from idea to reality
Invention
The Woodman’s Pal was introduced to the market in 1941 by Frederick Ehrsam. Ehrsam, a Swiss National who settled in PA, was an experienced engineer, artist, and woodsman. He recognized the need for an ‘all in one’ land management tool. This single implement serves the purpose of many various brush tools.
The "Do-it-all" Tool
Field Use
Due to its light weight, balanced and compact design, the Woodman’s Pal performs all outdoor activities from clearing brush and blazing trails to trimming, thinning, chopping and pruning. The Woodman’s Pal was quickly recognized by agriculture, horticulture and land management professionals as a ‘must have’ tool.
The Call To Service
Military Issue
Originally designed and patented in 1941 for civilian use, the Woodman’s Pal® quickly got the attention of the US Military during WWII. Initially procured for the US Army Signal Corps, it eventually became standard issue as a combat and survival tool for GI’s in the Pacific Theater.
Ensuring quality & Precision
Military Specs
The Woodman’s Pal blade was attached to an 8.5 lb. aluminum channel then raised 3 feet and dropped 7000 times onto a construction grade 3×4″ oak beam. After 7,000 cycles a 5/16″ diameter maple dowel was attached to the beam. According to the military performance specs, it was required that the blade then cut cleanly through the dowel when dropped from 3 feet.
Continuing Service
Battle Tested
By the end of the Korean War over 250,000 units had been procured. During the Vietnam War and Desert Storm, the Woodman’s Pal® was primarily issued as a survival tool for pilots. The quality and effectiveness of the Woodman’s Pal spans decades and generations.
Changing Hands
Ownership & Licensing
In 1995, family-owned Skyline Toolworks acquired the Woodman's Pal trademark from Survival Equipment Company. In 1999, they licensed the trademark and manufacturing rights to Pro Tool Industries in Pottstown, PA. For several years, things were going well for Pro Tools.
Challenges on New Fronts
Overseas Competition
Unfortunately, a Chinese manufacturer began producing a knock-off tool that copied the Woodman's Pal design. Pressured to compete on price, Pro Tool compromised quality by using overseas suppliers for sheaths and handles. Ultimately, the low-grade foreign competition forced Pro Tools to closed its doors in early 2018. They liquidated remaining substandard inventory at reduced prices, which still reflect in resellers' markets online.
Restoring the glory
Revival & Improvements
Here at Skyline Toolworks, we did not want to see this iconic product we've loved simply disappear. To restore the glory of this historic name, we emphasize honest American-made quality that you can see and feel. Handmade wooden handles, hand-stitched leather sheaths, premium steel and power coated blades.
Today, we've expanded our product line, while still bringing the Woodman's Pal back to its roots. Since 1941, now better than ever.