U.S.A." on the reverse panel. An "AF" code similar to the previous example is stamped on the reverse.

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

The top inset shows a side view of the wrench, illustrating the thin profile of the shank.

Craftsman Vanadium 1725B "CI" Open-End Wrench

[Craftsman Vanadium 1725B CI 1/2x9/16 Open-End Wrench]
Fig. 10. Craftsman Vanadium 1725B "CI" 1/2x9/16 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 10 shows a similar Craftsman Vanadium 1725B 1/2x9/16 open-end wrench, but with the "CI" manufacturer's code. The shank has depressed oval panels with forged-in markings for the Craftsman underline logo and Vanadium sub-brand, with the "CI" code and "Forged in U.S.A." on the reverse panel.

The overall length is 5.5 inches, and the finish is chrome plating with polished faces.

An earlier example of the Craftsman 1725B wrench with the same "CI" code can be seen as the Craftsman "CI" 1725B Wrench.

Craftsman Vanadium 1027 "CI" Open-End Wrench

[Craftsman Vanadium 1027 19/32x11/16 Open-End Wrench]
Fig. 11. Craftsman Vanadium 1027 "CI" 19/32x11/16 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 11 at the left shows a Craftsman 1027 19/32x11/16 open-end wrench, marked with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" forged into the depressed oval panel, with "Forged in U.S.A." and a "CI" code forged into the reverse panel.

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

A very similar wrench with the "CI" code, but not branded "Vanadium", was shown previously as the Craftsman 1027 "CI" Wrench.

Craftsman Vanadium 1729 "AF" Open-End Wrench

[Craftsman Vanadium 1729 5/8x3/4 Open-End Wrench]
Fig. 12. Craftsman Vanadium 1729 "AF" 5/8x3/4 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 12 at the left shows a Craftsman 1729 5/8x3/4 open-end wrench, marked with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" forged into the depressed oval panel, and with "Forged in U.S.A." on the reverse panel. An "AF" code similar to the previous examples is stamped on the reverse.

The overall length is 7.6 inches, and the finish is polished steel.

Craftsman Vanadium 1731 "CI" Open-End Wrench

[Craftsman Vanadium 1731 3/4x13/16 Open-End Wrench]
Fig. 13. Craftsman Vanadium 1731 "CI" 3/4x13/16 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Reverse.

Fig. 13 at the left shows a Craftsman 1731 3/4x13/16 open-end wrench. The shank has depressed oval panels with forged-in markings for the Craftsman underline logo and the Vanadium sub-brand, with "Forged in U.S.A." and the "CI" code on the reverse panel.

The overall length is 8.6 inches, and the finish is chrome plating with polished faces.

Craftsman Vanadium 1033C "CI" Open-End Wrench

[Craftsman Vanadium 1033C 15/16x1 Open-End Wrench]
Fig. 14. Craftsman Vanadium 1033C "CI" 15/16x1 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Reverse.

Fig. 14 at the left shows a Craftsman 1033C 15/16x1 open-end wrench. The shank has depressed oval panels with forged-in markings for the Craftsman underline logo and the Vanadium sub-brand, with "Forged in U.S.A." and the "CI" code on the reverse panel.

Merit Brand Open-End Wrenches

The Sears catalogs frequently mention "Merit" brand tools as lower-cost alternatives to the Craftsman selections, and the next several figures show examples of open-end wrenches with the Merit brand.

Interestingly, two of the examples below are marked with an "AF" code, a code previously seen on a number of Craftsman brand tools. This strongly suggests that the maker of the Merit tools also produced Craftsman-branded tools.

Merit 2725B Obstruction Wrench

[Merit 2725B 1/2x9/16 Obstruction Wrench]
Fig. 15. Merit 2725B 1/2x9/16 Obstruction Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 15 shows a rare Merit 2725B 1/2x9/16 obstruction wrench, marked with the model number and fractional sizes forged into the shank, with the Merit name on the reverse. (The inset has been rotated for readability.)

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

Merit 2027 Obstruction Wrench

[Merit 2027 19/32x11/16 Obstruction Wrench]
Fig. 16. Merit 2027 19/32x11/16 Obstruction Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 16 shows a rare Merit 2027 19/32x11/16 obstruction wrench, marked with the model number and fractional sizes forged into the shank, with the Merit name on the reverse. (The inset has been rotated for readability.)

