Show us your made in China tools. | The Garage Journal

08 Sep.,2025

 

Show us your made in China tools. | The Garage Journal

German Satin

Well-known member
Joined
May 24,
Messages
153
Location
Wales, UK
  • Oct 27,
  • #1
yeh we've all got some at least ... if you haven't then I'm impressed!

Here's mine ... Halfords basic 1/4 ratchet ... decent quality. Bahco bit set - really good quality (absolute steal on Amazon for about £7). Both made in China. That's it. All my other stuff is European/US/Japan made apart from the other two ratchets (top) which I'm guessing is Taiwan (Matador 1/4, Welzh Werkzeug 3/8).

EDIT:- Forgot about this one. I have a Wilko (UK chain of stores) 8oz ball pein hammer with hickory handle no less made in china. Love this little hammer, tough as hell carbon steel.

Last edited: Oct 28, To avoid these ads, REGISTER NOW!

jonshonda

Well-known member
Joined
Jul 17,
Messages
4,544
Location
Wisconsin
  • Oct 27,
  • #2
It would be fun if people posted pics of their busted junk Chinese stuff. Or the quality tool that replaced the Chinese junk.

RAS61

Well-known member
Joined
Sep 14,
Messages
538
Location
Low Country, SC
  • Oct 27,
  • #3
Here's ALL my Chinese tools:



That's it!

Jack_K

Well-known member
Joined
Aug 7,
Messages
259
Location
Australia
  • Oct 27,
  • #4
The only Chinese tool I have a photo of. I am now trying to not buy any tools made in China/Taiwan

2oolhound

Well-known member
Joined
Dec 18,
Messages
5,918
Location
BC Canada
  • Oct 27,
  • #5
I broke these channel lock copies at work while trying to close the little ring on the key chain. I think it was a 1 handed deal too. They were 16" or 18".




Don't remember when this broke.


I broke both die handles trying to cut threads with a $5 swap meet 50 piece chinese T&D set. It seemed like a deal and I didn't have a full set of metric. After this I tried welding the handle together and then the die broke. I had to go out and find a good set. Got a Hanson/Irwin set and it cut the same threads like butter.



I end up with a few chinese tools when I buy a lot somewhere. I then sort them out and stick them in a junk drawer to use for welding or to give away. I don't have to buy many tools as I have most of what I need already.

BlakeTheCarGuy

Well-known member
Joined
Oct 10,
Messages
8,891
Location
Roanoke Virginia

German Satin

Well-known member
Joined
May 24,
Messages
153
Location
Wales, UK
  • Oct 28,
  • #7
It would be fun if people posted pics of their busted junk Chinese stuff. Or the quality tool that replaced the Chinese junk.
Definitely. What do they say 'buy cheap, buy twice'

German Satin

Well-known member
Joined
May 24,
Messages
153
Location
Wales, UK
  • Oct 28,
  • #8
The only Chinese tool I have a photo of. I am now trying to not buy any tools made in China/Taiwan
The Irwin grips made in China are pretty good though aren't they?

Tools4Me

Well-known member
Joined
Jun 22,
Messages
546
  • Oct 28,
  • #9
I was actually a bit surprised when I went around my shop looking at all my tools. I have quite a few Taiwan made tools (mainly impact sockets), but I assumed I had more Chinese stuff than I actually do.

I looked quite closely through all my tools. The only things I found that were made in China were my...

-Gearwrench reversible ratcheting wrench sets (SAE and Metric)
-HF 1/2" drive 18" breaker bar
-About half of my angle grinder cutting wheels and flap wheels
-All my diamond files (around 20-30 total)
-5-6 HF China made screwdrivers that I use as beaters and/or pry bars
-4pc wood chisel set that I use for situations where I don't want to damage the cutting edges of my good chisels
-Beater fractional, number, and letter drill bit indexes. My primary use drill indexes all contain USA drill bits.
-1" drive HF SAE jumbo socket set (the sockets work fine, but the ratchet from the set was junk and replaced with Taiwan)
-A few other low cost individual items here and there

If I had to make an educated guess as to my overall COO percentages for hand and power tools combined, I would say I am about 55% USA, 20% Germany, 15% Taiwan, and 10% misc other countries like Czech Republic (Wera), Spain (Irega), England (Thor), China, Canada, Malaysia, etc.

