About Abrasive Specialties Inc
The experts in specialty abrasives and industrial tools for more than 60 years.
Abrasive Specialties was founded in 1965 by industrial salesman John Shives to meet the growing demand for specialty abrasives and pneumatic tools used in manufacturing and other industries. As industrial projects called for increasingly specialized and innovative solutions, the need for a company with focused knowledge in abrasives, tools, and their applications became clear. For more than 60 years, Abrasive Specialties has continued to meet that need.
In 1977, the company was purchased by Bill Victor, a University of Cincinnati student with experience in distribution and metal finishing. Under his leadership, Abrasive Specialties continued to grow by developing new business while providing dependable service to its existing customers. In 1979, the company moved from rented space in Sharonville to a newly renovated building in Blue Ash.
Phil Dickinson, an experienced industrial salesman, purchased Abrasive Specialties in 1983. His wife, Holly, joined the company the following year, establishing the family-business foundation that continues today. The Dickinsons expanded both the customer base and product selection to keep pace with the changing needs of industry. In 1985, the business moved to Fairfax, where it remained until relocating to its current facility near Cincinnati’s Lunken Airport in December 2006.
The team continued to grow when longtime family friend Jon Warnken joined the company in 1998. Phil and Holly’s daughter Erin came aboard in 2003, and Rick joined the team in the 2010s. Together, their experience in engineering, marketing, business, and air-tool repair has helped the company expand its capabilities, adapt to changing industry needs, and provide customers with knowledgeable, practical solutions.
Today, our experienced team helps customers find effective, time-saving and cost-saving solutions for cutting, grinding, deburring, polishing, and finishing applications. Our goal is to combine hands-on experience with comprehensive product knowledge to solve each customer’s individual challenges and improve operating efficiency.
By purchasing directly from leading manufacturers and selling through AbrasiveStore.com, we provide competitive prices on a broad selection of specialty abrasives, industrial tools, and related products.
From abrasives in virtually every type, size, grade, and grit to air tools, electric tools, and everything in between, AbrasiveStore.com is your trusted source for specialty abrasives and industrial tools. If you have a question about a product or application, contact us, and one of our knowledgeable team members will be happy to assist you.
Ordering is quick, easy, and secure. Put more than six decades of experience, product knowledge, and exceptional customer service to work on your next project.