US Cutting Tool Shipments Up 12.8% From Last Year

The latest Cutting Tool Market Report from the Association for Manufacturing Technology and the U.S. Cutting Tool Institute said manufacturers shipped $225.1 million of tools in February 2026. The April 20 report found orders increased 2% compared to January 2026 and marked an increase of 12.8% from February 2025 and a year-to-date increase of 11.3% for the same period of 2025.

In a statement, Mike Stokey, the USCTI president, noted that while sales figures were positive, the availability of raw materials is in question.

“The first quarter of 2026 looks a bit better from a sales perspective,” Stokey said. “Unfortunately, there continues to be uncertainty regarding the cost and supply of raw materials. The leadership and membership of USCTI are keeping a close eye on this issue. These factors, along with the war in the Middle East, are requiring constant attention from our entire industry.”

The U.S. war with Iran began February 28, so the report is unlikely to include any impact it may have had on cutting tools sales and shipments.

Michelle Kocses, a senior economist at ITR Economics, noted rising industrial activity is spurring demand thanks to construction and defense spending.

“The year is off to a strong start, with cutting tool orders up double digits from the start of 2025,” said Kocses. “Higher demand is supported by rising industrial activity. Construction machinery, defense, and aerospace markets are leading the growth. Laggards include the heavy truck, light vehicle, and medical equipment markets. Organic market growth will likely drive top lines higher, but it is important to focus on efficiency given multi faceted cost pressures.”