At my last job (whether I was fired or I chose to retire is still under review ...), my boss bought a bunch of tools from Harbor Freight to equip a new shop tool box. I was actually impressed with their weight and feel. He would also hit pawn shops and consignment auctions and bring home buckets full of tools (usually for less than $10 ea) and invariably there would be a nice selection of the "usual suspects" (Snap-On, Mac, SK, Williams, etc).
I've managed to put together a nice set of SK wrenches and sockets for my traveling tool box from tool boxes/buckets I've picked up at auctions, etc.
Don't overlook some of the other older brands, too -- especially Williams. I think the older Williams tools are as nice as the Snap ons, etc. But a lot of younger folks aren't familiar with the name so they pass them up.
But don't take what I say as knowledgeable... The only tool my boss would let me use was a hammer. Ever heard the phrase, "That boy could tear up an anvil" ?? That's me.