Jack_K

Well-known member
Joined
Aug 7,
Messages
259
Location
Australia
  • Oct 28,
  • #10
The Irwin grips made in China are pretty good though aren't they?
I haven't had any issues with them unlike the generic ones I have used.

2ndGearRubber

Well-known member
Joined
Mar 24,
Messages
14,185
Location
Pittsburgh
  • Oct 28,
  • #11
HF baby ball-pein hammer is one of my favorites, which I use daily. I'd like one with a wooden handle for easy clean up, but I'm so attached to the design and function of the little guy I haven't been able to find an otherwise identical unit.

All my M12 tools are chinese I believe.

Ton ton

Well-known member
Joined
Oct 16,
Messages
4,582
Location
Page County,VA
  • Oct 28,
  • #12
I love my Chinese tools. Performance tools ratchet wrenches are the bomb when you have a fast local warranty. Performance tools through tang screwdrivers and do it best screwdrivers. Great stuff. Duralast screwdrivers are nice too.

Bubba Fett

Well-known member
Joined
Jun 11,
Messages
1,503
Location
Eastern NC
  • Oct 28,
  • #13
The Irwin grips made in China are pretty good though aren't they?
I think the quality improved a bit when SBD bought Irwin from Rubbermaid, who moved production there in the first place. Still not as good as the old Petersen pliers, though the last of the USA-made ones had really slipped in quality.

For the money, Bremen at HF is better, and made in Taiwan. Of course the Malco Eagle Grips are awesome, but also pricey.

lardy1

Well-known member
Joined
Mar 17,
Messages
3,283
Location
Michigan

Boilerhouse

Well-known member
Joined
Mar 20,
Messages
1,317
Location
Muskoka
  • Oct 28,
  • #15
She's a dandy.
I bought something like that for our 6 year old baby girl, just to give her some exposure to tools. And screwing around with it, on other toys, she managed to break the 10 mm socket.

BlakeTheCarGuy

Well-known member
Joined
Oct 10,
Messages
8,891
Location
Roanoke Virginia
  • Oct 28,
  • #16

Man I have a lot of Chinese junk lol . Don’t ever buy the oil filter pliers they aren’t very good especially for small filters like Subaru. I want some better vise grips. On Monday or Tuesday when Snap-on is here I might pick up a set of them. I like the design they have now versus the old design.

German Satin

Well-known member
Joined
May 24,
Messages
153
Location
Wales, UK
  • Oct 28,
  • #17
I love my Chinese tools. Performance tools ratchet wrenches are the bomb when you have a fast local warranty. Performance tools through tang screwdrivers and do it best screwdrivers. Great stuff. Duralast screwdrivers are nice too.
Yeh, some Chinese tools are good for sure.

mr.lemons

Well-known member
Joined
Oct 24,
Messages
2,191
Location
UK
  • Oct 28,
  • #18
which I'm guessing is Taiwan (Matador 1/4).
I had a 3/8" Matador ratchet from that model range. It was marked 'Made in Germany' on the underside. Maybe the 1/4" is as well.

