Changes at the strip mall

[Grumpy Goat]

If it's a simple tool like a wrench, socket or c-clamp. I'll check-out the offering at HF. I might buy the $19 battery load tester to check the old battery from my RS.

But, typically, I'm pretty leery of the HF offerings. However, I do have an HVLP sprayer for woodworking that came from HF and a lot of woodworkers really like the unit. A more upscale retailer used to sell a similar-looking unit for about 50% more.
An even more expensive source was eBay where the unit was being sold as a spray-on tan applicator..................

So, whenever I get tired of woodworking, I'm prepared for a new career.......

If its a tool that will see repeated / good use over the years I would not buy from HF as their tool steel is junk. If it is a tool that may be a one off use then I would consider it. That said I have a great air compressor from them and their low-tech material indifferent tools like floor jacks are absolutely fine.

I'll not spend big bucks on tools I will under-use just because it is a [perceived] good name. For me it is always value for money.