From humble beginnings in East Los Angeles to a global leader in metal finishing, the family-owned company marks three-quarters of a century of innovation.
Burr King Manufacturing, a premier American manufacturer of belt grinders, vibratory equipment, and polishing tools, is proud to announce its 75th anniversary. Since 1951, Burr King has defined the standard for grinding and finishing equipment, serving industries ranging from aerospace and medical manufacturing to custom knifemaking and golf club production.
Founded by Donald ‘Mac’ MacCarthy Sr. in East Los Angeles, California, the company began with a simple but revolutionary idea: converting a bandsaw into a belt sander. That ingenuity launched a legacy. Today, under the leadership of President Don MacCarthy Jr., Burr King continues to produce its equipment in Warsaw, Missouri, upholding an unwavering commitment to "Made in the USA" quality.
"Reaching 75 years is not just about longevity; it is a testament to the quality of our machines and the loyalty of our customers," said Don MacCarthy Jr., President of Burr King Manufacturing. "We still see Burr King grinders that are 50, 60 even 70 years old still in operation. That durability was my father's vision, and it remains our promise. We aren't just building tools; we are building heirlooms for the industrial world."
75 Years of Milestones:
- 1946 - Model 482: The oldest machine that Burr King has record of is serial number 239 with a manufacturing date of 1946.
- 1951: Company incorporated with the State of California as Burr King Manufacturing, 8 years prior to Burger King!
- 1951 Model 562: The Model 562 was the first machine to carry the official Burr King incorporated name; the Model 760 was developed by Mac in the 1940’s.
- 1952: Donald MacCarthy filed for his first patent for his adjustable idler pulley it was awarded three years later.
- 1995: Operations moved to the current facility in Warsaw, Missouri, centralizing production in America’s heartland.
- 2014 Expansion: Evolution from belt grinders to a full catalog including vibratory bowls, disc grinders, and custom finishing solutions Burr King doubles it manufacturing facility to over 50k square feet combined.
- 2026: Burr King Celebrates 75th Anniversary
Burr King products are currently used in nearly every phase of manufacturing, helping craftsmen and major corporations alike achieve the perfect finish. As the company looks to the future, it remains dedicated to the values that got it here: American craftsmanship, family ownership, and machines built to last a lifetime.