Jweebothee

Well-known member
Joined
Sep 17,
Messages
457
Location
Albuquerque, NM
  • Oct 28,
  • #19

Man I have a lot of Chinese junk lol . Don’t ever buy the oil filter pliers they aren’t very good especially for small filters like Subaru. I want some better vise grips. On Monday or Tuesday when Snap-on is here I might pick up a set of them. I like the design they have now versus the old design.
Universal Adjustable Oil Filter Wrench From 2-1/2 inch to 4.5 inch Oil Filter Wrench Tool Set With 3 Jaw https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PYNM72P/?tag=atomicindus08-20

I use this on subies, works great, has great grip and never slips on over tightened filters

guitarbutt

Well-known member
Joined
Sep 29,
Messages
237
  • Oct 28,
  • #20
How about I just take you to Harbor Freight and I point at all the stuff I have? It'd be easier plus I am get more stuff To avoid these ads, REGISTER NOW!

Ton ton

Well-known member
Joined
Oct 16,
Messages
4,582
Location
Page County,VA
  • Oct 28,
  • #21
Harbor freight has gaps in the tool lineup that you can fill in at the local auto parts store and/ or tractor supply company. LOL.

M635_Guy

Well-known member
Joined
Dec 5,
Messages
4,174
Location
NC
  • Oct 28,
  • #22
I dunno - I don't keep a spreadsheet

yrly

Well-known member
Joined
Jul 23,
Messages
691

Indexmill

Well-known member
Joined
Apr 12,
Messages
1,410
Location
Central NC
  • Oct 29,
  • #24
We have all read it. Most of us know it. The Chinese are CAPABLE of making anything to any quality level. But, it will cost more than their rubber dog shit. American manufacturers command the Chinese to make cheap shit for very little cost so they can sell it to us at a hugge profit. Don't confuse American greed with Chinese ineptitude. They can do anything that a customer is willing to pay for...

Just see what happens when the Chinese really start making automobiles.

corn chip

Well-known member
Joined
Jul 15,
Messages
672
  • Oct 29,
  • #25
are creepers a tool ? if so then heres some china junk . wheel broke off right away but i wasnt about to do the walk of shame carrying that big thing through the HF parking lot to get a replacent. ill spare you the misery of seeing a jet drill press with a mile of runout in the spindle

M635_Guy

Well-known member
Joined
Dec 5,
Messages
4,174
Location
NC
  • Oct 29,
  • #26
Just see what happens when the Chinese really start making automobiles.
Essentially every major auto company has a plant in China (or several). I think the vast majority of it serves the domestic market, but BMW, Mercedes, Volvo, etc. all have plants there executing a quality level similar to their other plants around the world. There are domestic brands as well. Unlike Japan, foreign brands are preferred - you see a ton of VW's and Buicks ( ) there. The first time I went to China in the mid-90's, one of the first things I saw was a Jeep Cherokee amid a sea of Toyota taxis.

jonshonda

Well-known member
Joined
Jul 17,
Messages
4,544
Location
Wisconsin
  • Oct 29,
  • #27
Plain and simple, foriegn quality control and IP what produces good products out of China.

Have you ever seen some of the absolute trash that is sold w/o western/foreign engineering or involvement?

My mom has bought some light fixtures and ceiling fans that really made me scratch my head. You could tell they had absolutely no idea what they were doing in some cases, and no regard for standards or quality.

victor252

Well-known member
Joined
Jul 24,
Messages
340
  • Oct 29,
  • #28

Man I have a lot of Chinese junk lol . Don’t ever buy the oil filter pliers they aren’t very good especially for small filters like Subaru. I want some better vise grips. On Monday or Tuesday when Snap-on is here I might pick up a set of them. I like the design they have now versus the old design.
Here's a decent review video from project farm. Irwin did okay.

Some of the tests may not be that relevant YMMV Last edited: Oct 29,

Al Borland

Well-known member
Joined
Jan 20,
Messages
1,598
  • Oct 29,
  • #29
You could tell they had absolutely no idea what they were doing in some cases, and no regard for standards or quality.
Sums up a lot of the new guys at work...


