ONE SHARED LEGACY
OUR 140TH ANNIVERSARY, ONE SHARED LEGACY
Bahco’s legacy has been shaped by the people who design, make, distribute and use our tools and solutions. Every contribution has helped turn ideas into tools, and innovation into reality. Since 1886, when Johan Petter Johansson set up his first venture, patenting the first pipe wrench in 1888 and then the adjustable wrench in 1892, we have built a foundation of trust, performance and durability.
Over 140 years, together we have built more than tools; we have built One Shared Legacy.
THE MOMENTS THAT MADE US
1886
Johan Petter Johansson launches his first business venture, a smithy called Enköpings Mekaniska Verkstad. This seed would eventually grow into the brand we know today: Bahco.
1888
J.P. Johansson patents the Pipe Wrench, coined the “Iron hand”.
1890
After founding the company AB BA Hjort & Co. in 1889, Berndt August Hjort buys the right to sell Johansson’s Pipe Wrench.
1892
Johansson patents the Adjustable Wrench, which became a worldwide success.
1954
Berndt August Hjort changes the company’s name to AB Bahco, after his initials.
1969
The Bi-metal Hacksaw Blade Sandflex® is created, ushering in a new era for the cutting industry.
1982
Bahco presents ERGO™, the scientific process of making tools by professionals, for professionals.
1991
AB Sandvik acquires AB Bahco and renames it AB Sandvik Bahco. Their Fish & Hook logo is later passed onto Bahco, reflecting the high-quality steel.
1999
Bahco is incorporated into Snap-on Inc., alongside Eurotools, a Spanish hand tool manufacturer.
2005
2005 Snap-on Inc. merges Bahco and Eurotools to form SNA Europe.
2017
The Bahco Storage Hub is launched, a new range of tool trolleys that meets European standards.
2018
Bahco’s “Fish & Hook” logo is modernised, creating a simpler and smoother image, but equally recognisable.
2021
Bahco acquires Secateurs Pradines.
2026
Bahco launches Hub+ for new Socket & Bit Sets.
Download the Anniversary leaflet for a deeper dive into our One Shared Legacy
TEST YOUR BAHCO KNOWLEDGE !
Who invented the adjustable wrench?
Johan Petter Johansson patented the adjustable wrench in 1892, making it a worldwide success.
Where does the name “Bahco” come from?
The name comes from the initials of Berndt August Hjort (BAH) followed by “Co.” for company. It was registered in 1892.
Why the Fish & Hook logo?
It was chosen because Swedish fishing hooks were known for the highest-quality steel, the same steel used in Bahco saws and cutting tools.
When did Bahco join the Snap-on Group?
Bahco was incorporated into Snap-on Inc. in 1999, alongside Eurotools.
How many products does Bahco’s catalogue contain?
Bahco has an extensive catalogue of more than 24,000 products.
How many distributors sell Bahco tools worldwide?
Bahco is supplied through a global network of over 20,000 distributors, both physical and digital.
MEET BAHCO’S GLOBAL COMMUNITY!
Click on each image to see the activities and events that take place within the Bahco community around
the world, from festivals and fairs to partners events, competitions and sponsors.
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