Gentlemanly Means Pursued

Back in May when I posted Part One of this series, I didn’t imagine waiting until August to do Part Two. Truth is, though, that it’s hard to find good examples of everyday (mass market) goods made in the US. They’re out there, sure, but too often you’ve got to dig. All the more reason to keep these companies in the back of your mind and kick them a few bucks when buying time comes.

1. Maglite flashlights

These things are so ubiquitous, and so generally acknowledged as a quality item, that it’s easy to forget (or never have known) that they’re still made right here in the US. Indeed, the company has a strong commitment to US manufacturing, which you can read about here.

Anyone who’s ever owned a Maglite, as I have, can tell you that they offer a great mix of quality and value.

2. Weber Grills

Summer’s almost over, sure, but cookout weather will linger for at least a couple more months. If you haven’t already, do yourself a favor and get a Weber. Preferably the iconic kettle grill. Still made here, still awesome.

And remember: charcoal > gas.

3. KitchenAid Stand Mixer

This one was a surprise to me, but according to moneywatch.com the classic KitchenAid Stand Mixer is, indeed, US-made. I can’t vouch for this one personally but I do know that if/when I decide I need a mixer, this is now the one I’m going to get.

4. Filson outdoor clothing/gear

Like I said above, summer’s almost over. Enter Filson, an icon of rugged Americana since 1897. Not for everyone, surely, but a quintessential “glad it’s there when you need it” brand. Good for your next camping trip, autumn hike, or job interview at Woodberry Kitchen (I kid, I kid).

5. Wiffle Ball

God help us the day they stop making Wiffle in the US. Enough said.

Note: comments have been weird lately. If you leave one, it might not show up. I believe, however, that I’ll still see it.

Whenever I find myself in position to purchase a product I want but don’t necessarily need, I check the label. Specifically I look to see where said product was made. If I see that it was made here — in America — I’m far more likely to make the discretionary buy than I would be if it’s just another “Made in China.”

Why? Because I live here. Simple. The American economy is my economy and I like to support it when I can. I’m aware of the complex economic arguments that circle around this issue and I’m certainly not advocating a withdrawal from the global economy. All I’m saying is that when I’m spending my “maybe” dollars I’m generally trying to spend them here.

I know I’m not alone in that, which means I’m also not alone in understanding how hard it is. Over the past few months, though, I’ve purchased a handful of very nice, American-made products that I think are worth a mention. Eventually I hope to expand this list and turn it into a kind of resource (thus the “Part One” in the title of this post). For now, here are four:

1. Case Knives

As I’ve stated before, everyone should carry a knife. It’s a basic matter of readiness.

I picked up a Case pocket knife on a whim at Lowe’s one day to replace my trustworthy Victorinox. The US-made pedigree was, at the time, the main reason why. Since then I’ve been more than pleased with the choice, so much so that I bought a second one. These knives are durable, sharp, well-constructed, and pleasant to hold.

2. Tramontina Cookware

The Tramontina website isn’t much and, as a result, I don’t know much about the company. What I do know is that I was at Costco one day and I saw a US-made frying pan I could use. I bought it and have no complaints.

From what I can gather, Tramontina doesn’t manufacture in the US exclusively. Regardless, I can vouch for that frying pan in a big way.

3. Anchor Hocking Glassware

I was at Target, thinking I could use a replacement for the old plastic measuring cup I had at home. Not that what I had wasn’t still functional, it was just heavily worn. So I picked up what looked like a damn nice piece from Anchor, and I saw it’s made in the US.

Sold.

4. Zippo Lighters

I realize, alas, that smoking is no longer in vogue. As a result, a lot of folks probably don’t see the need to own or carry a lighter. That’s a mistake.

A ready source of flame is, like a pocket knife, smart to have on hand. Maybe you don’t smoke — someone you know might. Maybe you need to light candles for a dinner party. Maybe you need to handle fireworks duties on July 4th. Maybe you’re camping and need to start a fire. Maybe you’re staring down a zombie invasion and need some torches. Whatever. Having a quality lighter is just good strategy.

No better option than Zippo. Classic, iconic, and made in PA. ‘Nuff said.

As I said above, I’d like to turn this preliminary list into a resource. Please pass along your recommendations for everyday, US-made goods that you use and enjoy.

One note on that: comments are moderated and don’t show up automatically. As long as it’s not spam, though, it will get posted.