(Goddamn KIDS!!! Get off my lawn!!!)

merkyworks

Well-known member
Joined
Nov 11,
Messages
556
Location
Texas
  • Oct 29,
  • #30
The SO vise grips are rebranded Malco‘s. I have a few Malco vise grips and they are in a completely different league compared other brand vise grips

victor252

Well-known member
Joined
Jul 24,
Messages
340
  • Oct 29,
  • #31
I own some of the Grip-On (rebranded as Proto) and I am disappointed that they performed in the bottom half of the two most relevant tests. I may have to buy some of those Malco or Chinese Irwins in the future. I am not a HF fanboy but it would have interesting to see the Bremen brand vise grips.

RAS61

Well-known member
Joined
Sep 14,
Messages
538
Location
Low Country, SC
  • Oct 30,
  • #32
Just see what happens when the Chinese really start making automobiles.
Even if they do make the best cars ever I'd bet they'd be so ugly you'd never want to own one. Asian manufacturers are great at copying and reproducing things, but poor at innovation and being unique, especially with Western design and aesthetics. Even Japanese cars after all these decades are boring at best. Korean cars not really better; they'll probably combine design elements from a host of cars in what will ultimately be a Frankenstein mess

qqzj

Well-known member
Joined
Nov 28,
Messages
3,747
  • Oct 30,
  • #33
Even if they do make the best cars ever I'd bet they'd be so ugly you'd never want to own one. Asian manufacturers are great at copying and reproducing things, but poor at innovation and being unique, especially with Western design and aesthetics. Even Japanese cars after all these decades are boring at best. Korean cars not really better; they'll probably combine design elements from a host of cars in what will ultimately be a Frankenstein mess
That's not the case. It's all due to economy. When Japan was in its peak, lots of really nice looking cars that are different from western designs. RX7, NSX, Supra, S etc. Some of those Honda FWD cars are also very classic. But their economy tanked soon afterwards and they lost their design confidence. At the end of the day, it's about the economy, then culture, and everything else will follow.

Ton ton

Well-known member
Joined
Oct 16,
Messages
4,582
Location
Page County,VA
  • Oct 30,
  • #34
I agree Japanese cars are fairly plain Jane.

M635_Guy

Well-known member
Joined
Dec 5,
Messages
4,174
Location
NC
  • Oct 30,
  • #35
Plain and simple, foriegn quality control and IP what produces good products out of China.

Have you ever seen some of the absolute trash that is sold w/o western/foreign engineering or involvement?

My mom has bought some light fixtures and ceiling fans that really made me scratch my head. You could tell they had absolutely no idea what they were doing in some cases, and no regard for standards or quality.
Your mom bought cheap trash and that means China is incapable of producing quality without foreign IP/involvement?

BlakeTheCarGuy

Well-known member
Joined
Oct 10,
Messages
8,891
Location
Roanoke Virginia
  • Oct 30,
  • #36

More Chinese stuff lol. Use those at home. Don’t really need to spend big bucks on tools I use after work and on weekends. I’d never use them in a professional setting because they are pretty bad lol.

genog

Well-known member
Joined
Sep 4,
Messages
1,805
Location
Silicon Valley
  • Oct 30,
  • #37
Way back, sometime in the late 80's or early 90's I overtightened a humongous Chinese vise.
The dang thing blew up.
Just exploded and sent a pot metal bullet into the wall behind.
Good thing that chunk of metal didn't fly forward and hit me in the head!

I wish I had a picture of it.
Stupid Chicom vise was hanging off of the work bench in two or three pieces

Anyway, that crappy piece of Chinese pot metal was replaced by a smaller USA made vise.
Which, by the way, is still going strong.
And.....won't blow up in anyone's face. I don't use cheater bars any more. ;-)

Dakotadadv8

Well-known member
Joined
May 30,
Messages
1,350
  • Oct 30,
  • #38
CM flare nut wrench metric & SAE sets, CM 1/2 drive shallow impact metric set, CM Crowfoot wrench set SAE & Metric. Flare nuts fit are inconsistent, did not expect much from an inexpensive set, throwaway.

ike

Well-known member
Joined
Apr 9,
Messages
332
  • Oct 30,
  • #39
I have very few Chinese made hand tools, but these work great when needed around the house.

