Would y'all mind telling me, is there a brand of garden tools that is better than others? Where do you shop for the better stuff, and does it cost three arms and three legs? I am specifically looking for leaf rakes, but would also be interested in garden forks, pitchforks, hoes, and shovels. Also snow shovels. The shovels and hoe I have are doing fine, and have been used extensively. But it is rather frustrating to have these brand new leaf rakes break the first couple times they are used.

By the way, don't worry about us being in Canada when you are recommending stores. We are close enough to upstate NY that I will go over there if I have to.

-- Cathy N. (keeper8@attcanada.ca), November 09, 2001

Answers

Since you're in Canada, I hope you know who Red Green is. If not, let me share. The man can modify, fix or create anything with duct- tape. I suggest you take some ducttape and wrap it around the next rake you buy over and over and over again to strengthen it from breaking.

-- Jennifer (none@none.com), November 09, 2001.

Hi, Cathy I've got to recommend Craftsman hand tools at Sears. Yes, they are a little more expensive, but not bad, and here's the cool part--if it breaks, ever, take it back, and they give you a new one, no questions asked. We bought all new Craftsman garden tools in l992, sick of all the cheap ones breaking right when we were in the middle of a job...we've taken all back at least once and gotten new, and a few, like the leaf rake and the splitting maul several times. Not that they break that easily, they really hold up quite well, but my boys are great for leaving tools out in the weather, and the handles will rot eventually. Hope this helps

-- Kathie in Western Washington (twinrosefarm@centurytel.net), November 09, 2001.

Jennifer, believe me, we know all about duct tape!:o) I did tape the handle to the metal part where it had come loose; the problem is with the tines coming out.

-- Cathy N. (keeper8@attcanada.ca), November 10, 2001.

Ah, I see. Jennifer

-- Jennifer (none@none.com), November 10, 2001.

Yours break ? MIne grow legs and walk away .I really think it's the kids hiding them ! I usually find my snow shovels in spring when the snow melts.

-- Patty {NY State} (fodfarms@slic.com), November 10, 2001.

I like Sears Craftsman tools also. Actually, they're not that much more expensive especially if you buy on sale. I've never had a problem with them replacing broken things.

-- Dave (something@somewhere.com), November 10, 2001.

Try lee valley tools. web site www.leevalley.com you can get a free catalogue. Very expensive but terrific quality. Great people to deal with. Nearest store to you would be in Toronto, I believe. specialize in high quality and service. good luck Tomas

-- Tomas (bakerzee@hotmail.com), November 10, 2001.