Craftsman chainsaws have a long and interesting history; Emerson Electric originally made Craftsman chainsaws, but Roper Corp. produced them later, and Poulan Pro also manufactured some models. Currently, MTD Products makes Craftsman chainsaws, and it continues the brand’s tradition of providing reliable outdoor power equipment.
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Craftsman: The name alone evokes images of sturdy workshops, weekend projects, and that satisfying feeling of a job well done. For generations, this brand has been synonymous with quality and dependability, becoming a trusted companion in garages and tool sheds across America. Whether it was a wrench passed down from your grandpa or a shiny new socket set, Craftsman tools were built to last, earning their place in our collective memory.
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Now, let’s clear something up right away: While Craftsman has always been the name on the tool, they weren’t always the ones making them from scratch. This is a common misconception, like thinking your grandma’s secret recipe was actually hers and not stolen from a magazine, and it leads us to a fascinating question: Who were the unsung heroes behind the Craftsman chainsaw?
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This blog post is dedicated to answering that question! We’re diving deep into the history of Craftsman chainsaws, tracing their origins through a surprising number of different manufacturers. From giants like Emerson Electric to Techtronic Industries (TTI), we’ll uncover the stories of the companies that shaped the Craftsman chainsaw as we know it.
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So, grab a cup of coffee, maybe put on some flannel (for that authentic lumberjack vibe), and get ready to explore the hidden history behind a true American icon.
(Image Suggestion: A captivating, high-quality photograph of a vintage Craftsman chainsaw, perhaps with a slightly rusty but well-maintained look, set against a backdrop of a classic workshop or a pile of freshly cut wood. Consider a sepia tone for added nostalgic effect.)
The Early Years: EHP and MTD Forge the Craftsman Chainsaw
Alright, let’s crank up the chainsaw knowledge and dive into the early days of Craftsman chainsaw manufacturing! Forget the image of Santa’s elves hammering away in a workshop – Craftsman, bless their resourceful souls, didn’t actually make all those chainsaws themselves. Instead, they partnered with some heavy hitters in the manufacturing world. Two names that rise to the top of that list are EHP (Emerson Electric) and MTD Products. These guys were instrumental in shaping the Craftsman chainsaw lineup we know and, well, possibly still love (or have rusting in the garage). Let’s dig in!
EHP (Emerson Electric): Powering Up the Early Cuts
First up, we have EHP, or Emerson Electric. These guys were early pioneers in the world of Craftsman chainsaws. Now, pinpointing exact model numbers and years of production for EHP can be a bit like sifting through sawdust – messy! But, generally speaking, we’re talking about some of the older Craftsman models, likely from the 1960s and 70s.
What was cool about the EHP-made saws? Think solid, no-nonsense construction. These weren’t fancy, frilly chainsaws. They were built to work hard and last long. While they might lack some of the modern bells and whistles (anti-vibration, we’re looking at you), their simplicity was their strength. If you stumble across an old Craftsman chainsaw at a flea market, and it feels like it could survive a nuclear blast, chances are it’s an EHP! Just be sure to give it a good once-over before firing it up! (Safety first, people!). And, of course, check out those images below to see some classic EHP-made Craftsman chainsaws in all their glory.
MTD Products: Mass Production and a Touch of Controversy
Next in line, we have MTD Products. These guys are probably better known for their lawnmowers and other outdoor power equipment, but they also played a significant role in manufacturing Craftsman chainsaws. MTD stepped up to the plate, bringing their mass-production expertise to the Craftsman lineup. You’ll find their fingerprints on many Craftsman chainsaw models, particularly those produced in the later decades of the 20th century.
Now, here’s where things get a little spicy. The perceived quality of MTD-made Craftsman chainsaws is a bit of a hot topic among enthusiasts. Some folks swear by them, citing their reliability and affordability. Others… well, others might tell you they’re better off using a dull axe.
The truth probably lies somewhere in between. MTD focused on cost-effective manufacturing, which may have led to some compromises in materials or features. However, that doesn’t mean all MTD-made Craftsman saws are duds. Many were perfectly decent tools for the average homeowner. The key is to know what you’re buying and to understand the limitations of the equipment. Peruse the image gallery below to see a collection of the MTD models!
AYP (American Yard Products): The New Kid on the Block
Okay, so picture this: the chainsaw world is humming along, EHP and MTD are doing their thing, and then along comes AYP – American Yard Products. You might be thinking, “Who are these guys, and what do they know about chainsaws?” Well, AYP jumped into the Craftsman chainsaw game, bringing with them a fresh approach to design and manufacturing.
It was like a new chef taking over the kitchen, tweaking the recipes and adding their own special ingredients. AYP’s Craftsman chainsaws often had a distinct look and feel, and they weren’t shy about trying out new features. We are talking about models that may look a bit different than what you were used to, but they were trying to innovate!
Digging into specific models from AYP, you might find some interesting innovations or features that set them apart. It could be something as simple as an improved anti-vibration system or a more user-friendly chain tensioning mechanism. Pay close attention to the model numbers – they are your clue to identifying these AYP-era chainsaws.
When you pick up an AYP-manufactured Craftsman chainsaw, take a good look at the design and the materials used. You might notice a shift in the overall build quality or a change in the type of plastics used. Did they nail it? That’s up for debate, but there is no doubt they put their own stamp on the Craftsman legacy.