Comparing Carpentry and Joinery Tools: China vs. Other Global ...

In this article, we will delve into the world of carpentry and joinery tools, comparing products from any of the best Carpentry & Joinery Tool Kits Manufacturer in Chinaagainst those from other global manufacturers. Join us on this journey as we conduct a comprehensive comparative analysis to help you make informed decisions when choosing your next carpentry or joinery tool lines and ranges.

SINOTOOLS Product Page

China's Role in the Global Carpentry and Joinery Tools Market

China has emerged as a dominant player in the global carpentry and joinery tools market, revolutionizing the industry with its manufacturing capabilities and competitive pricing.

Companies such as Diversitech Global have taken advantage of this, and since its founding in , the company has assembled and shipped over 30 million DIY tool kit combinations for the top global high-street and online DIY hardware brands.

Let's explore the various aspects of China's role in this market, including its rise as a global manufacturer, leading Chinese brands, and the quality and pricing of Chinese tools.

The Rise of China as a Global Manufacturer

  1. Manufacturing Infrastructure: China's vast manufacturing infrastructure, including factories and production facilities, has played a significant role in its rise as a global manufacturer of carpentry and joinery tools. The country's ability to produce large volumes at a rapid pace has positioned it as a formidable competitor in the industry.

  2. Cost-Effective Labor: China's availability of cost-effective labor has been a key factor in its manufacturing success. The relatively lower labor costs allow Chinese manufacturers to offer competitive prices for their tools compared to manufacturers in other countries.

  3. Government Support: The Chinese government has implemented policies and initiatives to promote the growth of the manufacturing industry, including carpentry and joinery tools. This support has further fueled China's expansion in the global market.

  4. Product Range: Chinese brands offer a diverse range of carpentry and joinery tools, including hand tools, power tools, measuring tools, and specialized tools. These brands strive to cater to the varying requirements of both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.

  5. Market Penetration: Chinese brands have successfully penetrated both domestic and international markets, expanding their reach and competing with established global manufacturers. Their presence in trade shows and online marketplaces has allowed them to showcase their products to a global audience.

Quality and Pricing of Chinese Tools

  1. Quality Control: Chinese manufacturers have made substantial improvements in terms of quality control over the years. Many brands invest in advanced production techniques and stringent quality testing to ensure that their tools meet industry standards.

  2. Competitive Pricing: One of the key advantages of Chinese tools is their competitive pricing. The lower production costs, combined with economies of scale, enable Chinese manufacturers to offer their products at more affordable prices compared to tools from other global manufacturers.

While China's role in the global carpentry and joinery tools market is significant, it is important to evaluate the quality and pricing of Chinese tools in comparison to those from manufacturers in other parts of the world. In the following sections, we will explore tools from non-Chinese manufacturers, their quality, pricing, and technological innovations, providing a comprehensive comparison to help you make informed decisions.

Carpentry and Joinery Tools from Other Global Manufacturers

While China has established itself as a major player in the carpentry and joinery tools market, there are also several prominent manufacturers outside of China that offer high-quality tools. In this section, we will explore the key players in the industry, examine the quality and pricing of non-Chinese tools, and highlight any special features and innovations they bring to the market.

Key Players Outside China

  1. United States: The United States is home to several renowned manufacturers of carpentry and joinery tools. They have a strong presence in the market, offering a wide range of tools designed for professional craftsmen and woodworking enthusiasts.

  2. Germany: German manufacturers are well-known for their precision engineering and high-quality tools. Their brands are recognized for their craftsmanship and innovative designs.

  3. Japan: Japanese manufacturers also have a reputation for producing top-notch carpentry and joinery tools. Their products are known for their attention to detail and commitment to excellence.

