(04-09-2016, 09:32 AM)TomG Wrote: Stan,
Lufkin was actually acquired by Cooper Tools in 1967 which is now part of the Apex Tool Group, who own just about everything today. I suspect Ken will also jump in to point out that all of the Starrett precision tools are still made in the U.S. It's the accessory and advertising stuff that's being made in China.
I also prefer the look and feel of Lufkin over Starrett, but I doubt Ken will agree with that.
BTW I have a 0-6" Lufkin micrometer set in the wooden case. I've been working on assembling it for years from NOS mics I've found on eBay. Some of them have the black finish on the frame and some have the green. My goal is to get them all from the 50's when they had the dark green wrinkle finish.
Tom
At least 10 years ago, could be closer to 20, I was told by a trusted Travers Tool inside sales person the majority of Starrett outside mics and several other precision instruments are made in China. She certainly had access to the correct information. Yes the high end instruments are still made here.
Assuming Cooper Tools purchased Lufkin, then why would the discontinue the line? I was told in the early 70's Lufkin was purchased by Starrett in order to eliminate them as a competitor.
I checked and Lufkin is part of Cooper Tools. It still does not make any sense for them to discontinue the micrometer lines.