Henry L Hanson vintage #1920 12 Pc. Pipe Tap & Die Set 1/8- 1 NPT Wooden Case

Only the 3/8" and 1/2" taps have been used. Most pieces show the original cosmoline rust preventative.

No dies show any use. This is a very worthy addition to a collection or for use. The cardboard box that covered the wooden case is damaged but will come as well. The dies have moved inside the case over the years and have scratched the case finish inside slightly.

Hanson Company was initially housed in a five-storey building at 25 Union Street in Worcester. Built in 1879 by a wealthy merchant, Stephen Salisbury, it was first used by the Porter Last Company before being occupied by Hanson. For 50 years, Hanson made taps and dies there that gained world-wide fame for their quality. In 1975, the company moved to a modern facility in the same city.

At some point, the company became a part of the Irwin tool empire (now a part of Newell Rubbermaid), where the name is still used as a brand. Unfortunately, according to comments I've read on various web forums, the taps and dies under this brand name are now made in China and are considered to be of very poor quality.