  4. Other Global Manufacturers: Besides the United States, Germany, and Japan, there are numerous other manufacturers based in countries like Italy, Canada, Sweden, and the United Kingdom that contribute to the global market with their unique offerings.

    Are you interested in learning more about China tool sets? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

Quality and Pricing of Non-Chinese Tools

  1. Quality Standards: Non-Chinese manufacturers often prioritize quality and precision. They invest in advanced manufacturing techniques, use high-quality materials, and implement rigorous quality control measures to ensure that their tools meet or exceed industry standards.

  2. Premium Pricing: The quality and craftsmanship of non-Chinese tools often come with a higher price tag compared to their Chinese counterparts. These tools are typically positioned as premium products, targeting professionals and woodworkers who prioritize performance and durability.

Special Features and Innovations

  1. Ergonomics: Many non-Chinese manufacturers focus on ergonomic designs, ensuring that their tools are comfortable to use and minimize strain on the user's hands and body. This emphasis on ergonomics enhances both productivity and user experience.

  2. Technological Advancements: Non-Chinese manufacturers often incorporate technological innovations into their tools. This can include features like advanced dust collection systems, digital displays for precise measurements, and smart functions for enhanced efficiency.

  3. Sustainability and Environmental Considerations: Some non-Chinese manufacturers prioritize sustainability by using eco-friendly materials and implementing environmentally conscious manufacturing processes. This resonates with consumers who value sustainable practices.

By exploring carpentry and joinery tools from non-Chinese manufacturers, we gain a deeper understanding of the diverse range of options available in the market.

Related Article: Carpentry and Joinery Tools: Types and Applications

The Future Outlook: Trends and Projections

In this final section, we will explore the future outlook of the carpentry and joinery tools market, including emerging trends and projections for both Chinese and non-Chinese manufacturers. By understanding the direction in which the industry is heading, you can make informed decisions and stay ahead of the curve in your woodworking endeavors.

Emerging Trends in the Carpentry and Joinery Tools Market

  1. Technological Advancements: The integration of advanced technologies, such as Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity, smart features, and automation, is expected to continue shaping the industry. Tools with enhanced precision, efficiency, and user-friendly interfaces will become more prevalent.

  2. Sustainable Practices: With increasing awareness of environmental concerns, there is a growing demand for sustainable carpentry and joinery tools. Manufacturers are likely to focus on using eco-friendly materials, implementing efficient production processes, and reducing carbon footprints.

  3. Customization and Modular Systems: There is a shift towards customization and modular systems in the industry. Tools that offer flexibility, allowing users to adapt and modify them based on specific project requirements, are anticipated to gain popularity.

Future Projections for Chinese and Non-Chinese Manufacturers

  1. Chinese Manufacturers: Chinese manufacturers are expected to continue expanding their presence in the global market. With ongoing investments in research and development, quality control, and technological innovations, they are likely to further enhance their product offerings and compete with non-Chinese manufacturers.

  2. Non-Chinese Manufacturers: Non-Chinese manufacturers will focus on delivering high-quality tools with innovative features and precision craftsmanship. They will continue to differentiate themselves by targeting specific niche markets, offering premium tools with exceptional performance and durability.

Related Article: The Durability of China-made Carpentry & Joinery Toolkits

What these Trends Mean for Consumers

  1. Increased Options and Competition: The evolving market trends and competition between Chinese and non-Chinese manufacturers will result in a wider range of options for consumers. This includes tools with advanced features, customization capabilities, and sustainable designs.

  2. Improved Quality and Performance: As manufacturers strive to meet consumer demands, the overall quality and performance of carpentry and joinery tools are likely to improve. This means that consumers can expect tools that offer better precision, durability, and user-friendliness.

  3. Consideration of Sustainability: With the growing emphasis on sustainability, consumers will have the opportunity to choose tools that align with their eco-conscious values. Manufacturers will increasingly focus on developing tools that minimize environmental impact.

    For more information, please visit wholesale tool sets.