What are the best mechanic tools?

Answer 1

Snap on tools are probably the best mechanic tools readily available in the US. They are also designed with the auto technician in mind and provide many specialized tools for specific automobiles.

While I would second Snap-On insofar as most hand tools go, I wouldn't say the same of their pneumatic (air) tools.. they don't have the best repute them, although their new eight vein design for their impact wrenches gives them the highest torque rating of any on the market, even surpassing Ingersoll-Rand.

Mac Tools and Cornwell also make good professional tools, and often at more reasonable prices than what Snap-On charges.

SK Tool is another, lesser known brand of professional grade tools, and one which makes pretty good products.

However, if you're not actually working as a tech, and just want tools so you can be a backyard mechanic, it's really pointless to spend the kinds of prices charged by Snap-On, Mac, Cornwell, Matco, SK, Gear Wrench, etc. You can make due with Craftsman, Stanley, et. al. Even as a tech, I have some Craftsman and even Harbor Freight wrenches for applications in which they'll never see the kind of heavy usage to justify spending the amount that Snap-On and Mac charge for wrenches of the same size.