Lots of cheap tools, or few quality tools?
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moronmountain
Well-known member
Few nicer ones. I would get Craftsman sockets with Snap on ratchets, then save up for Snap on or Cornwell wrenches.
Since we all have to start somewhere, I'd probably go with the cheaper tools and replace them as I could with better stuff.
ez-duzit
Well-known member
Avoid cheap tools. To stretch your budget, buy used, quality tools. Or a modest set of Craftsman tools, when they have a great sale.
ken w.
Well-known member
I would go the used tool route.If your starting out you might want to think about 1/2" drive impact sockets.Craftsman will do for now.Most of my stuff is Snap On,but I still have a CM impact set that I still use.
scaron
Well-known member
i was always taught and i do believe: always buy high quality equipment, take care of it, make it last. even if this means you can get fewer things at a time. value hunt. consider used.
ChevyEFI
Well-known member
The tools you need, without filler that takes up room and wastes your time.
Tools that work, at the best price are ideal. Tools that fail or cost more with no inherent benefit are not better value.
Tools that work, at the best price are ideal. Tools that fail or cost more with no inherent benefit are not better value.
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Fedwrench
ALLIANCE MEMBER
Match your tools to the tasks you do. I think less is more. It's better to have fewer tools that you use daily than, to have sizes that gather dust but, that's just me. As others have pointed out, there's nothing wrong with mid priced tools.
That's the easiest question I've ever had to answer in my life.
Fewer high quality tools would be my choice.
BDT/NWMN
Well-known member
I have had good luck with most things from Harbor Freight. If that is the definition of "cheap tools" that is where my vote goes. I wouldn't go cheaper than them though, yeah cheaper than HF stuff is out there. In general I would rather be able to fix more things, not having the right tool for the job is not fun. Used is a good option too, maybe a basic HF starter kit to get a few things done then go hunting for used stuff.
You just have to get a mix of things. My pliers are Channellock, my ratchets are snap on. My sockets are kobalt and gearwrench. Gearwrench screwdrivers. Husky Wrenches. Mayhew scrapers, punches, and pry bars. I would pay the extra money for a nice Impact wrench 3/8 and 1/2. You can go a little cheaper on grinders. Kobalt and husky aren't bad. My goal was to find quality stuff away from the tool trucks and buy it. As long as it had a warrenty.
markdtn
Well-known member
Fewer better quality tools. Figure out what you need most and concentrate there. To get started, Craftsman screwdrivers are fine. Buy used, look at Ebay, here, pawn shops, and flea markets. Also pay cash at the tool truck and ask what he has on trade-in. You would be amazed at the discount for folding money. I bought a Mac adjustable timing light for $40 off the Matco truck once. I used to go visit a pawn shop every Friday. He had a box of "good stuff" you had to ask to see. Over time I made most of a SnapOn 3/8 standard and metric set for a few dollars at a time. Broken sockets=new sockets with a little effort to trade them in. I also started with some industrial finish tools that work just as good as the chrome ones.
scarney1988
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I did not read all of the posts but I would probably buy midgrade tools with a life time warranty which would be convenient for me to warranty. Homedepot, Lowes, Sears all offer decent tools at an affordable price which should last a while (Husky, Kobalt, Craftsman, Stanley, etc...). As others have probably already said, I would also look for used midgrade and up tools where possible. Flea markets, yard sales, ebay, garagejournal, and craigslist are all decent places to catch a deal.
I have used my husky chrom sockets (taiwan) professionally for 7ish years with no problems. The only socket I have broken was a chrome craftsman 12pt which I was using on my impact to remove an aftermarket wheel, improperly.
I have used my husky chrom sockets (taiwan) professionally for 7ish years with no problems. The only socket I have broken was a chrome craftsman 12pt which I was using on my impact to remove an aftermarket wheel, improperly.
The Frisco Kid
Well-known member
Replace Craftsman with Kobalt or Gearwrench and I agree.
sberry
Banned
The expensive is as good as it always was but5 the cheap has skyrocketed in quality. When using the wrench cant tell much difference, the bolt doesn't know or care.
I will say this,,, I wqas working on a hyd line the other day that was giving me fits, I needed open end so for giggles I grab the snappy along with a Cman, the snap jaw springs right open, the cman was way stronger.
I will say this,,, I wqas working on a hyd line the other day that was giving me fits, I needed open end so for giggles I grab the snappy along with a Cman, the snap jaw springs right open, the cman was way stronger.
signcrafter
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It's a fine line to walk as to quality vs quantity. You can go to harbor freight and buy a ton of tools for the price of a 3/8" ratchet and set of 3/8" sockets from snap on.