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

Merit 2031 Obstruction Wrench

[Merit 2031 25/32x7/8 Obstruction Wrench]
Fig. 17. Merit 2031 25/32x7/8 Obstruction Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 17 shows a rare Merit 2031 25/32x7/8 obstruction wrench, marked with the model number and fractional sizes forged into the shank, with the Merit name on the reverse. (The inset has been rotated for readability.)

The overall length is 9.2 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

Merit "AF" 723 Open-End Wrench

[Merit AF 723 3/8x7/16 Open-End Wrench]
Fig. 18. Merit "AF" 723 3/8x7/16 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 18 shows a Merit 723 3/8x7/16 open-end wrench, marked with an "AF" code and the Merit logo on the front, with the model number and fractional sizes forged into the reverse.

The overall length is 4.3 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

Merit "AF" 1027 Open-End Wrench

The next figure shows a surprising example of the Merit brand, marked as using SAE 4140 chrome molybdenum steel.

[Merit AF 1027 19/32x11/16 Open-End Wrench]
Fig. 19. Merit "AF" 1027 19/32x11/16 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 19 shows a Merit 1027 19/32x11/16 open-end wrench, stamped with the Merit logo and "SAE 4140 Alloy Steel" on the front, with "Forged in U.S.A." and a small "AF" code on the reverse.

The overall length is 6.2 inches, and the finish is gray paint with polished faces.


Tappet Wrenches


1090F Tappet Wrench

[Craftsman 1090F 7/16x17/32 Tappet Wrench]
Fig. 20. Craftsman 1090F 7/16x17/32 Tappet Wrench.

Fig. 20 at the left shows a Craftsman 1090F 7/16x17/32 tappet wrench, stamped "Craftsman Vanadium Steel" on the shank, with "Made in U.S.A." on the face.

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


1090-D Tappet Wrench

[Craftsman 1090-D 1/2x9/16 Tappet Wrench]
Fig. 21. Craftsman 1090-D 1/2x9/16 Tappet Wrench, with Inset for Reverse.

1092-F Tappet Wrench

[Craftsman 1092-F 5/8x11/16 Tappet Wrench]
Fig. 22. Craftsman 1092-F 5/8x11/16 Tappet Wrench.

The overall length is 7.9 inches.


Craftsman No. 2 1/2x9/16 Tappet Wrenches

The next several figures show examples of the Craftsman No. 2 tappet wrench.

[Craftsman CI No. 2 1/2x9/16 Tappet Wrench]
Fig. 23. Craftsman "CI" No. 2 1/2x9/16 Tappet Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 23 shows a Craftsman No. 2 1/2x9/16 tappet wrench, stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and model on one face, with "Forged in U.S.A." on the other face. The shank has a forged-in code "N4" code visible at the left, and the reverse shank is stamped with a "CI" code (see inset).

The overall length is 9.9 inches.


[Craftsman Vanadium CI No. 2 1/2x9/16 Tappet Wrench]
Fig. 24. Craftsman Vanadium "CI" No. 2 1/2x9/16 Tappet Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 24 shows a Craftsman Vanadium No. 2 tappet wrench, stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and model on one face, with "Vanadium" and "Forged in U.S.A." on the other face. The reverse is stamped with an "CI" code, as seen in the inset.

The overall length is 9.9 inches. The finish is chrome plating with highly polished faces.


[Craftsman Vanadium AF No. 2 1/2x9/16 Tappet Wrench]
Fig. 25. Craftsman Vanadium "AF" No. 2 1/2x9/16 Tappet Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 25 shows a Craftsman Vanadium No. 2 tappet wrench, stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and model on one face, with "Vanadium" and "Forged in U.S.A." on the other face. The reverse is stamped with an "AF" code, as seen in the inset.

The overall length is 10.0 inches. The finish is plain steel, with traces of the original plated finish.


Box-End Wrenches

Box-end wrenches in the modern 12-point style were first offered in the 1932 Sears general catalog. These earliest box wrenches were not identified as Craftsman brand, but Craftsman box wrenches were offered soon afterwards.

Craftsman "CI" 5/8x11/16 Offset Box-End Wrench

[Craftsman CI 5/8x11/16 Offset Box-End Wrench]
Fig. 26. Craftsman "CI" 5/8x11/16 Offset Box-End Wrench Showing "N4" Forge Mark, with Insets for Side View and Reverse Detail.

Fig. 26 shows a Craftsman 5/8x11/16 offset box wrench, stamped with the Craftsman underline logo on the raised panel, with "Forged in U.S.A." and a "CI" code stamped on the reverse. The shank also has a forged-in code "N4" at the left.

