Best approach to buying tools?

If you are on a budget HF isn't horrible the quality has improved. You can pick up the basics cheap. That being said their pliers suck. Craftsman and Channelock are still US made and good quality. The problem with the imports is the steel still isn't tough so the jaws wear really fast.

Screw drivers, Craftsman screw drivers are still US made and good quality. Craftsman wrenches are a shadow of their former self.

Once you get a few basics hit garage sales, flee markets, and pawn shops. I carry a small notebook with me that is full of little tidbits of information. One piece of info is a wish list of tools with their list price. You'd be surprised how many people think used stuff is magical and worth more than full retail.

Examples of things bought at pawn shops, Snap On angle head Wrences. A note about pawn shops, they are not in the business of selling stuff. They are in the business of loaning money, as a result the will list stuff for rediculous prices. So knowing list price, and for me I will only pay 1/2 list price for a used tool. Don't be afraid to negotiate. Don't worry about insulting them with a rediculous offer, keep in mind they probably paid 10% of its value.

Finally, buy a few expensive tools, a really nice Mac or Snap On ratchet is a joy to use. Snap On Mac universals are way better than Craftsman. Occasionally splurging is well worth it.