MADE IN USA
“Made in USA” is a phrase particularly significant. This means just what it says at Council Tool – and has, since 1886.
John Pickett Council began making tools for the turpentine harvesting industry in the late 1800s. Mr. Council was a farmer, woodsman and a “producer” of turpentine. A “producer” was one involved with harvesting turpentine for market. He began making tools because he was dissatisfied with the quality of tools available for purchase. Word spread about the value of the tools he handcrafted, and he subsequently found himself selling tools. The business was incorporated in 1886, and it’s been manufacturing hand tools of one type or another ever since.
Council Tool uses only American steel in our forgings, American hickory or fiberglass in our handles, and we use all domestically produced materials and supplies. Before we attach the “Made in USA” label, we make sure ours is a quality product in every respect, that it measures up to our standards, and that it is a product that will represent excellent value for the user.
Through the years our product lines have evolved along with changing markets and consumer demand. Today, we offer broad product lines in categories such as axes; striking tools; forged bars for prying, pulling and digging; shrugging tool; pick mattocks and similar digging tools; wood splitting tools; and various specialty hand tools. The company also manufactures a number of tools distributed into firefighting markets and used by firefighters around the world.
While mindful of the need to evolve and change with the times, several things have not changed. We are still a family owned operation. Today, the majority stockholders also help run the operation and are on the plant floor every day. This close association within the company helps maintain our commitment to quality. Our plant associates, who actually make the tools, are second- and third- generation Carolina craftsmen who take pride in their skills and their work. Our company began with one man’s commitment to quality and satisfaction, and that same spirit remains with the company today.
John Picket Council had a fairly simple set of beliefs that he felt were necessary for success. We continue to operate by them today. Our philosophy is still to make top quality products, to offer good value, and to be innovative in the manufacture of products without sacrificing any integrity. This has guided us very well though three centuries, and we believe it’s the direction of our future as well.