[TheForge] HF- what works and what doesn't

[Ron Childers]

Well stated, Ries; back when I was poor (-:]> I bought used name brand
tools such as real Vice Grips (1960's) , Milwaukee Chop saw (1980?),
Delta drill press (1955), an old Milwaukee Porta band (all metal,
1980'S?) and a sears band saw circa 1950's.. My dad bought a lathe, a
table saw, scroll saw, joiner, etc. from Sears in the late 40's and
early 50's. The Paslode nail gun has built two barns and remodeled
several houses needing nothing more than a $2 spring. All these tools
still work fine. Unfortunately, most of my locally owned hardware stores
from which I bought the new stuff have been displaced by the blister
packs. The really good drill bits, bimetal blades, taps and dies, etc.
are sold by a local business, Holly's, Inc. Buddy took over the business
from his father. As you said, it's good to do business with people who
know their business.


-----Original Message-----
From: theforge-bounces at mailman.qth.net
[mailto:theforge-bounces at mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Ries Niemi
Sent: Friday, December 30, 2011 12:48 PM
To: Blacksmithing List Sponsored by ABANA
Subject: Re: [TheForge] HF- what works and what doesn't


There is nothing they sell that I cant get for slightly more at my local
full service hardware store- the one that is locally owned, has adult,
knowledgeable salespeople, and gives me 30 days to pay. 

I have never bought anything from Harbor Freight, or Walmart, and try my
damnedest to stay away from Lowes and Home Depot, too.

As a small american owned business, I tend to try to buy american things
from small american owned businesses.

Luckily for me, I only live a half hour from one of the best hardware
stores in the country-
Hardware Sales, in Bellingham Wa.

http://www.hardwaresales.net/

I bought my forklift there- they let me pay 30/60/90.
I buy almost everything there that I would buy from Harbor Freight-
except the service, and quality is better. 
They sell Carhartts and Light bulbs and rope and rigging straps, tools
and plumbing supplies, and they let me use the bathroom.


Ries Niemi
Industrial Artist
www.riesniemi.com