33221 - Cutlery and Handtool Manufacturing

When it comes to identifying and classifying businesses in the manufacturing sector, the NAICS code 33221 plays a crucial role. This code specifically pertains to Cutlery and Handtool Manufacturing, a vital industry that produces essential metal tools used across various settings, from household kitchens to complex industrial operations. Whether you're a business owner, government contractor, or industry analyst, understanding NAICS 33221 is key to navigating this manufacturing segment.

What is NAICS Code 33221?

NAICS Code 33221 is classified under the Manufacturing sector and covers establishments primarily engaged in producing cutlery and handtools. This includes a wide variety of metal products such as:

• Knives
• Scissors
• Hand-operated tools (e.g., hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches)

These products serve multiple markets, including household, industrial, and professional environments. The materials used are predominantly metals to ensure durability and functionality.

Sector and Typical Business Activities

Sector: Manufacturing

Businesses under NAICS 33221 are embedded within the Manufacturing sector, contributing significantly to the production of durable goods. The manufacturing processes involve shaping, assembling, and finishing metal tools designed for manual use.

Typical Business Types and Activities:

• Knife Manufacturing: Production of kitchen knives, hunting knives, pocket knives, and specialty blades.
• Scissors Manufacturing: Including household, industrial, and medical scissors.
• Hand Tool Manufacturing: Creating tools like hammers, pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers, chisels, and other hand-operated implements.

These businesses often combine traditional metalworking techniques with modern manufacturing technologies to deliver high-quality products.

Size Standards for NAICS Code 33221

For small business eligibility, especially in government contracting and SBA programs, the size standard for NAICS Code 33221 is typically defined by the number of employees or average annual receipts.

Size Standard Metric	Threshold
Number of Employees	500 employees or fewer
Average Annual Receipts	Varies, generally up to $38.5 million*

*Note: Size standards may be updated periodically; it's recommended to consult the latest SBA guidelines for precise figures.

Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 33221

• Cutlery manufacturers supplying kitchen and dining products.
• Companies producing professional-grade scissors for medical or industrial use.
• Handtool makers crafting manual tools for construction and automotive industries.

These businesses can range from small artisanal workshops to large-scale manufacturing plants.

NAICS Code 33221 - Cutlery and Handtool Manufacturing: Code Details

Attribute	Description
NAICS Code	33221
Title	Cutlery and Handtool Manufacturing
Sector	Manufacturing
Industry Description	Establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing cutlery and handtools, mainly metal tools including knives, scissors, and hand-operated tools.
Typical Products	Knives, scissors, hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, chisels
Common Business Activities	Knife manufacturing, scissors manufacturing, handtool production
Size Standard	500 employees or fewer (usually), average receipts threshold applies
Related NAICS Codes	332999 (All Other Miscellaneous Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What types of products are included under NAICS code 33221?

NAICS code 33221 includes metal cutlery such as knives and scissors, as well as a variety of hand-operated tools like hammers, wrenches, and screwdrivers.

Which businesses should use NAICS code 33221?

Businesses primarily engaged in manufacturing metal hand tools or cutlery products should classify themselves under NAICS 33221.

What is the standard size definition for NAICS 33221 businesses?

Typically, businesses with 500 or fewer employees qualify as small businesses under this code, though specific thresholds may vary, especially concerning annual receipts.

How does NAICS code 33221 differ from similar manufacturing codes?

NAICS 33221 focuses specifically on cutlery and handtool manufacturing, whereas other codes like 332999 cover miscellaneous fabricated metal products not included here.

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Understanding NAICS code 33221 is essential for companies involved in the production of cutlery and handtools, enabling them to navigate market opportunities, government contracting, and compliance requirements effectively. Whether you're a manufacturer or a stakeholder in the manufacturing sector, leveraging this knowledge can position your business for greater success.