Starter tool set

[Lucky13don]

Hello,
I've been checking EBay and Amazon for a good, professional set of sockets and wrenches .would like to go up to 1 1/8 " and standard and metric sockets. Will possibly starting as a lube tech at a equipment rental place.they have a snap on truck that comes by, but I don't need the debt. Any ideas? And thanks for reading.

 

[Empty Pockets]

If you are just starting out and money is tight, you might want to check out HF. Their tools are moderately priced, and exchanges are easy.

Tekton is another option. Decent tools, great warranty.

If you want to stay with USA made tools, try www.harryepstein.com They are really good folks and they price their SK and Wright tools fairly.

Good luck with the new job

 

[M6erfan]

Without a budget mentioned, recommendations are useless...

 

[Lucky13don]

Without a budget mentioned, recommendations are useless...

Well, it would be 2 weeks before I see a check. So let's say 400.00. Don't mind used, but not beat.

 

[Gurp]

With that small a budget I wold say HF 301 pc mechanics set and a set of tekton wrenchs.
Replace the stick HF 3/8s and 1/4 with HF composite ratchets from HF and flea market a old 60 tooth 1/2 drive.
You can donall that between 300 and 350.

 

[Parrothead]

Well, it would be 2 weeks before I see a check. So let's say 400.00. Don't mind used, but not beat.

This is easy...

TEKTON

3/8 Socket Set - $50
https://www.tekton.com/3-8-inch-drive-6-point-socket-set-13101
Has both shallow and deep metric and SAE, and a ratchet + accessories

1/2 Socket Set - $150
https://www.tekton.com/1-2-inch-drive-6-point-socket-set-13201
Has both shallow and deep metric and SAE, and a ratchet + accessories

1/4 Socket Set - $45
https://www.tekton.com/1-4-inch-drive-6-point-socket-set-13001
Has both shallow and deep metric and SAE, and a ratchet + accessories

Metric & SAE Combination Wrench Set - $90
https://www.tekton.com/combination-wrench-set-90191
8-22mm and 1/4" to 1"

SAE Combination Wrench 1-1/16 - $15
https://www.tekton.com/1-1-16-inch-combination-wrench-18267

SAE Combination Wrench 1-1/8 - $18
https://www.tekton.com/1-1-8-inch-combination-wrench-18268


GRAND TOTAL - $368

They also have the following combination wrenches... 6mm, 7mm, 23mm through 50mm should you be so inclined to need them. In SAE they go up to 2", so that should cover almost any need. All of the above is made in Taiwan

Lifetime warranty, with good tools.

I can vouch for the combination wrenches. I've used them to do brakes and suspension in the rust belt, and have beat on them with a 3lb mini sledge. Got the job done, though they're not quite as shiny as they once were. Hammers on chrome tend to do that. No chipping or peeling though.

You can also pick up some groove joint pliers, and slip joint pliers from them too. Those are USA made from Wilde. I like them better than Channellock at this point. In that vein, the Channellock adjustable wrenches are second to none. Made in Spain. The pry bars I'd pick up from Sears/Craftsman as they're cheaper and the same thing as the Tektons. Also USA made.

The rest you can pick and choose on your own, but that's a pretty good budget friendly start.

 

[ez-duzit]

Avoid HF and any other bottom of the barrel. Bad habit.

And don't blow the entire $400 budget right off the bat. See what you can come up with, used/clean, for $200. Then add to that what you discover you must have.

Always buy quality, even if it means used.

 

[Tallpilot]

Tekton or Gearwrench made in Taiwan sockets and Tekton combination wrenches. You can get most of what you are asking for within your budget.

https://www.tekton.com/combination-wrench-set-90191 $89
Need to add a 24mm, 1-1/16, 1-1/8 for about $15 each

The 84 tooth Gearwrench ratchets are a little nicer than Tekton and the metric sockets have knurling which is nice but they are about 50% more expensive.

The Tekton 1/4" and 3/8" will be $100 and the smaller 1/2" set is $150. You will be over budget if you get the larger 1/2" set to go all the way to 1-5/16.

Listen to Parrothead...not only was he faster than I was but he also came to the same conclusion. The Tekton stuff will get you by for quite a while then you can start drinking the Snap-on kool-aid...you are wise to avoid the debt though.

Also make an account with Tekton...you will get 5% back so order the sockets and wrench set then you can order the singles in a second order and they will be almost free.

 

[Parrothead]

Avoid HF and any other bottom of the barrel. Bad habit...Always buy quality, even if it means used.

