Which Tools would you recommend?

Hey Guys: Here's something a little different. I'd appreciate your advise on this one.

I'm in a position where I've been offered a franchise-dealership with both Snap-On and Matco Tools. While Snap-On's is an established route, Matco's would be a new territory. All other things like mileage, financing, etc. are pretty much the same.

Problem is, I like both companies. The managers are good people, etc. I've done a ton of research on both companies. Yet, I have no major difference between them except for the opinions of people I talk with.

What are your thoughts on which company is better - who would you go with? Thanks!

 

I operate an auto repair business that my dad started in 1969. The majority of those years we have been Snap-on and that is the brand of tool I grew up with. Nothing feels quite as right to me.
I did use Matco tools while working for Chuck Etchells on Jim Epler's funny car and was a little surprised at how well I liked them. It seems that Matco is a little more promotions oriented and is more of a presence in auto racing (at least in drag racing). To me that would tilt it in their favor.

 

We have been in the same location for over 17 years and in that time we have had 2 different Snap-On dealers and 5 different Matco dealers. Now I realize that some of the dealers went out because of poor business practices and our current Matco guy seems to be doing well. So I can’t really say which is better for the vendor. My preference is if it’s a hand tool it’s a Snap-On. On the other stuff I’ll buy off the truck with the best deal or selection. My advice, although I am not a tool salesman, is if you can’t afford to stuff your truck full of tools (from my observations a lot of tools are bought on impulse when some one sees it on the shelf) and have a lot of money on the street (credit) I wouldn’t do it.