Fein tools are made by C and E Fein GmbH, a family owned German company that has remained independent since 1867.
The brand invented the handheld electric drill in 1895 and later created the Fein Multimaster, the original oscillating multi-tool that inspired an entire product category.
Fein remains headquartered near Stuttgart, Germany and has never been acquired by a larger tool conglomerate despite operating for more than 150 years.
Knowing who makes Fein tools helps buyers understand how the company behind one of the industry’s most copied inventions has stayed independent for so long.
This article covers Fein ownership, where the tools are manufactured, the brand’s history of invention, and answers to common Fein questions.
So let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Who Makes Fein Tools And Who Owns The Brand?
Fein was founded in 1867 by brothers Wilhelm Emil Fein and Carl Fein in Stuttgart, Germany.
The company remains headquartered near Stuttgart, in Schwabisch Gmund, and has stayed independently owned throughout its history.
Fein employs roughly 900 people worldwide, a relatively small workforce compared to the major conglomerates that dominate the power tool market.
Where Are Fein Tools Manufactured?
Fein manufactures its tools in Germany, keeping production close to its Stuttgart area headquarters.
This concentrated German manufacturing footprint is part of why Fein tools carry a reputation for precision engineering similar to other independent German tool brands.
Fein has resisted the industry trend of shifting production to lower cost countries, instead keeping its core manufacturing in house.
What Has Fein Invented?
Fein invented the handheld electric drill in 1895, a foundational moment in power tool history.
The company also created the Fein Multimaster, the original oscillating multi-tool that competitors like Dremel and Bosch have since built entire product lines around.
Fein additionally holds a place in electrical history for inventing the first electric fire alarm in 1875, which was later adopted by several German cities.
A Brief History Of Fein
Fein began as a mechanical workshop in Stuttgart before pivoting to medical induction devices and fire alarm systems in its early years.
The company’s fire alarm technology was adopted by cities including Nuremberg, Frankfurt, and Regensburg in the late 1800s.
Fein eventually shifted its focus entirely toward power tools, becoming best known for grinders, electric screwdrivers, and its signature oscillating tools.
Fein vs Festool: Which German Power Tool Brand Is Better?
Fein and Festool are both independent German brands with strong reputations among professional tradespeople.
Fein is best known for its oscillating multi-tools and grinders, while Festool has built its identity around dust extraction and woodworking systems.
Both brands carry premium pricing that reflects their German manufacturing and independent ownership structures.
For more comparisons, see our guide to who makes Metabo tools for another well known German engineered power tool brand.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fein Tools
Who makes Fein tools?
Fein tools are made by C and E Fein GmbH, a family owned German company founded in 1867.
Is Fein owned by a larger company?
No, Fein has remained independently owned throughout its more than 150 year history.
Did Fein invent the oscillating multi-tool?
Yes, Fein created the original Multimaster oscillating tool, which inspired the entire modern multi-tool category.
Are Fein tools made in Germany?
Yes, Fein manufactures its tools in Germany near its Stuttgart area headquarters.
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.