Well, after much deliberation I ultimately decided to go with GearWrench. Here's why:
* I'm sure the USA made stuff is better, but the prices are substantially higher. I'm not a mechanic, and I'd rather use the extra money for tools I'll use in a more regular basis (like nice screwdrivers).
* I looked at both Kobalt and Husky, but their prices are ultimately still higher than the GearWrench for the pieces you get, and they're visually quite a bit worse in quality.
* True that Husky has a better guarantee, but let's face it, if I break or lose a socket I can replace it with a better one for only a few dollars.
* The ratchets that come with GearWrench appear to be quite good from all the reports. I already ordered the Crescent/GearWrench Roto Ratchets off eBay, so I'm set for ratchets too.
* The new trend in laser etched sockets is horrible. They're hard to read still sealed in the package! The only reason the manufacturers are doing it is cost cutting. It's one step above using stickers or screen printing on the sockets, which will almost certainly be the next thing in the race to cut costs. GearWrench hasn't succumbed to this yet, so I'm buying while the getting is good.
I greatly appreciate everyone's advice and links. I hope they benefit others in the same situation as I'm in!
* I'm sure the USA made stuff is better, but the prices are substantially higher. I'm not a mechanic, and I'd rather use the extra money for tools I'll use in a more regular basis (like nice screwdrivers).
* I looked at both Kobalt and Husky, but their prices are ultimately still higher than the GearWrench for the pieces you get, and they're visually quite a bit worse in quality.
* True that Husky has a better guarantee, but let's face it, if I break or lose a socket I can replace it with a better one for only a few dollars.
* The ratchets that come with GearWrench appear to be quite good from all the reports. I already ordered the Crescent/GearWrench Roto Ratchets off eBay, so I'm set for ratchets too.
* The new trend in laser etched sockets is horrible. They're hard to read still sealed in the package! The only reason the manufacturers are doing it is cost cutting. It's one step above using stickers or screen printing on the sockets, which will almost certainly be the next thing in the race to cut costs. GearWrench hasn't succumbed to this yet, so I'm buying while the getting is good.
I greatly appreciate everyone's advice and links. I hope they benefit others in the same situation as I'm in!