The overall length is 10.2 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

Craftsman "CI" 3/4x25/32 Offset Box-End Wrench

[Craftsman CI 3/4x25/32 Offset Box-End Wrench]
Fig. 27. Craftsman "CI" 3/4x25/32 Offset Box-End Wrench Showing "N4" Forge Mark, with Inset for Reverse.

Craftsman "CI" 13/16x7/8 Offset Box-End Wrench

[Craftsman 13/16x7/8 Offset Box-End Wrench]
Fig. 28. Craftsman "CI" 13/16x7/8 Offset Box-End Wrench Showing "N4" Forge Mark, with Inset for Reverse.

Craftsman "CI" 1/2x9/16 Short Box-End Wrench

[Craftsman CI 1/2x9/16 Short Box-End Wrench]
Fig. 29. Craftsman "CI" 1/2x9/16 Short Box-End Wrench.

Fig. 29 shows a Craftsman 1/2x9/16 short box-end wrench, stamped with the Craftsman underline logo on the raised panel.

The overall length is 4.6 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The wrench has a "CI" code forged into the shank.

Craftsman "CI" 1/2x9/16 Box-End Wrench

[Craftsman 1/2x9/16 Box-End Wrench]
Fig. 30. Craftsman "CI" 1/2x9/16 Box-End, with Insets for Side View and Reverse Detail.

Fig. 30 shows a Craftsman 1/2x9/16 box wrench with raised oval panels, stamped with the Craftsman underline logo on the front panel, with "Forged in U.S.A." and two "CI" codes on the reverse. The shank also has a forged-in code "A" visible at the left.

The overall length is 8.6 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

Craftsman "CI" 13/16x7/8 Box-End Wrench

[Craftsman 13/16x7/8 Box-End Wrench]
Fig. 31. Craftsman "CI" 13/16x7/8 Box-End Wrench Showing "N4" Forge Mark, with Inset for Reverse.

Craftsman "Vanadium" Box Wrenches

As was the case with the open-end wrenches, Craftsman later introduced a "Vanadium" sub-brand for its box wrenches, probably to draw attention to their alloy-steel composition.

Craftsman Vanadium "CI" 3/8x7/16 Offset Box-End Wrench

[Craftsman Vanadium 3/8x7/16 Offset Box-End Wrench]
Fig. 32. Craftsman Vanadium "CI" 3/8x7/16 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Side View and Reverse Detail.

Fig. 32 at the left shows a Craftsman 3/8x7/16 offset box wrench, stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" on the raised panel, with "Forged in U.S.A." and two "CI" codes on the reverse panel.

The overall length is 7.8 inches, and the finish is chrome plating with polished ends and faces.

Craftsman Vanadium "CI" 1/2x9/16 Offset Box-End Wrench

[Craftsman Vanadium 1/2x9/16 Offset Box-End Wrench]
Fig. 33. Craftsman Vanadium "CI" 1/2x9/16 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Side View and Reverse Detail.

Fig. 33 at the left shows a Craftsman 1/2x9/16 offset box wrench, stamped with the Craftsman underline logo and "Vanadium" on the raised panel, with "Forged in U.S.A." and two "CI" codes on the reverse panel.

The overall length is 8.8 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

Craftsman "CI" 15/16x1 Offset Box-End Wrench

The next two figures show very similar 15/16x1 offset box-end wrenches, one marked with the "CI" code and the other a "Craftsman Vanadium" model with an "AF" code. The construction of the wrenches differs in subtle but important details, indicating that the tools were likely made by different vendors.

[Craftsman CI 15/16x1 Offset Box-End Wrench]
Fig. 34. Craftsman "CI" 15/16x1 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Side and Reverse Detail.

Fig. 34 at the left shows the Craftsman "CI" offset box wrench, marked "Forged in U.S.A" with the "CI" code on the polished raised panel.

The overall length is 14.4 inches.

The detail to be noted here concerns the junction between the box end and the offset shank. Note that the top of the box end is flat right up to the junction, but the bottom projects below the join point. The side view shows that the offset shank joins the box end near the top.

Craftsman Vanadium "AF" 15/16x1 Offset Box-End Wrench

The wrench in Fig. 35 is marked "Craftsman Vanadium" on the raised panel, with "Forged in U.S.A." on the reverse. The overall length is 14.4 inches.

