Ramset Fasteners, Inc. founded by Jesse Williams. Jesse developed the first Ramset tool in his garage. Commercial success grew rapidly from his invention and Ramset became known as the problem solver of the construction fastening industry.

Ramset was purchased by Olin Industries. The world’s first trigger operated powder actuated tool was developed, known as the JOBMASTER. Olin’s leadership and Ramset’s innovation lead the company to many “firsts,” which included the first piston-driven low-velocity powder actuated tool, the first underwater powder actuated tool, and the first one-piece drop-in masonry expansion anchor (Dynabolt).

Built and opened a pin production facility in Paris KY. It remains one of the last powder and gas pin manufacturing plants in the United States.

Ramset introduces the D60 powder actuated tool, the first semi-automatic tool sold.

Illinois Tool Works (ITW) purchases Ramset (located in St. Louis, MO) to become part of the Construction Products Division. To achieve maximum synergy with other ITW divisions in the Chicago area, Ramset moved their headquarters to Rolling Meadows, Illinois.

Due to their similar products and marketing networks, ITW purchases FL Phillips Drill (Red Head) and merged the two companies, creating ITW Ramset/Red Head. With the merging of the two companies moves the headquarters to a larger facility in Wood Dale, Illinois.

Acquired VIPER and COBRA powder actuated tools from Steelcon. Both brands remain top selling names in the industry. ITW Brands begins selling Ramset products through home centers.

A tool assembly plant was opened in Glendale Heights, Illinois to assemble newly designed powder actuated and gas powered tools.

Ramset changes its motto to: Driving Jobsite Speed and dedicates resources to develop products that specifically save jobsite time and labor.

As both Ramset and Red Head units of the business continues to grow, the need to segment to allow each brand to focus on their specialized trades and channels became apparent. In early 2006, the businesses were officially segmented.

Ramset introduces the next generation of our Cobra+ tools with innovative features such as a silencer, power adjust, and enhanced ergonomics.