They never manufactured tools themselves and with all the different tools they had available, many major manufacturers produced and branded them for the Craftsman name. Stanley own's and produces them now.
For the homeowner/ car guy/ non professional, most any tool now days is pretty good quality as long as they have a warranty and a store that will handle broken tools. Now, I am talking about forged tools like sockets and wrenches. For instance, I like Channellock pliers best, MAC screwdrivers, and MAC/Stanley hammers. Thinks like wire strippers and crimpers, I like MAC or Klein. The cheap brands aren't good. Oh and Vice Grip brand only regardless what country they come from. Of course, the old Made in USA ones were the best.