I have hundreds of Snap On tools from days gone by. I think they are, or were all gold plated given their original cost. In this case I believe they must have been white gold which resembles chrome or nickel plate. All kidding aside when most were purchased they were far superior in design and strength to the only competitor Craftsman. Most were purchased before Mac and Matco even existed.I've been guilty of trying to upsize people on what machine to buy, just like the rest of us. Most of that is grounded in reality (better performance, more features, more rigidity, etc. ), however, moving my 12x36 lathe (~900lbs) out of my basement in preparation for an out of state move was not fun at all! 0/10 would not recommend!!
I have hundreds of Snap On tools from days gone by. I think they are, or were all gold plated given their original cost. In this case I believe they must have been white gold which resembles chrome or nickel plate. All kidding aside when most were purchased they were far superior in design and strength to the only competitor Craftsman. Most were purchased before Mac and Matco even existed.
I started with mainly Craftsman and they worked well for the 50's 60's and 70's vintage American cars. When things started getting smaller and imports came on the scene the Craftsman tools were clumsy at best. It was hard to even meet let alone exceed the flat rate time to complete any given operation. The Snap On's were literally a life saver. As time went on the competitors caught up in design and surpassed them in price. In my opinion they are still the best tools for professional use, but far too expensive for casual use in a hobby situation.
As an FYI I called Snap On last year in an attempt to get some tools from the 1980's repaired. I wasn't looking for a freebee, I just wanted to get my old time favorites back in working condition. I was informed they no longer repair many tools due to the potential liability. However they did send me replacements at no charge. Who else does that for 40+ year old tools sight unseen?
Another example of the waste caused by lawyers.they no longer repair many tools due to the potential liability.
well ya, and also insurance companies.Another example of the waste caused by lawyers.
I’ve never been the sharpest hammer in the drawer, but I have never understood this collector tool thing. Gold plating, race car drivers names etc. I do prefer chrome because it’s durable and it’s very visible when dropped or set down in an engine compartment. But some things shouldn’t be gold, like ratchets and toilet bowls.Are you the type of tool junkie that needs to show off to your friends?
Well have I got a deal for you. For the low price of $69 (remember what 69 is)
Harbor Freight is offering you a stupid wrench. You'll be too afraid to use it.
Your friends will covet it.
Your wife will scream what were you thinking.
Your machinist friends will be split down the middle.
Some will think WTF, others will be envious..
Here you go.. https://www.harborfreight.com/38-in...tchet-genuine-24-karat-gold-plated-56907.html
As an FYI I called Snap On last year in an attempt to get some tools from the 1980's repaired. I wasn't looking for a freebee, I just wanted to get my old time favorites back in working condition. I was informed they no longer repair many tools due to the potential liability. However they did send me replacements at no charge. Who else does that for 40+ year old tools sight unseen?