Utica Drop Forge & Tool Company

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Fixed-Pivot Pliers
• Slip-Joint Pliers
• Adjustable Wrenches
• Other Tools
• References and Resources
• What's New (Last Updated June 12, 2008)
  Recent changes to this page:

  • 06/12/2008: Added Utica 896 Needlenose Cutting Pliers.
  • 05/23/2008: Added a Utica 92-8 Locking Adjustable Wrench.
  • 05/17/2008: Added Utica 529 Soft-Grip Pliers.
  • 03/17/2008: Added Utica 1950-6 Lineman's Pliers.
  • 03/12/2008: Added Utica Early [50-8] Lineman's Pliers,
  • 02/14/2008: Added Utica BX100 Armor-Cutting Pliers.
  • 02/10/2008: Split into two pages, added Utica Early No. 91 Adjustable Wrench.
  • 01/25/2008: Added Utica 525 Brake Spring Pliers.
  • 01/14/2008: Added Utica Early Slip-Joint Pliers.
  • 12/10/2007: Added Utica Early 6 Inch Lineman's Pliers.
  • 12/01/2007: Added Utica Early 1300-7 Gas and Burner Pliers.
  • 11/28/2007: Added Utica 260-6 End Nippers.
  • 11/13/2007: Added Utica No. 60 6 Inch End Nippers.
  • 11/04/2007: Added Utica 517-10 Waterpump Pliers.
  • 10/25/2007: Added a Utica Early No. 90 Inch Adjustable Wrench.
  • 10/11/2007: Added Utica 21-4 Round-Nose Pliers.
  • 09/16/2007: Added Utica 43 6 Inch Box-Joint Diagonal Cutters.
  • 09/13/2007: Added Utica 20 4 Inch Flat-Nose Pliers.
  • 08/16/2007: Added Utica 1000-10 Giant Button's Pliers.
  • 08/15/2007: Added Utica Early 1300-6 Gas and Burner Pliers.
  • 08/11/2007: Added Utica Early 22-6 Short Needlenose Pliers.
  • 08/04/2007: Added Utica 1-7 Battery Pliers.
  • 07/23/2007: Added Utica 260-6 End Nippers.
  • 07/19/2007: Added Utica No. 50 [-6] Lineman's Pliers.
  • 07/04/2007: Added Utica 517-5 Ignition Pliers.
  • 06/30/2007: Added Utica 517-5 Ignition Pliers.
  • 06/25/2007: Added Utica 39-7 Diagonal Cutters.
  • 05/28/2007: Added a Utica 3/4 Star Drill.
  • 04/18/2007: Added Utica 22-6 Short Needlenose Pliers.
  • 04/17/2007: Added Utica 517 Ignition Pliers.
  • 04/15/2007: Added Utica Early Slip-Joint Combination Pliers.
  • 04/08/2007: Added Utica 41-6 Diagonal Cutters.
  • 03/30/2007: Added Utica Early 41-6 Diagonal Cutters.
  • 03/23/2007: Added Utica Early No. 22 Needlenose Pliers.
  • 03/20/2007: Added Utica 45-6 Aviation Diagonal Cutters.
  • 03/16/2007: Added a Utica No. 90-8 Adjustable Wrench.
  • 03/11/2007: Added Utica 41-6 Diagonal Cutters.
  • 03/10/2007: Added a Utica Early No. 91-10 Adjustable Wrench.
  • 03/02/2007: Added Utica 260-7 End Nippers.
  • 02/27/2007: Added Utica No. 29 Staple-Pulling Pliers and Utica Early Wire-Cutting Pliers.
  • 02/23/2007: Updated patent table.
  • 02/22/2007: Added Utica 360-7 End Nippers.
  • 02/17/2007: Added Utica 1950-6 Lineman's Pliers.
  • 02/08/2007: Added a Utica No. 90-12 Adjustable Wrench.
  • 02/07/2007: Added Utica 8-6 Combination Pliers.
  • 02/06/2007: Added Utica 654-6 Needlenose Pliers.
  • 02/05/2007: Updated description of 507-10 pliers, added Utica No. 15 Specialty Nippers, Utica No. 31 Duckbill Pliers, and Utica 50-6 Lineman's Pliers.
  • 01/20/2007: Added Utica 534 Lock-Ring Pliers.
  • 01/08/2007: Added Utica 1033-6 Needlenose Pliers.
  • 01/05/2007: Added Utica 38-4 Diagonal Cutters.
  • 01/04/2007: Added Utica 22-5 Short Needlenose Pliers.
  • 12/17/2006: Added Utica 227 Needlenose Pliers.
  • 12/16/2006: Added Utica 777-6 Needlenose Pliers and Later Utica 1300-6 Gas and Burner Pliers.
  • 12/15/2006: Added Utica Early Lineman's Pliers.
  • 12/11/2006: Added Utica 524 Battery Pliers.
  • 12/08/2006: Added Utica 87-7 Duckbill Pliers.
  • 12/07/2006: Added Utica 40-7 Diagonal Cutters.
  • 12/06/2006: Added patent table plus Utica Early Side-Cutting Pliers.
  • 12/05/2006: Added Utica 21 Round-Nose Pliers and Utica 888-6 Bent Needlenose Pliers.
  • 12/04/2006: Moved to separate page, added Utica 50-7 Lineman's Pliers.
  • 12/03/2006: Added Utica 50-8 Lineman's Pliers, Utica 511-8 Pliers, and Utica 531-8 Pliers.
  • 12/01/2006: Added Utica 259-6 Lineman's Pliers.
  • 11/28/2006: Added Utica 517-10 Waterpump Pliers.
  • 11/21/2006: Added Utica No. 50 Lineman's Pliers.
  • 11/20/2006: Added Utica B120 Pliers.
  • 11/19/2006: Added Utica 5000 Slip-Joint Pliers.
  • 11/10/2006: Added Utica 1300-6 Gas and Burner Pliers.
  • 10/22/2006: Added Utica 1300-10 Gas and Burner Pliers.
  • 09/08/2006: Added Utica No. 20 Flatnose Pliers,
  • 08/28/2006: Added a Utica No. 82 Needlenose Pliers.
  • 06/16/2006: Added Utica 511-10 Pliers.

