I ventured out today and stopped by Tractor Supply. I saw some Crescent tools and I remember that Dad had some and I was wondering if they are good tools or did they become like Stanley? They had several sets on clearance but I wasn't sure if they are now junk tools like so many brands have become. So I thought I would ask you guys' opinion before I purchased any.
Ones made in Sumter, SC would be good to go. Years ago I did a gig for Cooper Power Systems in Olean, NY and learned they were the parent company of Crescent brand. They have since formed a company called Apex (I think). Some stuff is made in China.
Tractor Supply clearance price is typically dirt cheap. Likely a bargain regardless US or China made Should see Made in USA stamped on tool if it’s made in SC plant. Many US tool companies that have production in Asia still build to US quality specs. Much better tools than 100% China grade imported from 30-40 years ago. The original plant that started mass production of Crescent Tools is right across the street from one of my satellite equipment yards in Jamestown, NY. Still in use as office complex, non Crescent related.
TSC does sell some DeWalt items as well; I picked up some DeWalt clamps last year on the end of year clearance. TSC also has a set of Vise Grip brand locking pliers that I think I will get, a small and a larger one. Dad's old Vice Grips are old and worn but they still lock and hold. I am wondering if Vice Grips is the same company as well; the set was $11.95.
I guess it depends on if the company is still a US company that is requiring the same manufacturing standards. Years ago Chinese companies were buying the brand names and then making cheap junk. I have an old Stanley screwdriver that is tough as can be. I purchased a new Stanley slotted screwdriver and the screwdriver tip just crumpled when trying to remove a screw.
If your goal is to get quality tools for reasonable prices, your best bet is yard sales and flea markets. I'm always keeping an eye out for vises, wrenches, chains, tow ropes, crow bars, digging bars, anvils, etc. I've gotten some incredible deals on all of the above. The best part is its quality American made stuff that'll last forever.
Will tsc warranty these tools? I have crescent tools from the 90's (channel locks) and after two pair, quite wasting my time with them. Menards has a house brand that is warranted forever....which works out to be quite a bit shorter than forever, but at least you get another new set.
I picked up two DeWalt locking pliers at TSC last year on clearance; they seem to be quality. However, I didn't know about the licensed partner thing that some of these companies are doing. I will keep that in mind and check on future purchases.
I visited the TSC with the tools yesterday; Friday, and all the Crescent Tools were gone. Just about all the tools on clearance were gone. I think someone came in and bought them all up; people will often come in and make a deal with the manager to take all for a better price.
Not entirely true. Many stores will wholesale them out to other non affiliated stores or even donate them to local charities, houses for humanity, etc. You will find that larger stores shelf space is valuable to them and if a product isn't moving.... "He who hesitates is lost...." Some items at one of the local Home depots was all cleared out this past weekend, I asked what happened to the stuff and was glad to hear that they had donated it all to a local Christmas display event. Nice! And here ya go if you don't like or you disagree with this post too.!!!!!
DeWalt is owned by Black and Decker they still make some quality tools but many of them are the same junk as other b&d brands they just cost more because they are yellow. I know when I worked in design for them in the early 2000s they were making tools to meet a price point at the box stores. They looked the same as the more expensive ones but we're far from the same tool. I assume they are still doing the same
The ratchets in the Crescent sets are junk. The rest of the tools seem to be OK. They are not domestic.
