Why are Mole Grips Called Mole Grips?
Locking pliers, commonly known as “Mole grips,” have gained significant popularity among mechanics and engineers in the United Kingdom. The name “Mole grips” has become synonymous with these versatile and robust hand tools. But why are they called Mole grips? Let’s explore the history and origins of this distinctive name.
The Invention of Locking Pliers
Locking pliers, including Mole grips, were first invented in 1924 by William S. Petersen in De Witt, Nebraska, United States. Petersen patented his innovative design and later trademarked the tool as Vise-Grip, which became the trade name for locking pliers in the United States.
M K Mole and Son
In the United Kingdom, M K Mole and Son, a hand tool manufacturing company, started producing their version of locking pliers in 1955. Under the managing direction of Thomas Coughtrie, the company began manufacturing pliers that closely resembled the Vise-Grip design.
The Birth of “Mole Grips”
Thomas Coughtrie, in addition to producing similar pliers, patented his own version of locking pliers and gave them the name “Mole grips.” The name “Mole” derived from the company name, M K Mole and Son. Coughtrie’s innovation and the distinct name “Mole grips” set these pliers apart in the United Kingdom market.
Popularity and Legacy
The name “Mole grips” gained popularity among professionals in the UK, and the tool became synonymous with locking pliers. The sturdy construction, featuring thick quality metal and a robust round stock bar forming the release lever, contributed to the tool’s reputation for durability and reliability.
Transition and Continuation
In the 1960s, the M K Mole and Son company relocated to Newport, Monmouthshire, where they continued manufacturing Mole grips. However, in the late 1970s or early 1980s, Stanley acquired the Mole company/brand. Despite the change in ownership, the Grip-On brand, manufactured in Spain, continued to use the Mole branding and retained the design features that made Mole grips distinctive, such as the pressed pin and pull-type lever.
In conclusion, Mole grips acquired their name from the M K Mole and Son company, which manufactured locking pliers in the United Kingdom. The innovative design and sturdy construction of these tools, along with their widespread use among professionals, led to the name “Mole grips” becoming synonymous with locking pliers in the UK.
Sources:
- A Brief History of Mole Grips – Wonkee Donkee Tools (https://www.wonkeedonkeetools.co.uk/mole-grips/a-brief-history-of-mole-grips)
- Locking pliers – Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Locking_pliers)
- Mole Self grip wrench. | The Garage Journal (https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/threads/mole-self-grip-wrench.76374/)
(Note: The facts provided in this article were sourced from the above-mentioned URLs.)
FAQs
What is the origin of the name “Mole grips?”
The name “Mole grips” originated from the company M K Mole and Son, a hand tool manufacturing company in the United Kingdom. The company’s managing director, Thomas Coughtrie, patented his version of locking pliers and named them “Mole grips” after the company’s name.
Who invented the first locking pliers?
The first locking pliers were invented by William S. Petersen in 1924 in De Witt, Nebraska, United States. Petersen patented his design and later trademarked the tool as Vise-Grip, which became the trade name for locking pliers in the US.
When did M K Mole and Son start producing their version of locking pliers?
M K Mole and Son began producing their version of locking pliers in 1955 in the United Kingdom. Under the management of Thomas Coughtrie, the company manufactured pliers that closely resembled the Vise-Grip design.
How did the name “Mole grips” gain popularity?
The name “Mole grips” gained popularity in the UK due to the innovative design and reliability of the locking pliers produced by M K Mole and Son. The distinct name “Mole grips” became synonymous with locking pliers and gained significant recognition among mechanics and engineers.
What are the distinguishing features of Mole grips?
Mole grips are known for their sturdy construction, featuring thick quality metal and a robust round stock bar forming the release lever. These features contribute to the durability and reliability of Mole grips, making them a preferred choice for professionals.
Has there been any transition or continuation of Mole grips?
In the late 1970s or early 1980s, Stanley acquired the Mole company/brand. Despite the change in ownership, the Grip-On brand, manufactured in Spain, continued to use the Mole branding and retained the design features that made Mole grips distinctive, such as the pressed pin and pull-type lever.
Are Mole grips still widely used today?
Yes, Mole grips, or locking pliers, are still widely used today by professionals in various industries such as mechanics, engineering, and construction. Their versatility, strength, and ability to securely grip objects make them an essential tool in many applications.
Are there any alternative names for Mole grips?
In the United States, the brand name “Vise-Grips” is often used as a generic term for locking pliers. Similarly, in the United Kingdom, the brand name “Mole Wrench” is sometimes used interchangeably with “Mole grips” to refer to this type of tool.