There are quite a few people who are using some HF tools in a professional environment. The composite ratchets and impact sockets come to mind. Spending more than you need is a bad habit.

 

[sk farmer]

This is easy...

TEKTON

3/8 Socket Set - $50
https://www.tekton.com/3-8-inch-drive-6-point-socket-set-13101
Has both shallow and deep metric and SAE, and a ratchet + accessories

1/2 Socket Set - $150
https://www.tekton.com/1-2-inch-drive-6-point-socket-set-13201
Has both shallow and deep metric and SAE, and a ratchet + accessories

1/4 Socket Set - $45
https://www.tekton.com/1-4-inch-drive-6-point-socket-set-13001
Has both shallow and deep metric and SAE, and a ratchet + accessories

Metric & SAE Combination Wrench Set - $90
https://www.tekton.com/combination-wrench-set-90191
8-22mm and 1/4" to 1"

SAE Combination Wrench 1-1/16 - $15
https://www.tekton.com/1-1-16-inch-combination-wrench-18267

SAE Combination Wrench 1-1/8 - $18
https://www.tekton.com/1-1-8-inch-combination-wrench-18268


GRAND TOTAL - $368

They also have the following combination wrenches... 6mm, 7mm, 23mm through 50mm should you be so inclined to need them. In SAE they go up to 2", so that should cover almost any need. All of the above is made in Taiwan

Lifetime warranty, with good tools.

I can vouch for the combination wrenches. I've used them to do brakes and suspension in the rust belt, and have beat on them with a 3lb mini sledge. Got the job done, though they're not quite as shiny as they once were. Hammers on chrome tend to do that. No chipping or peeling though.

You can also pick up some groove joint pliers, and slip joint pliers from them too. Those are USA made from Wilde. I like them better than Channellock at this point. In that vein, the Channellock adjustable wrenches are second to none. Made in Spain. The pry bars I'd pick up from Sears/Craftsman as they're cheaper and the same thing as the Tektons. Also USA made.

The rest you can pick and choose on your own, but that's a pretty good budget friendly start.

i can't argue with this much but i would pick the 84 tooth gearwrench "buy the 3/8 set get the 1/4 free offer". i think the ratchets are better and you get a stubby as well. i t has a broader range of sockets as well.

 

[Musicinabottle]

There are quite a few people who are using some HF tools in a professional environment. The composite ratchets and impact sockets come to mind. Spending more than you need is a bad habit.

Just about everything I've bought used was American made and cheaper than harbor freight and gave me a buttery sweet sensation all warm and cozy all over. And tingly too!

I'll say I know that harbor freight is decent stuff for the money though just to appease the harbor freight worshippers, and to avert an attack for mentioning American made in this midst.

 

[SilverBulletZ06]

HF sets use 12-pointed nut-rounders. Spend a few bucks for the Tekton or GearWrench and get 6-point nut-turners.

 

[Lucky13don]

scored a vintage williams 1/2" 3/8 to 1 1/4" with breaker bar and s52 rachet for $69.00.

 

[Lucky13don]

This is easy...

TEKTON

3/8 Socket Set - $50
https://www.tekton.com/3-8-inch-drive-6-point-socket-set-13101
Has both shallow and deep metric and SAE, and a ratchet + accessories

1/2 Socket Set - $150
https://www.tekton.com/1-2-inch-drive-6-point-socket-set-13201
Has both shallow and deep metric and SAE, and a ratchet + accessories

1/4 Socket Set - $45
https://www.tekton.com/1-4-inch-drive-6-point-socket-set-13001
Has both shallow and deep metric and SAE, and a ratchet + accessories

Metric & SAE Combination Wrench Set - $90
https://www.tekton.com/combination-wrench-set-90191
8-22mm and 1/4" to 1"

SAE Combination Wrench 1-1/16 - $15
https://www.tekton.com/1-1-16-inch-combination-wrench-18267

SAE Combination Wrench 1-1/8 - $18
https://www.tekton.com/1-1-8-inch-combination-wrench-18268


GRAND TOTAL - $368

They also have the following combination wrenches... 6mm, 7mm, 23mm through 50mm should you be so inclined to need them. In SAE they go up to 2", so that should cover almost any need. All of the above is made in Taiwan

Lifetime warranty, with good tools.

I can vouch for the combination wrenches. I've used them to do brakes and suspension in the rust belt, and have beat on them with a 3lb mini sledge. Got the job done, though they're not quite as shiny as they once were. Hammers on chrome tend to do that. No chipping or peeling though.

