When to invest and when to buy cheap

[Gabe]

As I start to do things myself my biggest obstacle is not having the proper tools. Starting a tool collection is the beginning of a very rewarding yet expensive investment. I am a firm believer in the saying “You get what you pay for” I know Eric and many people stand by the some-what obvious fact that good tools make a world of difference with the harder jobs. Having said that, I don’t want to have to empty my bank out for tools that to be honest I’m not sure how often I’ll use. So here is my question, to pros and DIY alike.

What is your thought process when you decide to buy the top brand product -or- the inexpensive brand?
How did you start your tool collection? Whether it be hand downs or part of business, what mistakes did you make and what tips do you have for general tool buying?

When ever I see shops or personal tool collections I can’t help but wonder what they are glad they bought and what they wish they hadn’t (If it’s not in the trash already)

Feel free to share anything about your tool buying decision process.

Topic

[James O’Hara]

Try this it will help:

http://www.ericthecarguy.com/kunena/15-Technicians-Only/55499-so-you-want-are-going-to-be-a-mechanic-technician

[Jon Hart]

My rule of thumb is never buy the cheapest but buy something that will do the job if I need a tool to do job one time then I’m not going to go out and buy it from snap on but things I use every day will be the best quality I can afford

There are some exceptions for jobs needing precision tools I tend not to skimp and when it comes to specialist tools there are many times that Diyers would probably spend more money on the tools then just taking it to the dealership but hey that’s part of the fun 😉

[Author]

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