US outpaces China in manufacturing

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Contrary to popular belief, American manufacturing is by no means dead. In fact, it's more efficient than ever. The U.S. produces twice as much as it did 50 years ago. Here are some advantages of manufacturing locally and some products made right here on American soil.

These days, Americans may feel everything is made in China, but that’s actually far from true. The United States remains the largest manufacturing country, outpacing even China.

Companies that keep production stateside have lower transportation costs, shorter supply chains and fewer problems launching new products.

If you want to buy American or just feel extra patriotic, here are some high-quality products born and bred in the U.S.A.

LL Bean’s Maine hunting shoes are true to their name. The company has vowed to continue production out of the recently upgraded New England factory for the next century. Tesla Motors is the first American automaker to go public since 1956. It’s all-electric roadster hits 60 mph in just over three seconds. Tesla will roll out its sedan in mid 2012.

If fly fishing is your game, Tibor has to be your reel of choice. Florida-based Tibor holds a unique honor: more records have been set using its reels than any other brand.

It doesn’t et much more red, white and blue than a Harley. The Milwaukee-based company is the leading seller of heavyweight motorcycles in the U.S.

If you hosted a BBQ over the holiday, you may have grilled on a Weber. First introduced over 50 years ago, it’s still highly rated from Consumer Reports and Good Housekeeping.

If you haven’t checked it out yet, head to the Made in America store in Elma , that’s received national attention for selling products made only on home soil.