Introduction

Company History

The Utica Drop Forge & Tool Company began operations in 1895 as a maker of nippers, founded by W. Pierrepont White and Hubert L. White in Utica, New York. In 1907 the company's factory was destroyed by fire, and when their new factory opened in 1908, the company had extended their products to a full line of pliers. Utica continued as a maker of pliers and related tools for many years after this.

A "Utica Nippers and Pliers" catalog from about 1926 listed numerous models of pliers and related tools such as tin-snips. The catalog gives the company's address as 2800 Whitesboro Street in Utica.

In 1956 Utica was purchased by the Kelsey-Hayes Company, and Utica continued operations as the Utica Tool Division of the parent. In 1961 Kelsey-Hayes added to its tool division by acquiring the Herbrand Automotive Tool line from the Bingham-Herbrand Corporation, and in the summer of 1962 the Utica-Herbrand operations were moved to a new factory in Orangeburg, South Carolina. (See our article on Herbrand for more information on this interesting tool company.)

Kelsey-Hayes made one more addition to its tool company roll-up with the 1964 acquisition of Bonney Forge & Tool Works. (See our article on Bonney for more information.)

In 1967 Kelsey-Hayes sold its tool division to the Triangle Corporation, and the renamed Utica Tool Company operated as a division of Triangle for a number of years. Triangle was later acquired by Cooper Tools.

Patents

Trademarks

In 1911 Utica registered their "3-Diamonds" trademark, consisting of the company name enclosed by three interlocking diamonds. The first-use date was listed as December, 1910, and this well-known 3-Diamonds logo continued to be marked on their tools for many years. In 1948 the "Utica" name in plain text was registered as a trademark, again with the first use listed as December, 1910.

In 1949 the text "Utica Tools" in a semicircle was registered as a trademark, with the first use listed as December, 1943.

The mark "Lubring" was used as a trademark, but is not listed in the USPTO trademarks database.

Manufacturing Dates

Utica tools are generally not marked with a date code or other explicit indication of the manufacturing date. In some cases, estimates of the manufacturing date can be made based on the markings or other observed information, and we hope to develop guidelines for making such estimates.

• 3-Diamonds Logo. Utica registered a trademark for its 3-Diamonds logo with the first use listed as December 1, 1910.
• U.D.F.&T.Co. Marking. Tools were marked with an abbreviation for the company's full name for some period of time, probably from the early 1920s through early 1940s. The 3-Diamonds logo was frequently marked during this period as well.
• "Utica Tools" Trademark. Utica registered a trademark with the words "Utica Tools" arranged in a semicircular arc, with the first use listed as December 1, 1943.
• Utica, N.Y. U.S.A. Marking. The "U.D.F.&T." name was later simplified to just "Utica" or "Utica Tools", followed by the location in Utica, NY. This change was probably made around 1944 as part of the change to the "Utica Tools" trademark.
• "Lubring" Patent and Trademark. The patent for the "Lubring" trademark filed in 1944.
• Tongue-and-Groove Patent. The patent for Utica's method of making tongue-and-groove pliers was filed in late 1951.
• Utica USA Marking. Tool markings were further simplified to just "Utica USA" some time between 1956 and 1961, probably after 1960. The timing is based on examples of pliers obtained in original boxes, which noted Utica as a division of Kelsey-Hayes, but with the location still in Utica, New York. This change was likely made in anticipation of the move to Orangeburg, South Carolina, which took place in 1962.

