Starrett

About L.S. Starrett – Over 140 Years of Precision Craftsmanship

L.S. Starrett is one of the most storied names in American tool manufacturing. Founded in 1880 by inventor Laroy Sunderland Starrett in Athol, Massachusetts, the company began with a single groundbreaking invention — the world's first combination square — and grew into a globally recognized authority on precision measurement and cutting tools. Today, Starrett manufactures more than 5,000 variations of precision tools, gauges, measuring instruments, and saw blades for industrial, professional, and consumer markets worldwide.

Starrett's longevity is no accident. From the start, founder Laroy Starrett set a standard of relentless innovation and exacting quality that defined the brand for generations. By the time of his death in 1922, the Athol factory had earned recognition as the largest plant in the world solely devoted to fine mechanical tools. That same spirit of innovation continues today, with Starrett earning the informal title "World's Greatest Toolmakers" through over five generations of engineering excellence.

A Broad Range of Professional-Grade Products

Starrett's catalog spans an impressive range of tool categories. The company is widely respected for its saw blades — a product line that dates back to 1890 when Starrett began developing and improving blade technology with custom steel formulations and precision tooth geometry. Whether you need band saw blades for heavy production or hacksaw blades for the shop, Starrett's cutting solutions are built to perform.

For machinists, mechanics, and DIYers who rely on accurate measurement, Starrett's rulers and tape measures are benchmarks of the industry. Starrett's steel rules feature finely graduated markings in both English and metric, while its tape measure lineup — expanded significantly after the acquisition of the Evans Rule Company in 1986 — includes jobsite-tough options built for precision in demanding environments.

Starrett's feeler gauges have long been valued in automotive and industrial settings. Used to check bearing clearances, adjust tappets, set spark plug gaps, and verify gear play, these precision-ground tools are made in a wide range of types and sizes with leaves available in both inch and metric measurements. When tight tolerances matter, professionals reach for Starrett.

Rounding out the lineup, Starrett's hand punches reflect the same build quality found across the entire brand — crafted for reliable performance in repetitive shop and metalworking applications.

American-Made Heritage, Global Reach

Starrett proudly manufactures tools across five U.S. facilities, and has expanded internationally with plants in Brazil, Scotland, and China to serve markets around the world. In 2024, the company completed a transition to private ownership under MiddleGround Capital, continuing its mission to deliver trusted, precision-engineered tools to professionals across every industry.