Who Makes Matco Tools & Tool Boxes?

Matco tools and tool boxes are made by Vontier, a multinational industrial technology company. Founded in 1946, Matco Tools is an American professional tool distribution franchise for the automotive and other industries and is based in Stow, Ohio, USA.

Matco Brand Overview

Where Are Matco Tools & Tool Boxes Made?

Matco tools and tool boxes are primarily manufactured in Jamestown, New York, USA. However, some tools are made in various locations around the world, depending on the type of tool being produced.

Here’s an overview:

• Matco core tools are made in the USA, such as wrenches (non-ratcheting), sockets, ratchets, and tool boxes.
• Matco bit sockets are imported as well as round head ratchets.
• Production of some air tools, electric tools, hand tools, and diagnostic tools is either contracted out to other manufacturers or produced in-house by Matco itself.
• Some of the countries outside of the US where Matco Tools are made include China, Taiwan, Mexico, Brazil, and Italy.

While specific origins can’t guarantee quality, Matco’s quality control measures across all partners ensure their tools meet their performance standards.

Matco Tools Owner History

The history of the Matco brand began in 1946 as the box manufacturing division of Mac Tools. However, in 1979, the company carved its own path, establishing Matco Tools, Inc. as a professional tool distribution franchise.

In 1986, Danaher Corporation bought Chicago Pneumatic (CP), which had purchased Matco Tools in 1981. Several subsidiaries were spun off by Danaher, including Matco, in 2016, to create Fortive. Fortive, in turn, spun off Matco and other brands as Vontier in 2020, which is now the owner of Matco Tool.

Throughout its journey, Matco has emphasized innovation and direct customer service. They introduced several industry-first features like the mobile tool box and the “tool truck concept” bringing tools directly to mechanics. This dedication to innovation and service continues to shape their brand identity.

What Kind of Tools Does Matco Make?

Matco makes 13,000 different tools such as wrenches, screwdrivers, gauges, specialty tools, and tool boxes for the automotive and other industries.

Matco caters to a diverse range of needs, offering:

• Hand tools: Wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, pliers, and various other hand tools for tackling mechanical tasks.
• Power tools: Drills, saws, impact wrenches, grinders, and other power tools for heavier-duty applications.
• Diagnostic tools: Scanners, code readers, and other tools for troubleshooting vehicle problems.
• Specialty tools: Engine tools, brake tools, suspension tools, and other tools tailored to specific tasks.
• Tool boxes and storage solutions: Rolling tool chests, cabinets, and storage solutions for organizing and protecting tools.

Is Matco a Good Tool Brand?

Matco is a good tool brand for professional users who need high-quality, specialized tools and tool boxes for automotive and industrial applications. Matco tools are designed to withstand heavy use and offer precision and reliability. The brand is also generally well-rated by users and experts for its performance and durability.

Deciding if Matco is a “good” brand depends on your individual priorities and expectations.

Here’s a breakdown:

Pros:

• Quality: Recognized for their well-built and reliable tools.
• Variety: Extensive product range caters to diverse needs and budgets.
• Direct sales approach: Franchisees offer personalized service and expert advice.
• Warranty: Competitive warranty coverage provides peace of mind.
• Strong brand reputation: Trusted by professional mechanics for decades.

Cons:

• Not always the most affordable: Can be pricier than some lesser-known brands.
• Limited availability: Tools primarily available through franchisees, restricting accessibility for some.
• Mixed customer reviews: Individual experiences with specific models and franchisees can vary.

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Now that you know more about who makes Matco tools and tool boxes, where they are manufactured, the kind of tools Matco makes, and their quality, you may want to compare Matco to other tool manufacturers.

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