Mayhew tools are made by Mayhew Steel Products, a family owned company headquartered in Turners Falls, Massachusetts.
The brand is the oldest punch and chisel manufacturer in the United States, specializing in pry bars, punches, chisels, and demolition tools.
Mayhew has been controlled by the Lawless family since gaining a controlling interest in 1962, with full ownership achieved in the 1990s and stewardship now in its fourth generation.
Knowing who makes Mayhew tools helps buyers understand how a company founded in 1856 has stayed under the same family’s control for more than sixty years.
This article covers Mayhew ownership, where the tools are manufactured, the company’s long history, and answers to common Mayhew questions.
So let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Who Makes Mayhew Tools And Who Owns The Brand?
Mayhew Steel Products traces its founding to 1856 in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts.
J.W. Lawless began working at Mayhew in the 1930s and became plant manager by the start of World War II, setting the stage for family ownership.
The Lawless family became partial owners in the 1950s, gained controlling interest in 1962, and achieved complete ownership in the 1990s, now leading the company in its fourth generation.
Where Are Mayhew Tools Manufactured?
Mayhew manufactures its tools at its headquarters in Turners Falls, Massachusetts.
The company maintains full control of production, from raw materials to final packaging, at this single Massachusetts facility.
Mayhew backs its US made tools with a lifetime warranty, while carefully selecting a smaller number of imported tools to round out its catalog.
A Brief History Of Mayhew
The company began as H.S. Shepardson Company before Horace H. Mayhew bought an interest in 1887, leading to the H.H. Mayhew Company name.
The firm went bankrupt in 1932 and was reorganized before formally becoming Mayhew Steel Products, Incorporated in 1915.
In 2019, Mayhew Steel Products acquired BestWay Tools, continuing the company’s growth even under long standing family leadership.
What Products Is Mayhew Known For?
Mayhew’s Dominator pry bar line remains one of the company’s most recognized product families among professional tradespeople.
The company also produces demo tool sets, pneumatic tools, and specialty punches used across automotive, construction, and aviation industries.
Mayhew’s punches and chisels remain a core part of its catalog, reflecting the company’s roots as America’s oldest manufacturer in that category.
Mayhew vs Lisle: Which American Family Owned Tool Brand Is Better?
Mayhew specializes in punches, chisels, and pry bars, while Lisle focuses more heavily on automotive specialty diagnostic and repair tools.
Both companies remain family owned and manufacture primarily in the United States, giving buyers confidence in domestic production.
Shoppers typically pick between the two based on the specific tool category they need rather than comparing them as direct competitors.
For more on another widely available American tool brand, see our guide to who makes Craftsman tools for comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mayhew Tools
Who makes Mayhew tools?
Mayhew tools are made by Mayhew Steel Products, a family owned company based in Turners Falls, Massachusetts.
Is Mayhew still family owned?
Yes, the Lawless family has controlled Mayhew since 1962 and now leads the company in its fourth generation.
Are Mayhew tools made in the USA?
Yes, Mayhew manufactures its tools at its Turners Falls, Massachusetts facility and backs them with a lifetime warranty.
What is Mayhew’s oldest product category?
Mayhew is recognized as the oldest punch and chisel manufacturer in the United States, dating back to 1856.
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.