Celebrating our 125th Anniversary makes for a great time to look at where we started and how far we’ve come. Best-in-class products and technological innovation have been essential elements of our success since 1886, but one core product has played a key role in shaping CHANNELLOCK^® into what it is today: the tongue-and-groove-plier.

Deeply rooted in our product history is a commitment to innovation that is evident in the evolution of the tongue-and-groove plier. Chief Engineer Howard Manning first developed the tool in 1933. We named the plier “Channellock” and patented this revolutionary tool concept.

In 1953, we introduced two improvements to the tool: an undercut tongue-and-groove design that reduced slippage, and a reinforced flange that eliminated stress breakage – both of which resulted in additional patents. However, the innovations didn’t stop there. In 1965, we received a patent for our design of the conical surface created on the cam side of the pliers when undercut, and another in 1984 for the development of the PermaLock^® fastener.

The widespread success of the CHANNELLOCK^® tongue-and-groove plier led us to change the name of the company from Champion-DeArment to CHANNELLOCK^® to enforce our strengthening trademark. Now, years after its introduction, the tongue-and-groove plier is the core of our product line. We currently offer 23 different models – each made in Meadville, Pa., with the commitment to quality and durability that has guided us for 125 years.

Michele M. King

Communications & Training Manager

Channellock, Inc.