[Craftsman Vanadium 15/16x1 Offset Box-End Wrench]
Fig. 35. Craftsman Vanadium "AF" 15/16x1 Offset Box-End Wrench, with Insets for Side and Reverse Detail.

Although not visible in the photograph, there is also a small "AF" code stamped on the shank. The "AF" code has been noted previously on the Craftsman Vanadium 1020 Wrench and Craftsman Vanadium 1729 Wrench.

This wrench shows a different type of junction between the box end and the offset shank. In this case, the shank appears to join closer to the middle of the box, so that the box end extends both above and below the junction. This results in a raised lip on both sides of the junction, rather than the flat top seen in the previous example.

Although these details may not appear significant considered separately, they do indicate that the forging dies for the wrenches likely came from separate companies. Tool companies generally have a distinct style to their forging dies, and differences like those seen here would not arise accidentally.

If you look carefully at the "CI" model offset box wrenches shown in the figures above, you'll note the same type of junction with the flat top. This adds evidence that the "CI" models were all made by the same company, and that at least some of the "Vanadium" tools came from a different company.

Craftsman "X 1" 3/8x7/16 Box-End Wrench

[Craftsman X1 3/8x7/16 Box-End Wrench]
Fig. 36. Craftsman "X 1" 3/8x7/16 Box-End Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 36 shows a rare Craftsman 3/8x7/16 box-end wrench that doesn't appear to fit into any of the styles shown previously. The reverse is marked "Chrome Vanadium Steel" between an "X" and "1", possibly a model designation.

The overall length is 7.3 inches, and the finish appears to be a thick cadmium plating.


Combination Wrenches

We'll begin with some examples believed to represent the early production of combination wrenches.

Craftsman Early 3/4 Combination Wrench

[Craftsman Early 3/4 Combination Wrench]
Fig. 37. Craftsman Early 3/4 Combination Wrench, with Insets for Side View and Reverse Detail.

Fig. 37 shows an early Craftsman 3/4 combination wrench with raised oval panels, stamped with the Craftsman underline logo on one side, with "Forged in U.S.A." on the reverse. (The stamping machine apparently had a glitch and double-struck the markings.)

The overall length is 9.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel with polished panels and faces.

Craftsman "CI" 9/16 Combination Wrench

[Craftsman CI 9/16 Combination Wrench]
Fig. 38. Craftsman "CI" 9/16 Combination Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 38 shows a Craftsman 9/16 combination wrench, stamped with the Underline logo on the raised panel, with "Forged in U.S.A." and a "CI" code stamped on the reverse.

The overall length is 6.7 inches. The finish is plain steel with polished panels and faces.


Craftsman "CI" 5/8 Combination Wrench

[Craftsman 5/8 Combination Wrench]
Fig. 39. Craftsman "CI" 5/8 Combination Wrench Showing "N4" Forge Mark, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 39 shows a similar early example, a Craftsman 5/8 combination wrench stamped with the Underline logo on the raised panel, with "Forged in U.S.A." and a "CI" code stamped on the reverse.

The overall length is 7.6 inches, and the finish is plain steel with polished panels and faces.

Forged "N4" Mark

Note that the above example has a forged-in "N4" code on the shank, in addition to its stamped "CI" marking on the reverse panel. The forged "N4" mark has been observed on a number of combination, open-end, and box-end wrenches, but the meaning (if any) is not yet known. The mark is generally found on tools also marked with the "CI" code, but more interesting is its presence on a wrench marked with the Craftsman double-line ("= Craftsman =") logo. (See the 19/32x25/32 Wrench below.)

If the "N4" mark can be traced to a particular maker, it would help identify not only the "CI" tools, but also the earlier double-line tools before the Craftsman "V" code came into use.

Craftsman Vanadium "CI" 5/8 Combination Wrench

The next several examples are believed to be of somewhat later production, and are marked with the "Vanadium" sub-brand.

[Craftsman Vanadium 5/8 Combination Wrench]
Fig. 40. Craftsman Vanadium "CI" 5/8 Combination Wrench, with Inset for Reverse.

Craftsman Vanadium 11/16 Combination Wrench

[Craftsman Vanadium 11/16 Combination Wrench]
Fig. 41. Craftsman Vanadium 11/16 Combination Wrench, with Inset for Reverse.

Craftsman Vanadium 3/4 Combination Wrench

[Craftsman Vanadium CI 3/4 Combination Wrench]
Fig. 42. Craftsman Vanadium "CI" 3/4 Combination Wrench, with Inset for Reverse.