Fixed-Pivot Pliers

Utica No. 29 Fencing Pliers

We'll begin this section with some examples believed to be of fairly early production.

Fig. 1. Utica No. 29 Fencing Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Jaw Detail.

Fig. 1 shows a pair of Utica No. 29 fencing pliers with staple-pulling jaws, marked with just the Utica name and model.

The overall length is 10.4 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

These pliers are made of high-carbon steel, and the head and jaws are hardened to the point that a file merely bounces off. In this design the flats on either side of the head are intended for use as a hammer.

Although not marked with a patent notice, these pliers appear to be covered by patent #794,064, issued to H.L. White in 1905.

No catalog reference for this model has been found, although the Utica catalogs do list similar pliers with different model numbers. The simple markings (without even the 3-Diamonds logo) suggest that this may be a very early example of Utica's production.

Utica Early No. 1000 Wire Cutting Pliers

Fig. 2. Utica Early [No. 1000] Wire-Cutting Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1909.

Fig. 2 shows an early pair of Utica wire-cutting pliers very similar to the later No. 1000 model. The pliers are very worn from extensive use, making the markings difficult to read, but were originally stamped "U.D.F.&T. Co." with "Pat. App. For" across the pivot.

The overall length is 6.2 inches, and the finish is plain steel. The pliers are made of high-carbon steel with the head and jaws hardened.

The patent pending status is believed to refer to patent 942,504, filed by H.F. Kellemen in 1909 and issued later that year. The patent notes that the angled slot opening into the jaws was intended to allow the pliers to grasp the piece of wire after cutting it.

No. 15 Specialty Pliers

Fig. 3. Utica No. 15 Specialty Pliers.

Fig. 3 shows a pair of Utica No. 15 specialty pliers, marked with the Utica 3-Diamonds logo and "Pat. Apld For" on the handle.

The overall length is 10.5 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The patent corresponding to the pending status has not yet been found.

No catalog reference for these pliers has been found yet, so the intended application is uncertain, but the pliers may have been designed for tire chain repairs.

No. 20 5 Inch Flat-Nose Pliers

Fig. 4. Utica No. 20 5 Inch Flat-Nose Pliers, with Inset for Detail.

Fig. 4 at the left shows an early pair of Utica No. 20 flat-nose pliers in the 5 inch size, marked with the Utica 3-Diamonds logo on the underside of the handles.

The overall length is 5.1 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The model number is not marked on these pliers, but was found by reference to a 1926 Utica catalog.

No. 20 4 Inch Flat-Nose Pliers

Fig. 5. Utica No. 20 4 Inch Flat-Nose Pliers, with Inset for Detail.

Fig. 5 at the left shows a somewhat later pair of Utica No. 20 4 inch flat-nose pliers, stamped with the Utica 3-Diamonds logo on the pivot, and with the 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside of the handles.

The overall length is 4.2 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

21-4 4 Inch Round-Nose Pliers

Fig. 6. Utica No. 21-4 4 Inch Round-Nose Pliers, with Inset for Marking Detail.

Fig. 6 at the left shows a pair of Utica 21-4 4 inch round-nose pliers, stamped "Utica NY USA" near the pivot.

The overall length is 4.1 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

Early No. 21 5 Inch Round-Nose Pliers

Fig. 7. Utica No. 21 5 Inch Round-Nose Pliers, with Inset for Marking Detail.

Fig. 7 at the left shows an early pair of Utica No. 21 5 inch round-nose pliers, stamped with the Utica 3-Diamonds logo near the pivot, and with the logo forged into the underside of the handles as well.

The overall length is 5.6 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The inset shows a close-up of the forged-in 3-Diamonds logo as it appears on the underside of the handles.

No. 22 Short Needlenose Pliers

The next figures show several generations of the Utica No. 22 short needlenose pliers of various sizes.

Fig. 8. Utica 22 5-1/2 Inch Short Needlenose Pliers.

Fig. 8 at the left shows an early pair of Utica 22 short needlenose pliers in the 5-1/2 inch size, marked with the model number and 3-Diamonds logo.

