Starter Tool set - hand tools for professional work?

[HangFire]

I see this thread is back from the dead for no good reason.

Since I posted in 2019, Kobalt has made a small come-back at my local Lowe's, with SOME open stock (individual tools for sale or warranty). I asked what about the rest, the worker told me set-for-set exchange, or refund in the amount of the closest matching set if you don't have the receipt. I would buy Kobalt in a pinch, but only the Taiwan made ones, pass on the Chinese made tools.

 

[Silver]

Craigslist, eBay, Home Depot, Lowes.

Careful with HF. Quality is always a concern although small engines shouldn't be too hard on them, and lately their prices have not been competitive generally speaking. No item in HF regardless of supposed quality 'rank' should ever cost more than the same item anywhere else.

 

[ChrisMU]

Check estate sales/auctions, where you’ll find some good old USA-made tools. I’ve also gotten some of my junkyard trip/lend-worthy tools at swap meets and Harbor Freight. The core of my “good” tools is my 2004 200-pc craftsman set, a 22nd birthday gift.