C-Series Sockets and Drive Tools

The C-series sockets and drive tools were among the first such tools to bear the Craftsman name. The exact date of their introduction is not known, but was probably around 1932. These tools can be recognized by the open-style ratchets with knurled handles, and by the sockets with a distinctive angled knurling around the base. Currently examples are known in the 9/32-, 3/8-, and 1/2-drive sizes.

We've called this the C-series because of an unusual feature: the tools were marked with a model number, beginning with a "C"! Although this may not seem highly significant, consider that it wasn't until the late 1960s or early 1970s that Craftsman hand tools were universally marked with model numbers.

The C-series tools were still being offered in the 1935 Sears catalog, but must have been phased out soon after this, as the more familiar BE and H-Circle models became the standard socket and drive tool line.

All of the C-series tools are quite rare, but we've been able to acquire a number of examples for the figures below.


1/2-Drive C-93 Flex-Head Breaker bar

[Craftsman 1/2-Drive C-93 Flex-Head Breaker Bar]
Fig. 43. Craftsman 1/2-Drive C-93 Flex-Head Breaker Bar, with Inset for Detail, ca. 1932-1936.

Fig. 43 shows a rare Craftsman C-93 flex-head breaker bar, marked with the model number and Craftsman block-letter logo. The handle is knurled and has a cross-bar hole, but no end broach, and the overall length is 14.9 inches.

The breaker bar has an unusual arrangement of the detent ball for the flex head, with the detent positioned near the end of the shaft, rather than in the base of the fork. If you examine the photograph closely, the hole for the detent ball can be seen on the lower side of the flex head.

It's possible that this distinctive arrangement of the detent was done to avoid infringing the classic flex-head patent #1,380,643, which would have been in effect for the presumed mid-1930s production of this tool.


1/2-Drive C-96 T-Slider Breaker bar

[Craftsman 1/2-Drive C-96 T-Slider Breaker Bar]
Fig. 44. Craftsman 1/2-Drive C-96 T-Slider Breaker Bar, with Inset for Detail, ca. 1932-1936.

In Fig. 44 we see a rare Craftsman C-96 T-slider breaker bar, marked with the Craftsman block-letter logo and model number (see inset).

The overall length is 10.0 inches, and the finish is polished chrome.

The breaker bar is well designed, with a center groove for operation as a T-handle, and cutout slots in the sliding head to allow movement to the extreme end of the bar.


1/2-Drive C-97 Ratchet

[Craftsman 1/2-Drive C-97 Ratchet]
Fig. 45. Craftsman 1/2-Drive C-97 Ratchet.

1/2-Drive C-Series Sockets

[Craftsman 1/2-Drive C-Series Sockets]
Fig. 46. Craftsman 1/2-Drive C-Series Sockets, from Left: C-24, C-26.

Fig. 46 shows two 1/2-drive Craftsman C-xx sockets, marked with the model numbers and original Craftsman block-letter logo. The models and sizes are, from the left, C-24 (3/4) and C-26 (13/16).

The sockets have a distinctive knurled band of slanted lines without cross-hatching, an uncommon decorative pattern known only with this series of tools.


1/2-Drive C-36 Socket

[Craftsman 1/2-Drive C-36 Socket]
Fig. 47. Craftsman 1/2-Drive C-36 Socket, with Inset for Broaching.

A more detailed view of a C-Series socket is provided by Fig. 47, a 1/2-drive Craftsman C-36 1-1/8 socket marked with the Craftsman block-letter logo.

The inset shows the cold-broached construction of the socket, with a relieved area below the broaching.


1/2-Drive C-0xx 8-Point Sockets

Although rarely seen, the Craftsman C-Series tools also included 8-point sockets, as the next figure will show.

[Craftsman 1/2-Drive C-Series 8-Point Sockets]
Fig. 48. Craftsman 1/2-Drive C-Series 8-Point Sockets, with Inset for Broaching.

Fig. 48 shows a group of very rare 1/2-drive Craftsman C-0xx 8-point sockets, all marked with the Craftsman block-letter logo. The models and sizes are, from the left, C-016 (1/2), C-018 (9/16), C-020 (5/8), C-022 (11/16), and C-024 (3/4).

These 8-point sockets show the same slanted knurling and tapered walls seen in the 12-point sockets, and the inset shows the standard cold-broached construction of the sockets.


3/8-Drive CF-87 Ratchet

[Craftsman 3/8-Drive CF-87 Ratchet]
Fig. 49. Craftsman 3/8-Drive CF-87 Ratchet, with Inset for Side View.

