Buffalo Better-Built Soda Acid Fire Extinguisher – Stainless Steel, Dayton Ohio Marked

This Buffalo Better-Built soda acid fire extinguisher is an original piece of early fire safety equipment. It features a stainless steel body and a solid build that reflects mid-20th-century manufacturing.

The cylinder carries a Dayton, Ohio marking, which shows that a separate manufacturer produced the tank. Buffalo Better-Built then assembled and sold the unit under its name. This type of multi-source production was common at the time, and it helps confirm the piece is authentic.

To operate, users had to turn the extinguisher upside down. This action mixed sodium bicarbonate and sulfuric acid inside the tank. As a result, the reaction created pressure and forced water out through the hose. While simple, this system worked effectively for its time.

This unit also retains an original inspection tag from Manitowoc Shipbuilding, and the last recorded date on the tag shows 1968. That detail helps place the extinguisher in service during that period and adds to its background.

Today, these extinguishers no longer serve as functional safety equipment. Instead, people use them for display. Because of the clean metal body and straightforward shape, this piece fits well in industrial spaces, shops, bars, or home setups. In addition, many people repurpose them for projects like lamp conversions.

This unit remains in original condition and shows wear from age and use. However, it has only been cleaned and has not been restored or modified.

Features:

• Original Buffalo Better-Built soda acid fire extinguisher
• Stainless steel construction with industrial design
• Cylinder marked Dayton, Ohio
• Original inspection tag dated 1968
• Suitable for display or repurposing projects

Important:

This extinguisher is obsolete and intended for display only. Do not use it for fire protection.