When I started "handymanning", I used the $0.49 receptacles. I got calls to "come back and fix it" because it broke again (1 week later, and several "whips" of the vacuum cleaner cord to unplug it). Changed to using "commercial" grade receptacles. Never gone back.
Now, does this mean I buy the $49.99 "dee-lux" receptacles listed in other posts? No... more $ does not automatically guarantee quality.
However, I think there is a balance point that marks the "cheap" from the "trustworthy" in devices - much like hand tools. Even within the same brand family, there are different grades of materials and construction. If you can find a brand / model you trust, it doesn't matter if it says Klein, Crescent, Channellock, Vaco, Craftsman, Ideal or "Made in China / Mexico / VietNam". The product has proven itself, and you trust it. More importantly it won't wind up in "Photos submitted for discussion" section in a few months!
As far as "workmanship" and planning for the future (a forgotten art, according to some of the work we see in the photos section)...
Deep (2 1/2") 1900's (4"x4" junction boxes) where you plan to use dimmers or GFCI's.
3/4" Home Runs where 1/2" would be "good enough".
Using Ideal, Buchanan, 3M, or other reputable wire nut brand, not just "UL Certified product of China Elctric" knockoffs.
Marking j-boxes with what pipe goes where (not always practical in the last days before final rough-in inspection, but the attempt is welcome)
Pigtailing devices instead of daisy-chaining.
Stamped steel fittings instead of die-cast.
Nylon (unbreakable) or metal faceplates instead of phenolic "crack-when-you-tighten-'em" ones.
[This message has been edited by DougW (edited 06-26-2004).]