Fig. 49 shows a very rare 3/8-drive Craftsman CF-87 ratchet, marked with the Craftsman block-letter logo.

The overall length is 6.5 inches.

This open-style ratchet is similar in construction to the 1/2-drive model shown above, but is reversible using the side shift lever.


3/8-Drive CF-16 Socket

[Craftsman 3/8-Drive CF-16 Socket Ratchet]
Fig. 50. Craftsman 3/8-Drive CF-16 1/2 Socket.

Fig. 50 shows a rare 3/8-drive 12-point Craftsman CF-16 socket, acquired with a mixed set that included the CF-87 ratchet above. The socket is marked with the Craftsman block-letter logo, and features a slanted knurled band around the base.


9/32-Drive C-Series Socket Set

[Craftsman 9/32-Drive C-Series Socket Set]
Fig. 51. Craftsman 9/32-Drive C-Series Socket Set, ca. 1933.

Fig. 51 shows an unusual and rare Craftsman 9/32-drive C-series socket set, consisting of 9 sockets, a T-slider, and an extension. The tools are marked with "Craftsman" in block letters plus model numbers of the form C-xx. The sockets and the base of the extension have a band of slanted knurling, as seen previously with the 1/2-drive C-series sockets.

A former owner has scratched the note "9 Sizes 1933" in the top, providing a helpful clue for the manufacturing date.

[Cover Decal from Craftsman 9/32-Drive Socket Set]
Fig. 52. Cover Decal from Craftsman 9/32-Drive Socket Set, ca. 1933.

Fig. 52 shows a closeup of the decal on the top cover. Though only in fair condition, the text is still legible, with "Craftsman Tools" in the center and "Guaranteed Highest Quality" visible around the border.


9/32-Drive C-94 Sliding Tee Handle

[Craftsman C-94 9/32-Drive Sliding Tee Handle]
Fig. 53. Craftsman C-94 9/32-Drive Sliding Tee Handle, ca. 1933.

Fig. 53 shows the Craftsman C-94 sliding Tee handle from the socket set.

The overall length is 4.5 inches.


9/32-Drive C-95 Extension

[Craftsman 9/32-Drive C-95 Extension]
Fig. 54. Craftsman 9/32-Drive C-95 6 Inch Extension, ca. 1933.

The overall length is 6.0 inches.


9/32-Drive C-Series Sockets

[Craftsman 9/32-Drive C-Series Sockets]
Fig. 55. Craftsman 9/32-Drive C-Series Sockets, ca. 1933.

Fig. 55 shows the 9/32-drive 12-point sockets from the set, all marked "Craftsman" in the original block-letter logo. The models and sizes are (from the left) C-7 (7/32), C-8 (1/4), C-9 (9/32), C-10 (5/16), C-11 (11/32), C-12 (3/8), and CM-14 (7/16).

Note that the 7/16 socket is marked with model number "CM-14" instead of the expected progression "C-14". The likely explanation is that the 1/2-drive C-series sockets included a 7/16 size, which had already claimed the C-14 model number.


Vanadium Sockets and Drive Tools

The next few figures will show rare examples of the Craftsman Vanadium line of sockets and drive tools.


3/8-Drive Vanadium Flex-Head Breaker Bar

[Craftsman 3/8-Drive Vanadium Breaker Bar]
Fig. 56. Craftsman 3/8-Drive Vanadium Breaker Bar.

We'll start with the 3/8-drive Craftsman breaker bar shown in Fig. 56, marked "Vanadium" and with the Craftsman underlined logo. The overall length is 8.0 inches.

The finish is a thin plating, possibly nickel. The knurled handle is equipped with a cross-bar hole.

This tool arrived as part of a "set" of 3/8-drive Craftsman tools in a metal box, but it turned out to be a veritable box of riddles. There were three distinct styles of sockets, two of them marked Craftsman, the other unmarked, but matching a different set of sockets that came in a Hinsdale box. Along with this breaker bar was another drive tool, a very rare Craftsman CF-87 Ratchet, as shown with the C-series sockets above. All in all a very interesting collection, but it will take some time to unravel the mysteries.


3/8-Drive Vanadium Sockets

[Craftsman 3/8-Drive Vanadium Sockets]
Fig. 57. Craftsman 3/8-Drive Vanadium Sockets.

Fig. 57 shows two 3/8-drive Craftsman Vanadium 12-point sockets, acquired as part of a mixed set with the breaker bar above. The sockets are marked "Craftsman Vanadium" with the fractional size, but with no model number.