You have to consider what tools you will use the most and try to buy a higher quality for them, doesn't have to be the best but something better then the bottom of the pile. Also some cheaper tools are just complete junk and a waste of money. Example is the harbor freight snap ring pliers, just complete junk and a waste of money. This is one example of where you want to spend a few extra bucks and get something a little nicer. Things that you plan on using a lot and pushing hard I would also look at getting a better quality then "cheap". Where as something like a wrench or socket a HF cheapo most likely will be fine. So it's not as simple "a bunch of cheap tools or a few good tools" type of thing.
That's where this forum comes in really handy. You can post questions about certain brands and certain tools and get other's feedback on them. You have to weed thru the my brand is better then your brand stuff, just like what showed up in this thread already. But the forum is a wealth of knowledge. If you're going to go with harbor freight tools there is a post for Pass or fail of them. So you can search and get other's feedback on these tools.
You have to consider what tools you will use the most and try to buy a higher quality for them, doesn't have to be the best but something better then the bottom of the pile. Also some cheaper tools are just complete junk and a waste of money. Example is the harbor freight snap ring pliers, just complete junk and a waste of money. This is one example of where you want to spend a few extra bucks and get something a little nicer. Things that you plan on using a lot and pushing hard I would also look at getting a better quality then "cheap". Where as something like a wrench or socket a HF cheapo most likely will be fine. So it's not as simple "a bunch of cheap tools or a few good tools" type of thing.
That's where this forum comes in really handy. You can post questions about certain brands and certain tools and get other's feedback on them. You have to weed thru the my brand is better then your brand stuff, just like what showed up in this thread already. But the forum is a wealth of knowledge. If you're going to go with harbor freight tools there is a post for Pass or fail of them. So you can search and get other's feedback on these tools.
I guess it depends on the NEED for them. If it were just to have, start off mid grade (Kobalt, Cman, etc) and replace as you find deals on good stuff. If you NEED it then I'd get whatever you can afford or borrow if possible. Cheap tools do **** but can serve a purpose and can still get you by in many situations.
Moose97
Well-known member
I guess it depends on what you are doing. If you are a pro then I would want quality over quantity for the stuff I use regularly. If a DIY'er I don't think you can go wrong with a Craftsman set. For little investment you can have a really nice set.
'71 VW 1302
Well-known member
I'm too poor to buy cheap things.
Paul
Paul
Ign
Well-known member
Oh yeah, pulling out the popcorn.....
Otherwise I thought the OP was speaking of specialty tools, not hand tools. Things like fuel pressure testers, pullers, ball joint presses etc. For that I vote HF for the hobbyist, it allows you to have "copies" of what the big boys use at a fraction of the price. It's unreasonable for the shadetree mekanik to pay tool truck prices for stuff like this. Used is great IF you can find it, which is generally easier in cities or high population areas (yes of course there's ebay if people don't bid up things beyond reasonable value).
But the OP didn't specify pro use or hobby use.
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signcrafter
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HF used to offer specialty tools dirt cheap, think the ball joint press you used to be able to pick up for twenty something bucks after coupons. But their prices have come up and while they are still cheaper then the other brands their specialty tools aren't the steal they used to be. Especially when a lot of their specialty tools have some quality issues. The fuel pressure tester gets lots of bad reviews of leaking fittings and adapters. I'm not bashing HF, just saying to look at all options. The HF ball joint press is 90 bucks when it's not on sale and also before the 20% off coupon and the OTC is 103 bucks regular price. So very close in regular price, I would go with the OTC.
bczygan
Well-known member
This is the eternal thread on this site.
If "cheap" means badly designed, poorly manufactured and prone to breakage when properly used, no I don't want that tool for general use. If, on the other hand, I am out in the middle of nowhere, and nothing else is available, I would prefer it to having nothing.
If "quality" means well designed, well manufactured tools that do the job, then I would prefer them over "cheap" tools as defined above.
Now, cheap doesn't always mean less expensive. And "quality" doesn't always mean more expensive.
Your post says "on a budget" so that means you, of necessity, must sort out what is what in the marketplace. You will end up with a mixture of less and more expensive tools.
Your post doesn't mention professional use. If that is the criteria, then most pros on this forum lean toward getting the best tools they can find, regardless of price (Even though they also like a good deal). And pros need a wider variety and quantity of tools than the casual user. So to solve that problem, many use the ability to buy on time. But even then, the money conscious ones will only buy the tools they NEED, when they need them. And will also fill in with less expensive tools where they will do the job.
But even for home or casual use, a "cheap" tool, as defined above, just makes the job more difficult. An inexpensive, but appropriate tool makes the job go better. A superb tool, regardless of it's price, is just a joy to use.
