Craftsman tools have a long and storied history in the world of tools and hardware. Many collectors and enthusiasts seek out vintage Craftsman tools made between the 1920s and 1980s for their quality craftsmanship and iconic design. But with so many vintage tools on the market, how can you identify whether a tool is an authentic, vintage Craftsman piece?
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Look for the Craftsman Logo
The most obvious way to identify a vintage Craftsman tool is to check for the Craftsman logo. This iconic logo has gone through a few iterations over the decades:
- 1920s-1950s: The early Craftsman logo was a simple text design reading “Craftsman”. This was engraved or imprinted on tools.
- 1950s-1970s: The famous double-barred cross logo was introduced in the 50s. This is the most well-known Craftsman logo.
- 1970s-1990s: In the 70s, the double-barred cross was enclosed in a red circle with “Sears” written above it.
If an old tool bears any version of the Craftsman logo, there’s a good chance it is a vintage piece. However, be aware that other brands have used similar logos over the years. Always verify any other identifying details.
Examine the Metal Design
Vintage Craftsman tools were crafted from high quality carbon steel and iron alloys that give them a distinct look and feel. Examining the metal closely can provide clues about a tool’s age and origins:
- High carbon steel construction with a consistent, smooth metal finish.
- Solid, heavier weight than modern pot metal tools.
- May have some patina, light rust or wear marks from decades of use.
- Clean, defined cast designs and markings rather than rough edges.
Top-of-the-line vintage Craftsman tools have a noticeable heft and quality feel when held in the hand. The metalwork should be clean, smooth and well-defined.
Check for USA Markings
From the 1920s through the 1980s, the vast majority of Craftsman tools were proudly forged and assembled right here in the USA. Vintage tools will often have “Made in USA” markings forged into the metal:
- “Forged in USA”
- “Made in America”
- “Made in United States of America”
These USA markings help confirm both the vintage status and authenticity of Craftsman tools. Beware of vintage tools with no country of origin or with “Made in China” – these are almost surely newer or non-original.
Identify Patent Markings
Many vintage Craftsman tools are stamped with patent numbers and dates that provide clues about their age. These patent markings were stamped near the Craftsman logo and may appear as:
- “Pat. Pend.” – Patent Pending, pre-patent stage
- “Pat. 2,418,792” – Followed by patent number and issue date
Search for any patent numbers online to determine when the patent was issued. This can reliably date a vintage Craftsman tool. The patent issue dates should coincide with the general age and wear of the tool.
Look Up Catalog Listings
Another way to verify vintage authenticity is to cross-reference any model numbers or identifying codes stamped on the tool against old Sears catalogs:
- Model numbers formats like 106.xxx (hand tools) or 586.xxx (sockets)
- Code formats like “CT 18” or “UT 140A” often on wrenches
If you can find the exact model of a tool listed in a 1920s-1980s Sears catalog, that’s a definite point towards authenticity. Catalog listings also provide insight into manufacturing dates.
Assess Wear and Aging
Use visual clues to assess whether a tool’s apparent age matches its supposed vintage status:
- Even patina and wear across entire tool
- No evidence of artificial aging, distressing, or modifications
- Chips, dings, wear consistent with decades of use
- Handles fit securely with no signs of tampering
A tool that has been artificially distressed to seem old won’t hold up to close inspection. The wear patterns and aging should match the tool’s era.
Compare Identical Models
When possible, compare the tool in question against other examples of the same vintage model:
– Same dimensions, materials, heft and feel
– Identical design, logo, graphics, text
– Equivalent level of patina and wear
Seeing two “twin” examples side-by-side makes it much easier to spot inconsistencies that indicate forgeries or fakes.
Consult Collectors
Don’t be shy about asking vintage tool enthusiasts for their expert opinion. Join online communities or forums dedicated to vintage Craftsman tools. Connect with other collectors to compare notes and tap into their deep knowledge base. They may quickly spot distinctive features that confirm or refute a tool’s vintage status.
Learn the Tool History
As you research, pay attention to the manufacturing history behind vintage Craftsman tools:
- Development of patented innovations
- Era-specific model numbers, logos, and markings
- Where and when different tool models were made
Knowing the nuances helps you accurately date tools and spot inconsistencies. For very rare or valuable tools, consider having them appraised by a vintage tool expert.
Consider Signs of Alteration
Sometimes dishonest sellers try to modify newer tools to sell as vintage by:
- Grinding off modern logo and markings
- Using acid to artificially age metal
- Replacing newer handles with old wooden handles
This fakery leaves clear signs like rounded edges, logo ghost marks, uneven aging, and inappropriate materials. Don’t be afraid to walk away from tools that seem fishy.
Conclusion
Identifying genuine vintage Craftsman tools takes patience, research and a keen eye. But armed with the tips above and some hands-on experience, you’ll be on your way towards spotting the “real deal” vintage goods. Authentic Craftsman tools from the 1920s through the 1980s represent the pinnacle of American manufacturing and are well worth collecting and using today.
Here is a summary of the key identification tips covered:
| Method | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Craftsman Logos | Double-barred cross, vintage fonts/text |
| Metal Design | High carbon steel, solid heft, clean details |
| USA Markings | “Made in USA”, “Forged in America” |
| Patent Numbers | Research patent issue dates |
| Catalog Listings | Match model numbers to vintage catalogs |
| Wear Patterns | Even patina, expected wear areas |
| Comparison | Side-by-side identical models |
| Collector Input | Consult vintage tool experts |
| Modification Signs | Altered logos, uneven aging |
Typical Vintage Craftsman Markings
Here are some examples of typical markings found on vintage Craftsman tools:
| Logo | Country Origin | Patent Number | Misc. Codes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Double-barred cross | “Made in USA” | “Pat. 2921899” | “CT 12” |
| Text “CRAFTSMAN” | “Forged in America” | “Pat. Pend.” | “586.350” |
| Red circle “Sears” logo | “Made in United States of America” | “Patent 2,980,041” | “R484” |
Where to Look for Identification Markings
Vintage Craftsman markings are typically found stamped or engraved in these locations:
- Front or back of tool head/body
- Just below the handle
- Along the handle or neck
- On the tops of anvils, flanges, joints
Turn a tool every which way and shine a light across all surfaces to locate worn or obscure markings that confirm vintage origins.
With practice identifying authentic vintage Craftsman tools using these techniques, you’ll be able to shop flea markets, auctions and estate sales with confidence. Curating a collection of vintage American-made Craftsman tools is incredibly rewarding and provides a tangible link to the past glory days of US manufacturing. As you admire their sturdy heft and crisp details, it’s easy to see why “They don’t make ’em like they used to!”