Stortz makes the ultimate slate ripper, recognized for over a century by experienced slaters as the most productive tool available for the job of removing individual slate shingles from a field of installed slate. Used to pull out nails without shearing them off. Equally as useful on tile shingles. Our designs have evolved over many years to accommodate the needs of the tradesman. The end result is what we feel are simply the finest slate rippers available on the market today. A professional roofer should not be without one. Often imitated but never duplicated!

This traditional slate cutter has proven itself over many years. Several years back, we copied an exemplary but out-of-production tool originally made by the "Genuine" company and we have been tweaking and improving it since. Construction is of highest quality in every respect. We are very proud of this simple, reliable and lightweight tool and recommend it to the serious slate installer as a sound lifetime investment.

Our standard pattern slate hammer is forged of carbon steel and made to the most exacting standards throughout. Point, claw and hammer face are specially heat treated to withstand tough use. The claw at center is made for pulling nails without damaging installed slate. The beveled edge at top of midsection is used for trimming slate. An all leather handle is featured.

The Stortz group of Roofing Tongs comprises a uniquely flexible and portable method for executing the most complex roofing sheet metal work on site. These versatile roofing tools enable the sheet metal mechanic to rapidly produce the work required, without lugging brakes onto the scaffold or having to run back to the shop. Excellent for repairs or restoration work. To quote from our 1895 catalog, "These tongs deserve to be known better than what they are."

Did we say portable? An extremely portable and versatile tool that enables the artisan to produce short runs of double locked, standing seam metal roofing efficiently, in the field. Specifically intended to work with our roofing sheet metal tongs. In the words of our 1895 catalog, "to match tongs."

The advantage of the well-known "Burritt" Model Roofing Double Seamer is the heavy duty foot treadle action (with heavy duty return springs) which allows the mechanic to produce more work with less fatigue. Without loss of time, two workmen may at the same time form and finish double lock seams from end to end and against corners, ridges and walls.

Still using (and ruining) knives and chisels etc. for the tough job of cleaning and dressing joints for solder? Why doesn't somebody come up with a tool for that job? Well, somebody did, over a century ago. Another item from Stortz's 1895 Catalog.

A proven, tough, durable tool to have for doing a tough job. In the words of Stortz & Sons 1952 catalog, "A heavy duty roofscraper, with a good size, well shaped, malleable iron "D" handle, riveted on to 1 inch iron pipe handle. Other end of handle is riveted into extra heavy duty iron socket, giving scraper needed weight to prevent "jumping" when scraping roofs."

This traditional style cast iron seamer delivers significant crimping power for finishing seams from a compact hand tool. Fits well in the hand. Provides easy action from a loose hinge type connection that rarely needs oiling. No springs to break and replace. Stronger than aluminum casted similar tools which break at pivot point on heavy copper or steel roofing materials. Fits in a pocket. Established, proven design. To quote from Stortz & Sons' 1895 catalog: "...a well balanced substantial tool."

Painters and wood refinishing specialists need a full line of paint scrapers for precision work. For many years, Stortz has furnished a wide range of blade shapes and sizes. Scraper blades are made from high carbon steel and are finely ground to a keen scraping edge. All blades are heat treated to provide for long life and allow repeat resharpening with either a file or stone. Blades are permanent and securely mounted for rough service. The steel shank runs through the entire length of the wood handle and is securely riveted on the back end.

A long time regional preference distinguished by a wide cutting bill, our Washington Pattern Brick Hammers are now popular with masons everywhere. This design has benefited from the ongoing feedback we get from the working masons. They are made of high grade forged hammer steel, specially heat treated to maintain a keen cutting edge. They are perfectly balanced and superior in every respect. We offer a range of formats, sizes and handle types.

The Stortz name has long been associated with the very finest in concrete finishing tools. The working surface of these concrete groovers is meticulously ground to a very smooth finish. It is cast from highest quality bronze and fitted with a routed wood handle. Exceptional workmanship, proven design. First choice of professional finishers.

Used for colonial or "grapevine" style joints traditionally popular in all types of masonry but especially stonework. Comfortable hardwood handle. Overall length is 11". Blade is 5 1/2" long x 1/2" wide with 1/8" round bit. Made from tempered high carbon steel.

John Stortz & Son, Inc. manufactures high quality specialty hand tools for the trades. A fifth generation American family company, we build tools in the same Philadelphia factory where our founder, the original John Stortz, began in 1853. For over a century and a half, we have earned and kept the public's trust by delivering innovation and traditional value. Stortz Tools collaborates directly with the skilled master craftsmen who use our tools to produce the most reliable and productive hand tools in the world. Where an imported tool is a great value for its class and function, we offer that to the public as well.

This online ecommerce enabled tool catalog offers for convenient sale some of our most popular tools for installing roofing slate and for roofing sheet metal work. We have also included a selection of our best known mason's tools. A full line printed catalog is also available upon request. All prices are discounted "direct from the manufacturer". Distributors please call for dealer pricing.

We take great pride in this extensive and unique product offering. We thank our many loyal customers for their support over the years. To new friends, we welcome this opportunity to be of service.

Sincerely Yours,

John C. Stortz, PRESIDENT