Part lll: Tool Shops in Japan

Yet another thread on tool shops in Japan. Many could care less about what kind of tools are sold in shops over there, but I'm sure there's a bunch that would be curious to know.


I recently came back from vacationing in Japan and as part of any overseas trip I do, I have this insatiable appetite to seek out good tool shops that I can visit.
And so I did, and as time and mood allows, I'll upload photos that I took.


I'll start off with the city of Osaka, which became the highlight of my tool seeking adventure. I was in this city two years ago and I was fortunate enough to discover some great looking, mom-pop type tool shops, but unfortunately my time ran out as they were just starting to close up for the night. So, I made it a mission to go back to that same neighbourhood during this recent trip.

On my way to that tool shop alley, I stumbled across one shop that carried a decent amount of hand tools. I just snapped a few:



KTC tools--the standard name in tools across the entire country; like Craftsman is for North America


<a href=" https://flic.kr/p/pM3Vc3 " title="DSCN1193a by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8408/15606017140_bd02e944a7_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN1193a"></a>


PB Swiss or PB Baumann as they used to be called, has been sold in Japan for many decades

<a href=" https://flic.kr/p/q4obKi " title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5612/15790840535_85b492344f_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>


The store literally displays it's merchandise outside of their store front. Lots of Vessel and KTC branded screwies:

<a href=" https://flic.kr/p/pLZWku " title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7489/15605435658_4a59afc3be_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>



I reached my tool shop alley and snapped some store front views:

<a href=" https://flic.kr/p/q4wcXj " title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7556/15792405492_96534355bb_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>


<a href=" https://flic.kr/p/pLXNGD " title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5607/15605019749_2eff26cc91_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>


<a href=" https://flic.kr/p/q4wbvb " title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7476/15792400612_be14785b87_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>


I saw this store front and my eyes just lit up as if I knew I had reached my destination. This store was just reeking of goodies.

<a href=" https://flic.kr/p/pM3QB1 " title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5604/15606001710_03d867c0bb_b.jpg" width="1024" height="836" alt="."></a>


My hopes were high, very high, when I saw these signs/stickers:

<a href=" https://flic.kr/p/q4vWPU " title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7508/15792354602_b4717131ed_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="."></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15605962460" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7472/15605962460_03fa50c15d_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="."></a>


...to continue

Great thread. I wish I was interested in tools during my time in Japan, their soda/vending machines were fascinating, could only imagine what their tool stores were like. Most of my time was in Oki and Hiroshima though, nit sure if there's alo tof shops there.

I am always interested in KTC/Koken/Lobster/Japanese stickers for my box. If you happen to ever have a surplus, keep me in mind and PM me.

Espy,

Yup, there's a Factory Gear store in Hiroshima that you could've visited.

Yup, I do have a surplus of Ko-ken stickers....as you will later see in this thread.







BTW, if anyone wants to see Part l and ll from my last trip to Japan:

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=148018


http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=150399

I've got a Kyoto Tool Co. 10mm/14mm offset brake pipe flare nut wrench that I bought at the flea market with practically no wear at all.

Cost the princely sum of $1.

superautobacs said:

Espy,

Yup, there's a Factory Gear store in Hiroshima that you could've visited.

Yup, I do have a surplus of Ko-ken stickers....as you will later see in this thread.







BTW, if anyone wants to see Part l and ll from my last trip to Japan:

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=148018


http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=150399

Click to expand...

Weird. I just stumbled upon the factory gear youtube channel and have been watching their videos. Look over here and there is a thread talking about them....

There was an old display for PB Swiss tools. I wondered how many years it took for the dust accumulate on those tools!?

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15788929491" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7499/15788929491_df7d2fac03_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15790791125" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5611/15790791125_b3635410f0_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>


I then turned my attention to the glass windowed showcase and started recording

<object width="560" height="315"><param name="movie" value="//www.youtube.com/v/EzLfmjvbkJ4?hl=en_US&version=3&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="//www.youtube.com/v/EzLfmjvbkJ4?hl=en_US&version=3&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="560" height="315" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object>


A little redundant, but I took photos as well.