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

Fig. 9. Utica 22-6 Short Needlenose Pliers, with Inset for Side View.

Fig. 9 at the left shows a somewhat later pair of Utica 22-6 short needlenose pliers in the 6 inch size, The stamped markings have "Utica Drop Forge & Tool Corp." and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." arranged in a circle, with the model number and "Made in U.S.A." across the pivot.

The overall length is 6.1 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

Fig. 10. Utica 22-5 Short Needlenose Pliers.

Fig. 10 shows a later pair of Utica 22-5 short needlenose pliers in the 5 inch size, marked "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." near the pivot.

The overall length is 5.0 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

Fig. 11. Utica 22-6 Short Needlenose Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1960+.

A still later example is shown in Fig. 11 at the left, a pair of Utica 22-6 short needlenose pliers in the 6 inch size. The etched markings show "Utica" and "USA", but are rather difficult to read.

The overall length is 6.3 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

B120 Tapered-Nose Pliers

Fig. 12. Utica B120 Long-Nose Pliers, with Insets for Marking and Handle Pattern.

Fig. 12 shows a pair of Utica B120 pliers, marked "Utica, N.Y." with the 3-Diamonds logo.

The overall length is 5.3 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

These pliers were apparently designed for some specialized application, as the tapered jaws have an angular notch for holding an object. (Currently we don't have a catalog reference for this model.)

No. 31 Duckbill Assembly Pliers

Fig. 13. Utica No. 31 Duckbill Assembly Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Reverse Detail.

Fig. 13 shows a pair of Utica No. 31 duckbill assembly pliers, marked with the Utica 3-Diamonds logo on the reverse.

The overall length is 7.9 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The upper inset shows a profile view of the pliers, illustrating the wide nose and handles.

The Utica catalog mentions the use of these pliers in assembly work, though of course many other applications are possible.

No. 82 Needlenose Assembly Pliers

Fig. 14. Utica No. 82 Needlenose Pliers, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

Fig. 14 shows a pair of Utica No. 82 needlenose assembly pliers, marked with the Utica 3-Diamonds logo on the reverse.

The overall length is 7.9 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

Utica 87-7 Duckbill Pliers

Fig. 15. Utica 87-7 Duckbill Pliers, with Inset for Side View.

Fig. 15 shows the Utica model 87-7 duckbill needlenose pliers, marked "Utica Drop Forge & Tool Corp." and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." near the pivot.

The overall length is 7.2 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

This model was not listed in the 1926 Utica catalog, but was available in the 1939 catalog No. 50. The catalog description calls these "Extra Long Duck Bill Pliers".

Utica 227 Needlenose Pliers

Fig. 16. Utica 227 Needlenose Pliers.

Fig. 16 shows the Utica model 227 needlenose pliers, marked "Utica, N.Y. USA" near the pivot, with "Lubring" and "Patented" on the reverse.

The overall length is 6.6 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The "Lubring" marking refers to a patented method of providing continuous lubrication, as described by patent #2,441,552, issued to W.A. Barnes in 1948. The pivot joint includes a disk of highly compressed but porous powdered iron, which can soak up oil and slowly release it to maintain lubrication for the joint.

Utica 777-6 Needlenose Pliers

Fig. 17A. Utica 777-6 Needlenose Pliers.

Fig. 17A shows the Utica model 777-6 needlenose pliers, marked "Utica 777-6" and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." near the pivot.

The overall length is 6.1 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

Utica 896 Short Needlenose Cutting Pliers

Fig. 17B. Utica 896 Short Needlenose Cutting Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1960+.

Fig. 17B shows a pair of Utica 896 short needlenose pliers with a cutting tip, marked "Utica" and "USA" near the pivot.

The overall length is 6.1 inches. The finish is plain steel with plastic grips on the handles.

Utica 1033-6 Needlenose Pliers

Fig. 18. Utica 1033-6 Needlenose Pliers, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 18 shows the Utica model 1033-6 needlenose pliers, marked "Utica 1033-6" and "Utica, N.Y. USA" near the pivot.

The overall length is 6.2 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

Utica 654-6 Needlenose Pliers with Cutters

Fig. 19. Utica 654-6 Needlenose Pliers with Cutters, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 19 shows a pair of Utica model 654-6 needlenose pliers with side cutters, marked "Utica 654-6" and "Utica, NY USA" near the pivot.

The overall length is 6.3 inches, and the finish is plain steel with painted handles.

Utica 888-6 Bent Needlenose Pliers

Fig. 20. Utica 888-6 Bent Needlenose Pliers, with Inset for Top View.

