Charlie's 2nd Hand Store, INC.
2227 Larimer St.
Denver, CO. 80205
Monday - Friday: 8:00 am - 4:50 pm
Saturday: 8:00 am - 3:50 pm
We have for sale a vintage tool from J H Williams, this is a reversible pipe tong No 47 Made in Buffalo, Ny USA - Drop Forged. The reversible jaws are in good condition with visible damage. The chain is also undamaged. The handle does have a slight curve. This tool was manufactured from the years of 1946 through 1959. See pics for more details. Sold As Is.
🔧 J.H. Williams Vulcan No. 47 – Key Features
Reversible Jaws: A standout feature—once the teeth wear down, you can flip the jaws to extend the tool’s life. This gives you double service from one set of jaws.
Pipe Size Range: Designed to grip and turn pipes from 1 inch to 6 inches, making it versatile for plumbing, steam fitting, and industrial applications.
Drop-Forged Construction: Built from tough wrought steel, not castings. That means it’s incredibly durable and resistant to breakage under heavy torque.
Flat or Cable Chain Options: Compatible with both styles, depending on your preference or job requirements.
Made in Buffalo, NY: A hallmark of American manufacturing excellence—Williams tools were known for precision and reliability.
The J.H. Williams Vulcan Reversible No. 47 Pipe Tong was actively manufactured during the mid-20th century, with documented references appearing in company publications from 1946 and 1959. These dates suggest that the No. 47 model was part of the Vulcan Superior line during the post-war industrial boom, when drop-forged tools were in high demand for plumbing, steam fitting, and infrastructure work.