Wera, Norbar, Stahlwille, Tohnichi, KTC torque wrenches:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15767162186" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8575/15767162186_75743bfb42_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>


More Tohnichi:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15171392833" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7477/15171392833_aa95556f6c_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>


Pressol and Golden Rod oilers
NOGA dial gauge stand
Knipex pliers *some may have seen the crosshatched versions of the pliers wrench, but any of you seen one with an anvil cutter!?
Ko-ken gold plated set

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15170876444" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5604/15170876444_48319f7d8d_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>


A rare 1990's, first generation Nepros ratchet, along with the latest 90-tooth ratchet
Zeal set on the bottom

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15605415168" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7569/15605415168_d6b6cc8d27_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>


A Beta/Ferrari set:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15170871094" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7471/15170871094_3b552ea126_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>


Facom set on right
Stahlwille's older and latest 80-tooth ratchet


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15171382883" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7509/15171382883_0138b0e7c6_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>


Beta SS (INOX) wrenches sitting on top of USAG metal box set
Facom VDE set

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15767146926" title="DSCN1207 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7560/15767146926_3e91eecf59_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="DSCN1207"></a>



Wiha Inomic pliers
Erem(?) precision electronics pliers


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15171376843" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5605/15171376843_13450a75be_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>



Belzer chip removers?? What is it?

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15605400818" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5616/15605400818_49dafdcf4f_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>


Pretty self explanatory. The evolution of the Snap-On logo:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15605976480" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5611/15605976480_c082791012_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>



Some nice Beta hammers
Reilang oiler
Hazet wrench set in tin can

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15767135336" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7548/15767135336_435c86970d_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>



Some more Hazet:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15767132506" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7524/15767132506_d0474f4f16_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>




I this point I was already in a state of tool nirvana.

I was ....and this was only the storefront. At this point, I had no idea how big or small this place is, or how many people work behind the showcase.

Then a man came out and I immediately apologized for not asking him if I could take photos of his shop. I told him I was amazed at the variety of brands he carried, and that I'm visiting from Canada. Then I hear another man speak out from behind a wall of tools. He said in Japanese, "we have Piquic and Kuny's". I laughed, walked inside the narrow walkway, and greeted the man sitting on a small stool, literally surrounded by a wall of tools behind his back and sides. He was old and I wasn't surprised. Anyhow, the conversations started and it didn't stop.

The store has been in business just over 60 years. He's second generation. It was just him and his one worker.

I had never walked into a store like that. This place was just oooozing of exotic tools from around the world. It was MY KIND OF PLACE!

It was a real pleasure to talk about the evolution of the tool industry, its history, and the not-so-well known facts that only tool geeks can appreciate.



Hakko, Weidmuller, Knipex, Lowe, Belzer, Eclipse, Proto, Rigid, Noga, NES, and some I've never heard of

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15171344863" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7484/15171344863_edf14d666d_b.jpg" width="768" height="1024" alt="."></a>



Novelty items from Snap-On, Facom, Beta, Hazet, PB Swiss, Stahlwille.
Specialty wrenches from Hazet on bottom:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15170838544" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5615/15170838544_94ed0e71bf_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>


A view of the inside. They have various specialty tools from Lisle, KD, Kastar, Lisle, SP (Schley), etc as well:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15605376638" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7497/15605376638_9184d5768c_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>



Wall of pliers from Snap-on, MAC, SK, Knipex, Hazet, Bahco, Wiha, Erem, Lindstrom, WILL, C.K., C.S. Osborne, etc.

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15170826524" title="Image494 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7535/15170826524_36278a23dd_b.jpg" width="1024" height="575" alt="Image494"></a>



Stahlwille 'wall' clock

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15170901954" title="Image493 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5606/15170901954_cbde75ccd2_b.jpg" width="575" height="1024" alt="Image493"></a>


As much as I wanted to take more photos, my battery died on me! This was my last photo capture.