You can also pick up some groove joint pliers, and slip joint pliers from them too. Those are USA made from Wilde. I like them better than Channellock at this point. In that vein, the Channellock adjustable wrenches are second to none. Made in Spain. The pry bars I'd pick up from Sears/Craftsman as they're cheaper and the same thing as the Tektons. Also USA made.

The rest you can pick and choose on your own, but that's a pretty good budget friendly start.

thanks. thats a great list.and a heck of a deal.

 

[WittHay]

Dont buy anything off the truck until you get a feel for the job. If you were north of the border I would suggest Jet, UltraPro and Westward. Decent tools that get the job done. The Tekton suggested sounds good

For equipment maintenance you need a wider selection of tools both in SAE And metric. Go cheaper to get all the sizes you need. Always time later to get that nice long handle ratchet or better quality prybar in the exact length or size you use the most

 

[Lucky13don]

Tekton or Gearwrench made in Taiwan sockets and Tekton combination wrenches. You can get most of what you are asking for within your budget.

https://www.tekton.com/combination-wrench-set-90191 $89
Need to add a 24mm, 1-1/16, 1-1/8 for about $15 each

The 84 tooth Gearwrench ratchets are a little nicer than Tekton and the metric sockets have knurling which is nice but they are about 50% more expensive.

The Tekton 1/4" and 3/8" will be $100 and the smaller 1/2" set is $150. You will be over budget if you get the larger 1/2" set to go all the way to 1-5/16.

Listen to Parrothead...not only was he faster than I was but he also came to the same conclusion. The Tekton stuff will get you by for quite a while then you can start drinking the Snap-on kool-aid...you are wise to avoid the debt though.

Also make an account with Tekton...you will get 5% back so order the sockets and wrench set then you can order the singles in a second order and they will be almost free.

thats a great idea. thanks

 

[rossomania]

I'd put together an initial "tool buy" list based on your anticipated duties as a lube tech. Then buy what you know you'll need, but set aside some cash for tools that you may need once you start working the new job. Buy sets of wrenches and other tools when possible since this gets you the best bang for your buck, but be careful not to blow your seed cash too soon. Tekton tools should serve you well getting started.

 

[Bryanthegreat]

I would agree with the Tekton and Gearwrench recommendations. Good value on both lines.

 

[Parrothead]

Just about everything I've bought used was American made and cheaper than harbor freight and gave me a buttery sweet sensation all warm and cozy all over. And tingly too!

I'll say I know that harbor freight is decent stuff for the money though just to appease the harbor freight worshippers, and to avert an attack for mentioning American made in this midst.

I have both used and new USA stuff, and import stuff too.

However, I can order the above list in about 10 minutes (it took me longer to cut and paste the links), while you'll have to chase eBay, Craigslist, GJ classifieds, etc. Plus you'll likely have skips, or you're going to kill the budget. I get it if you have the time, but in this case the OP is needing tools for a job.

Tools that work give me a buttery sweet sensation all warm and cozy too. Doesn't matter if it was made in Bangladesh or Pluto. Works is works.

 

[Parrothead]

i can't argue with this much but i would pick the 84 tooth gearwrench "buy the 3/8 set get the 1/4 free offer". i think the ratchets are better and you get a stubby as well. i t has a broader range of sockets as well.

I can't really argue with the Gearwrench deal either. It's a very good buy. To me it comes down to quick release vs. non. I am a big fan of quick release, so I tend to steer that direction. Again, you can't go wrong either way.

The Husky 72t ratchet is the best of both honestly. It's the Gearwrench/Apex design and quick release.

The ratchet I want to try is a new one from Tekton, this one specifically.
https://www.tekton.com/3-8-inch-drive-x-7-inch-low-profile-polished-ratchet-14932

It's got the same internals as a Titan ratchet I positively couldn't kill despite actively trying and the handle I like. I'll get it some day, but I am trying to pare down ratchets, not add to them. lol

 

[Musicinabottle]

I have both used and new USA stuff, and import stuff too.

However, I can order the above list in about 10 minutes (it took me longer to cut and paste the links), while you'll have to chase eBay, Craigslist, GJ classifieds, etc. Plus you'll likely have skips, or you're going to kill the budget. I get it if you have the time, but in this case the OP is needing tools for a job.

Tools that work give me a buttery sweet sensation all warm and cozy too. Doesn't matter if it was made in Bangladesh or Pluto. Works is works.

