| Xcelite | |
| Type: | Hand tools |
| Currentowner: | Apex Tool Group |
| Origin: | USA |
| Previousowners: | Cooper Industries |
| Website: | Weller Xcelite Tools |
Xcelite is a brand of hand tools geared towards the electronics service industry. It is currently owned by Apex Tool Group and markets screwdrivers, nut drivers, pliers, and various specialized electronics tools.[1]
Xcelite was founded in 1921 by F. Birney Farrington (1886-1962), as the Park Metalware Company, Inc., a small metalworking shop in Orchard Park, New York.[2] John Zilliox’s (1874-1971) for an adjustable wrench, launched the company into manufacturing hand tools for worldwide distribution.The company marketed tools under the "XCEL" and, later, "Xcelite" brand names.[3] John N. Petre (1891-1952) held six patents assigned to Park Metalware. Among his important inventions was the interchangeable shaft screwdriver . By 1952, the Xcelite brand name was so well known in the electronics, television and radio repair industries, the company changed its corporate name to Xcelite, Inc.[4]
In 1973, the brand was purchased by Cooper Industries.[5] [6]
In 2010, the brand was transferred to Apex Tool Group, a joint venture formed by Cooper Industries and Danaher Corporation.[7]