Fig. 20 shows the Utica model 888-6 bent needlenose pliers with views from the side and top. The pliers are marked "Utica 888-6" and "Utica, N.Y. USA" near the pivot, and the handles are smooth without a gripping pattern.

The overall length (tip-to-tip) is 5.6 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

Utica 38-4 Diagonal Cutting Pliers

Fig. 21. Utica 38-4 Diagonal Cutting Pliers.

Fig. 21 shows a pair of Utica 38-4 spring-loaded diagonal cutters, marked "Utica NY USA" near the pivot.

The overall length is 4.4 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

Utica 39-7 Diagonal Cutting Pliers

Fig. 22. Utica 39-7 Diagonal Cutting Pliers, with Inset for Side View.

Fig. 22 at the left shows a pair of Utica 39-7 diagonal cutters, marked "Utica Tools" and "Utica N.Y. USA" near the pivot.

The overall length is 7.3 inches, and the finish is polished steel.

Utica 40-7 Diagonal Cutting Pliers

Fig. 23. Utica 40-7 Diagonal Cutting Pliers, with Inset for Side View.

Fig. 23 at the left shows a pair of Utica 40-7 diagonal cutting pliers, marked "Utica Tools" and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." near the pivot.

The overall length is 7.1 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

Utica 41-6 Diagonal Cutting Pliers

The next figures show several examples of the popular Utica 41-6 diagonal cutting pliers.

Fig. 24. Utica 41-6 Diagonal Cutting Pliers, with Inset for Side View.

Fig. 24 at the left shows an earlier pair of Utica 41-6 diagonal cutters, marked "Utica Drop Forge & Tool Co." and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A.", with "Alloy Steel" across the pivot.

The overall length is 6.0 inches, and the finish is black oxide. The handles have a cross-hatched gripping pattern with traces of red paint, although the paint is not known to be original.

Fig. 25. Utica 41-6 Diagonal Cutting Pliers, with Inset for Side View.

Fig. 25 at the left shows a later pair of Utica 41-6 diagonal cutters, marked "Utica Tools" and "Utica, N.Y. USA" around the pivot, with the "41 6" model on top of the pivot.

The overall length is 6.0 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

Fig. 26. Utica 41-6 Diagonal Cutting Pliers, with Inset for Side View.

Fig. 26 at the left shows a pair of Utica 41-6 pliers very similar to the previous example, but with slightly different markings "Utica 41-6" and "Utica, N.Y. USA" around the pivot.

The overall length is 6.0 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

Utica No. 43 6 Inch Box-Joint Diagonal Cutting Pliers

Fig. 27. Utica No. 43 6 Inch Box-Joint Diagonal Cutters, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail.

Fig. 27 at the left shows an early pair of Utica 43-6 box-joint diagonal cutting pliers, stamped "Utica, N.Y." with the 3-Diamonds logo on the face, and with a 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside of the handles.

The overall length is 6.2 inches, and the finish is plain steel with polished faces.

Although not marked with a model number, these pliers were identified by illustrations in the 1926 Utica catalog. That catalog offered two models of box-joint diagonal cutters, the No. 42 with a plain cutting edge and the No. 43 with a hole for wire stripping.

Utica 45-6 Aviation Special Diagonal Cutting Pliers

Fig. 28. Utica 45-6 Aviation Diagonal Cutters, with Inset for Side View.

Fig. 28 at the left shows a pair of Utica 45-6 diagonal cutting pliers, marked "Utica 45-6" and "Utica, N.Y. USA" near the pivot.

The overall length is 5.9 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The Utica catalog describes this model as specially designed for aviation applications, with a shorter nose and with the pivot closer to the cutting edges for better leverage.

Utica No. 60 6 Inch End Nippers

Fig. 29. Utica No. 60 6 Inch End Nippers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail.

Fig. 29 shows a pair of Utica No. 60 6 inch end nippers, stamped with the 3-Diamonds logo followed by "U.D.F. & T.Co." and "Utica, N.Y." plus the model number.

The overall length is 6.3 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The top inset shows the relatively heavy construction and wide handles of these earlier pliers.

Utica 260-7 End Nippers

The next several figures show examples of the Utica 260 series of end nippers, a later model utilizing a new lubricated joint.

Fig. 30. Utica 260-7 End Nippers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1944-1948.

Fig. 30 at the left shows a pair of Utica 260-7 end nippers, marked "Utica Tools" and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." near the pivot, with "Lubring Joint" and the 3-Diamonds logo on the reverse.

The overall length is 7.3 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The "Lubring" marking refers to the Barnes 1948 patent #2,441,552, which describes a method of joint construction to provide continuous lubrication.