Ever ride and maintain an old heavy Schwinn Varsity? Ever get to compare that with a new modern lightweight road bike with high end components? They both get you there, and the old heavy Schwinn will give you more exercise, but which is more of a joy to ride and work on?
So your answer isn't all A or all B. It is the appropriate tool for the job.
If "cheap" means badly designed, poorly manufactured and prone to breakage when properly used, no I don't want that tool for general use. If, on the other hand, I am out in the middle of nowhere, and nothing else is available, I would prefer it to having nothing.
If "quality" means well designed, well manufactured tools that do the job, then I would prefer them over "cheap" tools as defined above.
Now, cheap doesn't always mean less expensive. And "quality" doesn't always mean more expensive.
Your post says "on a budget" so that means you, of necessity, must sort out what is what in the marketplace. You will end up with a mixture of less and more expensive tools.
Your post doesn't mention professional use. If that is the criteria, then most pros on this forum lean toward getting the best tools they can find, regardless of price (Even though they also like a good deal). And pros need a wider variety and quantity of tools than the casual user. So to solve that problem, many use the ability to buy on time. But even then, the money conscious ones will only buy the tools they NEED, when they need them. And will also fill in with less expensive tools where they will do the job.
But even for home or casual use, a "cheap" tool, as defined above, just makes the job more difficult. An inexpensive, but appropriate tool makes the job go better. A superb tool, regardless of it's price, is just a joy to use.
Ever ride and maintain an old heavy Schwinn Varsity? Ever get to compare that with a new modern lightweight road bike with high end components? They both get you there, and the old heavy Schwinn will give you more exercise, but which is more of a joy to ride and work on?
So your answer isn't all A or all B. It is the appropriate tool for the job.
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kool_BOY8323
Well-known member
this topic gets rehashed and rehashed and the argument is as old as time and memorial.
as a practical realist, i own what i can afford, and what gets the job done. i have the HF 'junk' everyone hates on, i have snappy, craftsman, mac, cornwell, knipex, duralast, husky, gearwrench, and many others.
my go-to chrome sockets are from big lots. they're 6 years old and ive never broken one.
my go to impact sockets are pittsburgh from HF and wal-mart's cambell hausfeld line.
my go-to ratchet was a duralast for 2 years, a colombian before that, and just recently the gearwrench 120xp line. both my 7 year old colombian and my 2 year old duralast still work just fine.
my first 1/2 impact was a cambell hausfeld. it still works, but got tired. i worked with an aircat for about 18 months, it got tired, but still works. im about 5 months into my cornwell, and i love it, but its getting weak too.
the point im trying to make is, its not what you have, its what you do.
be proud of your work, and nevermind any haters that think just because it isnt snap on it cant get the job done. dont belive the hype. find someone that you think is horrible on their tools, that just absolutely mis-uses them and abuses them. then see what they AREN'T breaking, and buy that.
as a practical realist, i own what i can afford, and what gets the job done. i have the HF 'junk' everyone hates on, i have snappy, craftsman, mac, cornwell, knipex, duralast, husky, gearwrench, and many others.
my go-to chrome sockets are from big lots. they're 6 years old and ive never broken one.
my go to impact sockets are pittsburgh from HF and wal-mart's cambell hausfeld line.
my go-to ratchet was a duralast for 2 years, a colombian before that, and just recently the gearwrench 120xp line. both my 7 year old colombian and my 2 year old duralast still work just fine.
my first 1/2 impact was a cambell hausfeld. it still works, but got tired. i worked with an aircat for about 18 months, it got tired, but still works. im about 5 months into my cornwell, and i love it, but its getting weak too.
the point im trying to make is, its not what you have, its what you do.
be proud of your work, and nevermind any haters that think just because it isnt snap on it cant get the job done. dont belive the hype. find someone that you think is horrible on their tools, that just absolutely mis-uses them and abuses them. then see what they AREN'T breaking, and buy that.
Ign
Well-known member
There's only one?
Anyone have Shop Vac recommendations?
Anyone used the cordless ratchets?
I think stuff made in China is ok, what do you think?
I'm looking for a welder, recommendations?
Should I get a bandsaw or an abrasive saw? What about those fancy saw dry cut thingies?
My HOA won't let me build the garage of my dreams!!
There's only one?
Anyone have Shop Vac recommendations?
Anyone used the cordless ratchets?
I think stuff made in China is ok, what do you think?
I'm looking for a welder, recommendations?
Should I get a bandsaw or an abrasive saw? What about those fancy saw dry cut thingies?
My HOA won't let me build the garage of my dreams!!
Or Ford Vs. Chevy! We love to discuss all these topics. Beats talking about sports or politics.
Moose97
Well-known member
Just saw this today. Hard to beat this price!http://www.craftsman.com/shc/s/p_10155_12602_00936540000P
SMKS
Well-known member
I would choose option 3, a good amount of medium-priced tools.
