In a recent conversation where I asked about Woodcraft as a vendor mention was made of HF having some of the exact same products with different labeling.
I would note that I have observed over the last few years that the quality of HF products is dropping off. Also the selection. So, do not assume an HF product that was adequate before still will be today.
Some are getting worse, and some are getting better.
Yes the selection has dropped. But be aware that there are products that are only mail order. There website does not show all products either. Which is wierd. Sometimes it is mistakenly removed from the site, sometimes by a new product.
I ordered clear 4" hose for my dust collector, only available online. Not in store. Way cheaper than Woodcraft or anyone else for that matter, and the quality is excellent.
They used to have a few tools that are no longer available, and I wish were.
IMO, in years past, HF products were mostly all crap. In recent years (about 10) and now, HF products are mostly good quality. Yes, there are a few products which are still crap, but overall, their products have held up to the test of time.
Also, years ago, they had more woodworking products but as you stated, that selection has died for whatever reason. I have purchased a few woodworking products which I still use today.
We must be looking at different tools then.
I tend to agree, I think HF has crept up in quality (they could hardly go down). Their selection of tools follows customer buying trends, woodworking has declined in popularity.
That being said, HF is still my choice for disposable tools. If the tool is something I need once or twice a year (like the 18 inch "crescent" wrench). I go to HF.
I also get tools like the right-angle drill I use for (lathe) power-sanding. For $29.95 (plus 20% off coupon) I get a sander I can toss when sawdust eats the motor
China has improved across the board. The bikes used to be very sketchy but they figured it out with help from the bike industry. They now can make very good bikes. Yes they still know how to make junk because people will still buy junk. The same applies to tools.
There's also a sweet-spot price-point. It's that price where they can still make some money but the consumer will not bother returning the tool due to the low price. Some manufacturers still gladly fill that niche.
I still like buying old used tools made in U.S.A. if possible. But can't always of course.
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