In <9711241054.AA07137@rt.el.utwente.nl>, Bert Palte wrote:
>>That's probably a good way to go. While the quality may not be quite the
>>same, the occassional use we give special tools as hobbists doesn't really
>>require it.
>>
>I tend to disagree.
>A professional may still be able to return an acceptable job with only fair
>quality tools,
>but the combination of a hobbyist and poor quality tools is a NO-NO.
>
>Bert
Sorry, Bert, I have to disagree. While it is folly to have less than
the best for one's primary tools (sockets, end wrenches,
screwdrivers), there are some instances in which cheap tools only make
sense. Consider the recent discussion regarding 3/4" socket sets. I
have had a Harbor Freight set for about ten years. It cost $40.
That's what a _single_ 3/4" socket can cost from e.g. Craftsman. I
use something from the set about twice a year and it works just fine.
The other advantage is cheap tools is adaptability. I always have a
set of cheap end wrenches and screwdrivers around. No telling when
you need to make a left-handed flange wroffle or some such... A
little grinding, a little bending, voila!
A. B. Bonds
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