Milwaukee FASTBACK folding utility knife

Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation is an iconic American brand that traces its roots back to 1924 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Founded by A.F. Siebert around the 'Hole-Shooter'—the first lightweight, portable, one-handed 1/4" capacity drill—the company built a reputation for developing heavy-duty tools for professional tradespeople. Throughout the 20th century, it became a staple in the construction and plumbing industries, known for innovations like the Sawzall reciprocating saw.

While the brand was born and is still headquartered in Brookfield, Wisconsin, its corporate ownership has changed hands several times. In 2005, Milwaukee was acquired by Techtronic Industries (TTI), a global leader in cordless power tools and floor care products. Today, TTI oversees the brand's global expansion and manufacturing. While Milwaukee maintains R&D and some manufacturing facilities in the United States (including sites in Mississippi and Wisconsin), the majority of their hand tools and high-volume accessories, such as the Fastback utility knife series, are manufactured in China to leverage large-scale production efficiencies.