Norton specializes in the manufacture of abrasive products for applications in the autobody, construction, welding/industry, and marine/composite markets as well as for contractors and DIY consumers.

By 1885, Frank Norton's discouraging health and Frederick Hancock's lack of interest in the new product resulted in the need to sell the wheel manufacturing business.

Partnering with co-workers, Walter Messer and Charles Allen; Worcester Polytechnic Institute professors, Milton Prince Higgins and George I. Alden; and Washburn & Moen employees Fred Harris Daniels and Horace A.

The company introduced a series of pamphlets and related literature, which detailed the intricacies of each wheel and advised users on benefits for desired applications.

By the mid-1890s, Norton stocked the largest inventory of grinding wheels in the world, subsequently beginning distribution in Chicago (1887), New York City (1904), and soon after, across Europe.

With 95 percent of an automobile's moving parts requiring grinding, the automotive industry soon became Norton's biggest customer.

[6] Since 2009, Norton has been a chief sponsor and abrasive supplier for both the United States Men's and Women's Olympic luge teams.