During our conversations we ended up talking about Gedore, Dowidat, and then to the Carolus brand. I told him I had a Carolus Readyflex model and then he brought out this super cool Carolus Conterflex ratchet. I believe he said it's from the 80's. Although a German brand, this series of ratchets were patented by a Japanese company.

Carolus ratchet on bottom with a unique fixed/flex head adjustable ratchet that was controlled by the grip handle.
Stahlwille ratchet on top

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15790774565" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5602/15790774565_5b49c0ab3a_b.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>




I didn't manage to get a shot of the other side of the shop, so I found this on google images.


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15606031000" title="DSCN1221 site by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5609/15606031000_087938dbc1_o.jpg" width="640" height="424" alt="DSCN1221 site"></a>


There was A LOT of cool NOS stuff here. I can write a lot about the rare NOS stuff I saw, but without pictures I'm going to bore you guys to no end.

I asked him he had something that was really rare and wouldn't like to sell. He thought for a second and told me that at his age he can't remember where everything is, and I wasn't surprised as he had a ton of stuff behind curtains inside their cool, old paper boxes with the tool illustrations on them. I only saw a little peak at the treasure chest this place is.

Anyhow, he did bring out an old Bonney Cam Lock wrench that was within his reach from his stool. Like this:

I asked him how much and I was shocked.



to be continued....

That does it. I can't let myself go to Japan until retirement is fully funded.

Between the bright colors, shiny chrome and variety of foreign and domestic tools, I'd blow it all in one 2-week visit!

superautobacs said:

Knipex pliers *some may have seen the crosshatched versions of the pliers wrench, but any of you seen one with an anvil cutter!?

Click to expand...

This intrigues me. I don't see the anvil cutter or crosshatch version on Knipex's site or their catalog. Are these things a distributor special or something?

superautobacs said:

Yet another thread on tool shops in Japan. Many could care less about what kind of tools are sold in shops over there, but I'm sure there's a bunch that would be curious to know..................................

Click to expand...

I'm enjoying your holiday snaps ... keep 'em coming.

I'd go broke in a place like that, which I'm sure would make the old guy very happy.

Thanks very much for posting this thread!

I always enjoy your tool shop pictures from Japan. Very cool to see the top tool brands from all over the world crammed into a little shop.

I am curious as to who shops in stores like these--someone who uses tools in his profession, a tool aficionado, or the average person needing a screwdriver?

Had a chuckle at the thought of showing your Japan vacation pictures to family and friends and coming to all the tool pictures. Not everyone understands like us on GJ.

Awesome thread, the Japanese still respect quality and what it takes to make excellent manufactured/machined goods.

Nicely done once again. That place looks incredible. I like to think of it as the owner is a collector and lets something go from his collection if his desired price is met.

Are things generally high priced in those shops?


Are their domestic brands much more reasonably priced?

Did you get anything?

How do the prices compare to here ?

looks amazing

Two things that really surprise me; one is the amount of name brands this shop has, for an online store it would be rare to carry so many, for an actual B&M unheard of in NA.

Then the way everything is stacked so tight everywhere. Not so rare in trinket and cheap dollar stores, but I never seen so much expensive inventory stacked like this.

The B&M stores I have been to that carry top name tools have fewer brand names (often not carrying too many direct competitors), and usually have it laid out something resembling more a jewelry store!

jc5205 said:

How do the prices compare to here ?

Click to expand...

Generally about the same prices for most things. But the quality of service over there you get at any type of store is light years better than you would get in the Us.The Japanese take pride in their profession, regardless of what they do. Also, if you go to a restaurant, the portion sizes are considerably larger than anything you find here. I remember spending ~9 USD at the Hoto Moto (actually it's Hotto Motto, thats just how we pronounced it) I'd be eating off it for days. It wasnt slop or filler either, prime cuts of everything. You get your dollars worth everywhere except the US to be completely honest.

General Geoff said:

This intrigues me. I don't see the anvil cutter or crosshatch version on Knipex's site or their catalog. Are these things a distributor special or something?

Click to expand...

