Quote:
Originally Posted by Adriel
That is the idea behind this thread! 
Trouble is, all those brands are made in China, Twain, or India, and suspect them. My shop teacher drilled into me not skimp, as your body was at risk. He was even more so, and disliked Craftsman, preferring Snap-On.
Had a really weird experience this morning. I read your post, wondered where my breaker bar was, and what brand, as a gift from Vater. decided to put together my drafting chair I have had in storages for years, but not enough space for the drafting table and chair. Well, figured getting over my laptop be less pain, so got it out, and guess what was in the packaging? My breaker bar and its 3/4" to 1/2" adapter!   A bit rusted, but glad to have it back! 
My breaker is a Craftsman, and have used it on a 6' extension with good results.
Yes, a shame, but will not buy anything more of them, unless I can put it my hand, check that it is made in the U.S.A., and be sure it is decent quality.
Where is Tekton made? |
It seems to me that maybe a set of older Craftsman would be nice to have but the newer stuff is not as good as it has moved to being manufactured in China.
That being said, I am not afraid of Chinese-made tools nor would I buy a set of tools just because it was made in the US. The worst tools I have ever used were some US made tools that I inherited from my great-uncle. I forget the brands but they all had prominent "Made in the USA" labels, I'm guessing they were from the 70's or 80's.
I think the Tekton sockets are probably Chinese or Taiwanese but have glowing reviews. I've heard some of their stuff isn't any good but the impact sockets are supposed to be very good and affordable.
For another view on it, my mechanic told me and my friend that is training to be an automotive technician that his favorite is Matco. He thinks Snap-On wrenches and sockets are fine but does not like their ratchets, claims that he has had them fail several times on him. He likes to keep his chests to one brand, he's somewhat OCD with his job.