Tire chains are still used in certain mountainous areas in winter conditions to traverse areas that could not be done with conventional snow tires. High altitudes like in N. California and other areas still require chains. A common name here was "WEED" who made this type of pliers and are found occasionally at flea mkts. etc. Carbide studded snow tires were used back in the 60's + and put the Kabosch on chains until the munipalities decided that the carbide did more damage to the concrete/asphalt than chains-so those were pretty much banned everywhere. Tire chains are still sold today in most farm stores thru-out the US-just not used very much.