They were specifically made for the airline industry. Any surplus was distributed to who ever was interested...is my guess.

JoeMA said:

I always enjoy your tool shop pictures from Japan. Very cool to see the top tool brands from all over the world crammed into a little shop.

I am curious as to who shops in stores like these--someone who uses tools in his profession, a tool aficionado, or the average person needing a screwdriver?

Had a chuckle at the thought of showing your Japan vacation pictures to family and friends and coming to all the tool pictures. Not everyone understands like us on GJ.

Click to expand...

Probably caters to all three groups, in the order you listed. During my 4-hour stay at the shop, he had no walk-ins, just two phone calls asking for specific tool availability. He has no on-line store so his customers are probably based on loyal, old-time customers and relying on word-of-mouth marketing.

it's a bit embarrassing when half of the photos taken on the trip is tool related. ...but I know this community understands.

3baygarage said:

Nicely done once again. That place looks incredible. I like to think of it as the owner is a collector and lets something go from his collection if his desired price is met.

Are things generally high priced in those shops?


Are their domestic brands much more reasonably priced?

Did you get anything?

Click to expand...

A collector selling his collection at the right price....perhaps for some items like that Bonney Cam Lock wrench...I think he was reluctant to find some decades old price sheet, sitting underneath a slew of other catalogues.

In the photos you'll see some price tags. It's easy to get a ball-park US$ figure. Simply cover the last two digits and that'll give you the US$ equivalent.

Foreign tool brands are represented at this store, with a handful of Japanese brand tools that are selectively picked (and sold at good prices). The surrounding stores in this tool alley cater toward the domestic brands.
Interestingly, in the early days, Proto tools had a lot more representation, until Snap-On and MAC came into Japan.





Here are the few items I bought from him:

From Ideal-tek


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15614103996" title="J2014 Ideal-tek by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5599/15614103996_8760600293_o.jpg" width="1200" height="378" alt="J2014 Ideal-tek"></a>

From their site http://www.ideal-tek.com/catalogue/electronics/probes/probes/mpt-probes-magic-wand/#p:
"PEEK polyetheretherketone reinforced with carbon fibre
very hard, rigid, high tensile and flexural strength, very high wear resistance high heat capability (260-300°C), good dimension stability, low thermal linear expansion coefficient
excellent resistance to chemicals and aggressive agents, excellent resistance to thermal ageing
ESD-safe material
typical applications include handling of components in cleaning/chemical/assembly processes also at high temperature (soldering)"


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15614100166" title="J2014 Ideal-tek 2 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3940/15614100166_e84d3c43fa_o.jpg" width="1200" height="900" alt="J2014 Ideal-tek 2"></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15452230780" title="J2014 Ideal-tek 3 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5613/15452230780_686cb30e4e_o.jpg" width="1200" height="900" alt="J2014 Ideal-tek 3"></a>



A rebranded Weicon cable/wire stripper:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15451676418" title="J2014 Marvel by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3937/15451676418_fd8526e906_o.jpg" width="1200" height="1342" alt="J2014 Marvel"></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15451672318" title="J2014 Marvel2 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5613/15451672318_7491e4d9ca_o.jpg" width="1200" height="900" alt="J2014 Marvel2"></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15451670278" title="J2014 Marvel3 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5614/15451670278_ef1f344c3b_o.jpg" width="1200" height="1163" alt="J2014 Marvel3"></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15638636012" title="J2014 Marvel 4 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3947/15638636012_5eb8125581_o.jpg" width="1200" height="900" alt="J2014 Marvel 4"></a>




I bought the Asahi slim DOE wrenches on the right:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15451121619" title="J2014 SKllAsahi by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3948/15451121619_2738771144_o.jpg" width="1200" height="1296" alt="J2014 SKllAsahi"></a>


Asahi on top:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15452185130" title="J2014 SKllAsahi2 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5602/15452185130_072613497f_o.jpg" width="1200" height="740" alt="J2014 SKllAsahi2"></a>



