Local Places Discussions

I like the local OSH (Orchard Supply Hardware) stores.

They stock nails to go along with the hammers and have screws to go along with their screwdrivers.

The sales people are knowledgable.

And, they even carry some Craftsman tool stuff.

More than KMarts carry.

Sears used to own a controlling share of OSH.

But, since the KMart merger, the shares amount to only around 25 percent.

Next up would be the Ace Hardware stores.

The Ace chain allows many independent hardware stores to survive in the Big Box era of retailing.

One of the local Ace Hardware stores has an unofficial (they REFUSE to advertise it - much like the Sears/Craftsman old tools) tool MUSEUM upstairs, outside of its business offices.

Ever seen a foot powered lathe? I have.

The other Ace Hardware store is up north (4 hour drive) and has all SORTS of things the more civilcated hardware stores don't carry (or know of).

You can buy gallon cans of WD-40 at either OSH or Ace Hardware stores.

Yes!

Sears has got about every form of aerosol WD-40, also.

There's even a WD-40 "pen" out now.

Umm... Is it refillable? That don't look like it could do much more than ONE tool restoration job.

Somewhere, around Chico there's a "Wrench museum".

I've never visited a wrench museum...

I'm not sure they carry Craftsman wrenches - as they SHOULD!

I should visit it, before they turn it into a coffee place - with free Wi Fi.

I have a Sears Hardware 5 minutes down the street.  I used to hate going there, but since I have been here it seems like a lot has changed at the store.  Completely different staff, the new staff is friendly and helpful.  The store is now stocked!!!!  Before it was bearen.  I love going there.  Those survey's must of really helped.  I am glad to have that store near me now!!!!!

Obviously, I buy all my tools from Sears.  Go Craftsman!  But for accual hardware? Nuts and bolts?  I have a inependent local small town ACE that has everything I could ever need.  Hardware, Mulch, etc.  I am so glad it's there or I'd spend half an hour driving just to get to a half way decent one.  It was interesting to learn about OSH. Learn soemthing new everyday!  Something about the smell of a hardware store........

And, some of the Hardware salespeople actually LIKE talking hardware!

My wife sometimes questions my being gone for over 2 hours...

Hey... They have got a LOT of furnace filters!

:)

I just got some button-head screw, metric, hardware for one of my Craftsman bar stools.

I was going to get the plated hardware, at aroun 3.75 each.

But, it turns out the same size pieces were available in "stainless-steel" for only around 85 cents each.

Boo-yah!

They fit!

Now, I can move my Craftsman flame-backed chair around!

:)