When venturing into the garage or shed, you're typically greeted by an array of tools and gadgets designed for a multitude of tasks. Regardless of your location or the type of home you own, having a selection of essential tools is invaluable. While screwdrivers, pliers, and drills are common staples, the sheer variety of tools available, along with the diverse brands that produce them, can be overwhelming.
Choosing a tool brand to invest in can be challenging. Some brands, like Kobalt, DeWalt, and Stanley, are widely recognized and readily available in home improvement stores. Others may be less prominent or exclusive to specific retailers, such as Husky at Home Depot or Hercules and Bauer at Harbor Freight. However, several deserving brands often go unnoticed or are unfairly underestimated. These underrated brands offer unique qualities and may be worthwhile additions to your toolbox.
Here are five tool brands that deserve a second look:
J.H. Williams
J.H. Williams, often referred to simply as "Williams," is a hand tool manufacturer that doesn't always receive the recognition it deserves. Established in New York in 1882, the brand has a long history of producing quality tools. While Williams initially specialized in sewing machines, bicycle equipment, and even golf club heads, today, you'll primarily find their products in the form of wrenches, workshop storage solutions, screwdrivers, and cutting tools.
The brand's limited commercial availability can make it challenging to find their products, resulting in less consumer familiarity. However, J.H. Williams shares a connection with the highly respected Snap-On brand, a favorite among mechanics and collectors. Since 1993, Williams has been owned by Snap-On, and it's widely believed that Williams tools stamped with "made in USA" are often forged in the same facilities and under the same conditions as their Snap-On counterparts. In essence, these tools are often identical, bearing only different brand names.
Bahco
Continuing the theme of Snap-On affiliations, Bahco, a Swedish tool manufacturer with roots dating back to 1886, has been owned by Snap-On since 1999. This ownership has led to some overlap in their product lines.
Users consistently praise Bahco for its high-quality equipment and reliability across various tasks. While historically a hand tool brand, Bahco's modern offerings include air tools and electric power tools, providing comprehensive coverage for different needs. Their catalog features insulated tools ideal for electrical work, as well as part-pulling gear and non-sparking tools for safe automotive repairs.
Although Bahco is not as well-known outside of Europe, it's a reputable manufacturer of essential tools. Garage enthusiasts will find particular value in the brand's hand tools and storage solutions. Bahco is a solid choice for those seeking a new brand to enhance their workspace, and its relative obscurity can lead to competitive pricing online and in stores.
Tsunoda
Tsunoda is often overlooked because it's considered a Japanese alternative to Knipex, the renowned German pliers maker. While Knipex is widely regarded as a benchmark for quality pliers, those seeking top-tier tools often gravitate directly to the German brand without exploring other options.
Knipex undoubtedly offers exceptional quality, durability, and functionality. However, the Japanese Tsunoda brand, manufacturing tools since 1964, provides a comparable alternative. Tsunoda's catalog extends beyond pliers to include wrenches, bit tools, and crimping and compression tools, offering greater versatility than Knipex. Furthermore, Knipex's popularity often translates to higher prices, while Tsunoda offers excellent quality at more budget-friendly prices.
Ryobi
Ryobi is a brand that often receives undue criticism. Despite this, it's recognized as a top choice for DIY enthusiasts and ranked highly in overall tool surveys. The company began in die casting in the 1940s before transitioning to tool manufacturing. Since 1968, Ryobi has been producing power tools, primarily focusing on the budget-friendly category. However, this doesn't mean that Ryobi tools are exclusively for DIYers. Ryobi also offers heavy-duty equipment and a wide range of accessories.
Ryobi's accessibility is a significant advantage. Their tools are powerful enough for most jobs, and many offerings combine affordable prices with quality features. These factors make Ryobi a valuable brand for a wide range of users. Ryobi products are readily available on the company's website, through online retailers, and at Home Depot stores nationwide.
Irwin
Irwin, established in 1885, initially gained recognition for its patented auger bit. Today, Irwin is a trusted hand tool brand. However, its presence in a crowded market with many similar manufacturers can lead to it being overshadowed.
Irwin offers a diverse range of tools, including marking tools, measuring tools, clamps, pliers, screwdrivers, and cutting tools. The brand strikes a balance between affordable pricing and reliable performance. While Irwin's catalog may not include large power tools like circular saws or impact drivers, it excels in providing reliable hacksaw blades, pliers, and other essential tools.
No comments:
Post a Comment