Pro Tip: Get on the lookout to include some killer images of AYP-made Craftsman chainsaws in this section. A picture is worth a thousand words, and seeing these models will help readers instantly recognize them.
Sears’ Influence: The Quality Control Boss
Now, let’s talk about the unsung hero behind the scenes – Sears. You see, Sears wasn’t just a retailer; they were like the *quality control boss* for Craftsman.
Back in the day, Sears had a reputation for selling high-quality products, and they weren’t about to let the Craftsman name be tarnished. They had strict standards that manufacturers had to meet before their chainsaws could wear the Craftsman badge. Sears had a significant say in everything from the materials used to the testing procedures employed, nothing got passed without their approval.
These quality control measures meant that Craftsman chainsaws had to pass rigorous tests before they hit the shelves. We’re talking about everything from engine performance to safety features, and the overall durability was checked and double-checked. Sears wanted to ensure that every Craftsman chainsaw was ready to tackle tough jobs and last for years to come.
Keep an eye out for any Sears-specific branding or features on Craftsman chainsaws from this era. It could be something as simple as a unique color scheme or a Sears-exclusive accessory. These little details are often clues that this particular chainsaw was made under Sears’ watchful eye.
The Modern Era: Stanley Black & Decker and TTI – A New Chapter for Craftsman Chainsaws
So, the story doesn’t end with Sears! Our beloved Craftsman brand went through a major change when Stanley Black & Decker swooped in and acquired it. It was like a plot twist in our chainsaw saga, wasn’t it?
Stanley Black & Decker brought a whole new game plan. Picture a shift in manufacturing strategies – maybe moving production to different spots around the globe. We’re talking about potential changes in where these chainsaws are born and how they’re made. This could mean new technologies sneaking into the designs and features we’ve come to expect.
- What to Look For: Keep an eye out for those shiny, newer Craftsman chainsaws with that Stanley Black & Decker stamp. Check out the materials used, any ergonomic improvements, or even a totally revamped engine design. It’s all part of the evolution!
Speaking of evolution, let’s bring Techtronic Industries (TTI) into the mix. These folks are serious players in the power tool world and they picked up some of the manufacturing duties.
- TTI’s Touch: TTI has a reputation for innovation. They’re known for pushing boundaries with battery technology and motor design. If you see a Craftsman chainsaw that’s rocking some serious runtime and power, there’s a good chance TTI had a hand in it.
When you’re checking out a modern Craftsman, ask yourself, “Does this feel like the Craftsman I grew up with?” Is it lighter, more powerful, or rocking a fancy new battery system? Understanding who built it – whether it’s Stanley Black & Decker or TTI – gives you a clue about what kind of tech and thinking went into it.
Decoding the Chainsaw: Identifying Your Craftsman’s Manufacturer
Okay, so you’ve got a vintage Craftsman chainsaw, maybe a hand-me-down from your grandpa, or you snagged a sweet deal at a garage sale. But you’re itching to know who actually built this beast. Was it EHP? MTD? Don’t sweat it; you’ve come to the right place! Think of yourself as a chainsaw detective! Cracking the case of “Who Made My Craftsman?” involves two key clues: the Model Number and the Manufacturer Code. Let’s get sleuthing!
The Importance of the Model Number
The Model Number is your primary tool for unmasking the manufacturer. This series of numbers and sometimes letters is more than just a random ID; it’s a secret code! It tells you not only the model of the chainsaw but, more importantly, who made it. The Model number is often stamped on a sticker, or metal plate usually found on the rear or side of the saw’s body.
* To unlock this information, you’ll need a decoder ring… well, not really, but resources are available! Sites like Sears Parts Direct and other online parts databases allow you to input your model number and often reveal the original manufacturer. Think of it as the Rosetta Stone for Craftsman chainsaws!
- Different manufacturers used different Model Number formats. For instance, an MTD-built Craftsman might have a model number starting with “41A,” while an AYP-made saw could begin with “358.” Recognizing these prefixes can give you an immediate head start in your investigation. Each manufacturer has a specific code to follow, so you can tell which brand made the item.
Manufacturer Codes
If the Model Number doesn’t give you the whole story, the Manufacturer Code is your backup! These codes, often shorter and less obvious than the Model Number, are usually stamped directly into the metal of the engine housing or printed on a smaller sticker. Hunting for them can feel like an Easter egg hunt, but it’s worth it! Typically, manufacturer codes are on a metal plate or sticker on the chainsaw’s body.
These codes link directly to the company that assembled the chainsaw. For example, a code like “139” might indicate that your chainsaw was made by EHP (Emerson Electric).
To decipher these codes, you’ll need a list! Many online forums and chainsaw enthusiast communities maintain lists of common Manufacturer Codes and their corresponding manufacturers. The location of the manufacturer code can vary by model, so check around the engine housing, near the carburetor, and even on the underside of the saw.
Using these tools, you can decipher who built your saw!
So, next time you’re reaching for that orange chainsaw in your garage, you’ll know a bit more about its history and who really put it together. Craftsman chainsaws might not be around anymore, but their legacy lives on in the brands that made them. Happy cutting!
