Thread: Buying new power tools,advice sort

That the green and blue sheds are now at a size where they have tools made (by brand names) specific to them. Apparently evidenced by unique model numbers.
The idea is that they down spec the tool to save $50.00 wholesale and reduce the retail price by $25.00, and therefore make extra margin plus they reduce the ability for folk to seek the 10% guarantee as you can only purchase that model number from them.

I now buy my tools from a proper tool store, like Sydney Tools.

G'day
I have heard that comment about hardware chains selling downspec tools
But the only case that I have found is with their exclusive lines if model number is identical then the tool should be
and if you get a faulty one change over is easy

I recently bought a Makita sander BO5041KX
same model number as per Tradetools and Total tools websites
Now I also normally buy from the tool stores
but bought from Bunnings this time
Why ?
only $10 cheaper BUT
I needed it over Xmas break and Trade tools were closed , and Total Tools had nil new stock but wanted full $ for the display unit

Garry

The top end Makita tools are still made in Japan and I'd have no hesitation in recommending them. Even the lower end ones are well made and worth a look. Definitely my pick of the more budget friendly end of the market.

Hi Hotspur, great replies so far. I agree about the "downspeccing" at Bunnings. A classic example is with the recent AEG stuff they're selling. I remember AEG as one of those brands known for high quality. I bought an AEG jigsaw about 10-15 years ago and at the time it was as good as anything out there.

I am told AEG is now sold exclusively through Bunnings and as far as I can tell the quality has dropped significantly. I'm not saying they're rubbish, just a completely different animal, built primarily to a price point, rather than a standard.

As with everything these days, I find you have to do your homework. The landscape seems to be constantly changing and , for the most part, the old days of knowing a good brand and just buying it, are long gone. I still think you get what you pay for, and if it's cheap it's not going to be much good.

I prefer buying from proper power tool stores as all the top brands are in one place, but I will always look at Bunnings too, and if they have the same thing for a cheaper price I'd happily buy it there.

Peter

Thanks Peter,and all others for view points and advice.It has been most helpful.

Yes-the landscape has changed a lot.

I do like the idea of going to more specialist power tool outlets,and talking with staff
that know about products.Rather than just go to places where its all about just selling.
But will check them out as well.

I like the thoughts others here have had re-really cheap items, "that are in the 'shape' of a power
tool" that's really true.

thanks all those who have posted.