Although not marked with a patent pending notation, this pair of pliers is thought to be earlier than the next two examples, which are clearly marked to indicate the patented status.

Utica 260-6 End Nippers

Fig. 31. Utica 260-6 End Nippers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1948+.

Fig. 31 at the left shows a later pair of Utica 260-6 end nippers, marked "Utica N.Y. U.S.A." near the pivot, with "Lubring" and "Patented" on the reverse.

The overall length is 6.4 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

Fig. 32. Utica 260-6 End Nippers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1960+.

Fig. 32 at the left shows a still later example of the Utica 260-6 end nippers, stamped "Utica" and "USA" near the pivot, with "Lubring" and "Patented" on the reverse.

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

The simplified marking with just "USA" instead of "Utica, N.Y." suggests production around 1960 or later, when production moved to the Orangeburg factory.

Utica 360-7 End Nippers

Fig. 33. Utica 360-7 End Nippers, with Insets for Side View and Jaw Detail.

Fig. 33 at the left shows a pair of Utica 360-7 end nippers, marked "Utica Tools" and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." near the pivot.

The overall length is 7.2 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

1000-10 Giant Button's Pliers

Fig. 34 shows a pair of Utica 1000-10 wire-cutting pliers, referred to as the "Giant Button's Pliers" in the catalogs. The pliers are marked "Utica Tools" and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot, with a "Pat.App. For" patent notice across the bottom.

Fig. 34. Utica 1000-10 Giant Button's Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1950.

The overall length is 10.5 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The 1939 Utica catalog listed pliers of this model in sizes 4-1/2, 6, 8, and 10 inches, but by 1952 the No. 1000 model was available only in 8 and 10 inch sizes. The slightly bowed handles of the present example match the illustration in the 1952 catalog.

The patent corresponding to the pending notice on the tool is not yet known.

Several other manufacturers also used the term "Button's Pliers" or "Button's Pattern" for similar models of pliers, but we haven't yet determined the origin of the term. (It may refer to an inventor or manufacturer of an early model.) An example of a similar model can be seen in the Kraeuter 1841-8 Button's Pliers.

Lineman's Pliers

Early Utica 8 Inch Lineman's Pliers

Fig. 35. Early Utica 8 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Detail.

Fig. 35 shows an early pair of Utica 8 inch lineman's pliers, marked only with the 3-Diamonds logo on the underside of one handle (see middle inset).

The overall length is 8.5 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The upper inset shows a side view of the pliers to illustrate the head shape and handle pattern. The lower inset shows the hexagonal opening in back of the side cutters.

Early Utica 5 Inch Side-Cutting Pliers

Fig. 36. Utica 5 Inch Side-Cutting Pliers, with Insets for Handle Pattern and Marking Detail.

Fig. 36 shows an early pair of Utica 5 inch side-cutting pliers, marked with the 3-Diamonds logo and "Pat Apd For" forged into the underside of the handles.

The overall length is 5.0 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

These pliers are not marked with a model number, and a review of the 1926 Utica catalog didn't find an exact match for these pliers. However, the pliers resemble the No. 50 pliers shown in several later figures. The bow handles on these pliers are more suitable for pliers in smaller sizes.

The patent corresponding to the pending notice marked on the tool has not yet been found, but may refer to the distinctive checkered handle design. Other examples of pliers with this patent applied marking include the Early 1300-7 Gas and Burner Pliers and Early Slip-Joint Combination Pliers, and these examples also show a similar handle pattern.

Early 6 Inch Lineman's Pliers

Fig. 37. Utica Early 6 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Handle Pattern and Marking Detail.

Fig. 37 shows an early pair of Utica 6 inch lineman's pliers, marked with the 3-Diamonds logo forged into the underside of the handles. (The lower inset has been rotated for readability.)

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

These pliers are not marked with a model number, but are believed to be a forerunner of the model No. 50 pliers shown in several later figures.

Utica No. 50 Lineman's Pliers

The No. 50 series of side-cutting lineman's pliers was one of Utica's more popular patterns and remained in production for many years. These pliers were produced in a range of sizes from 4 to 8 inch nominal lengths.

We'll begin with several examples of the No. 50 pliers in the common 6 inch size.

Fig. 38. Utica No. 50 [-6] Lineman's Pliers, with Inset for Handle Pattern.

Our first example is shown in Fig. 38 at the left, a pair of Utica No. 50 [-6] lineman's pliers marked with the 3-Diamonds logo.

The overall length is 6.3 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The No. 50 pliers were offered in a 1926 Utica catalog as the "Standard Side Cutting Plier", and were available in nominal sizes of 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 inches.

