Bondhus tools are made by Bondhus Corporation, a privately held company that has manufactured hex tools in Monticello, Minnesota since the 1960s.
The brand is best known for inventing the Balldriver, the original ball end hex tool, along with a full line of hex, TORX, and specialty screwdrivers.
Bondhus remains an independent, privately held company that has never been acquired by a larger tool conglomerate.
Knowing who makes Bondhus tools helps buyers understand how a single Minnesota invention grew into the dominant name in ball end hex tools worldwide.
This article covers Bondhus ownership, where the tools are manufactured, the story behind the Balldriver, and answers to common Bondhus questions.
So let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Who Makes Bondhus Tools And Who Owns The Brand?
Bondhus Corporation was founded in 1964 by John Bondhus, who invented the original Balldriver ball end hex tool.
The company remains privately held and headquartered in Monticello, Minnesota, about 40 minutes from Minneapolis.
Bondhus employs between 51 and 200 people, a relatively small workforce compared to the major tool conglomerates that dominate other categories.
Where Are Bondhus Tools Manufactured?
Bondhus manufactures its ball, hex, and TORX tools at its Monticello, Minnesota facility, located directly across from the Mississippi River.
The company describes itself as the overwhelming leader in ball end hex tools, despite roughly seventy competitors worldwide.
Bondhus tools are sold in over 100 countries, reaching customers from Taiwan to Brazil and from Sweden to Japan.
Who Invented The Balldriver?
John Bondhus invented the original Balldriver in 1964, allowing users to drive hex fasteners at an angle rather than straight on.
This invention became the foundation of the entire company and remains central to Bondhus’s product identity today.
Bondhus has continued innovating around this original concept, adding products like GoldGuard and BriteGuard coated finishes over the decades.
What Products Does Bondhus Sell?
Bondhus offers L-wrenches, fold up sets, T-handles, and pivoting head hex and TORX keys aimed at industrial professionals.
Through its German marketing partner FELO, Bondhus also expands into miniature socket sets and specialty ratchets.
All Bondhus products carry an unconditional lifetime warranty, a policy the company has maintained throughout its history.
Bondhus vs Wiha: Which Precision Hex Tool Brand Is Better?
Wiha is a German brand known broadly for precision screwdrivers, while Bondhus specializes specifically in hex and TORX drive tools.
Both companies emphasize precision manufacturing and durability aimed at professional and industrial users.
Buyers often choose based on specific fastener type needs rather than treating the two brands as direct competitors.
For more on another widely available hand tool brand, see our guide to who makes Craftsman tools for comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bondhus Tools
Who makes Bondhus tools?
Bondhus tools are made by Bondhus Corporation, a privately held company headquartered in Monticello, Minnesota.
Who invented the Balldriver?
John Bondhus invented the original Balldriver ball end hex tool in 1964.
Are Bondhus tools made in the USA?
Yes, Bondhus manufactures its ball, hex, and TORX tools at its Monticello, Minnesota facility.
Does Bondhus offer a warranty?
Yes, all Bondhus products are backed by an unconditional lifetime warranty.
I am Jack Neel, a mechanical engineer, researcher, and writer. I created this website to share my knowledge about different brands and products with you. I research the manufacturers behind the brands and provide you with the information you need to make smart buying decisions.