I was at Harbor Frieght tools the other day, they carry cheaply made tools from India, China, and Taiwan.  They've got this set of polished combo wrenches that look like snap-on but are on sale for $13.88. 14 pieces including 1" 1 1/8" 1 1/16 and 1 1/4.  Yeah they're cheap but for most folks could be a good substitute until they get rich and then throw them away or give to a child for his first set.

Anyone seen those?

M4-AK

I have that exact same set, but they say Snap-on on them

Get the set, then try each one to see if it is in spec.  Then try to break one.  If you can bend/break it, or if any don't fit. return for a refund.  

It's always nice to have a set of "beater" wrenches.  

I would not waste my money on cheap tools!

That would be like buying a Hesse rifle or a Lorcin pistol!

BigDozer66

Life's too short for cheap tools.

If you're going to use them lightly once or twice a year, then get them. If you plan to use them regularly pay a little more and get a set of Craftsman. If you will be putting them to heavy use and need precise fit and high quality, take out a second mortgage and buy a complete set of Snap On.
Remember, cheap tools almost always end up costing more in the end, and your work suffers. When I have an extra $500 I plan to get each a metric and standard combination set.

According to a Consumer Report story, those cheap tools aren't broached accurately.

SOME cheap tools are well worth the money.    I know a contractor that bought a big pile of cheap Chinese made battery operated screw guns for his workers,  and they're lasting at least as well as any name brand screw guns in heavy, daily use in the field, and they're a LOT cheaper to buy.

Some Chinese tools are pure junk, but the truth is,  a lot of the stuff is really pretty good.

The Chinese are smart.   They'll make whatever you want if you're willing to pay their price.
If you want cheap, you get cheap.  If you want better, you'll get it,  and if you want excellent
craftsmanship and materials,  for the right price the Chinese will deliver that, too.

I've  been quite impressed with the quality of a lot of Chinese made power tools lately.  Fit and finish in particular are getting quite good.

Yeah, I'd still rather buy a name brand,  but sometimes,  I can't due to the higher cost.

CJ

I like my "wenches" un-polished

Quoted: I would not waste my money on cheap tools! That would be like buying a Hesse rifle or a Lorcin pistol! BigDozer66

Good advice.

My favorite: "The bitterness of poor quality far outlasts the sweetness of low price."


I don't own a single wrench that cost $14, much lees an entire set.  Snap-On all the way.


<Hijack in progress>

BTW, I just changed jobs and I have some of my extra (Snap-On & Mac) tools for sale on eBay if anyone is interested in GOOD tools at FAIR prices.  IM me for a link.