Hazet novelty item:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15094401143" title="J2014 Hazet by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3946/15094401143_bca57342a8_o.jpg" width="1200" height="900" alt="J2014 Hazet"></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15094398843" title="J2014 Hazet 2 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3948/15094398843_c6feb5d1ee_o.jpg" width="1200" height="900" alt="J2014 Hazet 2"></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15528915360" title="J2014 Hazet 3 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3951/15528915360_0a2fc50b29_o.jpg" width="1200" height="900" alt="J2014 Hazet 3"></a>




PB Swiss novelty:


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15528554207" title="J2014 PB Swiss by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3937/15528554207_72dbfa7ffe_o.jpg" width="1200" height="900" alt="J2014 PB Swiss"></a>



I failed to take a photo of his wrench display. In this shop he had a couple dozen boxes laid out for each size. So, there was a box for each size, from 5mm all the way to... I think it was 22mm or so, all open for viewing and handling. Inside each box was a myriad of tool brands. For example, Hazet, Stahlwille, Beta, Unior, Snap-on, Mac, KD, KTC.

I inquired if he had any European standard deep offset wrenches with a 14mm on one end. He told he had one from Hazet, Stahlwille, Unior, and Belzer.

We had just talked about Belzer so I asked to see the Belzer one. He quickly asked his worker to find the 14x17mm Belzer and he walked to the back of the store, scratching his head as if wondering "where the heck is that sitting?".

After a couple minutes his worker came back with the wrench in his hand. The owner proceeded to say that this Belzer wrench was a fine example of when they were still made in Germany, before they switched manufacturing to Argentina.

I asked how much and he quickly brought out his Belzer price sheet. $34US I asked how much the Unior, Hazet and Stahlwille ones were and they were all cheaper. What did I end up with?







<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15728183675" title="J2014 Belzer Mac by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3951/15728183675_2d3f93ac5b_o.jpg" width="1200" height="732" alt="J2014 Belzer Mac"></a>



The NOS Belzer

I also got that nicely made NOS, MAC USA shallow offset (1/4 x 5/16) for a similar price. I just checked the online price from MAC's website and the price is actually spot on!




He gave me a little discount and I thanked him for that.

They were all placed inside this cool Wera cloth bag:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15785245245" title="J2014 Wera by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7506/15785245245_5cf62472a1_o.jpg" width="1200" height="1366" alt="J2014 Wera"></a>


and gave me some freebies as well

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15600112947" title="J2014 Decals by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7539/15600112947_7e1b0504d2_o.jpg" width="1200" height="1141" alt="J2014 Decals"></a>

Thanks for sharing!!

I got a chance to visit a few tool stores in Germany recently and it was quite similar -- stacks on stacks of top tier tools. Almost just as you say, a collector selling his collection.

I've always wanted to travel to Japan, and now you've made me want it even more. My interest in tool stores abroad is now greatly expanded! ;-)

What you share is eye opening, and makes me think more about why hardware stores in NA are the way they are. I can fall asleep in my local tool store. :/

Space costs money in Japan hence the high tool density found in the small shops, also was that dusty PB Swiss stuff actually for sale? I just cant believe how much dust is on it, it must have sat untouched for years.

superautobacs said:

*snip*. Many could care less about what kind of tools are sold in shops over there, *snip*

Click to expand...

I pity the fools... /Mr.T.

This is pure gold. (Even quite literally) Much appreciated superautobacs. Keep 'em coming.

awesome photos & story !

north said:

I pity the fools... /Mr.T.

This is pure gold. (Even quite literally) Much appreciated superautobacs. Keep 'em coming.

Click to expand...

^+1.

Don't tease.... How much was that old Bonney Cam Lock wrench?

dutchgray said:

Space costs money in Japan hence the high tool density found in the small shops, also was that dusty PB Swiss stuff actually for sale? I just cant believe how much dust is on it, it must have sat untouched for years.

Click to expand...

Nope, that was PB Swiss' own display. so everything in there is NOS...minus the dust and surface rust.

Plombob said:

Don't tease.... How much was that old Bonney Cam Lock wrench?

Click to expand...

