Channellock tools are made by Channellock Inc, a family owned company that has operated in Meadville, Pennsylvania since 1886.
The brand is best known for its tongue and groove slip joint pliers, easily recognized by their trademarked sky blue handle grips.
Channellock remains controlled by the DeArment family, five generations after founder George B. DeArment started the company in the 1880s.
Knowing who makes Channellock tools helps buyers understand how a small Pennsylvania company built one of the most recognizable plier brands in America.
This article covers Channellock ownership, where the tools are manufactured, the brand’s signature blue handles, and answers to common Channellock questions.
So let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Who Makes Channellock Tools And Who Owns The Brand?
Channellock was founded in 1886 by George B. DeArment in what is now Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania.
The company remains privately held and is currently led by William S. DeArment as chairman and CEO, with Jon S. DeArment serving as president.
Channellock employs roughly 400 people at its Meadville, Pennsylvania headquarters.
Where Are Channellock Tools Manufactured?
As of 2021, all Channellock pliers were manufactured at one of the company’s two Pennsylvania facilities.
The company manufactures more than 75 types and sizes of pliers, keeping production concentrated close to its original Pennsylvania roots.
This domestic manufacturing focus is a key part of Channellock’s brand identity among professional tradespeople.
Why Are Channellock Handles Sky Blue?
Channellock has used the same trademarked shade of blue on its plier handles since 1956.
This distinctive color has become so recognizable that tradespeople can identify a Channellock plier from across a jobsite.
The consistent branding has helped Channellock stand out even as other manufacturers introduced competing tongue and groove pliers.
What Products Does Channellock Sell?
Channellock’s core lineup includes tongue and groove pliers, cutting pliers, linemen’s pliers, and long nose pliers.
The company also produces adjustable wrenches, screwdrivers, nut drivers, and specialty multi-function tools for fire service and first responders.
Channellock’s automotive accessories division extends the brand into a broader range of professional tool categories.
Channellock vs Klein: Which American Hand Tool Brand Is Better?
Klein Tools focuses heavily on electricians and telecommunications workers, while Channellock is best known for general purpose pliers.
Both companies remain family owned and manufacture the bulk of their products in the United States.
Buyers often own tools from both brands, since their core product specialties complement rather than directly compete with each other.
For more on another widely available American hand tool brand, see our guide to who makes Craftsman tools for comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions About Channellock Tools
Who makes Channellock tools?
Channellock tools are made by Channellock Inc, a family owned company headquartered in Meadville, Pennsylvania.
Is Channellock still family owned?
Yes, Channellock remains controlled by the DeArment family, descendants of founder George B. DeArment.
Are Channellock pliers made in the USA?
Yes, Channellock pliers are manufactured at the company’s two Pennsylvania facilities.
Why is Channellock’s blue color trademarked?
Channellock has used its specific shade of sky blue on plier handles since 1956, making the color instantly recognizable to professionals.
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.