On Tue, 8 Dec 1998, Ross MacPherson wrote:
> At 11:26 AM 12/8/98 -0800, you wrote:
> >I was wondering if the wise out there could advise me on what would be a
> >good order to acquire tools, and what quality of tools are necessary?
> >
> >I have a fair set of hand tools, trolley jack, stands. The sorts of things
> >I am wondering about are:
> >Torch?
> >Drill Press (and if I get a drill press, are the $49 bench drill presses
> >from Harbor Freight OK, or do I need to spend $200 of a floor-standing
> >model)?
> >Nut Splitters?
>
>
> Simon,
>
> You'll no doubt get loys on this but I'll offer my 2 bits anyway.
>
> My philosophy is, and has always been to buy a tool when I come across a
> need for it and then (unless it's something I know I'll never need again)
> buy the best one I can afford. I work with tools in my job and as a hobby
> and I KNOW there is nothing as frustrating and unsafe as using poor tools or
> the wrong tool for the job. When you need a nut splitter buy a good one but
> not before. And run, do not walk, from $49 power tools.
>
> Cheers,
> Ross MacPherson
> TC-3528 , `66 BGT, NEMGT - #11849
> Surrey, BC, Canada
>
Sorry Ross but I have to disagree some what. If I see a tool that
I know will help and the price is cheap enough I buy it. The stubby
wrenchs are a good example. $10 dollars from HF and the first time they
saved me a half hours work I considered them paid for. I'm getting the
$4.99 tail pipe expander because last month I wasted an hour trying to
straighten out the clamp ridge on a muffler using everything I could find
including a hardwood chair leg turned down to the right diameter on my
lathe. I needed a small tail pipe expander but could not find one locally
that would fit. Next time I will have it and if there isn't a next time
then I spent $4.99 for nothing. As far as $49 electric tools almost
any hand tool (drill, sander, saw etc) can be had for that amount at
Sears and will last many many years. The 19.99 grinder from Harbor
Freight was one of those tools that were cheap enough to try and I
couldn't believe how good it was once I got it. I like it so much that I
plan on getting another if this one ever gives out. And for $49.99 I can
get a reconditioned DeWalt which will certainlyout last me.
...Art>
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