Well, I'm fortunate to have gathered my stuff largely before everything went to china, and I was young enough to have had the time. I agree that workith is workith but for me, it's a matter of principle and the notion of china made in my shop gives me a metallic taste sensation I just can't shake. I'm old enough to be set in my ways, I love the warm and cozy I get on my terms and I ain't never going to change!

I have used other peoples china though and it's good no doubt, just not for me.

 

[Lucky13don]

Dont buy anything off the truck until you get a feel for the job. If you were north of the border I would suggest Jet, UltraPro and Westward. Decent tools that get the job done. The Tekton suggested sounds good

For equipment maintenance you need a wider selection of tools both in SAE And metric. Go cheaper to get all the sizes you need. Always time later to get that nice long handle ratchet or better quality prybar in the exact length or size you use the most

thats my thoughts. buy a decent set of tools to start and as cash allows buy better.

 

[Parrothead]

Well, I'm fortunate to have gathered my stuff largely before everything went to china, and I was young enough to have had the time. I agree that workith is workith but for me, it's a matter of principle and the notion of china made in my shop gives me a metallic taste sensation I just can't shake. I'm old enough to be set in my ways, I love the warm and cozy I get on my terms and I ain't never going to change!

I have used other peoples china though and it's good no doubt, just not for me.

I get it, I do!

I have enough USA made stuff to never touch an import tool again, OR, I have enough import stuff to never touch a USA tool again. And yes, I am serious.

Do what makes you happy and fits your budget, that's all anyone can ask.

 

[Tallpilot]

scored a vintage williams 1/2" 3/8 to 1 1/4" with breaker bar and s52 rachet for $69.00.

That's awesome! 1/2" drive was going to be the budget killer the rest of the stuff was pretty reasonable.

 

[Musicinabottle]

I get it, I do!

I have enough USA made stuff to never touch an import tool again, OR, I have enough import stuff to never touch a USA tool again. And yes, I am serious.

Do what makes you happy and fits your budget, that's all anyone can ask.

Thank you. I feel fortunate enough in every regard to have bought in at the right time, including my home (now paid off) and to have 4 vehicles, all paid off. Couldn't imagine starting out these days with the ****** wages and crazy expensive prices of things.

 

[Parrothead]

scored a vintage williams 1/2" 3/8 to 1 1/4" with breaker bar and s52 rachet for $69.00.

That's awesome! 1/2" drive was going to be the budget killer the rest of the stuff was pretty reasonable.

Wait!?! What!?! Good score!

I'd probably still look into the Tekton set as it gets you the metric shallow and deep and the SAE deep, but good start for sure.

 

[Tallpilot]

Well, I'm fortunate to have gathered my stuff largely before everything went to china, and I was young enough to have had the time. I agree that workith is workith but for me, it's a matter of principle and the notion of china made in my shop gives me a metallic taste sensation I just can't shake. I'm old enough to be set in my ways, I love the warm and cozy I get on my terms and I ain't never going to change!

I have used other peoples china though and it's good no doubt, just not for me.

#1 Like Parrothead said he needs the stuff now so he can start his job and get a paycheck.

#2 We didn't suggest one item made in China (as an aside Bosch makes the Hub Grappler in China and I defy you to find a better hub tool set for $500, I suspect the Germans have a QC team on site though).

I don't disagree with you and I will support American manufacturing anytime I can but when someone comes on here looking for advice we should give the best we can within the budget and let ideological debate rest until a more appropriate thread. Be proud of him though; he found that used Williams set.

 

[Parrothead]

Thank you. I feel fortunate enough in every regard to have bought in at the right time, including my home (now paid off) and to have 4 vehicles, all paid off. Couldn't imagine starting out these days with the ****** wages and crazy expensive prices of things.

Same here!

I scrambled to grab up all the Craftsman Professional USA stuff from Sears when they were getting rid of it all, and I got some great, and I mean great deals. I could easily sell it for way more than I paid. As you are probably aware, the screwdrivers are SK, the wrenches and sockets were Armstrong, and, well you get the idea. Very happy.

It's tough for people just starting out...I wish them well

 

[Parrothead]

#1 Like Parrothead said he needs the stuff now so he can start his job and get a paycheck.

#2 We didn't suggest one item made in China (as an aside Bosch makes the Hub Grappler in China and I defy you to find a better hub tool set for $500, I suspect the Germans have a QC team on site though).

I don't disagree with you and I will support American manufacturing anytime I can but when someone comes on here looking for advice we should give the best we can within the budget and let ideological debate rest until a more appropriate thread. Be proud of him though; he found that used Williams set.