I think he said somewhere around $50








EDIT: BELOW ARE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS TAKEN FROM A TRIP IN 2016

Where in Japan is this place?
Im going there tomorrow for 10 days and if its near i would love to check it out

Thanks
Brad

Name your price for one of those KTC stickers!

I have some free time to post photos that I took at the "home center" I went to.

Bosch green tools:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620745328" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8546/15620745328_3116d3c6ba_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


blue and green tool:

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15807727152" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8619/15807727152_7f98c2350e_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


some Makita

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15806142405" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7550/15806142405_0f2233f448_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620749288" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5604/15620749288_0681df904a_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


Hitachi Koki

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15806161655" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7516/15806161655_bf01eda80c_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


KTC and misc tool boxes

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15186305613" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7553/15186305613_6cc3f74a38_o.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>


All KTC here

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15806193305" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5614/15806193305_5daa43a3fb_o.jpg" width="1024" height="768" alt="."></a>


Offset drawer setup allows top 4 drawers to be opened at the same time

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15621343690" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7485/15621343690_b584e4e672_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


Rail anvil

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15186227204" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8664/15186227204_0023b01dff_o.jpg" width="1200" height="900" alt="."></a>


Hakko heat gun and assorted tips

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15782512806" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7479/15782512806_30b5124390_o.jpg" width="1180" height="773" alt="."></a>


tongue and groove, pipe wrenches, cutters/reamers, pullers, cutters

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620778628" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5610/15620778628_8753a802a5_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620773328" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7468/15620773328_a2514e5462_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15186713743" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7579/15186713743_071c636f06_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


Welding

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15782496266" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5603/15782496266_a0238e8386_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


Lots of Bosch oscillating, rotary, reciprocating attachments

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15186680243" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7520/15186680243_031ea50495_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


makita, too

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620701498" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8120/15620701498_bfd0f78ee8_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


diamond cutters

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15621284320" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7496/15621284320_3cb03356b7_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


cutting, grinding, smoothing discs

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15806128445" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7531/15806128445_c2b259aa95_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15186665813" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7469/15186665813_3f2d630b24_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


some 3M stuff

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15807690352" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7496/15807690352_7c1fdebeeb_o.jpg" width="1198" height="919" alt="."></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620290509" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5616/15620290509_541ce3d956_o.jpg" width="1600" height="962" alt="."></a>


Panasonic power tools

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15782440806" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8605/15782440806_01355dd9dd_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



recip saws

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620913487" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7525/15620913487_432450cb74_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


cord reel with outlets

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15782426526" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7553/15782426526_4988394269_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1000" alt="."></a>


minimal pneumatic selection

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620806168" title="DSCN1284 by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7546/15620806168_c51626f592_o.jpg" width="3759" height="2477" alt="DSCN1284"></a>


air blow guns

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15804202321" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7513/15804202321_8a693ab117_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


various tips

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15186631763" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7474/15186631763_4aea21d761_o.jpg" width="1210" height="640" alt="."></a>


trouble lights

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15186126814" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7559/15186126814_7280291c81_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15804189941" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7528/15804189941_477c625c83_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


Proxxon tools corner

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15806076425" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7482/15806076425_bf78694494_o.jpg" width="1197" height="835" alt="."></a>



KTC torque management tools

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620884767" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5611/15620884767_6190d3a98e_o.jpg" width="1198" height="931" alt="."></a>


wall of wrenches

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620665388" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8623/15620665388_aa62f8c155_o.jpg" width="1600" height="902" alt="."></a>


SKll branded. lockable swivel head ratcheting wrenches

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620659588" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7497/15620659588_dc515dd308_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


46mm was the largest available

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620869537" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8569/15620869537_5a5cd6c21c_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


more KTC

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15806049535" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8536/15806049535_7d484cdb2f_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15186602133" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5615/15186602133_4f3d0553fe_o.jpg" width="1600" height="980" alt="."></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15807610192" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5613/15807610192_1da1a64c15_o.jpg" width="1173" height="1020" alt="."></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15186581643" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7576/15186581643_4e72a73644_o.jpg" width="1575" height="1287" alt="."></a>

