Best approach to buying tools?

Also switching from SAE to metric works well when dealing with rounded off fasteners. 3/8 headed fastener with rounded head? Beat a 12-point 9mm on and you're good.

I second the sears toolsets, when I bought my tools, I had a sears autocenter job. They gave a 40% discount for 'shop use' 10 for being an employee, and 15% craftsman club discounts came around often too.