- 800-435-2948
- 800-435-2948
A Long and Rich History of World-Class Manufacturing
For more than 70 years, Regal Cutting Tools has led the industry in special tool manufacturing. We have a nationwide network of industrial distributors strategically located throughout the United States and service the diverse needs of a wide variety of industries from Aerospace and Automotive to Power and Medical, and so much more.
Beloit Tool Corporation was founded in 1955 by Kenyon Taylor, Henry Odell, and John Willard Oliver, who brought expertise in manufacturing, accounting, and sales. Initially focused on producing taps under the Regal brand, our predecessors realized the challenges of competing in the standard tap market.
In 1956, we pivoted to specializing in custom-made special taps, which laid the foundation for future success. By 1959, we expanded our reach beyond the Midwest by opening a warehouse in Los Angeles, allowing it to serve the growing West Coast aerospace industry.
The 60s marked a period of growth and industry leadership for Beloit Tool. In 1961, we established a new headquarters on Rockton Road, which remained the main office for nearly 30 years. Through strategic acquisitions, we became the largest producer of special taps in the U.S. by 1966 and the world’s largest manufacturer of tungsten carbide threading tools. The introduction of the “Carbo-Clad” tap line further cemented our reputation for innovation and durability.
In 1971, Beloit Tool became the first U.S. cutting tool manufacturer to produce a complete metric line. This innovation reinforced its leadership in the industry and as we continued to expand our product offerings, we rebranded to reflect our growing influence. In 1972, the company officially changed its name to Regal-Beloit Corporation, signaling its broader market presence.
Despite economic challenges in the mid-1970s, the company thrived, reaching record sales of $20.4 million. By the late 1970s, Regal-Beloit embraced CNC technology, developing advanced tools like the “Perfect” Super Tuf-cut and Century XXI end mill, designed for machining tough materials such as titanium.
The 80s were defined by significant expansion through acquisitions. In 1980, Regal-Beloit celebrated our 25th anniversary with a growing workforce and record sales of $40.2 million. Our market position strengthened further as we acquired Glenbard Tool in 1984, National Twist Drill in 1985, and New York Twist Drill in 1988, broadening our product range in taps, drills, and reamers. A major technological advancement came in 1985 with the introduction of “Regal Gold,” a titanium oxide coating that improved tool longevity by up to 900%.
Regal-Beloit embarked on a period of rapid expansion and diversification. Between 1986-1995, we completed 12 acquisitions, expanding into gears and power transmissions. In 1997, we took a major strategic step by entering the electric motor industry. This led to a much broader industrial portfolio expanding Regal-Beloit’s focus beyond cutting tools. Despite the directional change, Regal Cutting Tools continued to be a household name within the specialty tooling market.
Regal-Beloit sold Regal Cutting Tools to YG1 Cutting Tools in 2006. As one of the largest cutting tool companies in the world, YG1 was a perfect match for Regal. Regal operates as an independent subsidiary of YG1 allowing us to stay true to our roots as high-quality special tooling manufacturer.
Since, that acquisition, Regal’s plants in Roscoe, IL and Loris, SC have flourished. Between millions of dollars in investments and a passion for serving customers, Regal continues to be a market leader in specialty cutting tools that are proudly made in the USA.