TOP branded ratcheting wrenches

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15804139801" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7565/15804139801_348e79f4ff_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15186570363" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5611/15186570363_6886978f7b_o.jpg" width="1564" height="1120" alt="."></a>


KTC branded ratcheting wrenches

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620192049" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5616/15620192049_8940e02cf8_o.jpg" width="1182" height="1158" alt="."></a>


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15782339936" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8554/15782339936_1f901f6666_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


KTC cantilever box with tool set, with height adjustable rolling pedestal

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15804129451" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7477/15804129451_06d692c1d4_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



screwdrivers from Anex, Vessel, ...including PB Swiss

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15782336046" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7502/15782336046_280763d098_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>




more drivers and some hex keys from WISE, Vessel, Bondhus, and PB Swiss

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620595868" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8619/15620595868_a920808c5e_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


Pliers from 3 Peaks, Fujiya, Victor, Tsunoda, Knipex

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620170799" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5605/15620170799_3c2735be8a_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



TOP branded interchangeable head torque wrench

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620796817" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7478/15620796817_c806af53e6_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15782320826" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7477/15782320826_0031799a4d_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



small assortment of Nepros tools

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15782311096" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5613/15782311096_50ba71aaed_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



pull saws / replacement blades

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15782306396" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7542/15782306396_071be15f2b_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>


wood working chisels

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620782567" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5616/15620782567_7b4e2a8dcc_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



the expensive chisels and carving tools were locked away

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15186511643" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5603/15186511643_8556caba2d_o.jpg" width="1600" height="947" alt="."></a>



<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620137759" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7581/15620137759_7e15b93190_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



assortment of bolt cutters

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15804069761" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7573/15804069761_50cec5ac62_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



from HIT, ARM, MCC, Dogyu

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15805954525" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5604/15805954525_aec1d13f57_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15186494773" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8592/15186494773_3a97215a55_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



too bad this was all wrapped up..it was a beauty. The one beside it has a stainless body

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620118219" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7562/15620118219_30cfd97a88_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



sweet looking stainless steel rebar tying tools

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15805938825" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8541/15805938825_d1a8f2f0b5_o.jpg" width="1565" height="937" alt="."></a>



erectors tools from TOP and Asahi

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15186480223" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7503/15186480223_37a42f35af_o.jpg" width="1567" height="1530" alt="."></a>



<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15807498842" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7475/15807498842_6deb7f8e5d_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15185962124" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8663/15185962124_de2b159d28_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15782246316" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7525/15782246316_8f42ca5c01_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



adjustables from TOP, Lobster, Supertool

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620723797" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7579/15620723797_658454dd19_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>




<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620495628" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8634/15620495628_afbe837269_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



Slip joint pliers from IPS and Lobster. Snap-ring pliers from Keiba and TOP


<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15186442113" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7470/15186442113_9124e1de1b_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>




more TOP snap-ring pliers and E-ring pliers from Engineer

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15621043900" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8587/15621043900_684bc3ce9e_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



Scissors/shears/nibblers/glass cutters from Canary, Olfa, Engineer, Mistubishi, MKK, etc

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620059649" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7539/15620059649_efd457acde_o.jpg" width="1564" height="954" alt="."></a>



<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15805874205" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5607/15805874205_4949791646_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>




wet stones/truing stones

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15803991501" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7548/15803991501_7e59bce767_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>





fully hand forged shears and forging pliers

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15185907484" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7553/15185907484_39aa56e3ec_o.jpg" width="1567" height="1189" alt="."></a>




<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15803974591" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5605/15803974591_7092f80e15_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>

hammer time!