Fig. 39. Utica No. 50 [-6] Lineman's Pliers, with Inset for Side View.

Fig. 39 at the left shows a somewhat later pair of Utica No. 50 [-6] pliers, marked "U.D.F. & T. Co." and "Utica, N.Y." across the pivot, with the 3-Diamonds logo at the top and "Alloy Steel" across the bottom. (The markings are a bit faint due to pitting on the face, but can be seen if the photograph is enlarged.)

The overall length is 6.4 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

Fig. 40. Utica No. 50-6 Lineman's Pliers, with Inset for Side View.

Fig. 40 shows another later pair of Utica 50-6 pliers, marked "Utica Drop Forge & Tool Co." and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot, with "Alloy Steel" on the bottom.

The overall length is 6.5 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

Utica 50-7 Lineman's Pliers

Fig. 41. Utica 50-7 Lineman's Pliers, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 41 shows an example of the later production of model 50 series, a pair of Utica 50-7 lineman's pliers marked "Utica Tools" and "Utica, N.Y. USA" near the pivot.

The overall length is 7.3 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The handles of these pliers are plain, without the cross-hatched grip pattern seen on earlier production.

Utica 50-8 Lineman's Pliers

The next figures show two generations of the Utica No. 50-8 lineman's pliers.

Fig. 42. Utica Early [50-8] Lineman's Pliers, with Inset for Side View, ca. 1910-1920.

Fig. 42 shows an early pair of Utica [50-8] lineman's pliers, stamped with an early form of the 3-Diamonds logo resembling interlocked chain links.

The overall length is 8.1 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

Fig. 43. Utica No. 50-8 Lineman's Pliers, with Inset for Handle Pattern.

Fig. 43 shows a later pair of Utica No. 50-8 lineman's pliers, marked "Utica Drop Forge & Tool Co." and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A.", with "Alloy Steel" on the reverse.

The overall length is 8.1 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

No. 1950 [-6] Lineman's Pliers

Fig. 44. Utica No. 1950 6 Inch Lineman's Pliers, with Inset for Side View.

Fig. 44 shows an early pair of Utica No. 1950 6 inch lineman's pliers, stamped with the 3-Diamonds logo across the pivot.

The overall length is 6.4 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

Fig. 45. Utica 1950-6 [TL-13-A] Lineman's Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Reverse Detail.

Fig. 45 shows a later pair of Utica 1950-6 lineman's pliers, marked "Utica N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot, and with "TL-13-A" stamped on the reverse.

The overall length is 6.3 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

According to one of our readers, the "TL-13-A" marking is a model number for the U.S. Signal Corps, indicating that these pliers were made for a military contract. This suggests that there may be other TL-series numbers, and we'll try to locate additional information on this.

A close look at the cutter jaws shows two nicely rounded holes, designed for stripping wire of the more commonly used gauges.

259-6 Lineman's Pliers

Fig. 46. Utica 259-6 Lineman's Pliers, with Inset for Reverse Detail, ca. 1960+.

Fig. 46 shows a pair of Utica 259-6 lineman's pliers, marked "USA" with "Lubring" and "Patented" on the reverse.

The overall length is 6.3 inches, and the finish is black oxide.

The "Lubring" marking and patent notice refer to patent #2,441,552, issued to W.A. Barnes in 1948.

Gas and Burner Pliers

The "Gas and Burner" pattern was a popular style of pliers favored for light-duty plumbing. This style included one or more rounded gripping areas for use with small pipes, plus a small serrated opening in the end of the jaws for adjusting oil burners. (See the Utica 1300-10 Pliers below for the jaw detail.)

The Gas and Burner style was also offered by a number of other manufacturers, and currently we're unsure of when and by whom the pattern was first introduced.

Utica was offering Gas and Burner Pliers at least as early as 1926, our earliest catalog at present. The pliers were available in sizes ranging from 6 to 10 inches.

1300-6 Gas and Burner Pliers

The next figures show several generations of the Utica 1300-6 gas and burner pliers.

Fig. 47. Utica 1300-6 Gas and Burner Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail.

The earliest example is shown in Fig. 47 at the left, a pair of Utica 1300 pliers in the nominal 6 inch size, marked with the 3-Diamonds logo across the pivot.

The overall length is 6.6 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The top inset shows a side view of the pliers, illustrating the cross-hatched gripping pattern on the handles.

The lower inset shows the forged-in 3-Diamonds logo as it appears on the underside of the handles, followed by "App. For" in raised letters.

