Cheap tools sold in "Lots" with a promise of resale to cover expenses that make the tool you keep free, mostly, don't work out. Upon rare occasion, a real "deal" can be found. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is just that.

This 4 1/2" grinder is very cheaply made and the motor makes an awful sound when first turned on. I disassembled the reduction gear set to reveal low quality cast pot metal gears with only a dab of grease. I greased the gears well and reassembled the grinder only to have the motor start smoking after running for 2-3 minutes. Two other grinders in the lot had the motor smoking in less time and the motor seemed to run with a vibration that lead me to believe that the motor windings were not balanced. Of the all the grinders I purchased as a "Lot" I have two left. I may try to make one good one out of them, or, just chalk it up to experience.

Remember, brand name tools cost more because they earn their reputation for quality the hard way. That is not to say that all "no label" tools are bad. The old adage of "Buyer beware" just comes into play more often when buying no name tools.

My advice is this:

1. If you know tools, do your homework and take a chance. There is always a diamond in the rough out there for someone with experience in buying tools. I would put myself in that category. I fell for the promise of something for nothing. This guide is written to keep you from making the same mistake.

2. If you know little about tools or are buying a gift for someone, (and they didn't give you a list) buy the best you can afford, here on eBay of course! Check the local home improvement stores for the big brand names and search a tool magazine for reviews. Then come here and do a search for the brand or model.

3. Used tools will sell for less than new ones and unless you are keen on spotting a dawg or a diamond I would suggest buying new. I have sold some New In Box (NIB) tools that were either gifts that I never opened, because someone didn't read my list or for others that the same thing happened to them.

I hope this guide/review was helpful. Stop by my about me page and send me a note if this was helpful. I would love to hear what you think.