Yep, neither Tallpilot or I suggested one made in China item, though if it were the best deal and a quality tool, I would have (can't speak for Tallpilot though). That said, you can get far with some made in Taiwan and USA tools if you know where to look.

The one thing we both did was stick to the budget and try to solve the problem. In that regard, I think we were helpful.

 

[ez-duzit]

scored a vintage williams 1/2" 3/8 to 1 1/4" with breaker bar and s52 rachet for $69.00.

Attaboy! Keep it up and you'll have a nice tool kit you can depend on and be proud of.

 

[JazzBlueRT]

Start with something like this for $200. If you spend more time turning wrenches and less time worrying about buying a hodgepodge of tools, you will make more money.

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-450-...SellerId=Sears&prdNo=1&blockNo=1&blockType=G1

 

[Specs]

https://m.ebay.com/itm/Crescent-CTK...401079&hash=item4d6daf0041:g:7FQAAOSwICpaAMTQ

This should get you started... i always wondered if Costco Ever gonna get their equivalent tool set back.... i missed out on it.

And save this seller... sometimes there some great deals with them...

Although i feel like im incredibly late...

 

[Tonyuk]

I would agree, go with Tekton tools for stuff like sockets and spanners, very good for the money.

Have a look at the harbor freight composite and pro ratchets, very good for the price im sure. Get a good set of extensions in a mix of drive sizes and lengths, also a very universal joints.

A decent mid length pry bar is always handy and should be available cheap online, or in any DIY store. A cheap aligning bar is usually much thicker than a cheap "pry bar" but wont have a grip at the end.

Tekton slip joints are made in the USA and are my most used pliers (3 pairs now) You can get a pair of channellock waterpump pliers over there pretty cheap i'm sure so i would pick up a medium sized pair of those too.

I don't know exactly what you'll be doing there, but a good 1/2" breaker bar is always handy, maybe 450-600mm long. As a lube tech i'm also assuming you'll need a grease gun? If so then any reasonable quality one will do (i like the trigger style).

A good work light and torch, ideally a head torch.

Good few sets of work gloves, i don't like the basic rubber gloves so go with the fabric ones with PU palm, sized down for a close fit. I wear a pair of oversized nitrile gloves over the fabric ones when changing oil to keep my hands from getting soaked with it.

Probably a good bit set, something containing both hex head and torx bits, plenty of equipment have these, my air compressor is covered in them and i need a 4mm to change the oil.

Decent set of screwdrivers, i like the wera lazertips but anything good to start you off, dewalt and stanley do a few nice sets for not much.

Probably more, but you'll find that out quickly when you start work.

 

[Mr_B]

I don't rate tekton or craftsman current sockets one bit, they average cheap sockets and that being polite.
Gearwrench sockets are best cheap buy for pro use hands down. Good coverage and short mid and deep lengths, plus if do buy in sets with ratchets the ratchets half decent and up to lube tech use no bother .
Gearwrench sockets are very pro design, simple features like proer full stepped down machining and double large size markings at opposite facing sides great features have .
Chinese craftman sockets are budget home gamer only, total cheap plain design, they work but offer nothing useful in use and only thing they excel at is being cheap as cheap can be .
Tekton wrenches decent for ultra cheap, Napa carlyle proper decent wrenches if can spend bit more and I recomend you do as low cost wrenches ALWAYS means you end up buying twice or struggle due to tools limits at som e point .
Tekton pliers also good but the basically made by Wilde as are the prybars but shop about as maybe cheaper elsewhere as tekton adds a percentage to cover the warranty, example being the same prybars by wild are also done by craftsman and about 40% cheaper on sale .
If looking at impact sockets buy taiwan cr-v off brand japan style or similar, very affordable, bullet proof, proper pro design features and don't overlook self warranty aspect as even in a long career self warranty way way cheaper on many things (quicker too lot of times) .

 

[Tallpilot]

Start with something like this for $200. If you spend more time turning wrenches and less time worrying about buying a hodgepodge of tools, you will make more money.

http://www.sears.com/craftsman-450-...SellerId=Sears&prdNo=1&blockNo=1&blockType=G1

Really crappy 1/2" drive selection...stops at 17mm or something ridiculously small and they are 12pt.

https://m.ebay.com/itm/Crescent-CTK...401079&hash=item4d6daf0041:g:7FQAAOSwICpaAMTQ

This should get you started... i always wondered if Costco Ever gonna get their equivalent tool set back.... i missed out on it.

And save this seller... sometimes there some great deals with them...