The best thing about this forum is learning about the lesser-known quality brands that can be had for a good price.
woody 73
Well-known member
I was thinking about this post last night; if the op has some free time after work be sure and hit lowes for a few good deals on their 3/8 drive deep well socket sets for around $14.00 dollars and some change.
HD has a special for $11.00 dollars for a 4pc. metric box end wrench set of better made wrenches coming from Taiwan, which is a tad better then mainland China.
Deals are out there, Today I picked up 8 wrenches from some old American companies for $8.00 dollars, a few used screwdrivers for $1.00 each and several bags of nuts & bolts for $2.00 per lb. each.
Keep looking you never know what is around the block.
HD has a special for $11.00 dollars for a 4pc. metric box end wrench set of better made wrenches coming from Taiwan, which is a tad better then mainland China.
Deals are out there, Today I picked up 8 wrenches from some old American companies for $8.00 dollars, a few used screwdrivers for $1.00 each and several bags of nuts & bolts for $2.00 per lb. each.
Keep looking you never know what is around the block.
57JoeFoMoPar
Well-known member
For the tools I use often, I buy good quality, USA made stuff. Either NOS or good used Craftsman, SO, Blue Point, or Proto. Virtually all of my wrenches and sockets are either Craftsman USA, Craftsman -v-, Proto or Easco. That said, I have a little bit of everything, Kobalt, Husky, and HF. For the stuff I don't use often or only need for a job or two, I don't mind buying cheap, as long as it gets the job done. If it is a tool I wind up using often, I'll probably upgrade at some point.
richfinn
Well-known member
High quality doesn't have to be expensive.
This is the biggest bugbear of this site.
Do some research and buy the best you can afford at the price that you want to pay.
Ko-Ken
NWS
Wiha
Facom
It's all here you just need to read before you buy, and get over having a matching colour coded set to boost your Ego. Sure most Snap-On is great quality and they offer a good service but it doesn't make you a better technician.
Forget warranty/finance if it breaks buy another better version/save up and buy with cash.
This is the biggest bugbear of this site.
Do some research and buy the best you can afford at the price that you want to pay.
Ko-Ken
NWS
Wiha
Facom
It's all here you just need to read before you buy, and get over having a matching colour coded set to boost your Ego. Sure most Snap-On is great quality and they offer a good service but it doesn't make you a better technician.
Forget warranty/finance if it breaks buy another better version/save up and buy with cash.
sberry
Banned
I buy a few of each, the OTC fuel inj cleasner and some stuff was real reasonable. I bought the HF ball joint set for 40 and its fine, the Chicago battery load tester was 50 and a steal and the cyl leak tester is ok. Battery drills, welders etc cant be duplicated as cheaply.
I have "good sockets" but the HF impacts, so far so good and a hundred or so cheap combo wrenches that work great too.
I have "good sockets" but the HF impacts, so far so good and a hundred or so cheap combo wrenches that work great too.
I have myself bought used snap on ratchets from ebay, 40usd for a used f80(looks like new and feels that to) for example! Ratchets,wrenches,sockets i would not cheap out on..I have broke sockets,wrenches and ratchets for only diy work, so cheap junk is a big no no for me atleast! Wrenches are pretty important to have a couple of high quality sets! All talks abput snap on, look alittle bit on euro tools! Stahlwille,hazet,gedore etc etc are just as good as So! stahlwille are cheaper and sick quality!
Jawn
Well-known member
When it comes to the basic hardline stuff (wrenches, sockets, ratchets, screwdrivers, etc), I'd definitely choose quality (or at least mid-line) over quantity.
Specialty stuff I'd cheap out on, if it's not something I'd use very often.
Specialty stuff I'd cheap out on, if it's not something I'd use very often.
For a hobbyist, a full time mechanic or? Ive always found high end stuff not worth the money. Good mid line and even low end tools will get the job done if you know what you are doing. Now I am not talking about **** but it surprising how good a lot of low end tools are. Now if you are going to abuse the tools yes the low end stuff will fail quicker. If you are a full time mechanic there a case to be made for increased productivity. Lots of mechanics thrive using craftsman and the like so it may not be as solid of a point as some believe.
Brownsfan
Well-known member
Where does SK fit? Is it mid priced? Their pliers and screwdrivers are not that expensive compared to the trucks. The sockets and wrenches are creeping close to truck prices. Ratchets are still relatively mid priced. Doing it all over I would have gone SK for a lot of my hard line stuff. Most of my sockets are c-man USA as well as wrenches. My screwdrivers are snap on and c-man pro and a Cornwell set. Ratchets are snappy and Cornwell with c-man mixed in.