Tool browsing in PA

[Matt XYZ]

So I am heading back to the US for two weeks and I’m looking forward to browsing for tools. Since I discovered GJ I’ve purchased a ton of tools, way more than I need. Mostly over the internet and made my first trip to HF last year to check it out. I won’t have the chance or the need to check out the tool truck brands but plan on hitting the Big Box Stores and Auto Part stores- Napa, Advance Auto, Pep Boys, etc. I got in on the Advance Auto Gear Wrench sale a few months ago. I don’t really need anything except power tools -110v/60Hz vs 220/50hz is an issue unless I use a transformer for charging batteries. Anything with a AC motor won’t work perfectly.

There is no Sears or Harbor Freight nearby. I really, really wish I could get a US General 44 inch box but I have no realistic way of getting it back to Germany. I hope to hit a few garage sales but probably won’t bother with pawn shops.

Does anyone know of any good local tool stores in central PA or anywhere else I should check out? I have access to top German tool brands (with the prices to match) here and have found some deals on Ebay.de and flea markets. I can order anything from the US that ships USPS so Amazon, Ebay, etc. Harry Epstein's is #1 on my tool bucket list if I ever get back to Fort Leavenworth.

 

[Hooker]

PaulB Hardware.

 

[Matt XYZ]

PaulB Hardware.

Thanks, that looks like a great store. Looking forward to checking out the SK isle.

 

[joe_padavano]

Don't know when exactly you plan to be in PA, but the Fall Carlisle swap meet is Oct 3-7. Lots and lots of tools, primarily automotive-related. Of course, they are interspersed among all the other automotive vendors. Hershey is the following week.

 

[Matt XYZ]

Don't know when exactly you plan to be in PA, but the Fall Carlisle swap meet is Oct 3-7. Lots and lots of tools, primarily automotive-related. Of course, they are interspersed among all the other automotive vendors. Hershey is the following week.

Thanks, I definitely have to fit in Fall Carlisle. I last went 20 years ago when I was at Penn State. I may be able to find some parts I need in addition to tools.

 

[theluke]

Where in central PA are you going to be? State College area?

 

[bas157]

Thanks, I definitely have to fit in Fall Carlisle. I last went 20 years ago when I was at Penn State. I may be able to find some parts I need in addition to tools.

you'll definitely be able to find tons of tools there, including things you didn't know existed and things you didn't know you wanted!

Never been there, but looks like it would be a cool store to go to!
https://colemans.com/
Not sure how much they have in the line of tools, but still would like to get there sometime.

 

[Matt XYZ]

Where in central PA are you going to be? State College area?

I'll be in State College for the Ohio State game. I don't know if I'll get a chance to hit any stores over the weekend.

 

[Oldsmobile]

Coleman's is primarily military surplus. Hand tools and the like aren't really their thing, although I did once get a couple of sets of Blackhawk allen wrenches there. Boots, pants, tents, mess kits, parts for military trucks, bags & storage...that's the sort of stuff they have there.

 

[woodscaper]

Hermance machine co in Williamsport. Mostly woodworking power tools. Hermance.com

 

[Matt XYZ]

Thanks for all of the tips guys. I didn't make it to Carlisle because my extended family all wanted to visit. I guess this is to be expected when I only get home every few years. I did get a few small things from the Altoona Sears and HF. I'll keep the places like Hermance and Coleman's in mind for next time.

 

[loudog212]

PaulB Hardware.

Beautiful store!!

 

[Matt XYZ]

Beautiful store!!

That was on the top of my list but I didn't make it through Lancaster and Berks on this trip. I'll make a detour next time I visit family down that way. The store looks amazing from the website. Thanks.