Although i feel like im incredibly late...

I never handled one but it's made in China so I think there is better to be had for not much more.

 

[Tallpilot]

I don't rate tekton or craftsman current sockets one bit, they average cheap sockets and that being polite.
Gearwrench sockets are best cheap buy for pro use hands down.
Gearwrench sockets are very pro design, simple features like proer full stepped down machining and double large size markings at opposite facing sides great features have .

Can you please elaborate on the difference? I agree they are slightly better but I am not sure Tekton should be lumped in with Chinese Craftsman.

I do really like the knurling but I think design wise the broaching is the same unless I am missing something.

 

[Mr_B]

I can't really argue with the Gearwrench deal either. It's a very good buy. To me it comes down to quick release vs. non. I am a big fan of quick release, so I tend to steer that direction. Again, you can't go wrong either way.

The Husky 72t ratchet is the best of both honestly. It's the Gearwrench/Apex design and quick release.

The ratchet I want to try is a new one from Tekton, this one specifically.
https://www.tekton.com/3-8-inch-drive-x-7-inch-low-profile-polished-ratchet-14932

It's got the same internals as a Titan ratchet I positively couldn't kill despite actively trying and the handle I like. I'll get it some day, but I am trying to pare down ratchets, not add to them. lol

For more pro use and start out kit pro use budget socketry gearwrench is best contender hands down.
Sockets and ratchets better pro design and if using them hours a day you'll be glad of them over the bland cheapest of cheap designed ones.
The 84T gearwrench decent to start off with too.
Tekton ratchet common 3 screw 4 toothed 2 pawl design that common for most 72T taiwan ratchets and copied by chinese too .
tekton, titan, easyred etc etc all have used same 72T mechanism and many same oem .
Tekton current plus is warranty easy but I wouldn't buy a tool just on warranty, If you done your due diligence and use the tool with sensible professional misuse you don't need warranty much, I come from a family of agricultural engineers and run my own auto repair for last 30yrs and I really not had warranty that much .
Ratchets wrenches and pliers/grips and screwdrivers only thing pays have best of best. drive thru screwdrivers from Toptul amazing and cheap, message Denny on this forum and see if he got any in his remaining stock, get his whole clearance stock list while you at it .
You might as well burn money over buying all snapon sockets for example as they never be worth the price even if warranty replaced all of them 4x in a career, warranty don't cover loss or theft or obvious abuse/long term usage wear so consider that too .

 

[Mr_B]

Can you please elaborate on the difference? I agree they are slightly better but I am not sure Tekton should be lumped in with Chinese Craftsman.

I do really like the knurling but I think design wise the broaching is the same unless I am missing something.

Stepped down shouldering done properly on smaller sized hex ends and proper taper fixiing and drive square ends of gearwrench sockets.
Gearwrench knurling is usable feature and the size markings in large clear rolled stamping on two sides and aligned with drive square flats means potentially far easier read sizes, full size range, standard, mid and longs, easy get singles .
All these small points but useful as sockets one of your most dailly handled tools and good design features saves time and allows them work in tight clearance scenarios .
Tekton second best mainly as warranty currently so good but sockets are taiwan basic design as that the tekton compromise for cost/warranty.
Tekton a good buyon sockets but if you using them 8 to 10hrs a day gearwrench give you the edge hands down .
I actually use taiwan premier sockets as they knurled on both metric and standard plus lower half satin finish and also stepped shoulder drive end on larger sizes which way better for ergonomic handling and less bulky socket . Gearwrench best I come across in easy buy brand and sensible low/mid range cost . Chinese craftsman not worth considering as a pro in my opinion (and yes I handled and used them)unless really don't have another 100 bucks buy something little more pro designed .
Another good pro taiwan socket is carlyle, cheap compared to truck nrand but not tekton or gearwrench cheap .
Sometimes spending that extra 20bucks is saving money so consider that when choosing you kit .
Do think Tekton wrenches probably best budget starter set, no other wrenches in that price range come close and need spend fair bit more for worthwhile better set .

 

[creativecars]

HF sets use 12-pointed nut-rounders. Spend a few bucks for the Tekton or GearWrench and get 6-point nut-turners.

Not true, the 301 pc set has many 6 point sockets.
As far as "nut-rounders" that is usually the user, not the tool.

 

[seber]

Many years ago I bought good USA made tools and used them hard in a pro shop for many years. They all held up well and are as useful today as they were new. I'd try to find used quality tools whenever possible. I would also stay away from HF and anything made in China. Your unbroken hands will thank you.