Our History
A Legacy of Innovation, Rooted in a Pioneering Spirit
How did we become global leaders in precision cutting tools? It’s a story built on breakthroughs and bold ideas – one we’re proud to share. Each of our three major brands was born from a pioneering spirit and a drive to solve real-world challenges in their industries:
Joseph Buford Cox’s insight into a timber beetle’s sawing motion led to a revolutionary saw chain and launched a brand now synonymous with innovation, durability, and leadership in forestry, lawn and garden products.
The Wood brothers invented the first tractor-mounted rotary cutter, transforming land management for farmers and establishing Woods as a leader in farm, ranch, and agricultural equipment.
A small team at Oregon Tool developed the first diamond concrete chain, creating the ICS brand and revolutionizing concrete cutting for construction professionals.
Explore Our Interactive Timeline
Oregon Saw Chain Corp. was founded in Portland, Oregon, by Joseph Buford Cox, who developed the modern saw chain after observing timber beetle larvae chewing through wood fiber.
Manufacturing plant established in Guelph, Canada.
The company was renamed Omark Industries.
New manufacturing plant established in Portland, Oregon.
Manufacturing plant established in Curitiba, Brazil.
Omark Industries entered on the American Stock Exchange as OMK, and constructed a new corporate office in Portland, Oregon in 1981.
Omark Industries was acquired by Blount, Inc.
The company founded the ICS business, developing specialized chainsaw applications for the construction industry.
Blount, Inc. was renamed Blount International, Inc. and shifted its focus exclusively to manufacturing.
Blount acquired Windsor.
Manufacturing plant established in Fuzhou, China.
Blount acquired Carlton Company.
Blount acquired KOX, PBL, and Woods Equipment Company, adding plants in Civray, France and Oregon, Illinois to global footprint.
Blount acquired Merit Engineering & Equipment Company.
Blount International, Inc. was renamed Oregon Tool, Inc. to honor the company’s legacy and unite all brands under one name.
Oregon Tool by the Decades
Take a deeper dive into the story of Oregon Tool by the decades. This section offers an in-depth look at the milestones, innovations, and pivotal moments that shaped our company – from the birth of our brands to major product launches and key acquisitions. Each era brought new ideas, new brands, and new possibilities.
Follow the journey as our brands grew from bold beginnings into leaders across industries. Discover the people, products, and decisions that built our reputation for quality and ingenuity and see how our legacy continues to grow with every new chapter.