True Temper

Overview

True Temper is a brand of lawn and garden tools, including wheelbarrows, winter tools, and hand tools, owned by Ames True Temper. It traces its origins to 1808 and is recognized for manufacturing non-powered outdoor products. The brand also has a separate sports division focused on golf shafts under True Temper Sports.

History

True Temper originated from the Old Stone Forge in Wallingford, Vermont in 1808, evolving into American Fork & Hoe Company before adopting the True Temper name. It became a leading supplier of lawn and garden tools, with manufacturing in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania since 1876 until outsourcing to China. In 1902, True Temper Sports was founded, specializing in golf shafts since the 1930s, and is now headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

True Temper tools were historically produced at a plant in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, which operated since 1876 and made 85% of U.S. and Canadian wheelbarrows until production was outsourced to China by parent company Griffon. Golf shafts under True Temper Sports involve global R&D and distribution facilities in the U.S., Canada, England, and Asia.

Notable Products

• Wheelbarrows - Produced 1.7 million units annually at peak from Harrisburg plant, dominant in North America.
• Golf Club Shafts - Leader in golf shaft technology, number one on PGA Tour for over 70 years.
• Shovels and Hoes - Hand-forged tools under brands like True Temper and Union Tools.
• Project X Shafts - Premium golf shaft line under True Temper Sports.
• Snow Shovels - Winter tools for snow removal.

Reputation

True Temper is viewed as a heritage brand by gardeners for reliable, tempered steel tools with over 200 years of history. Professionals note strengths in durability but criticize recent outsourcing to China for potential quality decline compared to U.S. manufacturing. In golf, True Temper Sports holds strong enthusiast respect for PGA Tour dominance and innovation.