The sizes are, from the left, 5/8 and 13/16.

The socket construction appears to be cold-broached, based on the chatter marks visible upon close examination, and there is a bored recess below the broached area.


9/32-Drive Vanadium Socket Set

[Craftsman Vanadium 9/32-Drive Socket Set]
Fig. 58. Craftsman "Vanadium" 9/32-Drive Socket Set.

Fig. 58 shows a rare 9/32-drive Craftsman socket set in a metal box, consisting of nine 12-point sockets (one is missing), a T-slider breaker bar, and an extension. The tools in the set are marked "Craftsman Vanadium", with the exception of the unmarked breaker bar. The overall length of the box is 6.2 inches.

This socket set is very similar to the Hinsdale 11M Socket Set shown in our Hinsdale article. As with the 11M set, the box for these tools has a raised shelf with holes sized to hold the sockets and tabs to restrain the drive tools.


Pliers, Cutters, and Other Tools


Vanadium Lineman's Pliers

The Craftsman Vanadium series pliers featured patterned handles, generally (always?) with a series of three diamonds in a geometric pattern. The inside of one handle may show a forged mark with a "C" inside a circle.

[Craftsman Vanadium Lineman's Pliers]
Fig. 59. Craftsman Vanadium Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Pattern and Mark.

Vanadium Diagonal Cutters

The diagonal cutting pliers in Fig. 60 are also marked "Vanadium", and show the same diamond pattern on the handles. The handle also bears a similar C-Circle mark, though not as clearly formed as the previous example.

[Craftsman Vanadium Diagonal Cutters]
Fig. 60. Craftsman Vanadium Diagonal Cutters, with Inset for Handle Pattern.

C-F Battery Pliers

[Craftsman C-F Battery Pliers]
Fig. 61. Craftsman C-F Battery Pliers.

Fig. 61 shows a pair of Craftsman battery pliers, marked with a "C-F" code, previously unknown before this example was found.

These pliers were compared with the Herbrand No. 179 battery pliers, and with a pair of ChromeXQuality battery pliers made by Herbrand for Western Auto. The design and dimensions are very similar, suggesting that Herbrand may be the manufacturer for the "C-F" code.

Wrench or Gripping Pliers

The next figures show two generations of the Craftsman "plier-wrench" model.

[Craftsman Vanadium Wrench Pliers]
Fig. 62. Craftsman Vanadium Wrench Pliers, with Inset for Side View.

Fig. 62 shows an unusual pair of Craftsman wrench or gripping pliers, marked "Vanadium" below the Craftsman underline logo.

The overall length is 7.0 inches, and the finish is polished nickel.

Although the handle pattern closely resembles the Craftsman Vanadium pliers shown above, no C-Circle or other code was found on this tool. However, one handle is stamped with a code that looks like "9AM".

The design of these pliers resembles the Wilde Wrench Pliers shown on another page.

[Craftsman Wrench Pliers]
Fig. 63. Craftsman Wrench Pliers, with Insets for Handle and Marking Detail, ca. 1945.

Fig. 63 shows a very similar pair of Craftsman wrench pliers, but marked with a transitional form of the double-line logo resembling "== U.S.A. ==".

The overall length is 8.3 inches. The finish is polished steel with no plating, which together with the double-line logo suggests a manufacturing date around 1945.

Vanadium 12 Inch Adjustable Wrench

[Craftsman Vanadium 12 Inch Adjustable Wrench]
Fig. 64. Craftsman Vanadium 12 Inch Adjustable Wrench, with Inset for Marking Detail.

Fig. 64 shows a Craftsman 12 inch adjustable wrench, marked "Craftsman-Vanadium" in raised letters with "Forged in U.S.A." on the reverse.

The overall length is 12.3 inches, and the finish is chrome plating.

The wrench handle features a double-hex broached opening of size 3/4, a feature also found on the "Bet'R-Grip" brand adjustable wrenches from J.P. Danielson. In fact, this wrench closely resembles the Danielson models, as can be seen by comparison with the Bet'R-Grip 12 Inch Adjustable Wrench.

The reverse shank has a forged-in code "C.8.1" near the broached opening, another detail particular to the J.P. Danielson production.


Craftsman Pin Punch

[Craftsman 3/16 Pin Punch]
Fig. 65. Craftsman 3/16 Pin Punch.

