[quote=”zlambie9″ post=102526]Through my school I get a 50% discount. I think there is only certain tools that an apprentice would have. Is it worth using this discount?[/quote]
Clearly I’m in the minority here, but I think it’s well worth it to acquire a good starter set form Snap-On. Get yourself set up with 3/8s & 1/2 in sockets, something like 9 to 19mm in wrenches, punches & chisels and a 1/4″ drive socket set.
Get their flare nut wrench set and 80 tooth ratchet too. The ratchet isn’t as tough as the coarse toothed model, but it’s a marvel in cramped quarters. Their flare nut wrenches just flat work and are worth the extra shekels.
I would not be afraid of their boxes, but get the starter set first. Boxes will go on sale, so get one when you outgrow your first one. FWIW, I do like their boxes, and the best thing about them is that you can still move them around even when severely overloaded …ain’t gonna do that with no Craftsman. Avoid their road chest -it will break when overloaded and moved, just like any other big top box.
On the lighter side, if you get their screwdrivers, get the brightly colored ones. I lost a clear handled one some years ago, and found it on a timing belt job several years later!
Having said that, don’t buy too much as you will develop preferences for certain tools as time goes by. Save $ and go cheap on any SAE tools. I doubt they will ever see heavy usage.