Martinsr makes many valid and valuable points. You need to know what is worth buying and what isn't. I've experimented and gotten burned on cheap stuff, and I've also been pleasantly surprized sometimes too. As my Canadian hero, Red Green would say "If you're absolutely made of money..." Simply put, those of us who aren't made of money must consider options and aren't able to be "tool snobs". (no offense intended)
I like to ask around before I buy something, finding that if people I consider worth listening to to be a good resource. For example, I talked to my friend who teaches auto body what his thoughts were on the above mentioned flange tool from HF. I was expecting him to say "buy the good one like my $250 model". (I was ready to do that, too.) His sheepish reply was that a student had brought in a cheapie HF model, and HIS use left him believing it was close enough in quality of output that it was worth using. Would you buy it for heavy daily use, maybe not. But for a few times a year, it would be just fine. Other times, like hammers and dollies, you're right, it is not woth the frustration to buy the junk that's cheap. (NAPA has some good stuff that is reasonable, by the way.)
That same "costs more means more quality" applied to cars would mean we would all be driving Caddilac's or Jag's. (knowing what JUNK they have been historically) Sometimes your just throwing money at a name. My thought is to take a look at the Chevy or Buick or Olds. You may find something acceptable and fine for you, or you may find you like the big sticker and fancy stuff.
As to sockets, wrenches, etc. that you count on daily, don't be dumb. Anything less than craftsman will probably leave you mad and sore.
Think, ask, look, touch, and try. If it fails these tests, spend more money.