Fig. 65 at the left shows a Craftsman 3/16 pin punch, marked with the double-line logo, and with an "N-Square" manufacturer's code.

The overall length is 6.1 inches.

The manufacturer associated with the "N-Square" code is not yet known. This code has also been noted on a Dunlap brand punch shown in the next section.

The Dunlap Brand

No discussion of Craftsman tools would be complete without at least some mention of the Dunlap brand, a sister brand used for a line of economy tools. The Dunlap brand was supposedly named after Tom Dunlap, the manager of the Sears hardware division during the 1930s. Dunlap tools began appearing in the Sears catalogs around 1938 or 1939, and continued to be offered at least into the late 1950s.


Dunlap 5/16x13/32 Open-End Wrench

[Dunlap 5/16x13/32 Open-End Wrench]
Fig. 66. Dunlap 5/16x13/32 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 66 at the left shows a Dunlap 5/16x13/32 open-end wrench, marked with the Dunlap name forged into the depressed panel, with "Forged in U.S.A." forged into the reverse panel. A forged-in code "V" can be seen on the reverse shank as well.

The overall length is 3.7 inches, and the finish is black paint.


Dunlap 3/4x7/8 Open-End Wrench

[Dunlap 3/4x7/8 Open-End Wrench]
Fig. 67. Dunlap 3/4x7/8 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 67 at the left shows a Dunlap 3/4x7/8 open-end wrench, marked with the Dunlap name forged into the depressed panel, with "Forged in U.S.A." forged into the reverse panel.

The overall length is 8.0 inches, and the finish is black paint.

A forged-in code "V" can be seen on the reverse shank at the right.


Dunlap Center Punch

[Dunlap 3/8 Center Punch]
Fig. 68. Dunlap 3/8 Center Punch.

Fig. 68 at the left shows a Dunlap brand 3/8 center punch, marked "U.S.A." with an "N-Square" manufacturer code noted previously.

The overall length is 4.8 inches.

The Double-Line Logo and Craftsman Maker "V"

As 1945 approached Craftsman introduced a new "Double-Line" logo and a new style for their wrenches. We'll explore this style in greater depth in the successor page Craftsman Maker "V" and the Modern Era, but will show a few examples here.

Craftsman V Early Open-End Wrench

[Craftsman V 3/4x7/8 Open-End Wrench]
Fig. 69. Craftsman "V" 3/4x7/8 Open-End Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 69 shows an early example of the Craftsman "V" series open-end wrench, a 3/4x7/8 model marked with the Craftsman double-line logo. The reverse shows "Forged in U.S.A." with a raised-letter "V" code forged into the shank.

The overall length is 9.2 inches.

Craftsman V Early Combination Wrench

[Craftsman V 5/8 Combination Wrench]
Fig. 70. Craftsman "V" 5/8 Combination Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 70 shows a Craftsman "V" series 5/8 combination wrench, marked "Forged in U.S.A." on the reverse. As with the previous figure, the raised panels show the double-line logo, and a raised-letter "V" code is forged into the shank.

The overall length is 7.8 inches.

Craftsman Transitional 5/8x3/4 Box-End Wrench

This next figure shows an example of a transitional box-end wrench, constructed with the raised panels and general design of the later style, but without the expected double-line logo.

[Craftsman X1 3/8x7/16 Box-End Wrench]
Fig. 71. Craftsman Transitional 5/8x3/4 Box-End Wrench, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 71 at the left shows a Craftsman 5/8x3/4 box-end wrench, marked "Forged in U.S.A." on the reverse.

The overall length is 6.0 inches.

Craftsman 19/32x25/32 Offset Box-End Wrench

[Craftsman 19/32x25/32 Offset Box-End Wrench]
Fig. 72. Craftsman 19/32x25/32 Offset Box-End Wrench Showing "N4" Forge Mark, with Inset for Reverse.

References and Resources

Photographs and observations of particular tools are based on items in my personal collection.


Catalog Coverage

Product information was obtained from several Sears Roebuck general catalogs, including the 1929-1930 Fall and Winter, 1931 Spring and Summer, 1932 Catalog No. 164, and 1935-1936 Catalog No. 171 (Fall and Winter).


Patents and Trademarks

Patent and trademark information was obtained from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) uspto.gov web site. Patent documents were obtained from web sites offering free downloads, notably freepatentsonline.com.


Feedback

If any readers have additional information about Craftsman tools, please let us know via the "Contact Us" link at the bottom of any page. Your comments and suggestions are welcome as well.


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