I believe the right tool for the job. Take good care of your tool's and they will take care of you. Good tools puke out at the darnet times just like cheapos. They are just like a battery. They die when you need them. The odds of a cheap tool out lasting a good quality one are possible but slim. I will not gamble my bottom line on cheap tools on a whim that it will save me a few dollars.
Brand name is not my motivator. Snap On is a great tool. At the same time, I can buy way more good quality for the same price. My main tool line my pouch are Klines but I have Craftmans and Channel Lock too. I buy the tool I feel that will do the job I need it to based on my work habits and fair price for what I am buying.
My first choice for a corless drill is NOT Dewalt but I have one because everyone esle has them and how often have we killed all the batteries before they are recharged?
Another atribute that many of you may not even think of is availabilty. There is only 1 warehouse in all Of Southeast Alaska and a two Sears store with minimal selection. My Wrenches are Ace Hardware because there is one in pretty much all the towns I work out of and they have a good warranty although I may lose them before cashing in but I have it if need it.
Another issue is storing and transporting. Some days I am working out a van. Other days I operation out of a boat, a float plane, or even a 737. Weight and space becomes a big factor for me. Even for a run of the mill sparkie, I like my pouch be light as possible yet have what I need on hand while my secondary tools are in my tool box for quick access.
It all comes down to your priorities
