Black Friday is finally here! We’ve worked hard to bring you as many Black Friday tool deals as we could find, and even set up a separate deals page to handle some of the overflow deals and discounts.
We just wanted to take the time to remind you all to shop carefully. It is far too easy to go overboard with some of the tool deals stores are pushing these days.
Here are two things to keep in mind today and throughout the rest of the holiday shopping season:
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Are these tools available all year round?
As we’ve observed at Home Depot, there are many new “tool gift” displays that feature tools we’ve never seen before. Chances are that most of these “special buys” will disappear in two months, never to be seen ever again.
Something about tools and tool sets that only pop up at prime holiday shopping seasons doesn’t sit well with us.
Are the Tools “Special Editions”?
In line with what we just said, a lot of tools are subtlely redesigned or repackaged just for the holiday sesason. For example, a cordless drill may be bundled with lower capacity batteries to make its price more attractive. For the same reason, a cordless tool kit may include just a single battery instead of two.
For example, that $30 shop vacuum may look like a good buy, until you realize that it comes with a short power cord, short and narrow hose, few accessories, and a weaker than usual motor.
Good luck, and happy shopping!
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SteveR
Stuart–Short power cords are not necessarily a “cheaping-out” tactic used by manufacturers to keep a product’s cost down. Many appliances, tools, electronic devices, etc., have short cords on purpose, for safety reasons. Longer cords can be cut or frayed more easily being dragged around, and also become tripping hazards. Newer homes have more electrical outlets than in the past to accommodate this. An electrical cord should be no longer than necessary to perform a given task; if it’s “too short”, unplug it and bring it to another outlet. A notable exception to this would be vacuum cleaners, which never seem to have a long enough cord.
If you need to, an extension cord can always be pressed into service. Users should check these regularly to insure they’re not compromised, as well. Keep in mind that extension cords become hot and should be kept away from flammable materials while in use.
Stuart
While true for certain appliances and tools, the only reason some shop vacuums have shorter cords is because the manufacturer was looking to keep costs down. With vacuums, you want a longer cord.