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2004 2006 2011 2015 2012 2014 1885 1828 1890 1914 1924 1954 1972 2009 2016 innovation milestones IRWIN Tools has a long and storied history, stretching for more than a century and set against the backdrop of a young, ambitious nation. In 1885, Charles Irwin patented the Auger bit and, along with four business partners, formed the IRWIN Auger Bit Company. In 1924, William Petersen, a Danish immigrant, invented and patented VISE-GRIP ® Locking Pliers. Through innovation and a series of acquisitions, these two companies have now become IRWIN Tools. IRWIN Tools manufactures and distributes a broad line of hand tools and power tool accessories including JACK ® handsaws, RECORD ® clamping and locking tools, VISE-GRIP ® pliers and wrenches, JORAN ® drill bits, QUICK-GRIP ® clamping tools, MARPLES ® chisels and woodworking tools, and UNIBIT ® drill bits. the history of irwin tools Innovation is the hallmark of IRWIN ® . For more than 100 years, it's been an idea that has permeated the culture of our company, and it continues to drive everything we do. Beginning in 1885 with development of the first IRWIN ® auger bit, and progressing with the introduction of Vise-Grip ® locking tools, Blue Groove flat bits, and Quick-Grip ® bar clamps, IRWIN ® has been at the forefront of the industry, creating better tools in a better way. Our impressive track record of new product development is born from our passion for understanding the needs of our primary user – the professional tradesman. This dedication to improving products begins in the field, where IRWIN ® 's specialised end-user teams visit construction sites. There, the IRWIN ® Field Product Specialist team learns first-hand – from the professional – how to improve our products, and how to make the pro's job easier and more productive. This hard-earned knowledge is the foundation for a unique product development process utilised by IRWIN ® 's engineering, marketing, and manufacturing teams to deliver a continuous stream of new products to the marketplace. Supported by a global network of world-class manufacturing facilities and bolstered by our partnerships with leading global retailers, IRWIN ® continuously sets the professional standard in each and every market segment in which we compete. From product feedback and development to distribution and use in the field, we dedicate ourselves to delivering quality tools that meet the stringent requirements of our toughest critics – professional tradesmen. irwin® innovation Bi-Metal Blades Blue Groove 6X Wood Boring Bits VISE-GRIP ® Groovelock Water Pump Pliers IMPACT Screwdriving Bits VISE-GRIP ® Performance Pliers VISE-GRIP ® Fast Release MARPLES ® Chisels JACK ® Plus Handsaw Range MARPLES ® & WELDTEC Circular Saw Blades Patent of IRWIN ® Auger Charles Irwin formed the IRWIN ® Auger Bit Co MARPLES ® Chisels Solid Center Auger HANSON ® Taps & Dies VISE-GRIP ® Locking Pliers SPEEDBOR ® Wood Boring Spade Bits UNIBIT ® Step Drill Bits QUICK-GRIP ® Bar Clamps RECORD ® Quick-Adjusting Vice