Fig. 48. Utica 1300-6 Gas and Burner Pliers, with Inset for Handle Detail, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 48 at the left shows a somewhat later example, marked "Utica N.Y. U.S.A." near the pivot.

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

The inset shows the cross-hatched gripping pattern on the handles.

The marking style indicates production from the mid 1940s through 1950s.

Fig. 49. Utica 1300-6 Gas and Burner Pliers, with Inset for Handle Detail, ca. 1960+.

Fig. 49 at the left shows a later version of the 1300-6 pliers, marked "Utica" and "USA".

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

Early 1300-7 Gas and Burner Pliers

Fig. 50. Utica Early 1300-7 Gas and Burner Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1920s.

Fig. 50 shows an early pair of Utica 1300 gas and burner pliers in the nominal 7 inch size, marked with the 3-Diamonds logo and "Pat. Apd. For" forged into the underside of the handles. (The markings are shown in the lower inset, which has been rotated for ease of readability.)

The overall length is 7.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The top inset shows a side view of the pliers, illustrating the cross-hatched gripping pattern on the handles.

Although not marked with a model number, these pliers were identified by the illustration in a 1926 Utica catalog. The illustration there shows this style of "fashioned" handle with tapered tips, for use as a screwdriver or light-duty prybar.

1300-10 Gas and Burner Pliers

Fig. 51. Utica 1300-10 Gas and Burner Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Detail, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 51 shows a pair of Utica 1300-10 gas and burner pliers, marked "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot.

The overall length is 10.5 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

The lower inset shows the small serrated opening in the end of the jaws, a defining characteristic for the "Gas and Burner" style.

Battery Pliers

No. 1-7 Battery Pliers

Fig. 52. Utica No. 1-7 Battery Pliers, with Inset for Side View.

Fig. 52 shows an early pair of Utica No. 1-7 battery pliers, marked with the 3-Diamonds logo near the pivot.

The overall length is 7.4 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

524 Battery Pliers

Fig. 53. Utica 524 Battery Pliers, with Inset for Reverse Detail.

516 "Steeldraulic" Pliers

In the late 1920s and early 1930s several makes of automobiles (e.g. Hupmobile, Auburn) were equipped with Steeldraulic brakes, a brand of mechanical brakes with an odd adjusting mechanism. Special pliers were required for making adjustments to these brakes, and not surprisingly the pliers came to be known as Steeldraulic pliers.

Fig. 54. Utica 516 "Steeldraulic" Pliers, ca. 1930.

Fig. 54 shows a pair of Utica No. 516 Steeldraulic specialty pliers, marked "U.D.F.&T.Co." and "Utica N.Y." with the 3-Diamonds logo.

The overall length is 5.3 inches.

Steeldraulic pliers were produced by several other companies as well, and examples include the Blackhawk 2581 Pliers, Bonney 2581 Pliers, Duro-Chrome 2120 Pliers, Herbrand 272 Pliers, and Vacuum Grip No. 14 Pliers.

525 Brake Spring Pliers

Fig. 55. Utica 525 Brake Spring Pliers, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 55 shows a pair of Utica 525 brake spring pliers, stamped "Utica Tools" with "Utica N.Y. U.S.A." near the pivot.

The overall length is 12.6 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

534 Lock-Ring Pliers

Fig. 56. Utica 534 Lock-Ring Pliers, ca. 1956-1962.

Fig. 56 shows a pair of Utica 534 lock-ring specialty pliers, marked "USA" near the pivot.

The overall length is 7.5 inches, and the finish is plain steel with black oxide.

These pliers were acquired in the original box and appear to be unused. The label on the box listed the company as "Utica Drop Forge & Tool" with "Division of Kelsey-Hayes Company", and the location was given as "Utica 4, New York". These markings indicate a manufacturing date in the range 1956-1962, since Utica Tool moved to Orangeburg, South Carolina during 1962.

BX100 Armor-Cutting Pliers

Fig. 57. Utica BX100 Armor-Cutting Pliers, with Insets for Side View and Marking Detail, ca. 1944-1960.

Fig. 57 shows a pair of Utica BX100 armor-cutting specialty pliers, intended for working with BX (armored) electrical cable. One handle is stamped "Utica Tools" and "Utica, N.Y. U.S.A." above the pivot, with "S.P.A.C." on the lower handle. The reverse is stamped with a "Pat. 1934 USA No. 1970983" patent notice.

The overall length is 6.9 inches, and the finish is plain steel.

These pliers are covered by patent #1,970,983, issued to C.E. Smith in 1934. The cryptic notation "S.P.A.C." on the pliers is actually a reference to the inventor, as these were also known as "Smith's Pocket Armor Cutters".