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15782187766" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7509/15782187766_55e9c75c05_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15185890794" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8640/15185890794_a72d21042e_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620442808" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7502/15620442808_b5866379b5_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15807412472" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5613/15807412472_49ce95f448_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15782170506" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7492/15782170506_2634b43fa4_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15805834215" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8544/15805834215_b31711c4f5_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15185868054" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7546/15185868054_2c7aebe5fb_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15782156406" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7574/15782156406_9ea5ae12d3_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



catspaws, wrecking/pry bars, nail setters, cold chisels

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15782151796" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8404/15782151796_edcbe17899_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



from Dogyu and Bakuma brands

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15185853744" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5604/15185853744_92fc7bfca3_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



MKK, lightweight wrecking/pry bar with hollow, oval shafts.

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15782141026" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7516/15782141026_5aec98e42c_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



trowel corner

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15186352253" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5616/15186352253_f6ed859f55_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>




scrapers, spreaders, rollers

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620394008" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5613/15620394008_b2fc416185_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620949470" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8396/15620949470_a09e319370_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



more scrapers, and brushes

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620602297" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7533/15620602297_3299467f29_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1620" alt="."></a>



<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15803896141" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7461/15803896141_4ea1bc94dc_o.jpg" width="1587" height="1323" alt="."></a>



<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620587777" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5604/15620587777_67008d9d92_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>



hand file corner (majority with Japan as COO

<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620582427" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5602/15620582427_8ab5ff8f35_o.jpg" width="1567" height="1451" alt="."></a>



<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ccassan/15620918420" title=". by autobacs, on Flickr"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7550/15620918420_7be1dac6da_o.jpg" width="1600" height="1200" alt="."></a>




That's it folks! Thanks for watching.

All that was at a "home center"?

Holy ****! The Japanese don't screw around when it comes to tools.

As an aside, I've always liked the colorful and frenetic packaging and advertising.

A_Pmech said:

All that was at a "home center"?

Holy ****! The Japanese don't screw around when it comes to tools.

As an aside, I've always liked the colorful and frenetic packaging and advertising.

Click to expand...

Yup, hard to imagine isn't it! That was the tool section, which was about 1/4 of the floor space. The rest of the place was for....well, the rest.
The place is part of a large complex which includes a department store, a mall with a food court, and a movie theater!






















EDIT: ADDITIONAL NEW PHOTOS FROM 2016 FROM THE SAME HOME CENTER, CALLED "ENCHO"


















Proxxon on this side, Dremel products on the other side of this shelf:













Some Permatex, Loctite, and even Recoil products:









Over the years, these have become more widely known in North America (ie. Vampliers). I took some shots of the cool packaging.






On the back side, "Push" and "Look into jaws!"





Some power carving tools:






MAX pneumatic nailers (Japan):








Makita's -- made in Romania (left) and made in the UK (right)
Most were made in Japan though, with the exception of some cordless impact models being China.





This one was made in Japan though:






Hitachi 6.0

I'm jealous! I there was more ktc avalible in the states

Ain't the tool world great or what? Talk about tool ****! Who's up for a field trip to Japan? If I spent a week over there -- after all the seafood I would eat & all the tools I could buy -- I'd have to come home on a ship -- unless somebody knows how to get a hold of a C-130 for a small getaway with a couple of friends.

I'm amazed at how much stock they have and how organized it is. Most tool stores around here are unorganized and sold out of a lot of stuff. How much theft would occur if this photo was from, a U.S. or even Canadian store?

Thanks for posting all those pics, they have so much quality tools available, and so many options for each type of tool, from a home store. If I ever go to Japan the expenditure would be extreme if I had a way of getting it all home.

Thank you so much for taking the time to post up pictures and descriptions. I haven't been to Japan since 2000 and I really wasn't into tools then. I made it to quite a few car places though and it is amazing how organized everything is when you go into a store.

I have an old Option video around here somewhere where they build a monster AE86 from scratch and the first part of the video featured a Mac tool truck with explanations about how various Mac tools would assist in the tear down. Was neat to see this super small Mac truck that was packed full of tools inside.

OMG !!!! x 1000

tool **** to the nth degree


regarding a c 130, if I was to go to Japan I would need a C5 or two to bring my stuff back

I'm still wrapping my head aropund the pics especially the KTC ratcheting wrenches

Is this considered Asian ****??